🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Year:

2001

Engine Options:

Gasoline and Diesel

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ is a highly regarded compact SUV known for its off-road capability, ruggedness, and utility. The 2001 model represents the final year of the XJ's iconic production run, incorporating refinements and updates from its long and successful lifespan.

Competition:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, and Chevrolet Blazer. The XJ's unibody construction and legendary Selec-Trac/Command-Trac 4WD systems offered a distinct advantage in its segment for off-road enthusiasts.

Design:

Compact SUV with a focus on utility and off-road performance. The 2001 model features the updated interior and exterior styling introduced in 1997, including revised dashboards, seats, and front/rear fascias.

Drivetrain:

Available in 2WD and 4WD configurations, with a choice of part-time or full-time 4WD systems (Selec-Trac).

Manual Value:

Provides essential factory-level repair and maintenance data crucial for preserving the longevity and performance of this capable vehicle, especially for owners performing their own work.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All Models Gas and Diesel

Page Count:

Extensive (typical factory manuals are 1000+ pages)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECU/PCM), transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, drive shafts, axles (front and rear), differentials.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear leaf springs, coil springs, control arms, shocks, sway bars), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion/steering box, steering column), braking system (ABS, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, master cylinder, parking brake).

Body & Electrical:

Body structure, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, lighting system, instrumentation, audio system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, diagnostics for electrical components, body control modules (BCM).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, axle fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), lubrication points, tire rotation, battery maintenance.

Repair & Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, steering component repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair, interior component repair.

Diagnostics & Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics, emissions system troubleshooting, mechanical component testing.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure specifications, diagnostic values, alignment specifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Quality:

High resolution for clear viewing and printing of text and diagrams.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Gasoline Engine 1:

4.0L (3957cc) Inline-6 OHV 12-valve 'Power Tech' (Engine Code: ERH)

Gasoline Engine 1 Hp:

190 hp @ 4600 rpm

Gasoline Engine 1 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Diesel Engine 1:

2.5L (2499cc) Turbocharged Inline-4 OHV 8-valve 'VM Motori' (Engine Code: EXF - typically phased out by this year, but manual may cover earlier models/conversions)

Diesel Engine 1 Hp:

114 hp @ 3900 rpm (approximate for common variant)

Diesel Engine 1 Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm (approximate for common variant)

Fuel Injection Gas:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended), Diesel fuel

Compression Ratio 4.0L:

8.8:1

Bore X Stroke 4.0L:

3.875 in x 3.563 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., Chrysler 42RE for 4.0L, 42LE for some earlier 4.0L models)

Transmission Type Opt:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (e.g., NV3550, AX-15 for earlier models)

Transfer Case Options:

Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD) and Command-Trac (part-time 4WD)

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check specific model VIN)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity varies by transmission)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.4 inches (2626 mm)

Length:

165.3 inches (4199 mm)

Width:

69.4 inches (1763 mm)

Height:

63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.7 inches (221 mm) (approximate, varies with tire size and suspension)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

33.8 cubic feet (0.96 m³)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

71.0 cubic feet (2.01 m³)

Curb Weight Approx:

3400 - 3700 lbs (1542 - 1678 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4700 - 4950 lbs (2132 - 2245 kg)

Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:

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

Standard Tire Size:

P215/75R15, P225/75R16 (varies by trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

3/5 stars (for 2001 models)

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or 4-wheel ABS.

Traction Control:

Not commonly available as a factory option on this model year, focus on mechanical grip and driver skill.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts.

Child Seat Anchors:

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system became more common in later years but may not be universally present.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD or Cassette stereo systems, often with 4-6 speakers. Limited advanced features by modern standards.

Navigation:

No factory navigation system available for this model year.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on most trim levels.

Parking Assist:

Not available.

Auxiliary Input:

Not available. Aftermarket solutions are common.

Bluetooth:

Not available. Aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gas:

Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (5,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specifics.

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (50,000 km) or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (50,000 to 100,000 km) depending on driving conditions (severe use requires more frequent changes).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for precise recommendation based on climate).

Coolant Spec:

Chrysler OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Yellow/Orange) antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

ATF+3 or ATF+4

Front Axle Fluid Spec:

API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (or 75W-90 synthetic)

Rear Axle Fluid Spec:

API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (or 75W-90 synthetic). Add friction modifier for limited-slip differentials (if equipped).

Common Problems Engine:

Coolant leaks (heater core, radiator, water pump), distributorless ignition system (DIS) issues, oil filter adapter seal leaks, occasional head gasket issues on high-mileage 4.0L engines.

Common Problems Drivetrain:

Leaf spring perches cracking, universal joint (U-joint) wear, transfer case chain stretch, differential seal leaks.

Common Problems Electrical:

Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, instrument cluster problems, intermittent electrical gremlins due to aging wiring harnesses.

Common Problems Suspension Steering:

Worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, steering box looseness, worn tie rod ends.

Oil Filter Example:

Mopar: MO-899, Fram: PH30, Wix: 51515 (confirm for specific engine)

Air Filter Example:

Mopar: 52080451, Fram: CA3980, Wix: 42204 (confirm for specific engine)

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long history of producing rugged, capable off-road vehicles, originating from its military roots in World War II. This heritage is deeply ingrained in the Cherokee.

Cherokee Xj Lineage:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, revolutionized the SUV market with its unibody construction, offering a lighter, more fuel-efficient, and car-like driving experience compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs. The 2001 model year is the final iteration before its replacement by the Liberty (KJ) in 2002.

Production Years:

1984-2001 (North America)

Manufacturing Locations:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Accolades:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its off-road prowess and durability throughout its production run. Often cited as one of the best off-road SUVs of its era.

Segment Rankings:

Frequently ranked highly in the compact SUV segment for capability and value.