Segment:
Compact SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle
Positioning:
Renowned for its off-road capability, ruggedness, and practical utility. The XJ Cherokee is a segment pioneer and a beloved classic for its durability and go-anywhere nature.
Competitors 2000:
Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra (though Xterra is more body-on-frame like traditional SUVs).
Design Philosophy:
Unibody construction (pioneering for SUVs at its introduction), robust inline-6 engine, available Command-Trac or Selec-Trac 4WD systems, and significant aftermarket support.
Manual Utility:
Enables owners to perform extensive repairs and maintenance, reducing dealership costs and empowering DIY enthusiasts to maintain their vehicle's legendary capability.
Primary Coverage:
Vehicle repair and maintenance
Specific Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical, HVAC, Body, Interior
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Detailed information on engine repair, troubleshooting, and diagnostics, including specific procedures for the 4.0L Inline-6 and 4.7L V8 (if applicable to 2000 XJ, though 4.0L is primary). Transmission service for AW-4 (4-speed automatic) and NV3550 (5-speed manual). Drivetrain components including NP231 transfer case, Dana 30 front axle, and Chrysler 8.25 rear axle.
Chassis And Body:
Comprehensive coverage of braking systems (front disc, rear drum), power steering, suspension (leaf spring rear, coil spring front), body panel repair, interior component removal and installation, HVAC system service, and exterior lighting.
Electrical And Diagnostics:
Extensive electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), onboard diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, starter, alternator, battery system, and lighting system troubleshooting.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance schedules, oil change procedures, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, cooling system flushes, brake fluid changes, and lubrication points.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for engine overhauls, transmission repairs, axle rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, springs, bushings), steering gear service, and exhaust system repairs.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and performance issues, with diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based resolution.
Depth:
Advanced diagnostics, detailed component specifications, torque values, special tool requirements, and factory-recommended repair procedures suitable for professional technicians and serious DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Inline-6, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Displacement:
4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.578 in (98.4 mm x 90.9 mm)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Horsepower:
182 hp @ 4,600 RPM
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3,200 RPM
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Pump Pressure:
31-39 PSI
Engine Codes:
ERH (for 4.0L OHV)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (AW-4)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (NV3550)
Transfer Case Options:
NV231 Command-Trac (Part-Time 2WD/4WD), NV242 Selec-Trac (Full-Time 4WD with 2WD option)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Specification MS-9602) or equivalent Dexron III
Manual Transmission Fluid:
NV3550: Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent GL-4 SAE 75W-90
Transfer Case Fluid:
NV231/NV242: ATF+4 or equivalent Dexron III
Length:
174.4 in (4,430 mm)
Width:
71.2 in (1,808 mm)
Height:
64.3 in (1,633 mm)
Wheelbase:
101.4 in (2,576 mm)
Ground Clearance:
8.7 in (221 mm) (typical)
Curb Weight:
3,275 - 3,580 lbs (1,485 - 1,624 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4,500 - 4,700 lbs (2,041 - 2,132 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) with proper equipment
NHTSA Frontal Driver Side:
4/5 Stars (for 1999 model year, likely similar for 2000)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Side:
4/5 Stars (for 1999 model year, likely similar for 2000)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for models with side airbags, less common on XJ)
ABS:
Standard on all models (4-wheel disc brakes optional on later models, but typically front disc/rear drum for 2000)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seat belts
Body Structure:
Unibody construction for lighter weight and better handling compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs of the era.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD or cassette player, optional premium sound system.
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Anti Theft:
Factory alarm system, immobilizer (depending on trim and region)
Oem Connectivity:
Limited by era; primarily AM/FM radio and power accessories. No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports in factory systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult manual for specific recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or every 2-4 years
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 10W-30 (API certified, check owner's manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6 US quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent extended life antifreeze (typically orange/pink)
Common Problems Engine:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.0L models, though less prevalent on later ones), oil filter adapter leaks, alternator failure, radiator leaks.
Common Problems Drivetrain:
Rear main seal leaks, transfer case chain stretch, axle seal leaks, U-joint wear.
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Worn leaf spring bushings, tie rod end wear, steering box play, ball joint wear.
Common Problems Electrical:
Worn wiring harnesses, intermittent power issues, faulty window regulators, ABS sensor failures.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history of producing capable off-road vehicles, dating back to WWII. The Cherokee nameplate has been synonymous with adventure and utility for decades.
Xj Generation:
The XJ Cherokee was produced from 1984 to 2001, making it one of the longest-running automotive platforms. The 2000 model year represents the final major iteration before its replacement by the KJ Liberty.
Updates 2000:
The 2000 model year received minor updates, often including refreshed interior materials, revised trim levels, and possibly minor powertrain refinements compared to earlier XJ generations.
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Years:
1984-2001
Off Road Acclaim:
Consistently praised in automotive press for its off-road prowess and value, often appearing on 'best off-roader' lists for its price point.
Consumer Satisfaction:
High owner satisfaction for durability and capability, despite some known mechanical quirks.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets Federal EPA emissions standards for the model year.