Vehicle Class:
Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle
Key Selling Points:
Ruggedness, off-road capability, durable construction, utilitarian design.
Competitors 1994:
Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer.
Body Styles:
2-door and 4-door configurations.
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (RWD) and 4WD (Command-Trac part-time 4WD system).
Value:
Provides essential information for maintaining and repairing the iconic Jeep Cherokee XJ, empowering owners and technicians.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, component testing, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (mechanical aspects), emission controls (mechanical aspects).
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting and charging system, fuel injection system (electrical components), sensors, computer controls (ECU/PCM), diagnostic codes.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission (e.g., AX-5, NP231, AW4, 30RH) - overhaul, adjustments, diagnostics, fluid specifications, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Transfer case (e.g., NP231) operation, maintenance, and repair; front and rear axle assemblies (Dana 30, Chrysler 8.25); driveshafts, U-joints, differential service.
Suspension:
Front suspension (leaf spring or coil spring depending on 2WD/4WD), rear suspension (leaf spring), shock absorbers, steering linkage, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configuration), ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gearbox/rack, tie rods, steering damper (if applicable).
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, emissions controls (EVAP).
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control modules.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant handling, controls.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, glass replacement, frame straightening (limited).
Chassis Electrical:
Power windows, power locks, mirrors, horn, wiper systems, instrument cluster.
Maintenance:
Routine scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), tune-ups, belt and hose inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, diagnostic parameters.
NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for 1994, but generally considered robust for its class.
IIHS Ratings:
Not rated by IIHS for 1994.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or all four wheels.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard, passenger airbag not available.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear lap belts (rear shoulder belts introduced later in XJ production).
Body Construction:
Unibody construction, renowned for its rigidity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (check owner's manual for seasonal variations)
Coolant Specification:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Issues 1:
Head gasket failure (especially on early 4.0L models, less common on later ones), cracked cylinder heads (less common on '94 but possible), intake manifold gasket leaks (4.0L), rear main seal leaks, radiator failure, water pump leaks.
Common Issues 2:
Axle seal leaks, transfer case chain wear, door panel warping/sagging, rust in rocker panels and rear quarter panels, window regulator failure.
Electrical Gremlins:
Occasional electrical gremlins related to grounds, sensors, or aging wiring harnesses.
Standard Tire Size:
P215/75R15
Bolt Pattern:
5x4.5 inches (5x114.3 mm)
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history of producing rugged, capable off-road vehicles dating back to World War II.
Xj Introduction:
The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984, revolutionizing the SUV segment as the first mass-produced unibody SUV.
1994 Updates:
The 1994 model year saw significant updates including dual airbags, improved interior ergonomics, revised dashboard, and the introduction of the OBD-II compliant engine management system (though not fully mandated until 1996).
Production Years:
1984-2001 (North America)
Assembly Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA; Brampton, Ontario, Canada.