Target Audience:
Jeep enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops.
Competitors 1997 2001:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Tracker
Cherokee Xj Strengths:
Legendary off-road capability, robust solid front axle (pre-2001), strong inline-6 engine option, durable construction.
Purpose:
To provide comprehensive technical guidance for the maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of the 1997-2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ.
Engine:
2.5L I4 (AMC 150), 4.0L I6 (AMC 242)
Transmission:
42RE Automatic, NV3550 Manual
Drivetrain:
2WD, 4WD (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac)
Suspension:
Front Solid Axle (Dana 30), Rear Dana 35c or Chrysler 8.25
Brakes:
Front Disc, Rear Drum (standard), Optional Rear Disc
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, ECU, Body Control Modules, Sensors
Body:
Interior and Exterior Components, Body Panels, Glass
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation Systems
Steering:
Power Steering System
Wheels Tires:
Wheel Specifications, Tire Pressure, Alignment
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Management:
Fuel Injection, Ignition System, Emissions Control, Engine Diagnostics (OBD-II)
Drivetrain Components:
Transfer Case Operation and Repair, Driveshaft Maintenance, Axle Service
Suspension Steering Details:
Leaf Spring Replacement, Shock Absorber Installation, Ball Joint Service, Steering Linkage Repair
Braking System:
Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement, Rotor/Drum Machining, Brake Line Flushes, ABS System Diagnostics (if equipped)
Electrical System Coverage:
Detailed Wiring Diagrams, Fuse and Relay Locations, Component Testing, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Diagnostics
Body And Interior:
Door Panel Removal, Seat Adjustment Mechanisms, Headliner Installation, Exterior Trim Replacement
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Coolant Flushes, Belt Inspections
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Common Issues, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Circuit Testing
Repair Operations:
Component Removal and Installation, Sub-Assembly Overhauls, Part Replacements
Engine Repair:
Head Gasket Replacement, Piston Ring Service, Valve Seal Replacement, Timing Component Replacement
Transmission Service:
Fluid and Filter Changes, Torque Converter Replacement, Transmission Rebuild Procedures (for 42RE and NV3550)
Special Tools:
Identification and Usage of Specialized Tools Required for Specific Repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures, detailed component-level repair instructions, and thorough troubleshooting guides.
Manual Transmission Model:
New Venture Gear NV3550 (late production 2000-2001)
Automatic Transmission Model:
Chrysler 42RE (3-speed with overdrive)
Transfer Case Options:
Command-Trac (231J), Selec-Trac (242J)
Automatic Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (or equivalent)
Manual Fluid Type:
Mopar Manual Transmission Fluid (or equivalent, e.g., 75W-90)
NHTSA Frontal Driver Est:
Acceptable (based on period testing, specific year may vary)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Est:
Acceptable (based on period testing, specific year may vary)
ABS:
Standard on most models (rear-wheel ABS on earlier models, 4-wheel ABS optional/standard on later models)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard)
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts
Audio System Options:
AM/FM Stereo with Cassette and/or CD Player, Premium Speaker Options
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims
Usb Aux Ports:
Not typically equipped (aftermarket solutions common)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on usage and fluid type)
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges)
Engine Coolant Spec:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), or equivalent HOAT coolant
Common Problems Focus:
Headliner sagging, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure (4.0L), rust (especially on floor pans and rocker panels), rear main seal leaks, U-joint wear, exhaust manifold cracks (4.0L).
Diagnosing Common Issues:
The manual provides systematic approaches to diagnose these common issues, including checking for diagnostic trouble codes, inspecting specific components, and performing electrical tests.
Jeep Legacy:
Rooted in military utility vehicles, Jeep is synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness.
Xj Generation Start:
1984
Updates 1997 2001:
Significant interior redesign, updated dashboard, improved aerodynamics, introduction of OBD-II compliance, optional 4-wheel disc brakes, and updated NV3550 manual transmission on later models.
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Offroad Magazine Ranking:
Consistently ranked highly by off-road publications for its capability and value.
Overall Market Perception:
Regarded as a highly capable and durable SUV, with a strong cult following.
