Segment:
Mid-size Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking a capable and comfortable SUV.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.
Feature 1:
Robust body-on-frame construction for durability and towing capability.
Feature 2:
Available iconic Jeep 4x4 systems (Selec-Trac, Command-Trac, NP242, NP249) offering excellent off-road performance.
Feature 3:
Comfortable interior for its class, with good passenger and cargo space.
Feature 4:
Powerful engine options, including the legendary 4.0L inline-six and a potent V8.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, emission control systems, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis.
Engine Performance:
Ignition system, fuel injection systems (MPI), engine tuning, performance diagnostics, power and torque specifications.
Transmission Manual:
NV3500 manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, shifting mechanisms, service procedures.
Transmission Automatic:
42RE, 44RE, 46RH, 47RE automatic transmission overhaul, hydraulic control systems, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM) diagnosis, shift solenoids.
Drivetrain:
Front axle, rear axle, differential service, NV242 and NV249 transfer case operation and repair, driveshafts, U-joints, CV joints, four-wheel drive system engagement and diagnostics.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, hydraulic system, brake fluid specifications, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and components, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering linkage, alignment specifications, Quadra-Coil suspension (if applicable).
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, steering linkage, steering wheel removal and installation.
Electrical System:
12-volt electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition switch, lighting system, horn, wiper system, power accessories.
Body And Trim:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, tailgate, windows, mirrors, interior trim components, seat removal and installation, weatherstripping.
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, A/C compressor, refrigerant types and handling, climate control diagnostics.
Driver Information Systems:
Instrument cluster diagnosis and repair, gauges, warning lights, onboard diagnostics (OBD-I and OBD-II depending on year and specific systems).
Preventative Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, wiring diagrams for electrical fault finding, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.
Component Replacement:
Detailed guidance on replacing parts such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, water pumps, exhaust systems, suspension components, and more.
Diagnostics:
In-depth diagnostic strategies for engine, transmission, ABS, and other electronically controlled systems.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners during assembly and repair.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive workshop level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Specifies tools for basic maintenance as well as specialized diagnostic equipment (e.g., scan tools for OBD-I/II, multimeters).
Standard Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (42RE, 44RE, 46RH, 47RH depending on year and engine)
Optional Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (NV3500 - less common)
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac (NV242 - full-time 4WD with 2WD option), Quadra-Trac (NP249 - full-time 4WD with viscous coupling).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (refer to specific year for exact specification), approximate capacity 9-11 quarts (dry fill).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90, approximate capacity 2.5 quarts.
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 for NV242, NP249 viscous coupler may have specific fill requirements, approximate capacity 1.5-2 quarts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (severe service) or 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service) with synthetic oil. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as recommended by severe duty usage.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-30 (preferred for 4.0L I6 in most climates); SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 for V8. Consult manual for precise viscosity based on temperature range. API classification SN or higher recommended.
Coolant Specification:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF.
Engine Common Issue 1:
Cracked cylinder head (specifically the 0331 casting in earlier models, though ZJ generation primarily used earlier designs not as prone but still a potential concern).
Engine Common Issue 2:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.
Transmission Common Issue:
Overheating and premature wear of automatic transmissions, particularly with towing or heavy use. Torque converter shudder.
Suspension Common Issue:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends leading to steering looseness and tire wear.
Electrical Common Issue:
Failure of the overhead console (OHS) components, instrument cluster voltage regulator, and window regulator motors.
Cooling System Common Issue:
Leaking radiator and water pump failures.
Brand Introduction:
Jeep, a division of Chrysler Corporation during this period, has a long-standing reputation for off-road capability and ruggedness.
Updates During Generation:
Minor updates included new transmissions (44RE replacing 42RE), updated interior and exterior styling cues (e.g., grille, headlights, taillights), and revised option packages over the model run.
Production Plant:
Jefferson North Assembly, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Sales Performance:
Highly successful model for Jeep, establishing the Grand Cherokee as a benchmark in the premium SUV segment.