🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Model Code:

XJ

Year:

2001

Vin Decoder Prefix:

1J4...

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ is a highly regarded compact SUV known for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and iconic design, bridging the gap between utilitarian trail vehicles and everyday drivers.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Pathfinder, though the XJ often offered a more direct connection to Jeep's off-road heritage.

Platform:

Unibody construction, a pioneering feature for SUVs at its introduction, contributing to a lighter weight and improved on-road manners compared to body-on-frame rivals.

Powertrain Options:

Renowned for its inline-six engines and robust four-wheel-drive systems (Selec-Trac, Command-Trac).

Off Road Capability:

Short wheelbase, good ground clearance, and capable 4x4 systems made it a favorite for off-roading enthusiasts.

Purpose:

Provides the essential technical knowledge required to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ effectively and efficiently.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service Repair

Diagnostic Coverage:

Comprehensive fault finding and troubleshooting

Repair Coverage:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems

Maintenance Coverage:

Routine maintenance schedules and procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Likely over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual (WSRM)

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians and experienced DIYers

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, rebuild procedures, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing systems

Engine Management:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emission control systems, sensors, actuators, PCM/ECU diagnostics and function

Transmission Manual:

NV3550 manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, shift mechanisms

Transmission Automatic:

42RE automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls

Drivetrain:

Transfer case (NP231), axles (Dana 30 front, Chrysler 8.25 rear), driveshafts, U-joints, differential service

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, pump, fluid service

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, ABS diagnostics, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, refrigerant handling, blower motor, compressor, condenser, evaporator

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, glass, frame specifications, corrosion protection

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts, common symptoms, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) explanations and procedures

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs

Component Replacement:

Replacement procedures for alternators, starters, fuel pumps, water pumps, radiators, suspension components, brake pads/rotors, etc.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, machining, and reassembly

Transmission Rebuild:

Step-by-step overhaul procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions

Brake Service:

Pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, caliper service, brake bleeding

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component testing procedures

Diagnostics:

Using scan tools, interpreting sensor data, troubleshooting drivability issues

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls

Diagnostic Detail:

In-depth diagnostic strategies and component-level testing

Specification Detail:

Includes torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and fluid capacities

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes (typically, for digital PDFs)

Printable:

Yes

Quality:

High-resolution digital scans for clarity

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

AMC 242 (4.0L I6)

Displacement:

3960 cc (242 cubic inches)

Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.58 in (98.4 mm x 91 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.7:1 (typical)

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 4600 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Cast Iron

Valvetrain:

OHV, 2 valves per cylinder, Pushrod Actuated

Oil Capacity With Filter:

5 US quarts (4.7 Liters)

Coolant Capacity:

10.5 US quarts (9.9 Liters)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (Minimum)

Fuel Pump Pressure:

31-39 PSI (214-269 kPa)

Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Distributor with Coil

Engine Variants:

Primarily the 4.0L I6. Some earlier models or specific markets may have had the 2.5L I4 (AMC 150), but the 2001 model predominantly features the 4.0L.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (42RE)

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (NV3550)

Automatic Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler)

Automatic Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7 US quarts (6.6 Liters) for a pan drop and refill

Manual Fluid Type:

NV3550 uses NV3500 Spec Fluid (e.g., Chrysler Part # 05010339AA, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic)

Manual Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 2.1 US quarts (2.0 Liters)

Transfer Case Type:

New Process (NP) 231 (Command-Trac part-time 4WD)

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler)

Transfer Case Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 2.1 US quarts (2.0 Liters)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.4 inches (2626 mm)

Overall Length:

169.4 inches (4303 mm)

Overall Width:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Overall Height:

63.8 inches (1621 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 8.5 inches (216 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,300 - 3,600 lbs (1497 - 1633 kg), depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 4,600 - 4,900 lbs (2087 - 2223 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approximately 33.5 cubic feet (0.95 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approximately 69.0 cubic feet (1.95 cubic meters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3 out of 5 stars (likely for the period, specific 2001 ratings may vary)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for the period)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - typically standard on 4WD models, optional or standard on 2WD

Traction Control:

Optional on some models

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Seat Belts:

Front and rear seat belts, driver's side pretensioner

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard in 2001, relies on seat belt anchoring

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player and optional CD player. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

Display:

Basic analog gauges and indicator lights. No central infotainment screen.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trim levels.

Keyless Entry:

Optional on higher trim levels.

Bluetooth:

Not factory equipped. Requires aftermarket integration.

Usb Ports:

Not factory equipped. Requires aftermarket integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

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

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).

Coolant Flush And Replacement:

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

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km). Manual: As needed, typically inspected annually.

Transfer Case Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km).

Brake Fluid Flush:

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

Differential Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), especially if used for towing or off-roading.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 10W-30 (preferred for 4.0L I6 in most conditions)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler) or Dexron III compatible

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Engine Oil Leaks:

Common leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal due to age and heat cycles.

Cooling System:

Radiator failures, water pump leaks, thermostat issues are common due to age and heat.

Transmission Issues:

The 42RE can develop issues with torque converter lock-up, solenoid packs, and valve body wear. Manual transmissions are generally robust but clutch wear is normal.

Suspension Components:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, and leaf spring bushings are frequent wear items, especially on higher mileage or off-road used vehicles.

Electrical Gremlins:

Loose grounds, aging wiring harnesses, and failing sensors can lead to intermittent electrical issues.

Rust And Corrosion:

Common in areas exposed to road salt, particularly on floor pans, rocker panels, and unibody structure.

Exhaust Manifold:

The 4.0L inline-six is known for cracking exhaust manifolds, leading to ticking noises and exhaust leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a storied history rooted in military vehicles, evolving into a leading manufacturer of off-road capable SUVs.

Xj Introduction:

The Cherokee XJ was introduced in 1984, revolutionizing the SUV market with its unibody construction and compact size.

Xj Generations:

The XJ was produced for 17 years with minimal major changes, undergoing facelifts and powertrain updates, with the 2001 model representing the final year of this iconic generation.

Production Years:

1984-2001

Manufacturer:

American Motors Corporation (AMC), later Chrysler Corporation after the 1987 acquisition.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

4X4 Of The Year:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ has frequently been lauded by off-road publications and enthusiasts for its capability and durability, earning unofficial '4x4 of the Year' accolades in various contexts.

Value Retention:

Known for strong resale value, particularly well-maintained examples, due to its enduring appeal and off-road prowess.