🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Year:

1989

Product Name:

Jeep Cherokee 1989 Service Repair Workshop Manual

Intended Use:

Service, Repair, Workshop

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)

Target Audience:

Off-road enthusiasts, families, those seeking a versatile and rugged vehicle.

Key Competitors 1989:

Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.

Platform Advantage:

Unibody construction (pioneering for SUVs at the time), offering a smoother ride and lighter weight compared to body-on-frame competitors.

Off Road Capability:

Renowned for its off-road prowess, especially with available 4WD systems (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac) and solid axles (front and rear on earlier models, later solid front axle).

Durability:

Known for its robust construction and longevity, making it a popular choice for demanding environments.

📋 Manual Details

Geographical Coverage:

Global (Mechanics worldwide)

Repair Scope:

Full service and repair instruction

Page Count Estimate:

Comprehensive (Exact count not provided, but stated as 'full' and 'all major topics covered complete')

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed paper format, consistent with workshop manuals of this era. Can be assumed to be highly detailed and indexed.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine systems, disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, diagnostics, tuning.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission systems, operation, repair, overhaul.

Drivetrain:

4WD systems (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), transfer case, differentials, axles, driveshafts.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, troubleshooting, component replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, linkages, repair, adjustment.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, master cylinder, power booster, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake, ABS (if equipped).

Electrical:

12-volt system, battery, charging system, ignition system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories, wiring diagrams.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection (MPI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter, evaporative emissions control.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, heater core.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, emissions control.

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components and service.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.

Overhaul:

Complete rebuild procedures for engine, transmission, and other major assemblies.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic charts, symptom analysis, component testing procedures.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical system wiring schematics for comprehensive troubleshooting.

Depth:

Expert level, suitable for professional mechanics and serious DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Assumed to be a physical book (print). If digital, likely PDF.

Print Quality:

High quality, typically includes clear diagrams, illustrations, and easy-to-read text.

Binding Type:

Likely a robust binding suitable for workshop environments (e.g., spiral-bound, saddle-stitched, or perfect bound).

Paper Type:

Durable, often coated paper to resist shop grime and wear.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

AMC 2.5L (150 cu in) Inline-4 (OHV)

Engine Code 2:

Jeep 4.0L (242 cu in) Inline-6 (OHV)

Horsepower 2 5L:

Approximately 112 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque 2 5L:

Approximately 135 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

Horsepower 4 0L:

Approximately 177 hp @ 4000 rpm

Torque 4 0L:

Approximately 220 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Fuel Injection Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition (Distributorless Ignition System - DIS or Distributor-based system depending on exact build date and configuration).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Peugeot BA10/5 or Aisin AX5)

Transmission Type Opt:

3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Chrysler A904/TF999) or 4-speed automatic (e.g., Chrysler A500/A518 depending on engine and configuration).

Drivetrain Options:

2WD (Rear-wheel drive) and 4WD (Four-wheel drive).

Transfer Case:

New Process/New Venture Gear NV129 (full-time 4WD), NV231 (part-time 4WD Command-Trac), or Selec-Trac transfer cases.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm) (if applicable, though most XJs were long wheelbase)

Wheelbase Long Wheelbase:

108.8 inches (2764 mm)

Length:

Approximately 165.0 - 175.0 inches (4191 - 4445 mm) depending on exact configuration.

Width:

Approximately 69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height:

Approximately 63.8 - 64.3 inches (1621 - 1633 mm)

Curb Weight Est Min:

Approximately 3200 lbs (1451 kg)

Curb Weight Est Max:

Approximately 3800 lbs (1724 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1989:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1989 models are difficult to find, but generally, SUVs of this era had mixed safety performance. Frontal impact safety was a developing area.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes (optional/later), power-assisted steering.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts, reinforced unibody structure, energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features 1989:

Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player (rare for this year). Climate controls are manual.

Driver Assistance Features 1989:

Limited to basic systems like power steering and power brakes. ABS was optional or not available on all trims.

Connectivity Features 1989:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Radio connectivity via antenna cable.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (4,800 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Manual will specify.

Air Filter Replacement:

Check every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Manual will specify exact interval.

Engine Oil Type 2 5L:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (or 10W-40 in cooler climates). Check manual for exact specification.

Engine Oil Type 4 0L:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (or 10W-40 in cooler climates). Check manual for exact specification.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (green), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar OAT or HOAT coolant might be specified for later models, but likely conventional for '89. Check manual.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+3 or ATF+4 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon). Check manual for specific type for 1989.

Transfer Case Fluid:

Likely Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MTL) or SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil for 242 transfer case, and likely specific fluid for NV129. Check manual.

Front Rear Axle Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil. Limited-slip differentials may require a friction modifier. Check manual for specific axle types and fluid recommendations.

Common Issues Overview:

Common issues for XJs of this era can include rust (especially rocker panels, floor pans, and rear quarters), headliner sag, minor electrical gremlins, radiator leaks, and potential for head gasket issues on early 4.0L engines (though less common on later ones). The manual will guide on diagnosing and fixing these.

Specific Issues 1989:

Leaking valve cover gaskets, aging coolant hoses, exhaust system corrosion, worn suspension bushings.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Heritage:

Jeep has a long and storied history in rugged, off-road vehicles, dating back to WWII. The Cherokee carried this legacy forward into the SUV segment.

Generation:

First generation XJ (1984-2001), with significant updates throughout its lifespan. The 1989 model year saw some enhancements and potential introduction of new features/powertrains.

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automobile Magazine All Stars:

The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) was named Automobile Magazine's All-Star for Sport/Utility vehicles multiple times in its first generation, recognizing its blend of capability and comfort.

Off Road Magazine Awards:

Consistently praised by off-road publications for its off-road capability and durability.