Positioning:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ is renowned as a highly capable and durable compact SUV, particularly favored for its off-road prowess and robust engineering.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Ford Bronco II, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder in its segment.
Chassis Design:
Pioneered unibody construction for SUVs, contributing to lighter weight and improved on-road manners while maintaining off-road capability.
Legacy:
Holds a strong cult following among off-road enthusiasts and collectors due to its reliability and aftermarket support.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service and repair for Jeep Cherokee XJ (1997-2001 models)
Specific Models Covered:
Includes coverage for all trim levels and engine options within the specified years.
Estimated Page Count:
Large volume, detailed technical content typical of factory service manuals (exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive).
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axles.
Chassis:
Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brakes, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering.
Body And Interior:
Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Locks, Meter, Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seats, Engine Hood/Doors, Exterior & Interior Trim.
Electrical:
Complete Electrical System, Multiplex/CAN Communication.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, component inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Component Removal And Installation:
Instructions for removing, installing, and adjusting all vehicle components.
Depth:
Extensive technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures.
Compatibility:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac OS.
Readability Features:
Searchable table of contents, easy-to-read type, provides all necessary information for correct procedure execution.
Quality:
High-resolution PDF suitable for clear printing.
Binding:
Digital (PDF format), does not involve physical binding.
Paper:
Not applicable (digital format).
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (or equivalent unzipping software).
Engine Option 1:
4.0L Inline 6-Cylinder (242 cid) OHV 12-Valve 'Power Tech' I6
Engine Option 2:
2.5L Inline 4-Cylinder (150 cid) OHV 8-Valve 'H.O.' Turbocharged Diesel (Less common in later years/specific markets, primarily earlier XJs but worth noting for context of the platform).
Engine Option 3:
2.5L Inline 4-Cylinder (150 cid) OHV 8-Valve 'AMC 150' (Common in earlier XJs, continued in some early models of the specified range, but the 4.0L is dominant).
4.0L I6 Horsepower:
Approximately 180-190 hp (varies slightly by year and tuning)
4.0L I6 Torque:
Approximately 220-230 lb-ft (varies slightly by year and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Capacity 4.0L:
Approximately 11.0 quarts (10.4 liters)
Oil Capacity 4.0L:
Approximately 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter
Recommended Oil 4.0L:
API SN or SP, SAE 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific year recommendation)
Transmission Option 1:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Option 2:
AX-15 5-Speed Manual Transmission (primarily on earlier models, but some overlap may exist or be present in service records).
Transmission Option 3:
NV3550 5-Speed Manual Transmission (introduced later in the XJ generation, replacing the AX-15).
Transfer Case Options:
NP231 Command-Trac (2WD High, 4WD High, Neutral, 4WD Low), NP242 Selec-Trac (2WD High, Full-Time 4WD, Neutral, 4WD Low - Optional)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent, consult manual for specific ATF type per year/transmission)
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
Approximately 167.4 - 173.7 inches (4252 - 4412 mm)
Width:
Approximately 69.4 - 70.1 inches (1763 - 1781 mm)
Height:
Approximately 63.7 - 65.3 inches (1618 - 1659 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,300 - 3,600 lbs (1497 - 1633 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) with proper equipment and engine (4.0L V6 recommended for towing).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approximately 4,700 - 5,100 lbs (2132 - 2313 kg)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Typically rated as 4 stars for rollover resistance (check specific year reports).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims, typically rear-wheel or 4-wheel ABS depending on configuration.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard on later models within this range.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, driver and front passenger pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette/CD player with optional premium sound systems and amplifiers. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on most trims.
Multiplex Can Communication:
Features multiplexing for various systems, including CAN (Controller Area Network) communication in later models for data sharing between modules.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on usage (severe duty may require more frequent changes). Manual transmissions have longer intervals or lifetime fill on some units.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months for conventional coolant, or longer for extended-life coolants (check manual).
Spark Plug Replacement 4.0L:
Typically around 100,000 miles for the 4.0L I6 with modern ignition systems.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for certain systems, consult manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or Mopar power steering fluid (verify with manual).
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF+4 for NP231/NP242 (check manual for exact specification).
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 for front and rear differentials (consider synthetic for better performance).
Engine Common Problems:
Heater control valve leaks, cracked cylinder heads (less common on later 4.0L, but a known issue for the engine family), oil filter housing leaks, water pump failures.
Transmission Common Problems:
Internal seal leaks in automatic transmissions, occasional issues with the neutral safety switch or shifter linkage.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn leaf springs (sagging), worn control arm bushings, track bar issues (common in lifted vehicles but also relevant for stock), sway bar links.
Electrical Common Problems:
Corroded grounds, failing fuel pump relay, issues with the overhead console (dome light, compass), intermittent gauge issues.
Brand:
Jeep has a long-standing reputation for producing capable off-road vehicles, stemming from its military origins during World War II.
Generation:
The XJ generation, produced from 1984 to 2001, revolutionized the SUV market with its unibody construction. The 1997-2001 models represent the final facelift and updates of this highly successful generation.
Production Period:
1984-2001 (XJ Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA.
