Category:
Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle
Segment History:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ defined the compact SUV segment with its unibody construction and legendary off-road capability.
Contemporaries:
Competed with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, and Chevrolet Blazer.
Platform:
Robust unibody construction (UniFrame) providing a balance of strength and lighter weight compared to body-on-frame competitors.
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its off-road prowess, often featuring Command-Trac NV231 or Selec-Trac NV242 transfer cases and robust solid axles (especially in earlier models, though this generation uses a Dana 30 front and Chrysler 8.25 rear).
Durability:
Known for its ruggedness and reliability, making it a popular choice for off-roading and overland travel.
Supported Years:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2000 (typical for a comprehensive factory manual of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Transfer Case, Drivetrain (4x4 systems)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
12V Electrical System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio Systems, Power Accessories, Engine Control Module (ECM) Diagnostics, Body Control Modules (BCM)
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seating, Glass, Doors, Hood, Liftgate
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Components and Operation
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Fluid Checks and Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Electrical Schematics
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Suspension Overhauls, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Replacement
Adjustments:
Wheel Alignment Procedures, Clutch Adjustment, Parking Brake Adjustment
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Dimensional Data, Electrical Resistances
Depth:
Comprehensive Factory Level (covering basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and detailed electrical system diagnostics)
Engine 1 Code:
4.0L Inline-6 (OHV)
Engine 1 Displacement:
3957 cc (241.7 cu in)
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.562 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
8.75:1
Engine 1 Horsepower:
185 hp @ 4600 rpm (approximate for this generation)
Engine 1 Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approximate for this generation)
Engine 2 Code:
2.5L Inline-4 (OHV)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2507 cc (153 cu in)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
119 hp @ 4500 rpm (approximate for this generation)
Engine 2 Torque:
149 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approximate for this generation)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20.0 US gallons (75.7 L)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) on later 4.0L models
Transmission 1 Type:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE)
Transmission 2 Type:
5-Speed Manual (AX-15 or NV3550 depending on year)
Transfer Case Options:
Command-Trac NV231 (Part-Time 4WD) or Selec-Trac NV242 (Full-Time 4WD option)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic gear oil (check specific manual for exact specs)
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar) for NV231/NV242
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 Stars (for 1997 models, later ratings may vary)
Brakes:
Front: Vented Disc; Rear: Drum or Disc (depending on trim/options)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels or all four wheels depending on year/configuration.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger airbags (standard in later years of this generation)
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature, oil pressure. Warning lamps for various systems.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) connector, typically located under the dashboard, facilitating electronic fault diagnosis.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using appropriate oil viscosity).
Engine Coolant Interval:
First service at 30,000 miles (48,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on driving conditions and fluid type (ATF+4 recommended).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 10W-30 API SG or SH for 4.0L; SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH for 2.5L (consult manual for specific oil type and API rating requirements).
Coolant Spec:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Problem 1:
Cracked cylinder heads on 4.0L engines (particularly early models, though improved in later revisions).
Common Problem 2:
Water pump leaks and thermostat housing leaks on 4.0L engines.
Common Problem 3:
Oxygen sensor failures contributing to poor fuel economy or check engine lights.
Common Problem 4:
Radiator hose failures and cooling system leaks.
Common Problem 5:
Rust on unibody structure, particularly wheel wells, rocker panels, and floor pans, requiring diligent inspection.
Jeep Legacy:
Built upon Jeep's long history of producing capable and rugged 4x4 vehicles, dating back to the World War II era Willys Jeep.
Generation Context:
The XJ platform was introduced in 1984 and saw significant updates and facelifts throughout its production run. The 1997-2001 models represent the final facelift, featuring updated interior and exterior styling, improved safety features, and powertrain refinements.
Production Period:
1984-2001 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
