Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV
Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, adventure seekers, practical utility vehicle buyers.
Key Competitors:
Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder.
Chassis Design:
Unibody construction (a pioneering feature for SUVs at its introduction), offering a lighter, more car-like ride while maintaining off-road capability.
Drivetrain Options:
Available in 2WD and 4WD configurations, with robust transfer cases and axle options.
Off Road Prowess:
Renowned for its off-road capabilities, thanks to strong unibody construction, good ground clearance, and available 4x4 systems.
Durability Reliability:
Considered one of the most durable and reliable Jeep models, with many examples still on the road and in service.
Years Covered:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type:
Factory Repair Service Manual
Manual Format Type:
Digital Downloadable Service Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Complete coverage of all engine variants, including disassembly, assembly, timing, cooling, lubrication, and fuel systems.
Engine Performance:
Detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications for engine performance tuning and troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Comprehensive repair and maintenance for manual transmissions (e.g., AX-4, BA-10/5, NV3550).
Transmission Automatic:
In-depth coverage of automatic transmissions (e.g., AW4, 30RH, 32RH), including operation, diagnostics, and overhaul.
Drivetrain 4Wd:
Detailed information on Command-Trac and Selec-Trac transfer cases, front and rear axle assemblies, and CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including leaf springs, coil springs, control arms, bushings, and shock absorbers.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement (pump, gearbox, linkages).
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum brake systems, including ABS (where applicable), master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic strategies, and troubleshooting for the entire electrical system.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, structural repair, door mechanisms, glass, and sealing.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, blower motor, and evaporator/heater core replacement.
Interior:
Seating systems, dashboard removal, trim panels, and interior accessories.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter changes, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, and battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, differentials, and other major mechanical assemblies.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of all critical torque specifications for fasteners and component assembly.
Wiring Diagrams:
High-quality, detailed wiring schematics for all electrical circuits, including component pinouts and connector views.
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on specific diagnostic tools, scan tools (OBD-I and early OBD-II), and special equipment required.
Specification Data:
Extensive specification tables covering everything from engine clearances to fluid capacities and tire pressures.
Engine 2.5L Inline 4 Petrol:
2.5L (150 CID) AMC I4, OHV, 8-valve. Power: ~115-121 hp. Torque: ~130-135 lb-ft. Known for simplicity and fuel efficiency.
Engine 4.0L Inline 6 Petrol:
4.0L (242 CID) AMC I6, OHV, 12-valve. Power: ~177-190 hp. Torque: ~220-240 lb-ft. Highly regarded for its torque, durability, and smoothness.
Engine 2.1L Inline 4 Diesel:
2.1L (126 CID) VM Motori Turbo Diesel I4 (early models 1984-1987). Power: ~85 hp. Torque: ~145 lb-ft. Less common and generally less reliable than petrol engines.
Horsepower Range:
85 hp (2.1L Diesel) to 190 hp (4.0L I6)
Torque Range:
130 lb-ft (2.5L I4) to 240 lb-ft (4.0L I6)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for most variants, some early models may have had Throttle Body Injection (TBI).
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
167.1 - 177.9 inches (4244 - 4519 mm) depending on year and trim.
Width:
69.4 - 70.2 inches (1763 - 1783 mm)
Height:
63.5 - 65.0 inches (1613 - 1651 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
3,100 - 3,600 lbs (1406 - 1633 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 2,000 - 5,000 lbs (907 - 2268 kg) depending on engine, transmission, and axle ratio.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific engine).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (50,000 - 100,000 km) for automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions generally have longer intervals or are serviced as needed.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (50,000 - 80,000 km).
Engine Oil 4.0L:
SAE 10W-30 API SG or higher. Capacity: 6 US quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter.
Engine Oil 2.5L:
SAE 10W-30 API SG or higher. Capacity: 5 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (depending on specific transmission model and year). Check manual for precise specification.
Transfer Case Fluid:
Mopar NP231/242 Transfer Case Lubricant or equivalent (e.g., ATF Dexron-III).
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Common Problems:
Cracked cylinder heads on early 4.0L engines (especially pre-1991), rear main seal leaks, exhaust manifold cracks on 4.0L, rust in floor pans and quarter panels, aging suspension bushings, and potential issues with automatic transmission valve bodies (AW4).
Electrical Gremlins:
Common for older vehicles, often related to aging wiring harnesses, grounds, and failing sensors (e.g., Crankshaft Position Sensor, TPS).
Jeep Legacy:
Built on Jeep's long-standing reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability, established by the Jeep CJ and Wagoneer.
Xjs Introduction:
Introduced in 1984 as a replacement for the Cherokee SJ (full-size) and CJ-7 based models, aiming for a more compact and fuel-efficient SUV.
Major Updates:
Significant styling refresh in 1997 (second generation), but this manual covers the pre-refresh first generation. Minor updates included engine changes, interior refinements, and feature additions throughout its 13-year run.
Production Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA.
Production Years:
1984-2001 (North America, with the XJ designation primarily ending around 1996/1997, though production continued in other markets with slight variations).
