Market Segment:
Compact SUV, known for off-road capability and utility.
Competitors 1997:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder.
Key Features:
Renowned off-road prowess (Command-trac/Selec-trac), robust unibody construction, reliable inline-six engine, legendary durability.
Coverage Description:
This comprehensive service and repair manual covers all aspects of the 1997 Jeep Cherokee XJ, including maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, repair procedures, and specifications for all major systems.
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Yes, detailed overhaul and repair procedures for 4.0L and 2.5L engines.
Engine Performance:
Yes, fuel injection, ignition system diagnostics, emissions control.
Transmission Manual:
Yes, AX-5, AX-15.
Transmission Automatic:
Yes, AW4, 30RH.
Drivetrain:
Yes, NP231, NP242 transfer cases, Dana 30, Dana 35 axles, U-joints, CV joints.
Suspension:
Yes, front solid axle, leaf springs, coil springs, shock absorbers, sway bars.
Steering:
Yes, power steering system, steering column, linkage.
Brakes:
Yes, disc/drum, ABS system (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Yes, detailed wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, power windows, locks.
HVAC:
Yes, air conditioning, heating system.
Body And Interior:
Yes, body panel removal, interior trim, seat removal, glass replacement.
Chassis:
Yes, frame inspection and repair.
Routine Maintenance:
Yes, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations.
Troubleshooting:
Yes, diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Component Repair:
Yes, step-by-step repair instructions for all major components.
Rebuilds:
Yes, detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics:
Yes, includes OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and testing procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Yes, comprehensive and detailed.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full overhauls and complex diagnostics.
Engine 1:
4.0L (3956cc) OHV V6, "6-242"
Engine 1 Horsepower:
190 hp @ 4600 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Engine 2:
2.5L (2492cc) OHV Inline-4, "4-150"
Engine 2 Horsepower:
125 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
150 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm
Fuel System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) for 4.0L, Distributor Ignition for 2.5L
Coolant Type:
Chrysler® HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (typically pink or orange)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (AX-5 / AX-15)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (AW4 / 30RH)
Transfer Case Options:
Command-Trac (NV231), Selec-Trac (NV242)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Infotainment System 1997:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player, analog gauges, manual climate controls.
Driver Assistance Features 1997:
Limited, primarily basic ABS on rear wheels.
Connectivity Options 1997:
None (pre-USB, pre-Bluetooth era).
Oil Change Interval Est:
3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Est:
30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on driving conditions.
Engine Coolant Change Interval Est:
30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Engine Oil Viscosity 4 0L:
10W-30 (preferred), 5W-30 for very cold temperatures.
Engine Oil Capacity 4 0L:
5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change.
Engine Oil Viscosity 2 5L:
10W-30
Engine Oil Capacity 2 5L:
4 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.
Common Issues 4 0L Engine:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially earlier models, less common in '97), rear main seal leaks, injector issues, throttle body issues.
Common Issues Transmission:
AW4: Torque converter shudder, output shaft seal leaks. AX-15: Pilot bearing wear.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn leaf springs (sagging), U-joint failure, axle seal leaks, ball joint wear.
Common Issues Electrical:
CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure, O2 sensor failures, voltage regulator issues, power window motor failure.
Air Filter Part Number Est:
A2860 (Wix), PA4470 (Fram), or equivalent
Oil Filter Part Number Est:
Wix 51515, Fram PH8A, or equivalent
Jeep Brand Legacy:
Founded on military utility vehicles (Willys MB), Jeep has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability.
Cherokee Xj Generation:
Second Generation (facelifted in 1997, new interior, updated exterior styling, dual airbags introduced).
Cherokee Xj Production Years:
1984-2001
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
