🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Generation:

ZJ

Model Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

ZJ

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size SUV

Reputation:

Known for its robust build, capable off-road performance, and comfortable ride, often considered a benchmark in the luxury SUV segment of its era.

Competitors:

Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover Discovery.

Features:

Available with powerful V8 engines, full-time or part-time four-wheel drive, comfortable interior for its class, and strong towing capabilities.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All service and repair procedures for the 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ.

Pages:

Comprehensive (specific page count not provided in product info, but expected to be extensive for 'All Service').

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission controls, engine diagnostics.

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 42RE, 44RE, 46RE), manual transmission (if applicable), transfer case (e.g., NP242, NP231).

Drivetrain Systems:

Front and rear axles, differential service, CV joints, driveshafts.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications.

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, door locks, wipers, horn, fuses, relays.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, frame, exhaust system.

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system service and repair.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups, tire rotation.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic charts, common problems and solutions, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation.

Repair Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Rebuilding:

Detailed procedures for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and differential rebuilds.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostic procedures and electrical system troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Quality:

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

Binding:

Not applicable (downloadable format).

Paper:

Not applicable (downloadable format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

4.0L (3960cc) "High Output" Six-Cylinder (242 cu in) I6 (PowerTech)

Engine 1 Hp:

190 hp @ 4750 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Engine 2:

5.2L (5211cc) Magnum V8 (318 cu in) V8

Engine 2 Hp:

205 hp @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

275 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 3:

5.9L (5900cc) Magnum V8 (360 cu in) V8 (available in late 1996/early 1997 for some markets, often referred to as the '97 model year but some trickle into '96)

Engine 3 Hp:

220 hp @ 4400 rpm (estimated for this year/engine, specific '96 spec might vary)

Engine 3 Torque:

300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (estimated for this year/engine, specific '96 spec might vary)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

ECM:

Chrysler's Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1:

4-speed automatic (42RE for 4.0L, 44RE for 5.2L)

Transmission 2:

4-speed automatic (46RE for 5.9L if equipped)

4Wd System:

Selec-Trac Full-Time 4WD (NP242 transfer case) or Command-Trac Part-Time 4WD (NP231 transfer case).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 or equivalent (e.g., ATF-4 is often backward compatible)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 quarts (9.0 liters) for 42RE/44RE, 12.5 quarts (11.8 liters) for 46RE (dry fill).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.4 inches (2651 mm)

Length:

176.7 inches (4488 mm)

Width:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

64.7 inches (1643 mm) (without roof rack)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3900 lbs (1769 kg) (4.0L, 2WD)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 4400 lbs (1996 kg) (5.9L, 4WD, fully equipped)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5500 - 6000 lbs (2495 - 2722 kg) depending on configuration.

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 45.7 cubic feet (1.29 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 76.0 cubic feet (2.15 cubic meters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver Side:

Not explicitly rated for 1996 model year by NHTSA under current standards, but generally considered robust for its era.

NHTSA Frontal Passenger Side:

Not explicitly rated for 1996 model year by NHTSA under current standards.

ABS:

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

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, front seat pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM cassette and/or CD player options, with available premium sound systems (e.g., Infinity).

Navigation:

No factory navigation system available for this model year.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Traction Control:

Optional traction control system available on some models, often linked to ABS.

Aux Input:

No factory auxiliary audio input available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or as specified by the manual, especially under heavy use.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or every 2-4 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (48,000 - 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).

Engine Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 or 5W-30 for 4.0L I6, 10W-30 for V8s. Consult manual for exact specifications and temperature ranges.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Specific color and type (e.g., Mopar OAT or HOAT) should be verified.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or equivalent power steering fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Problem 1:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially on earlier 5.2L Magnum V8s).

Common Problem 2:

Leaking valve cover gaskets and oil pans.

Common Problem 3:

Transmission cooling line leaks leading to premature transmission failure.

Common Problem 4:

Worn front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings).

Common Problem 5:

Electrical issues, including faulty window regulators, door lock actuators, and sensor failures.

Common Problem 6:

Radiator failures and heater core leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origins:

Jeep, with its roots in military vehicles, has a long-standing reputation for off-road capability and ruggedness.

Zj Generation:

The ZJ generation (1993-1998) marked Jeep's entry into the luxury SUV segment, offering a more refined and comfortable experience compared to previous Jeep models while retaining off-road prowess.

Production Period:

1993-1998

Manufacturing Location:

Detroit, Michigan, USA (Jefferson North Assembly Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award 1:

Frequently cited as one of the best SUVs of its time by automotive publications for its blend of luxury, capability, and comfort.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) or more depending on engine and towing package. The manual will detail specific towing capacities.