🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Year:

1994

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle

Reputation:

Renowned for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and iconic design. A popular choice for off-roading enthusiasts and everyday use.

Competitors 1994:

Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.

Design:

Unibody construction, a departure from traditional body-on-frame SUVs, offering a smoother ride and lighter weight. Iconic boxy styling.

Capability:

Legendary Jeep 4x4 systems (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), solid front axle (early models, replaced by U-jointed IFS in later XJs, but 1994 may still have solid front axle options depending on trim), excellent approach/departure angles, high ground clearance.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Complete service and repair information for the 1994 Jeep Cherokee XJ.

Estimated Pages:

Over 1500 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Type:

Digital Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

All major engine components including: engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (injection and components), ignition system, emission control systems, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Transmission:

Automatic and Manual Transmission: disassembly, assembly, repair, torque converter, shift controls, fluid service, diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Front and Rear Axles, Transfer Case: removal, installation, overhaul, gear inspection, lubrication, driveline components (U-joints, driveshafts).

Suspension:

Front and Rear Suspension: components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckles, bushings.

Steering:

Steering System: steering gear, power steering pump, hoses, linkages, column, alignment procedures.

Brakes:

Brake System: hydraulic system, disc brakes (front and rear), drum brakes (rear, if applicable), parking brake, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, component replacement.

Electrical:

Full Electrical System: wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instruments, switches, relays, fuses, power windows, power locks, accessories.

Body And Chassis:

Body Exterior and Interior: body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, seats, trim, glass, weatherstripping, body repairs, structural components.

Climate Control:

HVAC System: air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant handling (safety precautions).

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Extensive diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation (OBD-I for this era), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake, power steering), filter replacements, lubrication points.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures to identify and resolve malfunctions, including wiring checks, component testing, and pressure tests.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic readings, wear limits.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, clearly labeled wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including power distribution, sensor circuits, and actuator controls.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and component-level repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Designed for digital viewing and printing of individual pages or sections.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital format)

Paper Quality:

Not applicable (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

4.0L Inline 6-Cylinder (High Output OHV)

Engine Displacement 1:

242 cubic inches (3956 cc)

Engine Bore 1:

3.875 inches (98.4 mm)

Engine Stroke 1:

3.375 inches (85.7 mm)

Engine Compression Ratio 1:

8.8:1

Engine Horsepower 1:

180 hp @ 4750 rpm

Engine Torque 1:

220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Engine Code 2:

2.5L Inline 4-Cylinder (OHV)

Engine Displacement 2:

150 cubic inches (2469 cc)

Engine Horsepower 2:

123 hp @ 4500 rpm

Engine Torque 2:

178 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum (89 octane recommended for 4.0L for optimal performance)

ECU Type:

Chrysler NGC (New Generation Controller) or equivalent, OBD-I system

🔧 Transmission

Type 1:

4-Speed Automatic (AW4)

Type 2:

5-Speed Manual (AX-5)

Type 3:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE, less common in XJ compared to AW4)

Type 4:

5-Speed Manual (NV3550, introduced later, less common in '94 XJ)

Aw4 Features:

Electronic control, lock-up torque converter for improved highway efficiency.

Ax5 Features:

Robust design for off-road use, direct engagement.

Atf Spec:

ATF+3 (or equivalent)

Manual Trans Fluid Spec:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 (or 75W-140 depending on application)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

173.4 inches (4404 mm)

Width:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) depending on tire size and suspension

Curb Weight Min:

Approximately 3300 lbs (1497 kg) for 4-cylinder, 2WD models

Curb Weight Max:

Approximately 3600 lbs (1633 kg) for 4.0L, 4WD models

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) for 4-cyl, up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) for 4.0L with proper equipment

Standard Tire Size Base:

P215/75R15

Standard Tire Size Sport:

LT235/75R15

Standard Wheel Size:

15x7 inches

Bolt Pattern:

5x4.5 inches (5x114.3 mm)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating 2Wd:

3 Stars (typical for 2WD SUVs of this era)

NHTSA Rollover Rating 4Wd:

4 Stars (typical for 4WD SUVs of this era, due to higher center of gravity)

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or 4-wheel ABS depending on trim and options.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in rear.

Frame Construction:

Unibody construction contributes to structural integrity.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo, cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.

Dashboard Design:

Revised dashboard for 1994 featured a more integrated layout with improved gauge visibility and driver controls. Centralized climate controls.

ABS System:

Available ABS, typically on rear wheels, providing improved braking control during emergency stops.

Factory Options:

Optional power windows, power door locks, cruise control, keyless entry (limited availability for '94).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe conditions: 2,000 miles (3,200 km).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for automatic, 50,000 miles (80,000 km) for manual (check fluid condition).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (Copper vs. Platinum).

Transfer Case Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 in colder climates).

Engine Oil Capacity 4.0L:

5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:

5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter

Coolant Spec:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically green, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent

Common Wear Items:

Water pump, alternator, radiator, U-joints, transfer case chain, engine mounts, exhaust system components, heater core.

4.0L Issues:

Head gasket (early models), crankshaft position sensor failure, lifter tick, oil filter housing leaks.

2.5L Issues:

Head gasket, valve cover gasket leaks, timing chain noise.

Transmission Issues:

AW4: solenoid pack issues, potential torque converter clutch shudder. AX-5: clutch wear, input shaft bearing issues.

Electrical Issues:

Cracked dashboard leading to electrical intermittent issues, window regulator failures, blower motor resistor failure.

Rust:

Susceptible to rust, particularly in rocker panels, floor pans, and tailgate areas, especially in regions with road salt.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long history of producing robust and capable off-road vehicles, dating back to World War II.

Xj Introduction:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ was introduced in 1984 as a revolutionary compact SUV, pioneering the unibody construction for this class.

Xj Updates 1994:

The 1994 model year saw significant updates, including a revised interior with improved ergonomics, a new dashboard, upgraded seats, and the introduction of a driver-side airbag as standard. Exterior styling also received minor tweaks, including revised front and rear fascias and new wheel designs.

Production Years:

1984-2001 (North America)

Manufacturing Plant:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Magazine Awards:

Consistently ranked as a top off-road vehicle by various automotive publications throughout its lifespan.

Four Wheeler Magazine:

Often cited in 'Four Wheeler' magazine as an excellent platform for modification and off-road performance.

Consumer Reports:

While ratings varied by year and specific issues, the XJ generally received positive marks for its capability and powertrain reliability, though some earlier models had noted issues.