Segment:
Mid-size Luxury SUV
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover Discovery.
Differentiation:
The ZJ Grand Cherokee distinguished itself with a more upscale interior, refined ride quality (for an SUV of its era), and robust powertrain options, appealing to buyers seeking comfort and capability.
Interior Appointments:
Leather seating, premium sound systems, available dual-zone climate control, and wood-grain trim (depending on trim level).
Powertrain Options:
Powerful inline-six and V8 engine options, along with advanced four-wheel-drive systems.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, drive shafts, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), HVAC controls, entertainment systems.
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers, underbody.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing.
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhauls, suspension and brake component replacement.
Installation:
Installation instructions for accessories and replacement parts.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid level checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine 1 Displacement:
4.0L (242 cu in)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline-6 (I6), Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 185-190 hp (varies slightly by model year)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 220-230 lb-ft (varies slightly by model year)
Engine 2 Displacement:
5.2L (318 cu in)
Engine 2 Configuration:
V8, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 215-220 hp (varies slightly by model year)
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 290-300 lb-ft (varies slightly by model year)
Engine Management:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across most of the range.
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (42RE, 44RE, 46RE depending on engine/year)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed manual (NV3500) – Less common, typically paired with the 4.0L I6.
Transfer Case:
Command-Trac (NV242) or Selec-Trac (NV242) with full-time 4WD options, and Quadra-Trac (NV249) with full-time 4WD and viscous coupling. Some models featured a part-time transfer case.
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3-star rating (for models equipped with 4WD)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, with pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or as specified in the manual. Crucial for longevity of the automatic transmissions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years. Ensure proper coolant type (e.g., Mopar OAT or HOAT as specified).
Engine Oil Recommendation:
SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 API certified (refer to specific engine manual section for exact viscosity and API service classification).
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (preferred for later models), or ATF+3 for earlier ones. Refer to manual for specific transmission and year. Chrysler ATF 7176 is a common specification for 42RE/44RE.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant. Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10-Year/100,000 Mile Formula (or equivalent).
Common Failures:
Cracked cylinder heads (4.0L I6, esp. earlier models), radiator leaks, water pump failures, transmission solenoid issues, transfer case chain stretch, steering box wear, rear main seal leaks (V8).
Typical Repairs:
Replacement of radiator, water pump, thermostat, head gaskets, transmission fluid and filter changes, transfer case fluid service.
Brand Legacy:
Jeep, established in 1941, has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness, off-road capability, and utilitarian vehicles.
Predecessor:
Jeep Cherokee (XJ)
Styling Updates:
Significant interior and exterior styling updates occurred in 1996, including a revised dashboard, updated front and rear fascias, and more aerodynamic mirrors.
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
4X4 Of The Year:
The Grand Cherokee ZJ was frequently recognized for its off-road prowess and overall capability by various automotive publications.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Mixed to good, with praise for comfort and capability, but noted issues with reliability in certain areas.
