Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover Discovery.
Differentiation:
Off-road capability inherited from Jeep heritage, more refined interior and ride compared to some competitors, availability of powerful V8 engine.
Platform:
Introduced on the new WJ platform, which offered a unibody construction and a more independent front suspension design compared to its predecessor (ZJ).
Interior:
Significant upgrade in interior design, materials, and comfort over the previous generation, aiming for a more premium feel.
Powertrains:
Offered with the reliable 4.0L inline-six and a new, more powerful 4.7L PowerTech V8 engine.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emission controls, engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (42RE, 45RFE/545RFE depending on engine/drivetrain), manual transmission (less common), transfer case (NV231, NV242, NV247 depending on model), drive shafts, differentials (front and rear), axles, CV joints, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, front and rear disc brakes, parking brake, bleeding procedures, component replacement.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (coil springs, control arms, track bars, sway bars), steering gear, power steering system, steering linkage, wheel alignment.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), engine control module (ECM), anti-theft system, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, audio system, HVAC controls.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control modules, refrigerant handling, component testing and replacement.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals, frame components, rust prevention, corrosion control.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance checks (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations), brake inspections, tune-ups, belt and hose replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, repair, and rebuilding of major systems (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, etc.).
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing individual parts like starters, alternators, water pumps, fuel injectors, shock absorbers, brake pads, etc.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using OBD-II scanners, multimeters, pressure gauges, and other specialized tools for diagnosis.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.
Engine 1 Displacement:
4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder (I6)
Engine 1 Valve Train:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 12 valves
Engine 1 Horsepower:
185 hp @ 4,600 rpm (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Displacement:
4.7 Liters (285 cubic inches)
Engine 2 Configuration:
V8 (90-degree)
Engine 2 Valve Train:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 16 valves
Engine 2 Horsepower:
230 hp @ 4,700 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque:
325 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (as per NHTSA data for similar vehicles)
IIHS Crash Test:
Acceptable (for the era, specific scores vary)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, driver and front passenger pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on usage and fluid type.
Coolant Flush Replace:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 3-5 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 for 4.0L I6, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for 4.7L V8 (check owner's manual for specific API service classification, typically API SJ or higher).
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (ATF+4 may be used in some applications, consult manual).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Common Problems:
Radiator leaks (especially plastic tanks), heater core failure, coolant leaks from intake manifold gaskets (4.7L V8), U-joint wear, transfer case chain stretch, front differential pinion seal leaks, power steering pump leaks, ABS sensor failures, exhaust manifold cracks (4.7L V8).
Recall Information:
Refer to the manual or NHTSA website for any applicable recalls for the 1999 Grand Cherokee.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history rooted in military vehicles, evolving into a brand synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness.
Zj To Wj Transition:
The 1999 model year marked the introduction of the second-generation Grand Cherokee (WJ), replacing the ZJ. It featured a completely new body and chassis, offering improved aerodynamics, a more refined ride, and a wider stance.
Engineering Focus:
The WJ generation aimed to blend Jeep's traditional off-road prowess with increased on-road comfort and luxury, competing more directly with established luxury SUVs.
Manufacturing Location:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA.