🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Model Code:

WJ

Year:

2004

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)

Jeep Heritage:

Continues Jeep's legacy of off-road capability and ruggedness, adapted for more on-road comfort.

Key Competitors:

Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder

Off Road Capability:

Renowned for its robust 4x4 systems (Selec-Trac, Quadra-Trac II) and solid front axle (on select models).

Powertrain Options:

Available with potent inline-6 and V8 engines.

Interior Comfort:

Offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine management

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (42RE, 45RFE, 545RFE), manual transmission (NV3550), transfer case (NV242, NV247, NV249)

Drivetrain Systems:

Front and rear axles, driveshafts, differentials, steering linkage

Brake Systems:

Front and rear disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), parking brake

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension (solid front axle, multi-link rear axle), power steering system

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, body control module (BCM), instrument cluster, diagnostics

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation and diagnosis

Body Systems:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, glass, bumpers

Chassis Systems:

Frame, body mounts, corrosion protection

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, lubrication

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components

Overhaul Procedures:

Engine, transmission, and axle rebuild procedures

Installation Procedures:

Component replacement and installation guidelines

Adjustment Procedures:

Wheel alignment, brake adjustments, parking brake adjustments

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostics with detailed wiring diagrams and component testing procedures.

Illustrations Diagrams:

Richly illustrated with clear, step-by-step instructions and technical diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for in-garage reference.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding Method:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

4.0L Inline-6 (PowerTech)

Engine Displacement 1:

3956 cc (241.4 cu in)

Engine Bore Stroke 1:

93.9 mm x 90.9 mm (3.70 in x 3.58 in)

Engine Compression Ratio 1:

8.8:1

Engine Horsepower 1:

190 hp @ 4600 rpm

Engine Torque 1:

235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine Code 2:

4.7L V8 (Magnum)

Engine Displacement 2:

4701 cc (286.9 cu in)

Engine Bore Stroke 2:

93.0 mm x 86.5 mm (3.66 in x 3.41 in)

Engine Compression Ratio 2:

9.6:1

Engine Horsepower 2:

235 hp @ 4700 rpm

Engine Torque 2:

325 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

76 L (20 US gal)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Automatic (42RE for 4.0L, 45RFE/545RFE for 4.7L)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-speed Manual (NV3550) - less common

Transmission Fluid Spec 42Re:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Spec 45Rfe 545Rfe:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transfer Case Options:

Selec-Trac (NV242), Quadra-Trac II (NV247)

Transfer Case Fluid Spec:

Mopar Transfer Case Lubricant (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4720 mm (185.8 in)

Width:

1830 mm (72.0 in)

Height:

1640 mm (64.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2885 mm (113.6 in)

Front Track:

1501 mm (59.1 in)

Rear Track:

1501 mm (59.1 in)

Ground Clearance:

200-210 mm (7.9-8.3 in) depending on tire and suspension

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

88.8 cu ft (2514 L)

Cargo Volume Behind Front Seat:

34.5 cu ft (977 L)

Curb Weight Est:

1800-2000 kg (3968-4409 lbs) depending on configuration

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,500 lbs (2,948 kg) with proper equipment

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

4/5-star rating (as per NHTSA testing for comparable models)

IIHS Crash Test:

Generally good ratings for its era, but specific 2004 ratings vary by test.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS).

Airbags:

Front driver and passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Factory AM/FM/CD/Cassette players, optional premium Infinity sound systems.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Power Features:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available remote keyless entry.

Onboard Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) port for emission and system diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as per severe service recommendations.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years for conventional coolant, longer intervals for HOAT/OAT coolants.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for ambient temperature suitability). API certified. MS-6395 compliant.

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) pink coolant, or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent

Common Issue 1:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially on early 4.7L V8 models).

Common Issue 2:

Water pump leaks and bearing failure (4.0L I6).

Common Issue 3:

Death wobble (front-end shimmy, often related to worn steering/suspension components, especially on solid axle models).

Common Issue 4:

Transmission solenoid issues (45RFE/545RFE).

Common Issue 5:

Electronic throttle control (ETC) issues (4.7L V8).

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a storied history in producing rugged, go-anywhere vehicles dating back to World War II.

Wj Generation:

The WJ generation of the Jeep Cherokee (internally designated as WJ) was produced from 1999 to 2004, succeeding the XJ and preceding the KK Liberty (though the Cherokee nameplate continued globally).

Design Philosophy:

The WJ introduced a more refined, unibody chassis with independent front suspension (on some models) for improved on-road manners while retaining significant off-road prowess. It offered larger dimensions and more premium features compared to its predecessor.

Production Period:

1999-2004

Manufacturing Locations:

Toledo, Ohio, USA; Brampton, Ontario, Canada

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Awards:

Jeep vehicles, including the Cherokee platform, are consistently recognized for off-road capability by automotive publications and enthusiasts.

Value Retention:

The Jeep Cherokee has historically offered good value retention, especially for well-maintained models in desirable trims.