🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee (XJ)

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

XJ

Vin Code Region:

J

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2000 Jeep Cherokee XJ represents the pinnacle of the XJ platform's evolution, known for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and iconic design. This manual positions itself as the definitive resource for owners and technicians seeking accurate, factory-level information.

Competitors:

Competes with other compact SUVs and off-road focused vehicles of its era such as the Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Bronco, and Chevrolet Blazer. However, its unibody construction and solid front axle offered a unique blend of comfort and capability.

Features:

Renowned for its off-road prowess, durable powertrain options, compact yet versatile size, and a loyal enthusiast following. The 2000 model year is part of the later XJ generation, benefiting from accumulated improvements.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All 2000 Jeep Cherokee (XJ) models, including Sport, Classic, Limited, and variations with different engine and drivetrain configurations.

Repair Scope:

A-Z (All repairs, maintenance, diagnostics, and servicing).

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Official Dealership Parts Catalog / Service Information Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar searchable electronic format), enabling easy navigation and searching.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (4.0L I6, 2.5L I4), Transmission (AX-5, NV3550, AW4, NP231/242 transfer case), driveline, exhaust system, fuel system.

Chassis:

Suspension (front solid axle, rear leaf springs/optional coil springs for some variants), steering, brakes (front disc, rear drum), wheels, tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, ignition system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, glass, seats, HVAC system, body control modules, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements, lubrication points.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures, electrical system diagnostics.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Installation:

Procedures for installing new parts, accessory installations, and component replacements. Includes torque specifications and critical assembly steps.

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complex engine and transmission overhauls, and detailed electrical troubleshooting using wiring diagrams. Equivalent to factory service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Likely PDF. Searchable text, bookmark navigation, potentially image-heavy with diagrams and illustrations.

Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction of original manufacturer documentation.

Binding:

Not applicable for digital format; N/A for physical print quality.

Paper:

Not applicable for digital format; N/A for physical print quality.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

4.0L (3960cc) Inline-6 'High Output' (HO) OHV 12-valve, cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder head. Engine code: 40L. Power: ~190 hp @ 4600 rpm, Torque: ~235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm.

Engine Option 2:

2.5L (2467cc) Inline-4 OHV 8-valve, cast-iron block, cast-iron cylinder head. Engine code: 2.5L. Power: ~125 hp @ 4800 rpm, Torque: ~150 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm.

Compression Ratio 40L:

8.7:1

Bore Stroke 40L:

3.875 in x 3.56 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

Injection Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended)

Oil Capacity 40L:

5 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change

Oil Type 40L:

SAE 10W-30 (preferred) or SAE 5W-30 (for cold climates)

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 10 US quarts (9.5 Liters)

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) 50/50 mix, or equivalent.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Option 1:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AW4).

Transmission Option 2:

5-speed Manual Transmission (AX-5 or NV3550 depending on specific build).

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac NV231 (part-time, 2WD/4WD Part-Time) or Selec-Trac NV242 (full-time, 2WD/4WD Full-Time with 4-All-Time mode) transfer case.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (MS-9602), or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 8-9 US quarts (7.5-8.5 Liters) for AW4 service fill.

Manual Transmission Fluid Ax5:

GL-3 or GL-4 rated SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 2.4 US quarts (2.3 Liters).

Manual Transmission Fluid Nv3550:

GL-3 or GL-4 rated SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 2.8 US quarts (2.6 Liters).

Transfer Case Fluid Nv231 Nv242:

Mopar NV242 Transfer Case Fluid, or equivalent SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 1.5 US quarts (1.4 Liters).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.4 inches (2626 mm)

Length:

176.9 inches (4493 mm)

Width:

71.1 inches (1806 mm)

Height:

63.2 inches (1605 mm) with standard roof

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 95.0 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 30.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 69.0 cubic feet

Curb Weight Approx 40L:

3500 - 3800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg) depending on configuration

Gvwr:

Varies by configuration, typically around 4700-4800 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg) when properly equipped with towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4-star

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4-star

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels for most models, optional 4-wheel ABS on some later models.

Traction Control:

Not typically equipped with electronic traction control in 2000, relies on mechanical grip.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player. Speaker configurations typically include front door, rear side panel, and optional overhead speakers.

Navigation:

No factory navigation system available for the 2000 model year.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trim levels.

Keyless Entry:

Optional on some trim levels.

Phone Integration:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Aftermarket solutions are common.

Instrument Cluster:

Includes speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, voltmeter, and various warning lights. Odometer and trip meter.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (5,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Recommended to consult manual for specific intervals based on oil type.

Coolant Flush Interval:

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

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (50,000 - 100,000 km) depending on driving conditions and ATF type. Severe duty may warrant more frequent changes.

Spark Plug Replacement:

4.0L: ~100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum or iridium plugs. 2.5L: Approx. 30,000 miles (48,000 km) with standard plugs.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid, or equivalent ATF+4 (check specific model year recommendation) or Type A Suffix A Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Differential Fluid:

Front and Rear: SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear lubricant (GL-5). Limited Slip Diff requires additive.

Common Issue 1:

Head Gasket Failure (particularly early 4.0L engines, though less prevalent in later models like 2000). Symptoms include coolant loss, overheating, milky oil, or white smoke from exhaust.

Common Issue 2:

Radiator issues (leaks, cracking plastic tanks).

Common Issue 3:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially on earlier 4.0L engines, but still a possibility to monitor).

Common Issue 4:

Liftgate/Tailgate rust and hinge issues.

Common Issue 5:

Brake wear and potential for rear axle seal leaks.

Common Issue 6:

Power steering pump leaks or noise.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Jeep, a brand with a rich military and off-road heritage dating back to World War II, known for its durable and capable vehicles.

Xj Introduction:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ was first introduced in 1984 as a groundbreaking compact SUV, pioneering the segment with its unibody construction. The 2000 model year is part of the third generation (1997-2001) facelift.

Production Years:

1984-2001 (North America); continued production in other markets for longer.

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Capability:

Consistently lauded in automotive press and by enthusiasts for its off-road prowess and rugged construction.

Durability:

Widely recognized for its durability and longevity, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles.

Epa Fuel Economy:

EPA estimates for 2000 model year: 4.0L I6 Automatic 2WD approx. 17 MPG City / 21 MPG Highway.