Reputation:
Renowned for its robust off-road capability, reliable mechanicals, and classic Jeep styling.
Competitors 1998:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer.
Differentiation:
True body-on-frame construction, superior 4x4 systems (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), and legendary 4.0L inline-six engine.
Platform:
Unibody construction, a significant departure from traditional body-on-frame SUVs, contributing to lighter weight and better on-road manners.
Off Road Prowess:
Strong aftermarket support for modifications, excellent approach/departure angles, and capable 4x4 systems.
Engine Options:
The iconic 4.0L High Output inline-six engine is a hallmark of this era.
Primary Coverage:
All workshop procedures for the 1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ
Diagnostic Coverage:
Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting for all systems.
Estimated Pages:
1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Equivalent:
Official dealer workshop manual
Format:
Likely PDF, printable and searchable
Powertrain:
Engine (4.0L I6, 2.5L I4), transmission (AW4 4-speed auto, NV3550 5-speed manual), transfer case (NP231, NP242).
Chassis:
Suspension (leaf spring rear, coil spring front, various 4x4 configurations), steering (power steering system), brakes (disc/drum, ABS availability).
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories, ignition system, charging system, starting system, body control modules.
Body And Trim:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, doors, windows, bumpers, exterior trim components.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, A/C system servicing.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, injectors, lines, evaporative emissions control (EVAP).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, differential, brake), filter replacements, spark plug replacement.
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, head gasket replacement, timing chain, oil pump, piston/ring replacement, cylinder head assembly.
Transmission Repair:
Automatic transmission overhaul (AW4), manual transmission rebuild (NV3550), clutch service, transfer case servicing.
Drivetrain:
Axle servicing, CV joint replacement, driveshaft U-joints, differential servicing.
Suspension Steering:
Shock/strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, ball joint service, tie rod end replacement, steering gear overhaul.
Brake System:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder rebuilding, brake line replacement, ABS component diagnosis.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing, circuit tracing, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, sensor testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repairs.
Diagnostic Tools:
References factory diagnostic tools and procedures where applicable.
Engine 1 Displacement:
4.0 Liters (3964 cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline-6 (I6)
Engine 1 Valvetrain:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 12 valves (2 per cylinder)
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.500 in (98.4 mm x 88.9 mm)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
8.8:1
Engine 1 Horsepower:
181 hp @ 4750 RPM (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3250 RPM (approx.)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2469 cc)
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline-4 (I4)
Engine 2 Valvetrain:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 8 valves (2 per cylinder)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
124 hp @ 4800 RPM (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque:
147 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM (approx.)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on 4.0L, Distributor Ignition System on 2.5L.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Thermostat Rating:
195°F (typical)
Transmission 1:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (Model: AW4)
Transmission 2:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Model: NV3550)
Aw4 Features:
Electronically controlled, known for its durability and smooth shifting.
Nv3550 Features:
Robust manual gearbox, often found in higher-trim or off-road focused models.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+3 (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent 75W-90 GL-3/GL-4)
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Width:
69.9 inches (1775 mm)
Height:
62.1 inches (1577 mm) (without roof rack)
Ground Clearance:
Variable, typically 8-9 inches depending on suspension and tire size.
Curb Weight Min:
3170 lbs (1438 kg) (2.5L 2WD)
Curb Weight Max:
3700 lbs (1678 kg) (4.0L 4WD)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg) with proper towing package and engine.
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 1000-1200 lbs (454-544 kg)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3-star (typical for 1998 era SUVs, but varies by configuration).
ABS:
Available (typically on 4.0L models, rear-wheel or 4x4).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Frame Type:
Unibody construction.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, optional premium sound systems.
Display:
Basic dashboard instrumentation, no modern touchscreen or navigation.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
ABS:
Optional as mentioned in safety.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration from the factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
4.0L: Approx. 100,000 miles (platinum/iridium plugs), 2.5L: Approx. 30,000 miles (copper plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: 30,000-50,000 miles. Manual: 50,000-75,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 (API Service SG or SH)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0L: 6 US quarts (5.7 L) with filter. 2.5L: 5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter.
Coolant Capacity:
4.0L: 12.0 US quarts (11.4 L). 2.5L: 10.0 US quarts (9.5 L).
Common Problems 4 0L:
Cracked cylinder heads (later models), cam position sensor failure, rear main seal leaks, exhaust manifold cracks.
Common Problems General:
Death Wobble (steering/suspension alignment issue), rust (especially on rocker panels and rear quarters), failing heater core, electrical gremlins.
Common Issues Aw4:
Solenoid issues, torque converter lock-up problems.
Recommended Parts Filters
Oil Filter Part Number:
Wix 51515 / Fram PH8A / Mopar MO-090 (example, verify for specific engine).
Air Filter Part Number:
Wix 42700 / Fram CA2700 / Mopar PA100024 (example, verify).
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history dating back to World War II, synonymous with ruggedness and off-road capability.
Xj Generation:
The XJ Cherokee was a groundbreaking vehicle, pioneering the compact SUV segment with its unibody construction and advanced 4x4 systems.
Xj Lifespan:
1984-2001, making it one of the longest-running automotive platforms.
Manufacturer:
American Motors Corporation (AMC) until 1987, then Chrysler Corporation.
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA.
Automotive Journalism Awards:
Consistently ranked highly by automotive publications like Four Wheeler Magazine and Petersen's 4-Wheel & Off-Road for its off-road prowess and durability.
Durability Ratings:
Widely regarded as one of the most durable and long-lasting SUVs ever produced, especially the 4.0L models.
Certification Status:
N/A (Focus is on repair and maintenance, not product certification).