🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Model Codes:

WJ, WG

Generation Code:

WJ

Model Years Covered:

2002-2003

Vin Code Prefix:

1J4

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size luxury SUV.

Positioning:

Positioned as a premium, capable SUV offering luxury, comfort, and off-road prowess, competing with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and Lexus RX.

Key Competitors:

Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Lexus RX, BMW X5 (higher trim levels).

Platform:

WJ platform, shared some components with Mercedes-Benz ML-Class (post-DaimlerChrysler merger).

Capability:

Renowned for its capability, especially with the Quadra-Drive II system, offering excellent off-road performance for its class.

Luxury Appointments:

Offered premium interior materials and features, especially in higher trim levels (e.g., Limited, Overland).

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

North America (LHD), potentially other global markets (WG model).

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Official Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel, exhaust, ignition, emissions control. Transmission (automatic), transfer case, driveline, axles.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear, ABS), wheels, tires, chassis lubrication.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (interior/exterior), instrumentation, ignition, body control modules, power distribution, wiring diagrams, connectors, fuses, relays.

Body:

Body structure, exterior panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), SRS (Supplemental Restraint System/Airbags), comfort and convenience features.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid level checks, filter replacements, lubrication, belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all major systems.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, diagnostic parameters, component specifications, tightening sequences.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance tasks.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhaul, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable due to its official nature.

Digital Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing sections.

Binding Type Simulated:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type Simulated:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

4.0L Inline-6 (PowerTech)

Engine Code 1:

SOHC, 12-valve, cast-iron block, aluminum head

Displacement 1:

3956 cc (241.5 cu in)

Bore X Stroke 1:

93.0 mm x 90.9 mm (3.66 in x 3.58 in)

Compression Ratio 1:

8.8:1

Horsepower 1:

190 hp @ 4400 rpm

Torque 1:

235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel System 1:

Sequential Multiport Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Management 1:

Chrysler JTEC or NGC (Next Generation Controller)

Engine Option 2:

4.7L V8 (PowerTech)

Engine Code 2:

SOHC, 16-valve, aluminum block, aluminum heads

Displacement 2:

4701 cc (286.8 cu in)

Bore X Stroke 2:

93.0 mm x 86.7 mm (3.66 in x 3.41 in)

Compression Ratio 2:

9.0:1

Horsepower 2:

235 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque 2:

300 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel System 2:

Sequential Multiport Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Management 2:

Chrysler JTEC or NGC (Next Generation Controller)

0 60 Mph Approx:

8.5-10.5 seconds (depending on engine and drivetrain)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity:

20.5 gallons (77.6 liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Option 1:

4-speed automatic (45RFE)

Transmission Option 2:

4-speed automatic (44RE) - primarily for 4.0L in earlier production

Transmission Option 3:

4-speed automatic (545RFE) - introduced later, with more advanced control

Transfer Case Options:

NV231 (Command-Trac), NV242 (Selec-Trac), NV247 (Quadra-Trac II), NV244 (Quadra-Drive II - full-time, with electronic lockers).

Fluid Type Automatic:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Fluid Capacity Automatic:

Approximately 9-11 quarts (8.5-10.4 liters) for refill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

186.6 in (4740 mm)

Width:

73.3 in (1862 mm)

Height:

70.1 in (1781 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.0 in (2946 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.3 inches (211 mm) depending on suspension and tires.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,200 - 4,600 lbs (1905 - 2087 kg) depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with optional towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Four-star rating (2002).

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Four-star rating (2002).

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for 2002-2003 models).

ABS:

Standard on all models.

Traction Control:

Available (TCS), standard on some higher trims/drivetrains.

Electronic Stability Control:

Not widely available or standard on these model years; system names like 'TCS' and 'ABS' often performed these functions.

Airbags Front:

Standard front driver and passenger airbags.

Airbags Side:

Optional side curtain airbags or side impact airbags (availability varied by trim).

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Available with AM/FM stereo, CD player, cassette player, and optional premium Infinity Gold sound systems with subwoofer.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking assist sensors (ParkSense).

Telematics:

Optional Sirius Satellite Radio and Uconnect hands-free communication system (though Uconnect was more prevalent in later years).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement 4.0L:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for Iridium spark plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement 4.7L:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for Iridium spark plugs.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years for the initial service, then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years thereafter.

Engine Oil 4.0L:

SAE 10W-30 (API SJ or later), 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) with filter.

Engine Oil 4.7L:

SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or later), 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter.

Coolant:

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

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent.

Cylinder Head Cracks 4.7L:

A known issue for the 4.7L V8 is susceptibility to cracking cylinder heads due to overheating or casting flaws. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Transmission Slipping:

Some transmissions, particularly the 45RFE and 44RE, can experience slipping or harsh shifting if fluid and filter are not maintained or if internal wear occurs. Diagnostic procedures are vital.

Cooling System Leaks:

Common areas for leaks include radiator, water pump, and heater core. The manual provides component testing and replacement steps.

Death Wobble:

A term often associated with steering/suspension issues, characterized by violent shaking at speed. The manual covers inspection of steering components (track bar, tie rods, ball joints) and front-end alignment.

Climate Control Blend Doors:

Actuators for interior blend doors can fail, leading to improper HVAC function. The manual details access and replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long-standing reputation for off-road capability and ruggedness, dating back to WWII.

Wj Generation:

The WJ generation (1999-2004) represented a significant step up in refinement and luxury for the Grand Cherokee, moving it further into the premium SUV segment.

Updates 2002 2003:

Minor updates for 2002 included revised interior styling, new audio options, and slight powertrain refinements. The 4.7L V8 received a power bump.

Manufacturing Location:

Detroit, Michigan, USA; Also built in Austria for European markets (WG model).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Reviews:

The WJ Grand Cherokee was generally well-received for its blend of luxury and off-road capability, often cited in automotive reviews for its comfortable ride and powerful engine options.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports typically gave mixed reviews regarding reliability for this generation, often noting specific issues like the 4.7L engine and electrical components. The manual is crucial for addressing these potential problems.

Manual Authenticity:

Official Factory Service Manual (FSM) - Indicates it's the direct documentation from the manufacturer, ensuring accuracy and completeness.