Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Target Audience:
Families, off-road enthusiasts, towing users seeking comfort and capability.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Land Rover Discovery.
Capability:
Renowned for its off-road prowess, especially with the Quadra-Trac system.
Comfort:
Offered a more refined and luxurious interior compared to many contemporary SUVs.
Powertrain Options:
Available with powerful V8 engines, enhancing towing and performance.
Engine And Drivetrain:
Engine assembly, cooling, lubrication, fuel, exhaust, transmission, transfer case, axles, drivelines.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, linkages, power steering system.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake assemblies (discs/drums), parking brake, hydraulic system.
Electrical System:
Battery, starter, alternator, ignition, lighting, instruments, power windows, locks, mirrors, wiper system.
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, bumpers, glass, seals.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning components.
Accessories And Options:
Roof rack, tow hitch, sound systems, seating components.
Parts Identification:
Detailed diagrams and exploded views for accurate part identification using official Jeep part numbers.
Component Assembly:
Illustrations showing how components are assembled, facilitating correct part selection.
Interchangeability:
Identification of parts used across different trim levels or production periods within the ZJ generation.
Depth:
Highly detailed, focusing on specific part numbers, revisions, and application for repair and replacement.
Curb Weight Min:
4,125 lbs
Curb Weight Max:
4,425 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
5,700 - 5,900 lbs (depending on engine and configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
33.5 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
74.6 cubic feet
NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating:
3-star (Calculated, typical for SUVs of this era)
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all outboard occupants.
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems (e.g., Infinity Gold) with CD player or cassette tape.
Navigation:
Navigation systems were not common or standard on this model year, but aftermarket options existed.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on audio and basic vehicle functions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult owner's manual for exact recommendations).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on use (towing/off-roading may require more frequent service).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature, consult owner's manual).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) for 4.0L, 6 quarts (5.7 liters) for 5.2L/5.9L engines.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, typically Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid OAT) for later compatibility, or standard green coolant if compatible.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+4.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Issue 1:
Jeep-specific 'Death Wobble' (front-end shimmy, often related to worn track bar, steering components, or ball joints).
Common Issue 2:
Radiator leaks (plastic end tanks).
Common Issue 3:
Headliner sagging.
Common Issue 4:
Transmission issues, particularly with the 42RE/44RE (e.g., solenoid failures, torque converter issues).
Common Issue 5:
Premature wear of U-joints and CV joints, especially in off-road use.
Common Issue 6:
Cracked dashboards (though less common on later ZJ models compared to earlier ones).
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness, off-road capability, and iconic design dating back to its military origins.
Zj Generation:
The ZJ generation (1993-1998) represented Jeep's move towards a more luxurious and comfortable SUV, marking the debut of the Grand Cherokee nameplate in the luxury segment.
1997 Model Year Changes:
Minor updates, often including new option packages or slight trim revisions. The core mechanicals remained largely the same as the preceding years.
Manufacturing Plant:
Jefferson North Assembly, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Automotive Journal Awards:
Often praised by automotive publications for its blend of luxury, capability, and V8 power, contributing to its strong sales performance.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Mixed ratings throughout its lifecycle, with praise for its powertrain and handling but noted concerns regarding reliability in some areas.