Market Position:
The Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ, particularly the 2001 model year, represented a significant step up in refinement and capability for Jeep's flagship SUV. It competed against established luxury SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, and Land Rover Discovery, aiming to blend on-road comfort with legendary Jeep off-road prowess.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover Discovery, BMW X5 (early models).
Vehicle Key Features:
Available with two robust engine options (4.0L I6, 4.7L V8), multiple 4WD systems (Selec-Trac, Quadra-Trac II, Quadra-Drive), a more refined interior than its predecessors, and a substantial towing capacity.
Engine Systems:
Detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for both the 4.0L inline-6 and 4.7L V8 engines, including engine mechanical, cooling system, fuel system, lubrication, ignition, and emissions control.
Drivetrain Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of transmissions (42RE, 45RFE, 545RFE automatic transmissions), transfer cases (NV231, NV242, NV247), front and rear axles, propeller shafts, and CV joints.
Chassis Systems:
In-depth information on front and rear suspension, steering system (including power steering), brakes (ABS and non-ABS systems), wheels, and tires.
Electrical Systems:
Extensive electrical schematics, component testing, diagnosis of common electrical faults, lighting systems, power accessories, and body control modules.
Body And Comfort Systems:
Procedures for body components, bumpers, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, including refrigerant handling.
Maintenance Procedures:
Detailed maintenance schedule, fluid type and capacity recommendations, lubrication points, filter replacement, and tune-up procedures.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, and procedures for identifying and rectifying common problems.
Technical Depth:
Covers everything from basic preventative maintenance and fluid changes to complex engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed automatic (42RE for 4.0L, 45RFE/545RFE for 4.7L)
Transmission Type Optional:
N/A (4-speed automatic was standard across the board for 2001)
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac (2WD/4WD Part-time selectable), Quadra-Trac II (Full-time 4WD with 2-speed transfer case), Quadra-Drive (Full-time 4WD with electronic limited-slip differentials).
NHTSA Rollover Rating 2001:
Four out of five stars (for 4WD models)
Active Safety Features:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), available traction control (on some models), available Quadra-Drive with electronic limited-slip differentials.
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, height-adjustable shoulder belts, rear door child safety locks.
Infotainment System Features:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium Infinity speaker system, optional cassette player, optional navigation system (rare for this era).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional rear parking assist (ParkSense), optional adjustable pedals (power).
Connectivity Features:
Basic connectivity through optional satellite radio (SiriusXM precursor) or cellular phone integration (often via aftermarket kits).
Oil Change Interval Typical:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific intervals based on severe vs. normal service.
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
Typically every 30,000 miles or 2 years for conventional coolant, or as specified by Mopar coolant type.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or annually. Crucial for longevity, especially for heavy towing or off-road use. Consult manual for specific type and procedure.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 API Certified (refer to manual for exact viscosity and certification for 4.0L and 4.7L engines).
Coolant Specification:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Specification 42Re:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602)
Transmission Fluid Specification 45Rfe/545Rfe:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602)
Transfer Case Fluid Specification Nv231/Nv242:
ATF+4 or recognized equivalent.
Transfer Case Fluid Specification Nv247:
Specialized transfer case fluid (Mopar NV247 Transfer Case Fluid).
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
ATF+4 or recognized equivalent.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Issues 4.0L Engine:
Head gasket failures (especially earlier WJ models, though improved by 2001), exhaust manifold cracks, intake manifold gasket leaks, oil filter housing leaks, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure.
Common Issues 4.7L V8 Engine:
Valve seat recession (if unleaded fuel is used without hardened seats, less common by 2001), cracked cylinder heads, intake manifold gasket leaks, torque converter clutch (TCC) issues, PCM (Powertrain Control Module) failures.
Common Issues Drivetrain:
Water pump seal leaks, radiator leaks, transmission solenoid failures (especially on 45RFE/545RFE), transfer case chain stretch (NV247), universal joint wear.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, steering stabilizer, and track bar bushings are common wear items due to the vehicle's weight and usage.
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, instrument cluster issues, PCM failures, ABS sensor failures, fuel pump failures.
Jeep Brand Heritage:
Founded on military utility vehicles, Jeep has a long-standing reputation for off-road capability and ruggedness, evolving into a diverse range of SUVs including the iconic Cherokee.
Grand Cherokee Wj Generation Period:
1999-2004. The 2001 model year falls within the first generation of the WJ Grand Cherokee, which introduced significant upgrades in interior design, powertrain options, and chassis refinement compared to the preceding ZJ generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Jefferson North Assembly, Detroit, Michigan, USA.