🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Model Code:

XJ

Production Years Covered:

2000-2001

Engine Codes:

4.0L (242 ci) Inline-6 (ERH), 2.5L (150 ci) Inline-4 (HSO - less common in later years)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ represents a highly capable and iconic compact SUV known for its off-road prowess, durable construction, and relatively simple mechanicals. This manual targets owners and independent repair shops seeking to maintain and repair these vehicles effectively.

Market Position Detail:

The XJ is highly regarded for its go-anywhere capability and manageable size, making it a popular choice for off-roading, light trail use, and as a reliable daily driver.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder, but carved out a niche with its unibody construction (a pioneering feature for SUVs), robust straight-six engine, and legendary Selec-Trac or Command-Trac 4x4 systems.

Key Features:

Renowned off-road capability, comfortable ride for its class, durable and proven powertrain, iconic styling, and a strong aftermarket support. The 2000-2001 models are the final iteration of the XJ platform, featuring some modernizations.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All service and repair jobs, diagnostics, maintenance, wiring diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications.

Page Count:

Likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals).

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Manual Type Detail:

Factory service manual, providing comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, drive axles, steering system, suspension system (front and rear), brake system, Antilock Brake System (ABS), body electrical system, lighting, HVAC system, interior, exterior, body repair, chassis, emissions control, diagnostics, troubleshooting.

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance, tune-ups, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake pad replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis, body panel repair, HVAC system service, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, component testing and replacement, torque specifications, alignment procedures.

Procedures Included Advanced:

Engine compression testing, cylinder leakage testing, fuel pressure testing, injector flow testing, diagnostic scanner use, transmission solenoid testing, ABS sensor testing, body control module diagnostics.

Technical Depth:

Factory-level, comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

Wiring Diagrams:

Included, covering all major electrical systems, engine control, body electronics, and lighting.

Diagnostics:

Detailed procedures for diagnosing engine, transmission, braking, and electrical issues, including OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system interpretation.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, designed for clear readability and potential printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.0L (242 ci) OHV Inline-6 (ERH)

Horsepower:

Approx. 190-193 hp @ 4600 rpm (for 2000-2001 models)

Torque:

Approx. 220-225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (for 2000-2001 models)

Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack, depending on specific build.

Bore Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.414 in (98.4 mm x 86.7 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.75:1

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with fan and thermostat.

Oil Capacity:

5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter, using SAE 10W-30 API SJ or higher oil.

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Cast Iron

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic (42RE for RWD, 44RE for 4WD)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed manual (NV3550) was available, but less common in these final years and often replaced by the 42RLE automatic in some later Jeep models.

Features:

Selectable 4WD with Selec-Trac (full-time and part-time modes) or Command-Trac (part-time 4WD). Transfer case options include NP231 (Command-Trac) and NP242 (Selec-Trac).

Automatic Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Manual Fluid Type:

NV3550: API GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.

Transfer Case Options:

New Process NP231 (Command-Trac, part-time 2WD/4WD) or NP242 (Selec-Trac, full-time 2WD/4WD/Neutral).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

164.3 inches (4173 mm)

Width:

69.4 inches (1763 mm)

Height:

63.6 inches (1615 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.5 inches (216 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3400-3700 lbs (1542-1678 kg), depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) when properly equipped.

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 1000-1200 lbs (454-544 kg).

Passenger Capacity:

5

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

Approx. 33.8 cubic feet (957 liters)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

Approx. 72.1 cubic feet (2042 liters)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x4.5 inches (5x114.3 mm)

Standard Tire Size:

P215/75R15 or P225/75R15 (depending on trim and year)

Optional Tire Size:

P235/75R15, LT235/75R15

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4-star (for models tested).

Active Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Power-assisted brakes.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, crumple zones, side-impact door beams, three-point seat belts with pretensioners.

Front Brakes:

Ventilated discs

Rear Brakes:

Drums (standard) or discs (with optional ABS).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, with optional premium sound system. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Driver Assistance:

Limited by modern standards. ABS was optional. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were available.

Connectivity:

Typically none by modern standards. Some models may have featured power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors. Factory auxiliary input or Bluetooth was not standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for exact recommendations).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs, consult manual for specific type.

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent HOAT. Capacity approx. 11.5 US quarts (10.9 liters).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4.

Differential Fluid Front Rear:

API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 for standard open differentials. Use synthetic for limited-slip or Rubicon models. Verify type in manual.

Transfer Case Fluid:

NP231/NP242: Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MTL) or equivalent SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 1.75 US quarts (1.66 liters).

Known Issues:

Head gasket failures (especially on earlier 4.0L engines, less common in 2000-2001 but still a possibility), radiator leaks, alternator failures, TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) issues, NP242 transfer case chain wear, rust in floor pans and rocker panels, front and rear main seal leaks, valve cover gasket leaks.

Common Maintenance Items:

Regularly inspect and replace serpentine belt, idler pulley, and tensioner. Check and service U-joints on driveshafts. Monitor cooling system hoses and radiator integrity.

Maintenance Schedule:

The manual provides detailed recommended service intervals for all major components, including lubrication, filter changes, inspections, and fluid replacements.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep has a long and storied history dating back to World War II, synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness.

Model Evolution:

The Cherokee XJ, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its unibody construction, a departure from traditional body-on-frame SUVs. It was the first compact SUV and set the standard for the segment. The 2000-2001 models are the final iterations of this highly successful and influential generation, receiving minor updates including revised interiors and powertrain enhancements.

Production Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Production Years Global:

1984-2001 (North America), continued production in other markets for several more years.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Consistently ranked as one of the best SUVs by various automotive publications for its off-road capabilities and durability throughout its production run. Often cited as a benchmark for compact SUVs.