🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Model Code:

XJ

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

XJ

Platform:

Jeep Cherokee (XJ)

👋 Introduction

Description:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ (1999 model year) represented a stalwart in the compact SUV segment, known for its robust build, off-road capability, and utilitarian design. It competed with vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Ford Explorer.

Key Selling Points:

Unibody construction offering a balance of rigidity and weight, legendary Jeep 4x4 systems, strong aftermarket support for customization and off-road modifications.

Vehicle Features:

Available in 2-door and 4-door configurations, iconic Jeep styling, Command-Trac and Selec-Trac 4WD systems, comfortable ride for its class, proven drivetrain components.

Target Audience:

Primarily professional technicians, but also highly valuable for advanced DIY enthusiasts and restoration specialists.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Coverage:

All 1999 Jeep Cherokee XJ models (North American specifications)

Engine Coverage:

4.0L (242ci) Inline 6-Cylinder (High Output) and 2.5L (150ci) Inline 4-Cylinder

Transmission Coverage:

42RE (4-speed Automatic), AX-15 (5-speed Manual), NV3550 (5-speed Manual)

Drivetrain Coverage:

2WD (RWD), 4WD (Part-Time Command-Trac, Selec-Trac)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel injection (MPI), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, engine performance diagnostics, emissions control.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Automatic and manual transmission repair, transfer case operation and repair, driveline components, axles, differentials, CV joints.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension (leaf spring and coil spring variants), steering system (power steering, linkages, steering column), wheel alignment.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum configurations), ABS (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, gauges, instrument cluster, power windows/locks, body control modules, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Body And Chassis:

Body construction, exterior trim, interior components, seats, HVAC system, doors, windows, body panel repair, chassis diagnostics.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication points.

Repair Procedures:

Component removal and installation, detailed rebuild procedures for major components (engine, transmission), diagnostic and repair of common faults.

Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, identification of common failure modes.

Technical Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, timing settings, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, wiring diagrams, exploded views.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and troubleshooting for all major vehicle systems. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear text and legible diagrams.

Printable:

Yes, printable for convenient workshop use.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

4.0L (3960cc)

Engine 1 Type:

Inline 6-Cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.562 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

190 hp @ 4600 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Engine 2 Displacement:

2.5L (2507cc)

Engine 2 Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

125 hp @ 4600 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

150 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Distributor Ignition (DI) system for 2.5L engine.

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized, liquid-cooled

Oil Capacity 4.0L:

5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change

Oil Capacity 2.5L:

5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Typically 4-speed automatic (42RE) for most trims; 5-speed manual (AX-15 or NV3550) was an option.

Optional Transmission:

AX-15 (5-speed Manual) or NV3550 (5-speed Manual) depending on engine and trim.

Automatic Transmission Features:

42RE with Overdrive (4th gear), electronic controls.

Manual Transmission Features:

Durable, direct-shift designs suitable for off-road use.

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac (NV231) - Part-time, 2WD/4WD High/Neutral/4WD Low; Selec-Trac (NV242) - Full-time 4WD/Part-time 4WD High/Neutral/4WD Low.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602) or equivalent

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (AX-15); Manual Transmission Lubricant (Chrysler MS-9224) or equivalent for NV3550.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

166.4 inches (4226 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1781 mm)

Height:

64.4 inches (1636 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.5 inches (216 mm) depending on configuration.

Curb Weight Approx:

3,500 - 3,900 lbs (1588 - 1769 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4,750 - 5,100 lbs (2154 - 2313 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 32.2 cu ft (0.91 m³)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 69.0 cu ft (1.95 m³)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Not explicitly rated for 1999 model year in standardized formats available today, but generally considered robust for its era.

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Not explicitly rated for 1999 model year.

Braking System:

Standard front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels.

Traction Control:

Limited slip differentials (LSD) were optional on some trims. No electronic traction control systems as found in modern vehicles.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts in the front and rear (outboard positions).

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system not standard or widely implemented in this model year.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player or premium sound system. Aftermarket head unit support is extensive.

Navigation:

No factory navigation system available for this model year.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on rear wheels only.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Other Features:

Power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry (optional on higher trims).

Auxiliary Input:

No factory auxiliary audio input (3.5mm jack) or USB ports.

Bluetooth:

No factory Bluetooth connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil And Filter:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe service recommendations.

Engine Coolant:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years for initial change, then every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 1 year thereafter. (Chrysler HOAT coolant recommended).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or 2-3 years, depending on driving conditions. Inspect fluid condition regularly.

Spark Plugs:

4.0L: Approximately 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on plug type. 2.5L: Approximately 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km).

Air Filter:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 for 4.0L; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for 2.5L. Check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges and API service classification (e.g., API SN or equivalent).

Coolant:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically orange or red. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified in manual) brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent like ATF+4 if specified).

Common Faults 4.0L:

Head gasket failures (earlier models prone, less common in '99), cracked cylinder heads (less common in '99), radiator leaks, cooling fan clutch issues, exhaust manifold cracks, TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) failures.

Common Faults 2.5L:

Engine oil leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, potential for head gasket issues similar to 4.0L if overheated.

Common Faults Transmission:

Solenoid pack failures in 42RE automatic, input shaft wear in AX-15 manual, clutch wear in manual transmissions.

Common Faults Electrical:

Window motor failures, interior light issues, instrument cluster problems (intermittent gauge operation), O2 sensor failures.

Common Faults Chassis Suspension:

Leaf spring sag (rear), worn ball joints and tie rod ends, steering box wear, U-joint failure in driveshafts, rust (especially in northern climates).

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a storied history dating back to World War II, renowned for its off-road prowess and ruggedness. The Cherokee nameplate itself has been central to Jeep's identity.

Xj Generation Timeline:

The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984, pioneering the compact SUV segment with its unibody construction. The 1999 model year falls within the second generation of the XJ, which saw significant updates including revised interiors, improved aerodynamics, and engine advancements.

Xj Production Years:

1984-2001 (North America)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA.

Key Updates:

Minor exterior styling tweaks (revised front fascia, grille, and headlights), updated interior ergonomics and materials, improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels, new Selec-Trac NV242 transfer case option for greater refinement.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Awards:

While specific awards for the 1999 model year are not prominently documented, the Cherokee XJ generation consistently received praise for its off-road capability and value throughout its production run, often being recognized by automotive publications for its utility and durability.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports typically rated the Cherokee XJ for its off-road capability but often flagged reliability concerns in certain areas, especially regarding the transmission and powertrain in earlier years. Later models like the 1999 generally showed improved reliability scores, though still not always class-leading.

Emissions Certification:

Compliant with 1999 US Federal Emissions Standards. Manual will detail specific emissions control systems and diagnostic procedures.