🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Year:

1994

Body Style:

4-Door

Drivetrain:

4WD

Generation Identifier:

Second Generation (XJ Facelift)

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001) is an iconic compact SUV renowned for its off-road capability, ruggedness, and distinctive unibody construction. The 1994 model represents a significant facelift with updated interior and exterior styling.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder. Differentiated itself with its coil-spring front suspension (on later models, though this 1994 retains leaf springs upfront for 4WD), compact size, and legendary Jeep off-road heritage.

Features:

Unibody construction (lighter and more refined than body-on-frame rivals of its era), legendary Selec-Trac or Command-Trac 4WD systems, robust 4.0L inline-six engine, compact footprint suitable for off-roading and urban maneuverability.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (4.0L I6, 2.5L I4), Transmission (AX-5, AW-4, NP231 Transfer Case), Drivetrain (Front/Rear Axles, Driveshafts)

Chassis:

Suspension (Solid Front Axle, Leaf Springs Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum)

Electrical:

Engine Control Module (ECM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, HVAC, Audio System, ABS (if equipped)

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, HVAC System (Components and Operation)

Maintenance:

Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Transmission, Differential), Filter Replacements, Lubrication, Inspections

Repair:

Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Flowcharts for Common Problems (e.g., No Start, Rough Idle, Overheating)

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I) codes and procedures, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-Resolution PDF, Searchable Text, Printable Pages

Printability:

Designed for clear printing of diagrams, schematics, and text.

Binding:

N/A (PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

4.0L HO (High Output) Inline-6

Displacement:

3956 cc (242 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.562 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 4750 RPM

Torque:

220 lb-ft @ 3250 RPM

Optional Engine:

2.5L AMC I4 (Limited Availability in 1994 models, primarily base trims)

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

ECU Type:

Chrysler MIC (Modular Integrated Controller) or similar OBD-I system

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10-Year/100,000 Mile Formula)

Oil Type:

SAE 10W-30 API Service SG or SH

Oil Capacity:

5 US Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor with Ignition Coil

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (AW-4)

Manual Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (AX-5)

Transfer Case:

New Process NP231 Command-Trac (Part-Time 4WD) or NP242 Selec-Trac (Full-Time/Part-Time 4WD)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent specification like Dexron III/Mercon)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (for AX-5)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approximately 8-10 US Quarts (7.5-9.4 Liters) for a complete fluid change

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approximately 2.1 US Quarts (2.0 Liters) for AX-5

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

164.4 inches (4176 mm)

Width:

69.4 inches (1763 mm)

Height:

64.3 inches (1633 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3400-3600 lbs (1542-1633 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5000 lbs (2268 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3 Stars (4WD models generally higher than 2WD)

ABS:

Available on some models, typically rear-wheel anti-lock braking.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard from 1994 onwards.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seatbelts, shoulder belts with manual locking retractors.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.

Dashboard Design:

Revised dashboard for 1994 featured a more integrated and ergonomic design compared to pre-facelift models, with updated instrument cluster and controls.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trims.

Power Options:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were available on higher trim levels.

OBD Ii:

No, this model is OBD-I compliant. The manual will cover OBD-I diagnostic procedures.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), or more frequently under severe use.

Transfer Case Fluid Change:

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

Differential Fluid Change:

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

Spark Plugs:

Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for copper core plugs, or up to 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs (if applicable).

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or ATF+3

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Common Problems:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.0L), rear main seal leaks, distributor O-ring leaks, front universal joint wear, rust (especially on floor pans, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels), cooling system issues (radiator, water pump), electrical connector corrosion.

Oil Filter:

Wix 51515, Fram PH8A (or equivalent)

Air Filter:

Wix 42522, Fram CA3347 (or equivalent)

Cabin Air Filter:

Not typically equipped with a cabin air filter in this generation.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Jeep has a storied history dating back to World War II, building a reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability.

Xj Generation History:

Introduced in 1984, the XJ Cherokee was revolutionary for its time as the first compact SUV with unibody construction. The 1994 model year marked a significant mid-cycle refresh (facelift) with updated exterior styling (new grille, headlights, bumpers) and a significantly revised interior (dashboard, seats, ergonomics).

Production Years:

1984-2001

Manufacturing Locations:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Popular Mechanics Editor Choice:

The XJ Cherokee platform received recognition in the automotive press for its innovation and capability.

Four Wheeler Magazine Awards:

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