Vehicle Market Position:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ, particularly in its 1995 iteration, occupied a significant niche as a compact, capable, and relatively affordable SUV with renowned off-road prowess, making it popular for both daily use and recreational activities.
Competitive Landscape:
Competed against vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder. Its unibody construction and excellent approach/departure angles set it apart in off-road capability.
Vehicle Key Features:
Compact SUV dimensions, legendary Selec-Trac or Command-Trac 4WD systems, robust 4.0L inline-six engine option, comfortable ride for its class, and strong aftermarket support.
Engine Systems:
Detailed coverage of 4.0L I6 and 2.5L I4 engines, including fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions, and performance tuning.
Transmission Systems:
Coverage for both automatic (e.g., AW4, 42RE) and manual transmissions (e.g., AX-15), including removal, installation, internal repairs, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain Systems:
Complete information on front and rear axles (Dana 30, Dana 35), transfer cases (e.g., NP231), driveshafts, and four-wheel-drive system operation and repair.
Suspension And Steering:
Detailed diagrams and procedures for front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, and alignment specifications.
Brake Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of disc and drum brake systems, including inspection, service, bleeding procedures, and component replacement.
Electrical Systems:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures for lighting, charging system, starting system, infotainment, and power accessories.
Body And Frame:
Information on body panel repair, rust prevention, interior trim, glass replacement, and structural integrity checks.
HVAC Systems:
Coverage of air conditioning and heating system components, refrigerant handling, and troubleshooting.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, tire rotation, and inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common mechanical and electrical faults.
Engine Repair:
Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, component inspection, machining, and reassembly for both major engine variants.
Transmission Overhaul:
Step-by-step guides for the complete overhaul of automatic and manual transmissions.
Brake Service:
Procedures for brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, and brake line repairs.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing of sensors, actuators, wiring harnesses, and control modules using multimeter and diagnostic tools.
Suspension Component Replacement:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rods, control arms, leaf springs, and shock absorbers.
Body Panel Repair And Replacement:
Guidance on dent repair, welding, panel alignment, and rust remediation.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Digital Format Details:
If digital, typically PDF. Searchable text is a key feature for efficient information retrieval. High-resolution scans for clarity of diagrams and text.
Print Quality:
For printed versions, expect clear text reproduction, sharp and legible diagrams, and durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.
Binding Type:
Likely a sturdy binding (e.g., coil-bound, perfect-bound, or ring-binder style) to withstand frequent use in a garage setting.
Paper Type:
Durable paper that can resist oil and grease stains, often with a matte finish to reduce glare.
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
Approximately 163.3 - 173.4 inches (4148 - 4404 mm), depending on trim and options.
Width:
Approximately 66.5 - 70.0 inches (1689 - 1778 mm).
Height:
Approximately 63.7 - 65.0 inches (1618 - 1651 mm).
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,100 - 3,500 lbs (1406 - 1588 kg).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically around 4,500 - 4,800 lbs.
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Information for 1995 models may be limited or unavailable compared to later years. Generally, SUVs of this era had lower safety standards than modern vehicles.
ABS:
Optional on some trims/models, standard on others.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag was standard. Passenger airbag was not generally available in 1995.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for front occupants, lap belts for rear. Shoulder belts for front were standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (5,000 to 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult manual for specifics.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) for automatics; manual transmissions have longer intervals or are often serviced only if leaking.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
For the 4.0L I6, typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with modern iridium plugs; older copper plugs had shorter intervals.
Engine Oil Type 4 0L:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.
Engine Oil Capacity 4 0L:
5 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (Mopar) or equivalent Dexron/Mercon compatible fluid.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, typically green or orange. Mopar HOAT or OAT compatible. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or equivalent.
Common Cherokee Xj Issues:
Head gasket failures (especially on earlier 4.0Ls, though less common by '95), cracked cylinder heads (less common by '95), TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) failure, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure, rust in common areas (rocker panels, floor pans, rear quarter panels), cooling system leaks, rear main seal leaks, death wobble (suspension/steering component wear).
Jeep Brand Heritage:
Founded on military utility vehicles, Jeep has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness, off-road capability, and iconic styling.
Cherokee Xj Introduction:
The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was groundbreaking as the first compact SUV with a unibody construction. This generation ran from 1984-2001.
Cherokee Xj 1995 Updates:
The 1995 model year saw continued refinement. Key changes included the introduction of OBD-II emissions controls, updated interior trim, and potentially minor drivetrain enhancements.
Production Location:
Primarily manufactured at the Toledo South Complex in Toledo, Ohio, USA.
Production Years Xj:
1984-2001