🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Product Name:

Jeep Cherokee XJ 1988-1989, 1993-1995 Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ, during its production span, was a highly influential compact SUV, known for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and unibody construction, setting it apart from traditional body-on-frame SUVs. This manual serves enthusiasts and mechanics looking to maintain or restore these iconic vehicles.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder. Its unibody design offered a more car-like ride and better fuel efficiency than many contemporaries.

Vehicle Highlights:

Renowned for its durable 4.0L inline-six engine, compact size, excellent off-road articulation, and comfortable interior for its class. The XJ pioneered the compact SUV segment.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1988, 1989, 1993, 1994, 1995

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (typical for complete factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine repair, overhaul, diagnostics, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition systems for 4.0L I6 and 2.5L I4 engines.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmissions (AX4/AX5, BA/BAK, AW4, NV3550) including repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, and diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Four-wheel drive systems (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), transfer cases (NP231, NP242), axles (Dana 30 front, Chrysler 8.25 rear), driveshafts, universal joints, and differentials.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (leaf springs, control arms, shock absorbers, sway bars), steering system (power steering pump, gearbox, linkage), wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc and rear drum brake systems, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped), component replacement, bleeding procedures, specifications.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical components, fuses, relays, diagnostic procedures.

Body:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, tailgate, HVAC system, exterior trim, rust repair considerations.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system components, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnostic procedures.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions system (EVAP).

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system, PCV system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to emissions.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid), filter replacements, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problem diagnosis for all major systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake replacements, and suspension work.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, engine performance issues, transmission problems, and HVAC malfunctions.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive list of torque values for all fasteners and critical components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, often color-coded, wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits.

Depth:

Full factory level of detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete component rebuilds and diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution scans, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images. Searchable text within PDF.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

4.0L (242 cu in) OHV Inline-6 (High Output)

Engine 2:

2.5L (150 cu in) OHV Inline-4 (AMC 150)

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 177-190 hp (depending on year and specific tune)

Torque 1:

Approx. 220-235 lb-ft (depending on year and specific tune)

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 125 hp

Torque 2:

Approx. 150 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) for 4.0L, Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for early 2.5L, MPFI for later 2.5L.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based (Chrysler's HOAT or HOAT equivalent, typically Mopar HOAT Pink or similar)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 10W-30 (recommended for 4.0L), SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for 2.5L. API Service SM or later.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Options:

Aisin-Warner AX4/AX5 (4-speed manual), New Process NV3550 (5-speed manual) in later years.

Automatic Transmission Options:

Chrysler 42RE (4-speed automatic), Aisin-Warner AW4 (4-speed automatic, widely regarded as robust).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (for later transmissions), ATF+3 or Dexron III for AW4 and early automatics. Manual transmission fluid is typically GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 175.7 inches (4463 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,300 - 3,700 lbs (1497 - 1678 kg), varying by configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Frontal crash test data available, though ratings may vary by year and specific test protocols. Generally considered a safe vehicle for its era, especially with later updates.

ABS:

Available on some models and years, typically rear-wheel anti-lock brakes (RWAL).

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard on later models (from early 90s onwards). Passenger airbags not typically available during this production run.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, two-point or three-point rear seatbelts depending on seating position and year.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.

Dashboard:

Basic analog gauges, indicator lights, and warning lamps. Later models may have improved instrument clusters.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models as an option or standard on higher trims.

Power Windows Locks:

Available as options or standard on higher trims, especially power windows and door locks.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to specific year's owner's manual or this service manual.

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years for traditional coolant. Long-life coolants may extend this. Always use the correct type and mix.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic transmissions: 30,000-50,000 miles. Manual transmissions: 50,000-75,000 miles, or as specified.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on specific model year requirements.

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.0L I6: Approx. 6 quarts (5.7 liters). 2.5L I4: Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 liters). Always check dipstick with engine warm and level.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 11-13 quarts (10.4-12.3 liters), depending on engine and cooling system configuration.

Engine Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks (especially on early 4.0L), oil filter adapter housing leaks, throttle body issues, spark plug wire failure. Regular maintenance is key.

Transmission Common Problems:

Leaking seals and gaskets, torque converter issues (AW4/42RE), clutch wear (manuals), shifting problems.

Suspension Common Problems:

Worn leaf springs, control arm bushings, ball joints, and track bar bushings are common due to age and off-road use.

Electrical Common Problems:

Grounding issues, corroded connectors, failing sensors (CPS, MAP, TPS), intermittent interior light problems.

Tire Sizes:

Commonly 215/75R15, 225/75R15, or 235/75R15 depending on trim and options. Check vehicle placard.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x4.5 inch (5x114.3 mm)

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long history dating back to WWII, synonymous with ruggedness and off-road capability. The Cherokee XJ built upon this legacy, adapting it to a more modern and accessible package.

Xj Generation:

The XJ generation ran from 1984 to 2001, with significant updates occurring over its lifespan. This manual covers the mid-life update period, which saw improvements in engines, transmissions, and features.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA.

Production Years:

1988-1989, 1993-1995

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

While specific awards for the 1988-1995 XJ are less documented compared to modern vehicles, the Cherokee XJ generation as a whole received numerous accolades for its segment-defining design and capability, often being named '4x4 of the Year' by various publications in its earlier years.