Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, families, individuals seeking a versatile and capable compact SUV.
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Chevrolet Blazer.
Distinctive Attributes:
Jeep's legendary off-road capability in a more compact and road-friendly package, available Selec-Trac NV242 transfer case, distinctive styling.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust, ignition, engine control systems (ECU), manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, driveline, axles, CV joints.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, parking brake), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body control module (BCM), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, audio system, climate control electronics, airbags, anti-theft system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, seats, glass, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, paint and corrosion protection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication points, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting procedures for all major systems, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, electrical circuit testing, component testing.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation of all major systems.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission overhaul, including specifications for tolerances and clearances.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical system troubleshooting.
Searchable:
Yes (typically, depending on PDF creation)
Resolution:
High resolution for clear text and diagrams
Scalability:
Scalable for printing individual pages or sections
Binding:
Not applicable (digital PDF)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (digital PDF)
Engine Code:
2.4L PowerTech (ED4/EDZ)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves
Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Code:
3.7L PowerTech (EWG)
Configuration:
V6, SOHC, 12 valves
Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Induction:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, OBD-II compliant
Transmission Type 2.4L:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (NSG 370)
Transmission Type 3.7L:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (42RLE)
Transfer Case Options:
Command-Trac (NV132 - part-time 2-speed), Selec-Trac (NV242 - full-time 2-speed).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Transfer Case Fluid:
Mopar Transfer Case Lubricant or equivalent (check manual for specific type)
Wheelbase:
104.1 inches (2644 mm)
Length:
173.5 inches (4407 mm)
Width:
71.0 inches (1803 mm)
Height:
67.6 inches (1717 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm)
Curb Weight Min:
3600 lbs (1633 kg) (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
4750 lbs (2155 kg) (approx.)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 2000 lbs (907 kg) (check specific configuration and trailer brakes)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
30.5 cu ft (0.86 m³) (approx.)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
68.9 cu ft (1.95 m³) (approx.)
NHTSA Front Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for most configurations)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Acceptable (for models equipped with side airbags, if applicable)
Antilock Braking System ABS:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Available on some models
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Not typically standard on this generation.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger, available side curtain airbags (check specific vehicle).
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners in front, 3-point seat belts in rear.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system.
Navigation:
Not commonly available in this generation; aftermarket options existed.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specifics.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
Platinum: 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km). Iridium: 100,000+ miles (160,000+ km).
Spark Plug Replacement 3.7L:
Platinum: 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km). Iridium: 100,000+ miles (160,000+ km).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type 2.4L:
SAE 5W-30, API SM or higher, ILSAC GF-4 or higher.
Engine Oil Type 3.7L:
SAE 5W-30, API SM or higher, ILSAC GF-4 or higher.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 3.7L:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769 or equivalent)
Common Problems:
Front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings), rear differential leaks, power steering pump leaks, minor electrical gremlins (window motors, door locks), exhaust manifold cracks (on 3.7L), radiator issues.
Typical Repairs:
Replacement of worn suspension components, seal replacement, possible exhaust manifold repair/replacement.
Jeep Legacy:
Over 80 years of off-road vehicle development, known for durability and capability.
Kj Generation Introduction:
The KJ Cherokee, introduced for the 2002 model year, represented a significant redesign from the previous XJ Cherokee, adopting a unibody construction and a more modern, rounded aesthetic.
Design Philosophy:
Designed to offer Jeep's signature capability in a smaller, more car-like platform, blending on-road comfort with off-road prowess.
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA.
Off Road Acclaim:
Generally well-regarded for its off-road capability within its class, often cited for its solid axle feel (though this is a unibody SUV).
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Varied over the years, with some years receiving average to below-average reliability ratings, particularly for early models. This manual helps address potential reliability concerns.
