🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Year:

1989

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ was a revolutionary compact SUV, blending Jeep's legendary off-road capability with a unibody construction for a more car-like driving experience. The 1989 model represents a refinement of this popular platform.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, and Nissan Pathfinder, offering a unique combination of ruggedness and everyday usability.

Key Features:

Robust unibody construction, available Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system, comfortable interior for its class, strong aftermarket support.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Lubrication and Maintenance, Suspension, Differential and Driveline, Brakes, Cooling System, Wiring Diagrams, Engine, Exhaust System, Frame and Bumpers, Transmission and Transfer Case, Tires and Wheels, Body, Heating and Air Conditioning

Page Count:

Not Specified (Digital download, size up to 5GB)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Guide

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF, potentially zipped)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case, Drive Axles (Front & Rear), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System, Wheels & Tires, Body & Frame, Electrical System (Lighting, Accessories, Power Windows, Locks), HVAC System

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Lubrication, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul and Rebuild Procedures, Electrical System Diagnosis, Wiring Diagrams Interpretation, Suspension and Steering Alignment, Brake System Service, HVAC System Repair, Body Panel Repair, Emission Control Systems

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive (covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed diagnostics, and component-level repair)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF, Zipped (.zip, .rar)

Print Quality:

Printable on any computer (implied high quality for clarity of diagrams and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.0L (242 cu in) Inline 6-cylinder OHV (AMC 242)

Horsepower:

Approximately 173 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 220 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Code:

AMC 242

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.56 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Oil Capacity:

5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter (check manual for exact capacity)

Oil Type:

API SG, SAE 10W-30 (consult manual for specific requirements)

Cooling System Capacity:

Approximately 12.5 US quarts (11.8 liters) with heater (check manual)

Spark Plugs:

Champion RC12LYC or equivalent (verify with manual)

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

AW4 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Optional:

AX-4 4-Speed Manual Transmission

Features:

Available Selec-Trac 4WD system (full-time 4x4 with selectable 2WD/4WD modes).

Automatic Fluid Type:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check manual for exact specification, Chrysler specs vary)

Manual Fluid Type:

GL-4 or GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (check manual)

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

NP231: ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

164.0 inches (4166 mm)

Width:

69.4 inches (1763 mm)

Height:

63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,200 - 3,500 lbs (1451 - 1588 kg) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and configuration (consult vehicle sticker).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

Not typically tested or rated by NHTSA for this era; however, Jeep's unibody construction was considered stable for its class.

Active Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often optional on higher trims, but not standard on all 1989 models.

Passive Features:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was standard. Optional features could include power windows, power locks, and air conditioning. No advanced infotainment systems or touchscreens were available.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to available ABS on some models. No modern driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, or automatic emergency braking were present.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth, USB ports, or Wi-Fi connectivity. Vehicle communication was limited to basic audio systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific recommendation based on driving conditions).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-3 years (depending on usage and fluid type, check manual).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol Based Coolant, SAE J1034 compliant, typically a green color (check manual for exact specification).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual)

Known Issues:

Common issues can include minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, worn U-joints, rust in common areas (rocker panels, unibody frame rails), potential for headliner sagging, and aging electrical components. The 4.0L inline-six is generally robust but can develop oil pan gasket leaks or valve seat issues if overheated. Automatic transmission valve body issues can occur with age and mileage.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Wix 51515 / Fram PH8A / K&N HP-3001 (verify with vehicle VIN and manual)

Air Filter Part Number:

Wix 42845 / Fram CA2845 (verify with vehicle VIN and manual)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep has a long and storied history dating back to World War II with the iconic Willys MB. This heritage is deeply embedded in the brand's identity for ruggedness and off-road capability.

Model Evolution:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was groundbreaking for its unibody construction. The 1989 model saw minor refinements and continued to establish the XJ as a highly popular and capable compact SUV.

Production Years:

1984-2001

Production Location:

USA (Toledo, Ohio)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The XJ Cherokee platform was widely praised for its innovative design and capability upon its introduction. It gained a strong following for its durability and off-road prowess.