🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Model Code:

ZJ

Generation Name:

First Generation (ZJ)

Generation Years:

1993-1998

Platform Code:

ZJ

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ was a pivotal vehicle in the evolution of the luxury SUV market, blending off-road capability with on-road comfort and features.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, and Land Rover Discovery of its era.

Body Styles:

Primarily offered as a four-door SUV.

Powertrain Options:

Available with iconic Jeep powertrains, known for their robust performance.

Interior Appointments:

Offered a more refined interior than its predecessors, including available leather seating and premium sound systems.

Off Road Capability:

Featured Jeep's renowned four-wheel-drive systems (Quadra-Trac, Quadra-Coil) and robust suspension for off-road prowess.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Coverage:

All ZJ Grand Cherokee models from 1993 to 1998, including various engine and trim levels.

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine diagnostics.

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (42RE, 44RE, 46RE) service, repair, and overhaul; transfer case (NP242, NP249) service and repair.

Drivetrain Systems:

Front and rear axle assemblies, driveshafts, U-joints, CV joints, differentials.

Suspension Steering:

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

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics.

Electrical Systems:

Starting and charging systems, lighting, instrumentation, body control modules, power accessories, wiring diagrams for all circuits.

HVAC Systems:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, seals, chassis components, corrosion protection.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, lubrication points.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine and other systems, symptom-based diagnostics.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Searchable PDF

Searchability:

Full text search capability for quick information retrieval.

Image Clarity:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clear visualization of procedures.

Binding Type For Physical:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper Type For Physical:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

4.0L Inline-6 (242 ci) 'Power Tech' I6

Engine 1 Codes:

AMC 242

Engine 1 Horsepower 1993:

177 hp @ 4,750 rpm

Engine 1 Torque 1993:

220 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm

Engine 1 Horsepower 1996 Facelift:

185 hp @ 4,600 rpm

Engine 1 Torque 1996 Facelift:

220 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm (later models 235 lb-ft)

Engine 1 Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 1 Block Material:

Cast Iron

Engine 1 Head Material:

Cast Iron

Engine 1 Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Engine 2:

5.2L V8 (318 ci) Magnum

Engine 2 Codes:

LA Series V8 (Magnum)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

220 hp @ 4,400 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

285 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Engine 2 Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 2 Block Material:

Cast Iron

Engine 2 Head Material:

Cast Iron

Engine 2 Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Engine 3:

5.9L V8 (360 ci) Magnum (introduced 1998)

Engine 3 Codes:

LA Series V8 (Magnum)

Engine 3 Horsepower:

242 hp @ 4,800 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

328 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Engine 3 Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1:

4-speed automatic transmission

Transmission 1 Model:

42RE (for 4.0L I6)

Transmission 2:

4-speed automatic transmission

Transmission 2 Model:

44RE (for 5.2L V8)

Transmission 3:

4-speed automatic transmission

Transmission 3 Model:

46RE (for 5.9L V8)

Transfer Case Options:

New Process (NP) 231, NP 242 (Selec-Trac), NP 249 (Quadra-Trac II).

Fluid Type Automatic:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (consult manual for specific requirements)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.4 - 180.1 inches (4506 - 4575 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.5 - 71.0 inches (1791 - 1803 mm)

Height:

Approx. 64.5 - 66.7 inches (1638 - 1694 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 108.7 inches (2761 mm)

Curb Weight Start:

Approx. 3,893 lbs (1766 kg)

Curb Weight End:

Approx. 4,397 lbs (1994 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by model and configuration, typically around 5,700 - 6,300 lbs.

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 39.0 - 42.6 cu ft (1104 - 1206 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 76.6 - 81.3 cu ft (2169 - 2302 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

Provided for context, specific ZJ ratings may vary by year and test methodology. Generally considered a capable SUV, but like all SUVs of its era, had a higher rollover risk than sedans.

ABS:

Available (Standard on some later models and higher trims), standard on 5.2L/5.9L models from mid-generation onwards.

Traction Control:

Not commonly available on ZJ models, though some later models may have had limited slip differentials.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags (standard on most models).

Seat Belts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard; child seats secured via seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options. Premium Infinity sound systems were available on higher trims.

Navigation:

No factory navigation system was offered during the ZJ generation. Aftermarket options exist.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Keyless Entry:

Available on higher trim levels.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory. Aftermarket solutions required.

Usb Ports:

Not available from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult owner's manual for specific recommendations).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on transmission type and driving conditions).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Spark Plug Replacement 4.0L:

Approx. 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type).

Spark Plug Replacement V8:

Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type).

Engine Oil Type 4.0L:

SAE 10W-30 (check manual for specific API service classification).

Engine Oil Type V8:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific API service classification).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3.

Engine 4.0L Idle Issues:

Idle air control (IAC) valve issues, vacuum leaks, crankshaft position sensor (CPS) failure leading to no-start conditions.

Transmission Shift Quality:

Rough shifting or delayed engagement in automatic transmissions can indicate internal wear or solenoid issues.

Transfer Case Np249 Issues:

Viscous coupler in NP249 can fail, leading to binding or inability to disengage 4WD.

Cooling System Leaks:

Radiator leaks, water pump seal failures, and heater core leaks are common.

Power Window Motors:

Failure of power window regulators and motors is a common electrical issue.

ABS Sensor Failures:

ABS sensor failures can illuminate the ABS warning light and affect brake performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Built upon Jeep's long-standing reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability established with the original Willys Jeep and subsequent models.

Predecessor:

Jeep Cherokee (XJ) - which was a smaller, unibody SUV.

Introduction Year:

1993

Facelift Year:

1996 - significant exterior and interior updates, including revised dashboard, new powertrain options (5.9L V8), and updated safety features.

Discontinuation Year:

1998

Successor:

Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ)

Production Plants:

Primarily manufactured at the Jeep Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards:

While specific awards for the ZJ generation might be less publicized than modern vehicles, it was widely praised for its blend of luxury, comfort, and Jeep's legendary off-road capability, solidifying the Grand Cherokee's position in the burgeoning SUV market.

Consumer Ratings Period:

Received positive consumer feedback for its V8 power and off-road prowess during its production run.