🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Year:

2001

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001) is an iconic compact SUV renowned for its off-road capability, durability, and relatively simple, robust design. The 2001 model represents the final year of the XJ generation, benefiting from years of refinement and updates. This service manual is essential for owners and technicians maintaining this highly capable vehicle.

Competitors:

During its lifespan, the Cherokee XJ competed with vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Bronco II/Explorer, and Chevrolet S-10 Blazer. The XJ stood out for its unibody construction (a significant innovation for SUVs at the time) and its superior off-road prowess compared to many car-based crossovers.

Vehicle Features:

Legendary Selec-Trac or Command-Trac 4WD systems, solid front axle (until 1999, with the 2001 having independent front suspension - albeit a less common option for the last year XJ, mostly the 4.0L retained some robustness), potent inline-six engines, compact yet capable packaging.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Steering:

Yes

Body And Chassis:

Yes

HVAC:

Yes

Interior Trim:

Yes

Diagnostic Procedures:

Yes

Troubleshooting Guides:

Yes

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, transmission, transfer case, driveline components

Chassis:

Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels and tires

Electrical:

Engine control, body control, lighting, instruments, audio, security

Body:

Exterior panels, doors, glass, interior components, HVAC

Maintenance:

Oil change, fluid checks/changes, filter replacement, spark plugs, belts

Repair:

Engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing

Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid types and capacities, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Body Repair:

Panel replacement, door and window mechanisms, interior trim installation/removal, undercoating.

HVAC Repair:

Evaporator core replacement, blower motor service, refrigerant handling and charging.

Engine Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting engine performance issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, sensor testing (MAP, TPS, O2, CKP, CMP), fuel system pressure tests, ignition system analysis.

Transmission Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting automatic transmission shifting issues, clutch pack testing, torque converter diagnostics, manual transmission component inspection.

Brake System Repair:

Front and rear brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, caliper service, brake fluid bleeding, ABS system troubleshooting.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, control arm bushings, steering gearbox service, shock absorber and strut replacement, sway bar links.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic strategies.

Wiring Diagrams Detail:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounds, component locations, and connector pinouts.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection of internal components (pistons, rings, bearings, crankshaft, camshaft), cylinder head rebuilding, and engine reassembly with torque specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchable:

Yes

Printable:

Yes (allows printing of entire document or selected pages)

Quality:

High resolution, clear images and diagrams

Binding For Download:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper For Download:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

SOHC 4.0L (242ci) Inline-6

Engine Displacement:

3956 cc (242 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.563 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower @ Rpm:

190 hp @ 4600 rpm (approx.)

Torque @ Rpm:

225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) on later models, or Distributor with Coil and Ignition Module for earlier 4.0L variants. The 2001 likely has DIS.

Engine Management:

NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar Chrysler ECU.

Valve Train:

Overhead Valve (OHV) with Pushrods and Rocker Arms for the 4.0L (despite the 'SOHC' in some older informal descriptions, it's traditionally OHV). The 2.5L is also OHV.

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with fan clutch or electric fan depending on configuration.

Engine Code:

2.5L (150ci) AMC "Tech-4" Inline-4

Engine Displacement:

2469 cc (150 cubic inches)

Horsepower @ Rpm:

125 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Torque @ Rpm:

145 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (42RE)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (AX-15 or NV3550, depending on build date/engine)

Transfer Case:

Selec-Trac (NV242) or Command-Trac (NV231) part-time 4WD systems.

Gear Ratios 42Re:

1st: 2.74, 2nd: 1.57, 3rd: 1.00, 4th: 0.69 (Reverse: 2.21)

Fluid Specification:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Fluid Specification:

NV3550: ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent synthetic manual transmission fluid. AX-15: GL-3 or GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

166.0 inches (4216 mm)

Width:

71.0 inches (1803 mm)

Height:

64.5 inches (1638 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches (depending on tire size and suspension)

Curb Weight:

3,550 - 3,800 lbs (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5,000 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-Star (Driver) / 4-Star (Passenger) - for models tested in earlier years. Specific ratings for 2001 may vary.

ABS:

Available, often standard on 4.0L models.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

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

Traction Control:

Limited availability, may be integrated with ABS on some models.

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically standard, aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (or 3-6 months), depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years. Use Mopar HOAT coolant.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic, depending on usage. Manual transmission fluid inspection per manual.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 10W-30 (4.0L) or SAE 5W-30 (2.5L), API Service SN or higher. Consult owner's manual for specific viscosity grades and certifications.

Coolant Type:

Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mixture with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transfer Case Fluid:

NV231: ATF+4 (Mopar). NV242: ATF+4 (Mopar).

Differential Fluid:

Hypoid Gear Lubricant SAE 80W-90 (API GL-5) for both front and rear differentials. Consult manual for any specific limited-slip additive requirements.

Common Problems:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.0L), death wobble (steering shimmy), rear main seal leaks, rust on unibody structure, radiator leaks, ABS sensor failures, cooling fan clutch issues.

Typical Repairs:

Replacement of cylinder head, steering stabilizer, universal joints, water pump, alternator, and various suspension components.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long and storied history in off-road vehicles, dating back to its military origins in World War II. The brand is synonymous with ruggedness, capability, and adventure.

Xj Generation:

The Cherokee XJ, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its unibody construction, setting a new standard for SUVs. The 2001 model is the culmination of this generation, featuring significant updates over the years, including the introduction of the 4.0L inline-six engine and advancements in safety and comfort features.

Production Period:

1984-2001

Assembly Plant:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Offroad Magazine Awards:

Frequently praised by off-road enthusiasts and publications for its capability and modification potential. Many Jeep XJs have received accolades in off-road competitions and best-of lists.

Consumer Reports Legacy:

Consumer Reports typically rated the XJ as average to below average in reliability due to some recurring mechanical issues, but acknowledged its strong performance in areas like off-road capability and cargo capacity.

Emissions Standards:

Meets applicable emissions standards for the 2001 model year.