Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet Blazer/TrailBlazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover Discovery.
Distinctive Attributes:
The WJ Grand Cherokee was known for its improved on-road refinement compared to its predecessor (ZJ), a more modern interior, and enhanced standard features. It offered robust four-wheel-drive systems and a comfortable ride for its class.
Applicable Years:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Estimated Pages:
1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Primary Language:
English
Format:
Digital (likely PDF or similar electronic format for sales)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECU), transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, drive shafts, axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear, including Quadra-Coil systems), steering system, brake system (ABS, front and rear disc/drum), wheels and tires.
Body And Electrical:
Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, HVAC system, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), lighting, instrument cluster, airbags, body control modules (BCM), audio systems, wiring diagrams (detailed schematics for all circuits).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements, lubrication points, tire rotation and balancing.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul (cylinder head, short block, long block), transmission overhaul, differential rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and rotor service, steering gear service, HVAC component replacement, starter and alternator service.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing (sensors, actuators), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance, diagnostics, repairs, and complete overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications, special tool requirements, and exploded views for component identification.
Engine Options:
4.0L Inline-6 (PowerTech) and 4.7L V8 (High Output Magnum).
4.0L I6 Horsepower:
190 hp @ 4600 rpm
4.0L I6 Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
4.7L V8 Ho Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4200 rpm (standard 4.7L was 220 hp)
4.7L V8 Ho Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (standard 4.7L was 285 lb-ft)
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECM Type:
Chrysler NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar variants.
Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic transmission (42RE for 4.0L, 45RFE/44RE for 4.7L).
Optional Transmission:
A 5-speed manual transmission (NV3550) was available on select 4.0L models, though less common.
Transfer Case:
Part-time NV242 (with 2WD, 4 Full-Time, 4 Full-Time Lock) or Full-time NV247 (Quadra-Trac II with 2WD, 4 Full-Time, 4 Full-Time Lock).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
4-Star Driver / 4-Star Passenger (as per NHTSA 1999-2004 ratings)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional (Traction Control System - TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Rarely standard, might have been an option later in the production run, often integrated with traction control.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags; optional front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Audio Options:
Standard AM/FM/Cassette/CD player; optional premium Infinity sound system, optional in-dash CD changer.
Navigation:
Rarely available, typically as a dealer-installed option or aftermarket unit. No integrated factory navigation on most models of this era.
Parking Sensors:
Available as an option on higher trim levels.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically factory standard; aftermarket solutions for iPod/MP3 input exist.
Bluetooth:
Not factory standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), or more frequently under severe use.
Coolant Change Interval:
First change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (preferred for 4.0L and 4.7L, check specific owner's manual for regional variations or severe service recommendations). Some 4.7L V8s may specify 10W-30.
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent.
Common Problems Wj:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially on early 4.7L V8 models), transfer case chain stretch/wear (NV247), HVAC blend door actuator failure, minor oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), power steering pump whine, front differential carrier bearing failures.
Common Problems Wj Electrical:
Instrument cluster failures (dead pixels), TIPM (Total Integrated Power Module) issues (less common than later models but possible), window regulator failures.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long-standing heritage in off-road vehicles, dating back to its military origins in World War II. The Grand Cherokee line was introduced in 1993 to fill the niche of a more luxurious and comfortable SUV.
Wj Generation:
The WJ generation (1999-2004) was the second generation of the Grand Cherokee. It replaced the ZJ and featured a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic body, a larger interior, and a more refined suspension system (optional Quadra-Coil coil spring rear suspension, replacing the leaf springs of the ZJ).
Manufacturing Locations:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:
The Grand Cherokee (ZJ) was the first SUV named MotorTrend's 1993 SUV of the Year. While the WJ didn't win this specific award, it built upon that reputation for comfort and capability.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by year and specific components; the 4.0L engine generally had better reliability than the early 4.7L V8. The manual provides extensive information to address potential reliability concerns.
