🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Generation:

WJ

Model Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

Chassis Code:

WJ

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size luxury SUV

Jeep Positioning:

The WJ Grand Cherokee represented Jeep's push into more refined and comfortable SUV territory while retaining core Jeep off-road capabilities.

Key Competitors:

Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer/Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover Discovery, BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz ML-Class.

Platform:

Unibody construction, derived from the Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W163) platform.

Powertrain Options:

Offered with robust inline-6 and V8 engine options, along with advanced four-wheel-drive systems.

Interior Refinement:

Marked an improvement in interior quality and features compared to its predecessor (ZJ).

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Regional Variations:

Covers specifications relevant to North American models, including emissions and compliance standards.

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands (comprehensive service manual)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, including cylinder head, block, pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems (chains/belts), valve train.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control (catalytic converter, EGR, EVAP), turbocharging (if applicable).

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair for 42RE, 44RE, 45RFE, 545RFE transmissions. Includes diagnostic procedures, component replacement, torque converter, valve body, clutch packs, seals.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair for NV3500 manual transmission (less common but covered if applicable to specific trims).

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axles (Dana 30, Dana 44), transfer case (NV242, NV247, NV249), driveshafts, U-joints, CV joints, differentials.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, springs (coil/leaf), shock absorbers, sway bars, bushings.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, steering wheel, power steering pump and hoses.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake lines, calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, power booster.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connector (OBD-II).

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, windows, mirrors, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).

Comfort And Convenience:

Power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, cruise control, audio system, climate control.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic charts for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting, using scan tools, reading trouble codes (DTCs).

Repair And Replacement:

Detailed instructions for component removal, repair, and installation for all covered systems.

Rebuild Procedures:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures with torque specifications and assembly diagrams.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all major systems, including lighting, engine controls, body electronics, and accessories.

Specifications And Tolerances:

All essential torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and component tolerances.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostics, including identification of sensor issues, actuator faults, and control module problems.

Special Tools:

Identifies any specialized tools or equipment required for specific procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF for easy navigation and keyword searching.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

4.0L Inline-6 (PowerTech)

Engine 1 Code:

AMC 242

Engine 1 Displacement:

3956 cc (242 cu in)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

98.4 mm x 86.6 mm (3.87 in x 3.41 in)

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

185 hp @ 4600 rpm (approx.)

Engine 1 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx.)

Engine 2:

4.7L V8 (Magnum)

Engine 2 Code:

LA series (modified)

Engine 2 Displacement:

4701 cc (287 cu in)

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

93.0 mm x 86.9 mm (3.66 in x 3.42 in)

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

220-235 hp @ 4750-5000 rpm (varies by year)

Engine 2 Torque:

285-325 lb-ft @ 3200-3500 rpm (varies by year)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug for 4.7L V8, distributor and coil for 4.0L I6.

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, 91 octane for optimal performance with 4.7L).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (42RE, 44RE, 45RFE)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (NV3500) on select 4.0L models.

4X4 Systems:

Selec-Trac (NV242 - full-time 4WD with 2WD option), Quadra-Trac II (NV247 - full-time 4WD with lockable center differential), Quadra-Drive (NV247 with electronic limited-slip differentials).

Transmission Fluid 4 0L:

ATF+4 (Type 9602) for 42RE/44RE. Check manual for specific transfer case fluid (e.g., NV247 uses Mopar spec fluid).

Transmission Fluid 4 7L:

ATF+4 (Type 9602) for 45RFE/545RFE. Check manual for specific transfer case fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 185.5 inches (4712 mm)

Width:

Approx. 71.6 inches (1819 mm)

Height:

Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.7 inches (2659 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 105.0 cu ft (2973 L)

Seating Capacity:

5 passengers

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 37.5 cu ft (1062 L)

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 71.4 cu ft (2022 L)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,200 - 4,700 lbs (1905 - 2132 kg), depending on engine and drivetrain.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5,800 - 6,000 lbs (2630 - 2722 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,500 lbs (2948 kg) with optional towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4 stars (driver and passenger) for 1999-2001 models.

IIHS Side Impact:

Good for models equipped with side airbags (often optional).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control (TC) on some models, often integrated with 4WD systems.

Airbags:

Dual front airbags standard. Optional side curtain airbags available on later models.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player and optional premium sound systems (e.g., Infinity).

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors on some later models.

Phone Integration:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity in the traditional sense. Some models may have had optional Uconnect hands-free communication systems later in their run.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement 4 0L:

Approximately every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement 4 7L:

Approximately every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or every 2-4 years, depending on usage (towing, off-roading). Filter replacement recommended during fluid change.

Engine Oil 4 0L:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for ambient temperature recommendations). API Service Category SJ or higher.

Engine Oil 4 7L:

SAE 5W-30 (synthetic or synthetic blend recommended for optimal performance and protection). API Service Category SG or higher.

Coolant:

Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (Type 9602) or specified Mopar power steering fluid.

Engine Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal leaks are common on higher mileage examples.

Transmission Issues:

Overheating and premature wear of automatic transmissions, especially with towing. Cracked transmission cooler lines can lead to leaks.

Heater Core:

Heater core failures, leading to coolant leaks into the cabin, are a well-documented issue.

Transfer Case Chain Stretch:

The transfer case chain (especially in Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive systems) can stretch over time, leading to clunking noises and potential failure.

Electrical Problems:

Power window regulators, central locking actuators, and dashboard instrument cluster failures are not uncommon.

Suspension Wear:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can lead to steering looseness and tire wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a storied history of producing rugged, capable off-road vehicles since World War II.

Wj Introduction:

The WJ Grand Cherokee was introduced for the 1999 model year, replacing the ZJ generation. It marked a significant redesign with a focus on improved on-road manners and luxury.

Wj Facelift:

Received a significant refresh for the 2005 model year (often referred to as the 'wk' generation, though the 'wj' designation technically ended in 2004, the 2005-2007 models are a distinct evolution of the WJ platform). Key changes included updated styling, more powerful engines (introduction of the 5.7L HEMI V8), and improved interior appointments.

Generation Transition:

The WJ generation was succeeded by the WK Grand Cherokee for the 2005 model year in North America, although the manual lists coverage up to 2007, implying it covers the later iterations of the WJ design lineage or specific market implementations.

Manufacturing Plant:

Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

4X4 Magazine Awards:

Often recognized by off-road publications for its capability, especially models equipped with Quadra-Drive.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Mixed reliability ratings over its lifespan, with some models performing better than others. The manual provides the necessary information to maintain and repair these vehicles effectively.