Segment:
Mid-size Luxury/Premium SUV
Key Selling Points:
Off-road capability (even in 4x2 variants for the Grand Cherokee), comfortable ride, spacious interior, towing capacity
Competitors 1997:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover Discovery
Design Language:
Classic Jeep styling with a more refined, SUV-oriented approach compared to Wranglers.
Engine:
Comprehensive engine diagnostics, overhaul, tuning, and component repair (e.g., cooling system, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control)
Transmission:
Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions (e.g., NV242 transfer case for 4x2 models, fluid service, adjustments, internal repairs)
Drivetrain:
Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, differentials (for 4x2 application)
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, component replacement and bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, components, alignment, and shock absorber/strut replacement
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, linkages, and adjustments
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instrumentation, power windows/locks, HVAC controls, body electronics
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service, component replacement, and refrigerant handling
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, glass, bumpers, and body repair considerations
Chassis:
Frame construction and related components
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance schedules, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I for this era), specific diagnostic connectors and procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder (common for base models)
Engine Displacement L6:
4.0 Liters (242 cu. in.)
Engine Displacement V8:
5.2 Liters (318 cu. in.) and potentially 4.7 Liters (V8 - though 4.7L was introduced later in this generation, more common post-1998)
Horsepower L6:
Approx. 190 hp @ 4400 rpm
Torque L6:
Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Horsepower V8 5.2:
Approx. 205-215 hp @ 4000-4500 rpm
Torque V8 5.2:
Approx. 275-290 lb-ft @ 2400-3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-port Injection (MPI)
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for 4.0L, 89 octane recommended for 5.2L)
Length:
Approx. 179.1 inches (4549 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.6 inches (1615 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.0 inches (2642 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.0 inches (203 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,100 lbs (1724 - 1860 kg) depending on engine and options
Cargo Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 39.7 cu ft (1124 L)
Cargo Max With Seats Folded:
Approx. 74.5 cu ft (2109 L)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for climate specific recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter for 4.0L; Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter for 5.2L V8.
Fluid Specifications Transmission
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 4) or equivalent Dexron/Mercon compatible fluid. Consult manual for precise specification.
Fluid Capacities Transmission
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 11 quarts (10.4 liters) for transmission pan refill (does not include torque converter).
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 13.5 quarts (12.8 liters)
Engine Common Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on 4.0L), intake manifold gasket leaks, valve stem seals, oil filter housing leaks, occasional oil pump issues.
Transmission Common Issues:
Slipping gears, torque converter clutch (TCC) shudder, transmission fluid leaks, heat exchanger leaks (can contaminate transmission fluid).
Electrical Common Issues:
PCM (Powertrain Control Module) failures, instrument cluster issues, window regulator failures, cooling fan relay failures.
Suspension Common Issues:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, sway bar links. Fluid leaks from power steering system.
Body Common Issues:
Rust in common areas (rocker panels, rear quarter panels), water leaks into cabin (door seals, third brake light).
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles (19,000 - 24,000 km) or annually.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as recommended. Critical for MPI systems.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history dating back to WWII, renowned for its off-road capability and ruggedness.
Zg Generation:
The ZJ generation Grand Cherokee was produced from 1993 to 1998. The 1997 model is part of the facelifted second phase of this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Detroit, Michigan, USA (Jefferson North Assembly Plant)