🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Generation:

XJ

Model Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential resource for owners and technicians seeking accurate, comprehensive repair information for the 1996 Jeep Cherokee XJ.

Advantage:

Directly contrasts with generic repair guides by offering dealership-specific, vehicle-specific data, ensuring correct procedures and specifications.

Feature 1:

Vehicle-specific information, not generic.

Feature 2:

Covers all models and all repairs from A-Z.

Feature 3:

Identical to manuals used by dealership technicians.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Pages:

Detailed and comprehensive (exact page count not specified in product info, but implied to be substantial for A-Z coverage)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed Manual or PDF (as common for dealership service manuals, though not explicitly stated)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, overhaul, and specifications for all available engines.

Transmission:

Service and repair for both automatic and manual transmissions, including clutch, drivetrain, and driveline components.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, power assist, ABS (if equipped), disc and drum brake service, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel alignment, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, gauges, power accessories, wiring diagrams.

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, rust repair.

Heating And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system operation, diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, component replacement.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, fuel filter replacement, emissions control systems.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, coolant specifications and capacity.

Exhaust System:

Manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, diagnosis of leaks and restrictions.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common and uncommon issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components and systems.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including part specifications and tolerances.

Component Replacement:

Detailed guides for replacing specific parts such as alternators, starters, water pumps, brake calipers, etc.

Diagnostic Testing:

Procedures for testing sensors, actuators, electrical circuits, and mechanical components.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, pressure readings.

Depth:

Dealership-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.

Accuracy:

Vehicle-specific and authoritative, based on factory repair data.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Detail:

If digital, expected to be a searchable PDF with high-quality diagrams and schematics.

Quality:

High-resolution images, clear text, durable paper (if printed).

Binding:

Likely professionally bound (stitched or perfect bound) for durability in a workshop environment.

Paper:

Durable, possibly coated paper to resist grease and shop dirt (if printed).

Coverage Statement:

This manual is comprehensive and intended to be the definitive guide for all aspects of service and repair.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

4.0L (242 ci) Inline 6-Cylinder OHV

Horsepower 4.0L:

Approx. 190 hp @ 4750 rpm (Varies slightly by year/calibration)

Torque 4.0L:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (Varies slightly by year/calibration)

Horsepower 2.5L:

Approx. 125 hp @ 4800 rpm (Varies slightly)

Torque 2.5L:

Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (Varies slightly)

Fuel Delivery 4.0L:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI)

Engine 2 Available:

2.5L (150 ci) Inline 4-Cylinder OHV (Less common for 1996, but may be covered)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

42RE 4-speed Automatic Transmission (with 4.0L engine)

Transmission Optional Auto:

30RH 3-speed Automatic Transmission (may be available on some 2.5L models)

Transmission Optional Manual:

AX-15 5-speed Manual Transmission (with 4.0L and 2.5L engines)

Drivetrain Options:

Part-time 4WD (Command-Trac) standard, Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD) optional on some trims.

Fluid Type 42Re:

ATF+4 (or equivalent specification, e.g., Mopar ATF+3)

Fluid Type Ax15:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

167.5 inches (4255 mm)

Width:

70.0 inches (1778 mm)

Height:

63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Curb Weight Est:

3500-3800 lbs (approximate, depending on configuration)

Towing Capacity Est:

Up to 5,000 lbs (with proper equipment and engine)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 31.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 69.0 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Likely 3 stars (based on typical ratings for vehicles of this era)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Likely 3 stars (based on typical ratings for vehicles of this era)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available/optional on rear wheels, possibly all four on higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts; driver's side pretensioner.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player. Basic analog radio controls.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to basic vehicle functions; no integrated Bluetooth or advanced connectivity found in modern vehicles.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 to 6,000 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult manual).

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (depending on conditions and fluid type).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 30,000 to 100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (check manual).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 (or SAE 5W-30 in very cold climates). Refer to manual for exact specification.

Engine Oil Capacity:

5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter for 4.0L engine.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol antifreeze, Mopar OAT or HOAT (consult manual for exact 1996 specification).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or Mopar power steering fluid (verify with manual).

Common Issue 1:

Head gasket leaks (particularly on earlier 4.0L engines, but can occur).

Common Issue 2:

Cracked cylinder heads (less common in '96, but a known issue for the 4.0L generally).

Common Issue 3:

Leaf spring perches and control arm mounts can rust or crack due to stress/corrosion.

Common Issue 4:

Front axle U-joint wear and failure, especially with off-road use.

Common Issue 5:

Electrical gremlins, often related to grounds, wiring harness degradation, or failing sensors.

Common Issue 6:

Water pump and radiator leaks over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep's long history of off-road capability and ruggedness.

Xj Introduction:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, revolutionized the SUV market with its unibody construction, offering a more car-like ride and better fuel efficiency than traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

Xj Generation:

The 1996 model year represents the later part of the second generation of the XJ Cherokee, which received significant updates over its lifespan, including the introduction of the 4.0L inline-6 engine and improvements to the interior and exterior.

Production Period:

1984-2001 (North America)

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognition:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ (including the 1996 model) is widely recognized for its durability, off-road capability, and longevity. It was a benchmark in the compact SUV segment for many years.

Automotive Press Ratings:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its go-anywhere attitude and practical utility.