Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle
Usp:
Renowned for its off-road capability, robust powertrain, and relative simplicity compared to modern SUVs.
Competitors 1997-1999:
Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco II/Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder.
Chassis Design:
Unibody construction (a significant departure for Jeep at the time), contributing to lighter weight and better on-road manners than body-on-frame competitors.
Powertrain Reliability:
The 4.0L 'Power Tech' inline-six engine is legendary for its durability and torque.
Off Road Systems:
Available Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD) and Command-Trac (part-time 4WD) systems.
Updates 1997-1999:
These years represent the later XJ models with updated interior styling, improved safety features, and refined powertrains.
Primary Coverage:
All repairs and servicing for the specified Jeep Cherokee XJ model years.
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, diagnostics, electrical systems, chassis, body, specifications.
Estimated Page Count:
2000+
Type:
Factory Service & Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission diagnosis, repair, and overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Four-wheel drive system (NV242, NV231), transfer case, axles, CV joints, driveshafts.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS troubleshooting and repair.
Suspension:
Front (leaf spring) and rear (leaf spring) suspension components, steering system.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagrams, component testing, starting, charging, lighting, accessories, body electronics.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, exterior components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, differential rebuild instructions.
Component Replacement:
Detailed procedures for replacing major components like alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, radiators, etc.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using diagnostic tools, scan tools, and multimeters for troubleshooting.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners.
Schematics:
Extensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.
Engine 1 Displacement:
4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline-6, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 185-190 hp (varies slightly by year and specific tuning)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 220-225 lb-ft (varies slightly by year and specific tuning)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5 Liters (150 cubic inches)
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline-4, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 125-130 hp
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 150-155 lb-ft
Engine Management:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) and Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI).
Fuel Delivery:
Electric fuel pump, in-tank module.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (NV3550)
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (42RE)
Automatic Features:
Electronic overdrive, lock-up torque converter.
Manual Features:
Hydraulic clutch actuation.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (or equivalent, consult manual for exact specification and change interval)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MS-9224 (or equivalent, e.g., synthetic gear oil, consult manual)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Likely 4-star for models equipped with airbags (verify with specific crash data).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Likely 4-star for models equipped with airbags (verify with specific crash data).
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels, optional 4-wheel ABS on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard on most models from 1997 onwards.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Gauges:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel, temperature, oil pressure. Warning lights for various systems.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on many trim levels.
Phone Integration:
No factory Bluetooth or smartphone integration; aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Automatic: ~60,000 miles (severe service), ~100,000 miles (normal service); Manual: Consult manual for recommendations.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
4.0L: Approx. 100,000 miles (if using platinum/iridium); 2.5L: Consult manual.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN or newer, SAE 10W-30 (4.0L), SAE 5W-30 (2.5L - consult manual for specific winter recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, compatible with Chrysler's HOAT or OAT coolant standards (verify with manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (verify with manual).
Common Issues Engine:
Cylinder head cracking (especially on earlier 4.0L, less common on later ones), oil filter adapter housing leaks, rear main seal leaks.
Common Issues Drivetrain:
Transfer case chain stretch, axle seal leaks, U-joint wear.
Common Issues Suspension:
Leaf spring sag, worn control arm bushings, steering damper failure.
Common Issues Electrical:
Wiper motor failure, power window issues, intermittent electrical gremlins due to wiring harness aging.
Common Issues Body:
Rust in rocker panels, floor pans, and rear quarter panels, especially in salt-belt regions.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness and off-road prowess dating back to WWII.
Cherokee Xj Introduction:
Introduced in 1984 as the first compact SUV with unibody construction, revolutionizing the segment.
Xj Lifespan:
Produced from 1984 to 2001 (in North America), making it one of the longest-running automotive platforms.
1997 Refresh:
Significant facelift including revised front and rear fascias, updated interior, and improved safety features like airbags.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA.
Automotive Journalist Accolades:
Consistently praised for its off-road prowess and value by automotive publications throughout its production run. Often cited as a benchmark for compact SUVs.
Consumer Satisfaction Indices:
High consumer satisfaction for durability and capability, though sometimes lower for interior refinement and certain reliability aspects compared to Japanese competitors.
Emisiones Standards:
Meets applicable U.S. EPA emissions standards for the model years 1997-1999.