🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Year:

1997

Vehicle Type:

Compact SUV

Body Styles Covered:

2-Door Sport Utility, 4-Door Sport Utility

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ (1997) represents a significant evolution in Jeep's compact SUV offerings, known for its unibody construction and robust off-road capability, bridging the gap between traditional body-on-frame SUVs and more car-like crossovers.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer (earlier generations), and Chevrolet Blazer.

Vehicle Highlights:

Renowned for its distinctive styling, legendary 4.0L inline-six engine, agile handling for an SUV of its era, and strong off-road prowess, especially with optional Command-Trac or Selec-Trac 4WD systems.

Value For Buyers:

This factory service manual is an indispensable resource for owners and mechanics seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1997 Jeep Cherokee XJ, providing accurate OEM-level information for all vehicle systems.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Completeness:

Complete Official Factory Documentation

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count may vary by exact version, estimated 1500+)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, powertrain control module (PCM), transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, driveline components (axles, driveshafts, U-joints).

Chassis:

Steering system, suspension system (front and rear), brake system (front discs, rear drums/discs), wheels and tires.

Body & Electrical:

Body construction and sheet metal, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, locks, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), lighting systems, instrument panel, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations, chassis electrical components, body control modules (BCM).

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system diagnosis, fuel system diagnosis, emission control system diagnosis.

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, body panel repair, electrical component replacement.

Maintenance Procedures:

Fluid level checks and changes, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation, chassis lubrication.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications for critical fasteners, component clearances, alignment specifications, engine performance data.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance to major component overhauls and complex diagnostic procedures. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for easy navigation.

Print Quality:

High quality, designed for professional printing of selected sections or the entire manual.

Binding Recommendation:

For printed copies, spiral binding or a three-ring binder is recommended for ease of use.

Paper Recommendation:

For printed copies, durable, matte finish paper suitable for shop environments is recommended.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Description:

4.0L (3957cc) OHV 12-valve Inline 6-cylinder (242 ci), known for its durability and torque. Engine Code: ERH (for 1997 models).

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.570 in (98.4 mm x 90.7 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower Rating:

185 hp @ 4,700 rpm

Torque Rating:

220 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack configuration.

Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Oil Capacity:

5 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change (API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended for most climates, SAE 5W-30 for extreme cold).

Cooling System Capacity:

Approx. 10.5 Quarts (9.9 Liters) with 50/50 antifreeze/water mix.

Optional Engine Description:

2.5L (2507cc) OHV 8-valve Inline 4-cylinder (153 ci). Engine Code: ERM.

Optional Horsepower Rating:

125 hp @ 4,800 rpm

Optional Torque Rating:

145 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm

Optional Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

42RE 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive

Transfer Case Standard:

NV231 Command-Trac (Part-Time 2WD/4WD)

Transmission Type Optional:

AX-15 5-Speed Manual (with 4.0L engine)

Transfer Case Optional:

NV242 Selec-Trac (Full-Time/Part-Time 2WD/4WD)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent specification, check manual for exact earlier spec if applicable, e.g., ATF+3 or Dexron III/Mercon).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 10.3 Quarts (9.7 Liters) for a complete refill.

Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 2.5 Quarts (2.4 Liters).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2,576 mm)

Length:

167.9 inches (4,265 mm)

Width:

70.2 inches (1,783 mm)

Height:

64.2 inches (1,631 mm)

Curb Weight Est:

3,300 - 3,700 lbs (1,497 - 1,678 kg), depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est:

4,700 - 5,200 lbs (2,132 - 2,359 kg)

Towing Capacity Est:

Up to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with proper equipment and engine.

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 31.0 cu ft (0.88 m³)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 71.0 cu ft (2.01 m³)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating Est:

3-star (may vary by specific test and configuration)

Braking System:

Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes (optional rear disc brakes on some trims/options). Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels.

Steering Type:

Power-assisted, recirculating ball steering.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for front and rear outboard occupants. Lap belt for center rear occupant.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette tape player, optional CD player. Various speaker configurations available.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control systems, including A/C and heater functions.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and voltmeter. Warning lamps for various systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal) and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific guidance.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (48,000 - 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Coolant Flush And Refill:

Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (48,000 - 160,000 km) or 2-5 years, using a Mopar-approved coolant.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, depending on driving conditions. Manual transmissions typically have longer intervals or are serviced as needed.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, typically Mopar Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid (specific type may vary, consult manual).

Common Problems And Solutions:

Common issues include head gasket failures on the 4.0L engine (especially earlier revisions, though less common by '97), radiator leaks, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure causing no-start conditions, rust issues on unibody structure and body panels, and potential for U-joint wear on drivelines. The manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures for all these.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep, a marque synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness, traces its roots to World War II military vehicles.

Cherokee Xj Introduction:

The Cherokee XJ was introduced in 1984 as a revolutionary compact SUV, pioneering the unibody construction for its class, offering a lighter and more agile alternative to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

1997 Model Year Updates:

The 1997 model year marked a significant facelift for the XJ generation, including updated exterior styling (new front and rear fascias, revised grille), a completely redesigned interior with a modern dashboard and improved ergonomics, and updated safety features. The 4.0L engine received some internal revisions.

Production Years Xj:

1984-2001

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Jeep Cherokee Xj Reputation:

Consistently praised for its off-road capability and durability, earning a strong following among off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. The 4.0L inline-six engine is particularly legendary for its longevity.