🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Chassis Code:

XJ

Production Years Covered:

1997, 1999, 2000, 2001

Platform:

XJ

Generation:

Second Generation (Facelifted XJ)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-road vehicle

Jeep Heritage:

Continuation of Jeep's legacy in durable, capable off-road vehicles

Key Competitors:

Ford Bronco, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder

Offroad Capability:

Renowned for its robust 4x4 systems (Selec-Trac, Command-Trac) and solid axles, making it highly capable off-road.

Durability Reliability:

Known for its robust construction and long-term durability, a hallmark of the XJ generation.

Compact Size:

Its relatively compact dimensions provide maneuverability both on and off-road.

Engine Options:

Primarily offered with the legendary 4.0L inline-six engine.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive workshop service and repair

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for full workshop manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine cooling system, lubrication system

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (AW4, 42RE), Manual transmission (AX-15), Transfer case (NP231, NP242), Axles (Dana 30 front, Dana 35 rear or Chrysler 8.25 rear), Driveshafts, CV joints

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (leaf spring or coil spring depending on specific model year variants and options), Rear suspension (leaf spring), Steering system, Power steering, Wheel alignment

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (standard), ABS system (if equipped), Parking brake system, Brake fluid specifications

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, Charging system, Starting system, Ignition system, Lighting system, Instrumentation, Gauges, Horn, Wiper/Washer system, Power windows, Power locks, Body control modules, ECU diagnostics, Wiring diagrams

Body Chassis:

Body panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Interior trim, Seats, Bumpers, Chassis components, Corrosion protection, Frame inspection

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system operation, Refrigerant charging, Blower motor, Evaporator, Condenser, Heater core, A/C system diagnostics

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid level checks and top-offs, Tire rotation and pressure checks, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection and replacement

Engine Repair:

Engine overhaul, Cylinder head removal/installation, Piston and ring replacement, Camshaft and valve train service, Timing chain/belt replacement, Oil pump service

Transmission Drivetrain Repair:

Transmission removal/installation, Clutch service (manual), Torque converter replacement, Transfer case repair, Axle differential service, CV joint replacement

Suspension Steering Repair:

Shock absorber/strut replacement, Ball joint replacement, Tie rod end replacement, Leaf spring replacement, Power steering pump and rack replacement, Wheel bearing service

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, Brake caliper service, Wheel cylinder and brake shoe replacement, ABS component testing and replacement, Parking brake adjustment

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults, Wiring harness repair, Sensor testing and replacement, ECU re-flashing/testing, Component-level diagnostics

Bodywork Cosmetics:

Panel alignment, Door hinge and lock repair, Liftgate mechanism service, Interior trim installation/removal, Bumper repair/replacement

Troubleshooting Guides:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting trees

Depth Of Coverage:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, component testing, specifications, torque values, and overhaul instructions

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on required diagnostic tools, scan tools (OBD-II for later models), and specialized equipment

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, often color-coded, electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems

Tolerances Specifications:

Precise measurements, clearances, and torque specifications for all mechanical components

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components such as engines, transmissions, and differentials

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Scan Resolution:

High resolution, ensuring readability of text and diagrams

Text Searchability:

Searchable text for quick access to information

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Completeness Guarantee:

100% Complete and Intact, no missing/corrupt pages/sections

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Name:

AMC 242 (4.0L OHV Inline-6)

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Displacement:

3956 cc (242 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

98.5 mm x 86.6 mm (3.88 in x 3.41 in)

Compression Ratio:

8.75:1 (approx.)

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 4600 rpm (approx. for later years)

Torque:

220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx. for later years)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) - coil-on-plug for later models

Alternative Engine:

2.5L AMC I4 (150 cu in) - Less common in these specific years, but existed earlier in XJ.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (Chrysler 42RE / Aisin Warner AW4)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (NV3550, replacing AX-15)

Transfer Case:

New Process NP231 (Command-Trac) or NP242 (Selec-Trac)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler specification, or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon for older specifications)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.4 inches (2626 mm)

Length:

172.5 inches (4382 mm)

Width:

71.2 inches (1808 mm)

Height:

64.4 inches (1636 mm) (approx.)

Ground Clearance:

Variable, typically 8-10 inches depending on tire size and suspension

Curb Weight:

3,500 - 4,000 lbs (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5,000 - 5,300 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (with proper equipment and engine)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 4.5 inches (114.3 mm)

Wheel Size:

15 or 16 inches (standard)

Tire Size:

225/75R15, 235/75R15, or 235/70R16 (common)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Likely 4-star (for driver) and 3-star (for passenger) based on similar vehicles of the era, specific data for this manual's years may vary and should be verified.

IIHS Crash Test Results:

Varies by specific test and year; generally considered adequate for its time but not as advanced as modern vehicles.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (Optional or standard on higher trims for some years)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags (standard for 1999 onwards, optional/standard on driver side for 1997)

Seat Belts:

Front 3-point seat belts, rear lap and shoulder belts

Rollover Protection:

Considered to have a relatively high center of gravity, requiring cautious driving. Roll cage structure inherent to its off-road design.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configuration typically 4-6 speakers.

Navigation:

Not available as factory-installed equipment.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Anti Lock Brakes:

Optional or standard depending on trim and model year.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Not standard, aftermarket solutions common.

Instrument Cluster:

Includes speedometer, tachometer (on some trims), fuel gauge, engine temperature gauge, oil pressure warning light, voltmeter, and various warning indicators. Updated dashboard for 1997 facelift.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, refer to manual for specific recommendations)

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-5 years

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approx. 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs (if equipped), refer to manual for specific plug type and interval.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic, consult manual for manual transmission.

Engine Oil Specification:

10W-30 API SJ or higher (typically for 4.0L engine)

Engine Oil Capacity:

6 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter (4.0L engine)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant (e.g., Mopar 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula) or equivalent HOAT coolant

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or specified power steering fluid

Cracked Cylinder Head:

A known issue with the 4.0L engine, particularly older versions, though less common in later years. Manifests as coolant loss, overheating, or white smoke.

Radiator And Water Pump Failures:

Common wear items that may require replacement over time due to age and mileage.

Interior Rattles And Squeaks:

Typical for vehicles of this age and construction, often addressed with sound deadening or minor trim adjustments.

Rust And Corrosion:

Can be an issue in areas with road salt, particularly on the unibody structure, rocker panels, and wheel wells.

Transfer Case Chain Stretch:

Can lead to a slapping noise or slipping in 4WD. The NP231 chain is robust but can stretch with high mileage.

Idle Air Control Iac Valve Issues:

Can cause rough idling, stalling, or difficulty starting.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Built upon Jeep's decades-long reputation for ruggedness and off-road prowess, originating from military Willys Jeeps.

Xj Introduction:

The Cherokee (XJ) was revolutionary when introduced in 1984 as the first compact SUV with a unibody construction, offering a smoother ride than body-on-frame competitors.

Xj Facelift 1997:

The 1997 model year represented a significant facelift, including updated exterior styling (new grille, fenders, hood, front bumper), revised interior with a new dashboard and instrument cluster, improved sound insulation, and updated safety features.

Transmission Update:

Introduction of the NV3550 manual transmission for 2000-2001 models, replacing the AX-15.

Production Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Production Run Xj:

1984-2001 (North America)

Production Volume Significance:

The XJ Cherokee was a highly successful model for Jeep, contributing significantly to the growth of the SUV market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Four Wheeler Magazine Titles:

The Cherokee XJ, particularly the earlier generations, was a frequent recipient of praise and awards from off-road publications like Four Wheeler Magazine for its capability and value.

Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:

While not explicitly for these model years, the XJ platform's design and capabilities were highly regarded in the evolving SUV market.

Certification Standard:

Manufactured to meet all applicable US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its model years.