Positioning:
Premium, capable off-road SUV with comfortable on-road manners
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer/S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder
Platform:
Unibody construction derived from Jeep Cherokee (XJ) and Grand Cherokee (WK) platforms
Drivetrain Options:
Part-time 4WD (Selec-Trac) and full-time 4WD (Quadra-Trac)
Luxury Features:
Available leather seating, power amenities, enhanced sound systems
Engine Service:
Diagnosis, repair, and overhaul for all gasoline engines
Powertrain Service:
Service and repair of automatic transmissions (e.g., 42RE, 44RE, 46RE) and transfer cases (e.g., NP242, NP231)
Chassis Service:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, and driveline components
Braking System:
Diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of front disc and rear drum/disc brakes, ABS system
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis of starting, charging, ignition, lighting, and accessories
Body And Trim:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal/installation, glass, doors, and associated hardware
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, including A/C and heating
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions
Specification Tables:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures
Transmission Option 1:
4-speed Automatic (42RE)
Transmission Option 2:
4-speed Automatic (44RE - with 5.2L V8)
Transmission Option 3:
4-speed Automatic (46RE - with 5.2L V8, Heavy Duty)
Transfer Case Option 1:
New Process (NP) 231 J (Part-time Command-Trac 4WD)
Transfer Case Option 2:
New Process (NP) 242 J (Full-time Selec-Trac 4WD)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, consult manual)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (consult manual for specific transmission type)
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on coolant type, consult manual)
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, SJ; SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (Chrysler Mopar)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Chrysler Mopar or equivalent)
Common Issue 1:
Cracked cylinder heads (4.0L engine, especially early versions)
Common Issue 2:
Transmission issues (e.g., solenoid failures, torque converter issues)
Common Issue 3:
Minor electrical gremlins (e.g., gauge cluster issues, intermittent power loss)
Common Issue 4:
Rust (especially on rocker panels and rear quarter panels)
Common Issue 5:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, water pump, hoses)
Brand Origin:
Jeep's legacy of off-road capability and ruggedness
Generation:
First Generation (ZJ)
Update Year:
1996 (Significant refresh)
Production Location:
Jefferson North Assembly, Detroit, Michigan, USA