🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Year:

1999

Drivetrain:

4x2

Steering Wheel Position:

Right-Hand Drive (RHD)

Engine Type:

Gasoline

Platform:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ is a highly regarded compact SUV, known for its robust construction, off-road capability (even in 4x2 configuration for its time), and enduring popularity. This manual caters to owners and technicians working on a well-established and well-loved vehicle platform.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, and Chevrolet S-10 Blazer. The XJ's unibody construction was innovative for its class, offering a lighter and more car-like ride compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs of the era.

Key Features:

Durable and reliable, capable off-road (even in 2WD variants), comfortable for its class, distinctive styling, and strong aftermarket support. The 1999 model represents a mature iteration of the XJ platform, benefiting from years of refinement.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All maintenance and repair procedures for Jeep Cherokee XJ 4x2 RHD 1999 Gasoline models

Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals, exact count not provided)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Clutch, Manual transmission, Automatic transmission (if applicable to RHD variants), Transfer case, Drive shafts, Axles, Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Brake system (front and rear), Electrical system (including lighting, instrumentation, accessories), Body and chassis, HVAC system, Restraints systems (airbags/seatbelts), Diagnostic procedures, Emission control systems

Engine Mechanical Details:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, valve train, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Manual and automatic transmission, transfer case (if applicable to 4x4), drive shafts, U-joints, axles, differentials.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (leaf springs, shocks, control arms, sway bars), steering box, tie rods, power steering system.

Brake System:

Front and rear brakes (discs/drums), ABS components, hydraulic lines, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, instruments, gauges, switches, relays, fuses, wiring harnesses, body control modules (if applicable).

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, bumpers, frame (unibody structure).

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, Scheduled maintenance, Troubleshooting guides, Component removal and installation, Repair procedures, Overhaul procedures, Diagnostic flowcharts, Torque specifications, Electrical wiring diagrams, Lubrication charts, Component testing, Adjustment procedures, Bodywork repair, Suspension alignment

Engine Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuilding, component replacement, troubleshooting engine performance issues, timing belt/chain adjustment, fuel injector testing.

Transmission Repair Procedures:

Transmission fluid changes, clutch replacement, transmission overhaul, torque converter service, axle seal replacement.

Suspension And Steering Procedures:

Alignment specifications, shock absorber replacement, steering linkage repair, power steering fluid flushing, bushing replacement.

Brake System Procedures:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, brake fluid bleeding, caliper/wheel cylinder repair, ABS diagnostic troubleshooting.

Electrical System Procedures:

Wiring diagrams for all circuits, component testing, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, fuse/relay identification and testing, alternator/starter replacement.

Body And Chassis Procedures:

Door panel removal, window regulator repair, HVAC blower motor replacement, body panel alignment, rust repair techniques.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and structural repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing quick access to specific topics and keywords.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans/digital source ensuring clarity of diagrams, schematics, and images. Adobe PDF Reader recommended for optimal display.

Diagram Clarity:

High-quality scans or digital rendering of all diagrams, schematics, and illustrations crucial for repair and diagnosis.

Binding Type:

Not applicable (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.0L (242 cu in) OHV Inline-6 (Power-Tech Six)

Engine Codes:

Typically identified by 'ERH' or similar codes for the 4.0L engine.

Horsepower 1999:

Approximately 190 hp @ 4600 rpm (subject to regional variations and specific engine tuning)

Torque 1999:

Approximately 225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (subject to regional variations and specific engine tuning)

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.500 in (98.4 mm x 88.9 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Ignition System:

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

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system

Lubrication System:

Pressurized wet-sump system

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., Chrysler 42RE)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., New Process NP4500 or similar)

Transfer Case:

Command-Trac NV242 (2WD/4Part-Time/4Full-Time) or Selec-Trac NV242 transfer case for some 4x4 variants. This manual specifies a 4x2, likely utilizing a standard rear axle without a transfer case.

Fluid Type Automatic:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Chrysler spec)

Fluid Capacity Automatic:

Approximately 8-10 quarts (7.6-9.5 liters) for refill after pan drop and filter change.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 170.1 inches (4320 mm)

Width:

Approximately 66.5 inches (1689 mm)

Height:

Approximately 63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,200 - 3,500 lbs (1450 - 1588 kg), depending on options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Driver Side:

4 Stars (for models tested)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Passenger Side:

4 Stars (for models tested)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - typically standard on rear wheels for 4x2, optional or standard on front.

Passive Features:

Driver and passenger front airbags, Three-point seat belts with pretensioners, Crumple zones in body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by 1999 standards. Primarily focused on ABS. Cruise control was common on higher trims.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or advanced connectivity options. Basic electrical systems for power windows/locks on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (5,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for conventional plugs, potentially longer for platinum or iridium.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SJ or higher). Check owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler specification (e.g., HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) green or orange coolant. Do not mix coolant types.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Chrysler specification)

Known Issues:

Common issues include: radiator leaks, head gasket failures (especially in early 4.0L), oil filter housing leaks, transfer case chain stretch (4x4 models), rear main seal leaks, worn leaf spring bushings, power steering pump whine, and dashboard crack/disintegration due to UV exposure. The 4.0L engine is generally robust but requires proper maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep, a marque with deep roots in military vehicles and off-road prowess, established a strong reputation for durability and capability long before the Cherokee XJ.

Model Evolution:

The Cherokee XJ, introduced in 1984, revolutionized the SUV market with its unibody construction. The 1999 model is part of the second generation facelift (1997-2001), featuring updated styling, improved interior, and revised powertrains. It was the final generation for the XJ nameplate.

Production Years:

1984-2001 (global production, specific XJ generation 1997-2001)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA. RHD variants would have been produced for specific export markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The XJ platform received numerous accolades throughout its production run, often cited for its utility, off-road capability, and value. While specific awards for the 1999 model might be less prominent, the overall XJ design was highly influential and widely respected in the automotive press.