Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road vehicle
Target Audience:
Jeep Cherokee XJ owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, DIY enthusiasts, and independent repair shops.
Competitors Era:
Ford Bronco, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Mitsubishi Montero.
Vehicle Appeal:
Ruggedness, off-road capability, relatively simple mechanicals, strong aftermarket support.
Manual Value:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their vehicle, saving costs and ensuring quality of work.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair for 1996 Jeep Cherokee (XJ)
Secondary Coverage Mention:
YJ reference in title, likely for related systems or shared components applicable to Wrangler models of the era.
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine electrical.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic and Manual Transmissions (e.g., AX-15, NP231, 42RE), transfer case, drivelines, axles, differentials, hubs.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear solid axles), steering system, braking system (front disc, rear drum), wheels, tires.
Body Electrical:
Body control modules, lighting, HVAC system, power accessories (windows, locks), interior and exterior trim, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding (e.g., engine components, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement).
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic values.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major repairs and component overhauls. Includes diagnostic flowcharts and detailed troubleshooting.
Engine Code Displacement:
4.0L (242 cu in) OHV Inline-6 (Primary Engine)
Engine Code Displacement Optional:
2.5L (150 cu in) OHV Inline-4 (AMC 150) (Optional Engine)
4.0L Horsepower:
Approx. 190 hp @ 4750 RPM
4.0L Torque:
Approx. 225 lb-ft @ 3250 RPM
2.5L Horsepower:
Approx. 125 hp @ 4600 RPM
2.5L Torque:
Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 2400 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Type:
Selectable 2WD/4WD Part-time (Command-Trac)
Automatic:
42RE 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual:
AX-15 5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
New Process (NP) 231 (Command-Trac) (Common)
Transfer Case Features:
2WD High, 4WD High, Neutral, 4WD Low
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3-star (Varies by specific test year and configuration)
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum brakes. Optional ABS on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags (standard for 1996 model year in the US).
Seat Belts:
Front 3-point, rear lap and shoulder belts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (or 3-6 months), depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic, check manual for manual transmission.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 (preferred for 4.0L); SAE 5W-30 may be used in colder climates.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (preferred, although ATF+3 was likely specified for '96, manual will clarify) for 42RE.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (for AX-15).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar OAT or HOAT type recommended by manual.
4.0L Engine:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 90s but can persist), oil filter adapter housing leaks, camshaft position sensor issues, distributorless ignition system (DIS) coil pack failures.
Transmission:
AX-15 clutch wear, 42RE solenoid failures, torque converter shudder.
Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, track bar issues, steering box wear, U-joint failures.
Electrical:
Ground strap issues causing erratic electrical behavior, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, power window motor failures.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep is renowned for its off-road prowess and military roots, dating back to WWII.
Cherokee Xj Introduction:
The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984 as a revolutionary unibody compact SUV, setting a new standard for the segment.
Xj Generation 1996 Update:
The 1996 model year falls within the second generation of the XJ (1984-2001). 1996 saw minor updates, including potentially revised interior components and safety features. The 4.0L engine was highly refined by this point.
Production Period Xj:
1984-2001
Manufacturing Location:
USA (primarily Toledo, Ohio)
