Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, restoration enthusiasts.
Competitors 2005-2008:
Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover LR3, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class.
Vehicle Strengths:
Off-road capability (with available Quadra-Drive II), spacious interior, powerful engine options, comfortable ride.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners with factory-level repair knowledge, reducing reliance on costly dealership services and ensuring proper maintenance for longevity.
Engine:
3.7L PowerTech V6, 4.7L PowerTech V8, 5.7L HEMI V8 (including assembly, disassembly, overhaul, diagnostics, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions).
Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic (W5A580 for 3.7L/4.7L, NAG1 for 5.7L) - diagnostics, repair, fluid services, component overhaul.
Drivetrain:
4WD/AWD systems (Quadra-Trac II, Quadra-Drive II), NV245/NV247 transfer cases, front/rear axles, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), traction control, hydraulic system, rotor/pad replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Independent front suspension (SLA), multi-link rear suspension, springs, shock absorbers/struts, control arms, bushings, steering linkage, power steering system.
Steering:
Power steering pump, rack and pinion assembly, steering column, tie rods, alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM).
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator), heating system, blower motor, climate control modules.
Body:
Exterior panels, doors, hoods, liftgate, interior trim, glass replacement, seals, body hardware.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, sensors, control modules.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid flushes (coolant, brake, transmission, power steering), filter replacements, spark plug changes, tune-ups, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major systems, DTC interpretation and troubleshooting trees, electrical circuit testing.
Repair:
Component replacement, major assembly/disassembly, overhaul procedures for engine, transmission, axles, etc.
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical components.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based diagnostics.
Calibration Procedures:
Procedures for calibrating sensors and modules (e.g., steering angle sensor, ABS sensors) after replacement or repair.
Depth:
Expert-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes torque specifications, clearances, wiring diagrams, and component-specific information.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2006 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2006 model year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for models tested)
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist (on some models).
Passive Safety:
Front and side-curtain airbags, driver's knee airbag, active head restraints, pretensioner seat belts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific engine recommendation.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically around 50,000 - 100,000 miles. Recommend checking the manual for the specific transmission and fluid type (e.g., ATF+4, NAG1 fluid).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years. Use Mopar OAT coolant (Orange).
Engine Oil Spec 3.7L/4.7L:
SAE 5W-20 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Spec 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20 (API Certified, Chrysler approved)
Transmission Fluid Type W5A580:
MB 236.10 specification fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mopar NAG1 ATF).
Transfer Case Fluid:
Mopar NV245/NV247 Transfer Case Fluid or equivalent.
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan, Hemi tick (lifter noise on 5.7L), potential catalytic converter issues.
Common Problems Transmission:
Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission fluid leaks at the cooler lines or electrical connector.
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints and control arm bushings, steering rack leaks, potential for squeaks and rattles.
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor issues, CAN bus communication errors, power liftgate issues.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long-standing heritage in off-road capability and rugged utility, originating from military vehicles.
Wk Generation Introduction:
The WK generation Grand Cherokee debuted for the 2005 model year, marking a significant redesign with a unibody construction, independent front suspension, and more modern styling compared to its predecessor (WJ).
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class (W164) during this era due to DaimlerChrysler ownership.
Manufacturing Location:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
