Positioning:
The Jeep Grand Cherokee WG (1999-2004) established Jeep's presence in the premium mid-size SUV segment, blending off-road capability with on-road comfort and luxury features.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer/TrailBlazer, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder.
Features:
Body-on-frame construction, available Quadra-Drive II 4WD system, luxurious interior appointments, strong towing capacity, and signature Jeep off-road prowess.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems, engine diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (42RE, 45RFE, 545RFE) service, repair, diagnostics, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain Systems:
Four-wheel drive (NV242, NV247) systems, transfer case, differentials (front and rear), driveshafts, and CV joints.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications.
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake, hydraulic components, and brake bleeding procedures.
Electrical Electronics:
Complete electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, body control module (BCM), engine control module (ECM), fuse and relay locations, starting and charging systems.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, body sealant and vibration damping, chassis lubrication, exhaust system.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system operation and diagnostic codes, seat belts.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for common and complex problems, including symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on recommended diagnostic tools, scan tools, and testing equipment.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, alignment settings, and performance data.
Depth:
Complete engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, complex electrical system diagnostics, body repair procedures, and detailed troubleshooting for all vehicle systems.
Engine Option 1:
4.0L (3956cc) I6 PowerTech (Engine Code: ERH)
Engine Option 2:
4.7L (4701cc) V8 Magnum (Engine Code: EVA, EVB)
Engine Option 3:
2.7L (2700cc) CRD Diesel (Engine Code: ENF - Primarily for export markets)
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 4600 rpm
Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Horsepower:
235 hp @ 4500 rpm
Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for performance models)
Catalytic Converter:
Standard on all models.
Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with thermostat.
Oil Capacity 4.0L:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.
Oil Capacity 4.7L:
6.0 US quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter change.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE for 4.0L, 45RFE/545RFE for 4.7L V8)
Transmission Type:
N/A (Only Automatic Transmissions offered for WG in 2004)
Overdrive:
All models equipped with overdrive (4th gear).
Tow Mode:
Available on some models for enhanced towing performance.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Capacity:
9.0 US quarts (8.5 Liters)
Fluid Capacity 45Rfe/545Rfe
Capacity:
10.5 US quarts (9.9 Liters)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 stars (provided by manufacturer, actual ratings may vary)
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control (TC) on some models.
Stability Control:
Not commonly equipped on WG models; Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was introduced on subsequent generations.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Side curtain airbags were not standard on this generation.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants; pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km).
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Refer to manual; generally not a scheduled replacement item unless issues arise.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24,000 miles (39,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on towing/heavy use.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SP/SN/SM or ILSAC GF-6/GF-5; SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions. SAE 10W-30 may be used in warmer climates.
Coolant Spec:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Common Issues List:
Cracked cylinder heads (4.7L V8), oil filter housing leaks, transmission solenoid pack issues, water pump leaks, front suspension wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), ABS sensor failures, power window regulator failures.
Tip For Known Issues:
The manual provides diagnostic procedures and repair steps specifically addressing these common WG Grand Cherokee issues, saving owners costly guesswork.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep's heritage is rooted in robust off-road vehicles, starting with the Willys MB during WWII, evolving into civilian 4x4s known for ruggedness and capability.
Wg Generation Context:
The WG, or second generation Grand Cherokee (1999-2004), marked a significant evolution from the ZJ, featuring a more refined unibody chassis (based on Mercedes-Benz M-Class components), improved interior comfort, and enhanced on-road manners while retaining off-road capabilities.
Production Years:
1999 - 2004
Manufacturing Locations:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA; various international assembly points.
Motor Trend SUV Of The Year Lineage:
While the second generation Grand Cherokee (WG) itself may not have won a specific 'SUV of the Year' award in 2004, the Grand Cherokee lineage has consistently been recognized for its blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability by various automotive publications over its history.
Consumer Reports Historical Performance:
Consumer Reports reviews historically indicated average to below-average reliability for the WG generation, particularly concerning the 4.7L V8 engine and certain transmission components. The manual is crucial for addressing these potential issues proactively.