Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder
Distinguishing Features:
Comfortable ride, capable four-wheel drive systems, spacious interior, strong towing capacity
Engine:
All engine mechanicals, diagnostics, repair procedures, specifications
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 42RE, 46RH, 44RE) service, diagnostics, overhaul
Drivetrain:
Four-wheel drive system (NV242, NV247 transfer cases), axles, differentials, driveshafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Brake system (ABS, non-ABS), hydraulic components, disc and drum brake service
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, lighting, starting, charging, ignition systems
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics and repair
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, collision repair information
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul procedures
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth Level:
Complete factory-level service and repair information
Engine Type 1:
4.0L (3956cc) I6 OHV 12V (PowerTech)
Engine Displacement 1:
3956 cc
Engine Bore Stroke 1:
91.0 mm x 103.0 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 1:
8.8:1
Engine Horsepower 1:
185 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Engine Torque 1:
220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Type 2:
5.2L (5211cc) V8 OHV 16V (Magnum)
Engine Displacement 2:
5211 cc
Engine Bore Stroke 2:
93.5 mm x 95.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 2:
8.7:1
Engine Horsepower 2:
220 hp @ 4400 rpm (approx.)
Engine Torque 2:
285 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery System:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., 42RE for I6, 46RH for V8)
Manual Transmission Availability:
Rare or N/A for 1997 model year Grand Cherokee in North America
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac (NV242) Full-Time 4WD, Quadra-Trac II (NV247) Full-Time 4WD (with some models/trims)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
★★★★ (4-star)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:
★★★★ (4-star)
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Rollover Protection:
Designed for improved rollover resistance within the SUV segment of its era
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player, various speaker configurations available.
Navigation:
Aftermarket or dealer-installed navigation systems may have been available or fitted.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system
Traction Control:
Not widely available or standard on 1997 models; primarily handled by 4WD system.
Auxiliary Ports:
Limited to aftermarket integrations; no standard USB or Bluetooth connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (5,000 to 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual; typically every 30,000 to 50,000 miles (48,000 to 80,000 km), or as indicated by dipstick inspection.
Engine Oil Specification I6:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 in very cold climates)
Engine Oil Specification V8:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 in very cold climates)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (Chrysler Mopar material number 05010096AA or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant or equivalent
Common Issue 1:
Radiator and Heater Core Leaks: Prone to deterioration over time, leading to coolant loss and HVAC issues.
Common Issue 2:
Transfer Case Chain Stretch: Especially in Quadra-Trac models, the chain can stretch, causing clunking noises and slip.
Common Issue 3:
Brake System Wear: Accelerated wear on rotors and pads due to vehicle weight and use.
Common Issue 4:
Power Window Regulator Failure: Mechanisms can wear out, causing windows to stop functioning.
Common Issue 5:
U-Joint Failure: Universal joints in driveshafts can wear, leading to vibration and noise.
Jeep Heritage:
Jeep has a long-standing reputation for off-road capability and ruggedness, tracing its roots back to military vehicles.
Zj Generation Intro:
The ZJ generation (1993-1998) marked Jeep's entry into the more luxurious and refined SUV market, moving beyond purely utilitarian vehicles.
1997 Model Updates:
The 1997 model year saw a mid-cycle refresh for the ZJ, including updated exterior styling (grille, bumpers, taillights), revised interior trim, and the introduction of the more advanced Quadra-Trac II transfer case on select models.
Manufacturing Plant:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
