🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Model Code:

XJ

Years Covered:

1997, 1999, 2000, 2001

Engine Codes:

2.5L AMC 150 (4-cyl), 4.0L AMC 242 (6-cyl)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV

Segment Description:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001) was a pioneering compact SUV, known for its unibody construction, off-road capability, and relatively compact dimensions. It bridged the gap between traditional SUVs and car-based crossovers.

Competitors Era:

Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Isuzu Rodeo, Mitsubishi Montero Sport.

Off Road Capability:

Renowned for its ruggedness and off-road prowess, especially with the Command-Trac (2WD/4WD part-time) and Selec-Trac (2WD/4WD full-time/part-time) transfer cases.

Unibody Construction:

One of the first SUVs to adopt unibody construction, offering a lighter and more car-like ride than body-on-frame competitors.

Engine Options:

Reliable and torquey inline-six engines, particularly the 4.0L, were a hallmark of the XJ.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Transfer Case, Drive Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), Electrical System, Body & Chassis, HVAC, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Page Count:

Estimating based on factory service manuals for this era, typically over 1000 pages.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly and assembly procedures for 2.5L and 4.0L engines, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication, and cooling systems.

Fuel System:

In-depth coverage of fuel injection systems (MPI), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, injectors, and evaporative emission control system.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Repair and overhaul procedures for NV1500/NV3550 (manual), AW4/42RE (automatic) transmissions, and NP231/NP242 transfer cases, including driveline components and axle assemblies.

Suspension And Steering:

Detailed specifications and procedures for front and rear suspension components (leaf springs, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms), steering gear, and power steering system.

Brakes:

Comprehensive information on front disc and rear drum brake systems, including hydraulic components, power assist, parking brake, and ABS system (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits, including charging system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows/locks, and diagnostic connector (OBD-II).

Body And Chassis:

Information on body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, frame inspection, and corrosion protection.

Maintenance:

Regular service intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and inspection procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, including symptom-based troubleshooting charts and Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) explanations.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Diagnostics:

Procedures for using diagnostic tools, interpreting sensor data, and performing system tests.

Depth:

Comprehensive, factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Digital PDFs are typically printable, allowing users to create physical copies of sections or the entire manual for workshop use.

Diagram Quality:

High-quality diagrams and illustrations, essential for understanding complex procedures.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

2.5 Liters (150 cubic inches)

Engine 1 Configuration:

Inline-4 Cylinder (AMC 150)

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 114-125 hp (varies by year)

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 135-145 lb-ft (varies by year)

Engine 2 Displacement:

4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)

Engine 2 Configuration:

Inline-6 Cylinder (AMC 242)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 180-190 hp (varies by year)

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 220-235 lb-ft (varies by year)

Engine Type:

Gasoline, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Cooling Capacity:

Approx. 10.5-11.5 quarts (varies by engine)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT - Orange) or HOAT (Yellow/Gold) depending on production date/changeover. Manual will specify.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

5-Speed Manual (NV1500 or NV3550)

Transmission Type 2:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE or AW4)

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac (231J), Selec-Trac (242J)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity, e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Transfer Case Fluid:

NP231/242: ATF+4 (Chrysler) or Dexron III equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches

Length:

164.3 inches

Width:

69.9 inches

Height:

63.9 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,100 - 3,400 lbs (varies by engine/trim)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4,500 - 4,900 lbs

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 32.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 69.0 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Refer to specific NHTSA data for model years; typically 4-star rating for 4x4 models.

ABS:

Available on some models/trims, particularly later years.

Traction Control:

Limited availability on XJ models of this era.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory radio with AM/FM, cassette and optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim. Manual will cover removal/installation and basic diagnostics.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available on higher trims or as an option.

OBD Ii Port:

Standard OBD-II diagnostic port for emissions and powertrain diagnostics, located under the dashboard. Manual will explain its use.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on oil type and driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual; typically every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Specification:

API Service SG, SH, SJ or higher; SAE 10W-30 recommended for most conditions, but consult manual for specific temperature ranges.

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.0L: 5 quarts with filter; 2.5L: 5 quarts with filter.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Chrysler spec).

Common Complaint 1:

Head gasket failures on the 4.0L engine, particularly in earlier models or when subjected to overheating. The manual will detail proper torque sequences and coolant flow for prevention.

Common Complaint 2:

Aging electrical connectors and grounds can lead to various gremlins. The electrical diagrams in the manual are crucial for diagnosing these issues.

Common Complaint 3:

Heater core leaks. The manual provides procedures for accessing and replacing the heater core, a common but involved repair.

Common Complaint 4:

Worn U-joints in the driveshafts, especially for off-road use, leading to vibration or clunking noises. The manual covers replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep, a brand synonymous with off-road capability and utility, has a rich history dating back to WWII. The Cherokee XJ built upon this legacy, offering a more refined and accessible interpretation of the Jeep experience.

Xj Generation:

The XJ was the second generation of the Cherokee line and represented a significant shift with its unibody construction. It received minor updates throughout its production run, including engine revisions and styling tweaks.

Major Updates 1997-2001:

Facelift in 1997 introduced revised interior and exterior styling, including new dashboard, seats, and exterior fascia. Powertrain improvements and updated safety features were also incorporated.

Production Period:

1984-2001

Manufacturing Locations:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

While specific awards for the 1997-2001 model years are not as widely documented as the initial groundbreaking design, the XJ platform consistently received praise for its durability, capability, and value by automotive publications throughout its long production run.

Segment Popularity:

Highly popular within its segment, remaining a best-seller for Jeep for many years. Its cult following continues today due to its robust nature and modification potential.