🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Model Generation:

Second Generation (XJ Facelift 2)

Applicable Years:

1997, 1998, 1999

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, serious Jeep Cherokee XJ owners

Value Proposition:

Cost-effective alternative to dealership service, enabling significant savings on labor costs.

Content Quality:

Detailed explanations, step-by-step instructions, comprehensive illustrations, and photographs.

Usability:

Searchable PDF format for quick information retrieval and selective printing.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete vehicle repair and service

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (likely 1500+ pages, typical for factory service manuals of this era)

Manual Classification:

Factory Repair Service Manual / Professional Shop Manual

Language:

English

Delivery Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Transfer Case, Drivetrain (4x2 & 4x4)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), Axles (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Audio System, Power Accessories

Body:

Body Panels, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Doors, Glass, Seats, Climate Control System

Cooling Lubrication Fuel:

Cooling System, Lubrication System, Fuel System (including Injection)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Repair Disassembly Assembly:

Component removal, disassembly, inspection, assembly, and installation

Tuning Adjustment:

Engine tuning, suspension alignment, brake adjustments

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks and filter changes to complex engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

High resolution, fully printable pages

Recommended Binding:

3-ring binder (user printable)

Digital Format Advantage:

Printable pages allow for easy replacement of soiled or damaged sections.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement And Type:

4.0L (242 cu in) Inline-6 (OHV)

Engine Code Common:

ERH (for 1997-1998 4.0L), ENS (for 1999 4.0L)

Horsepower Approximate:

190 hp @ 4,750 rpm

Torque Approximate:

235 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Spark Plugs:

Champion Copper Plus (e.g., RC12LYC) or equivalent, typically gapped to 0.035 inches

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

42RE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Type:

NV3550 5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transfer Case Common:

New Process NP231 Command-Trac (Part-Time 4WD)

Atf Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

MS-8933 (API GL-4) or equivalent, typically 75W-90

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.4 inches (2626 mm)

Length:

167.2 inches (4247 mm)

Width:

70.4 inches (1788 mm)

Height:

64.5 inches (1638 mm)

Curb Weight Approximate:

3,500 - 4,000 lbs (1588 - 1814 kg) depending on configuration

Towing Capacity Approximate:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approximately 71.2 cubic feet (2016 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Not rated (vehicles of this era often did not have standardized ratings)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Not rated

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels only for most configurations

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Airbags standard

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts, two-point rear lap belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Typically 4 or 6 speaker system.

Display:

Analog gauges with basic LCD odometer and trip meter. No central touchscreen or digital displays.

Cruise Control:

Optional

Connectivity Features:

None (pre-smartphone era)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years with the recommended coolant type.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 (preferred for most conditions), SAE 5W-30 for extreme cold, SAE 10W-40 for heavy loads/high temps.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6 Quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter change for 4.0L Inline-6

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent (typically a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Wear Items:

Cracked cylinder heads (earlier models, though less prevalent in later XJs), worn front universal joints, power steering pump leaks, catalytic converter issues, radiator leaks, rear main seal leaks.

Electrical Quirks:

Grounding issues in door harnesses, interior light failures, common HVAC blower resistor failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Jeep's long-standing reputation for off-road capability and durability.

Generation Introduction:

The XJ Cherokee was a pioneering compact SUV, known for its unibody construction offering a lighter and more car-like ride than traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

Facelift Details:

The 1997 redesign brought updated exterior styling (new front and rear fascias, fenders, hood), interior revisions (new dashboard, seats), and improved safety features.

Production Period:

1984-2001 (North America)

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Accolades:

Consistently recognized by automotive publications for its off-road prowess, versatility, and value. Often cited as a benchmark for compact SUVs in its time.