Model Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road Vehicle
Key Selling Points:
Off-road capability, durable construction, iconic styling, versatility.
Key Competitors:
Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco II, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer.
Manual Highlight:
The manual's extensive detail and coverage across a wide range of model years and engine options make it an indispensable resource for owners and mechanics.
Vehicle Highlight:
The XJ Cherokee is renowned for its unibody construction, offering a more car-like ride than traditional body-on-frame SUVs while maintaining robust off-road prowess.
Coverage Description:
Comprehensive repair, maintenance, rebuilding, refurbishing, and restoration of the Jeep Cherokee XJ.
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific number not provided, but described as extensive).
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, emissions control.
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmissions, transfer cases, drivelines, differentials.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering system components, alignment.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic components, disc and drum brake service, ABS (if equipped).
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, wiring diagrams.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, interior trim, chassis components, frame.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Interior:
Seating, dashboard, door panels, carpeting.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Comprehensive guidance for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major components.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom analysis, and common problem solutions.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Depth Of Coverage:
Full service and repair, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete overhauls.
Engine 1 Description:
2.5L AMC I4 (150 cubic inches)
Engine 1 Power Hp:
Approximately 125-130 hp (varies slightly by year)
Engine 1 Torque Lb-Ft:
Approximately 150-160 lb-ft (varies slightly by year)
Engine 1 Fuel System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 2 Description:
4.0L AMC I6 (242 cubic inches) 'High Output'
Engine 2 Power Hp:
Approximately 180-190 hp (varies slightly by year)
Engine 2 Torque Lb-Ft:
Approximately 220-230 lb-ft (varies slightly by year)
Engine 2 Fuel System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Cast Iron (early) / Aluminum (later, primarily 4.0L)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (NV1500, NV3550)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (AW4, 30RH)
Transfer Case Options:
Command-Trac (NV231), Selec-Trac (NV242)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check specific year for exact recommendation)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-3 or GL-4 (e.g., Pennzoil Synchromesh) for NV1500/NV3550
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
167.4 - 171.1 inches (4252 - 4346 mm) depending on year/trim
Width:
69.4 - 70.1 inches (1763 - 1781 mm) depending on year/trim
Height:
63.6 - 65.0 inches (1615 - 1651 mm) depending on year/trim
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,100 - 3,500 lbs (1406 - 1588 kg) depending on configuration
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) (with proper equipment and engine)
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette or CD player. Upgraded systems available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by era. Primarily ABS on later models, but no advanced electronic driver aids.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports in original configuration; aftermarket solutions common.
Oil Change Interval:
3,000 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type).
Transmission Service Interval:
30,000 - 60,000 miles (50,000 - 100,000 km) for fluid and filter change (automatic).
Coolant Flush Interval:
30,000 - 60,000 miles (50,000 - 100,000 km) or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Spec 4 0L:
10W-30 API SN or higher (check owner's manual for exact specification and capacity, typically 6 quarts/5.7 liters with filter)
Engine Oil Spec 2 5L:
10W-30 API SN or higher (check owner's manual for exact specification and capacity, typically 5 quarts/4.7 liters with filter)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent (typically 50/50 mix)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Issue 1:
Head gasket failure (especially on early 4.0L engines).
Common Issue 2:
Cracked cylinder heads (primarily 4.0L, especially '99-'01 models with 0331 casting number).
Common Issue 3:
Leaf spring perches cracking or breaking under stress.
Common Issue 4:
CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure leading to no-start conditions.
Common Issue 5:
Radiator failure and cooling system leaks.
Common Issue 6:
Oil filter adapter housing leaks.
Jeep Heritage:
Jeep's legacy of ruggedness and off-road capability dates back to World War II.
Xj Introduction:
The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984 as a groundbreaking unibody SUV, revolutionizing the segment.
Xj Updates 1988-2001:
Key updates include the introduction of the 4.0L I6 engine (1987), revised interior and exterior styling, improved fuel injection, and the eventual phasing out of the 2.5L 4-cylinder in favor of a revised version.
Production Period:
1984-2001 (North America)
Manufacturing Plants:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Offroad Magazine Recognition:
Consistently ranked among the top off-road vehicles by various automotive publications throughout its production run.
Popular Mechanics Recognition:
Often cited for its durability and capability in reviews.