Segment:
Compact SUV, known for its off-road capability and rugged styling
Competitors 2004:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Subaru Forester
Styling:
Distinctive Jeep styling with a boxy, utilitarian design and prominent grille
Powertrain:
Available with the robust 3.7L V6 PowerTech engine and capable 4WD systems
Capability:
Strong off-road performance due to solid rear axle and available 4WD systems
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all engine components (e.g., cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts)
Engine Management:
Diagnosis and repair of the powertrain control module (PCM), fuel injection, ignition system, sensors, actuators, and emissions control
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair procedures for the NV3500 manual transmission, including clutch, gearbox, and shifting mechanisms
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair procedures for the 45RFE/48RE automatic transmission, including valve body, torque converter, and internal components
Drivetrain 4Wd:
Service and repair of the Command-Trac NV231J or Selec-Trac NV242 transfer case, front and rear axle assemblies (Dana 30/35), CV joints, and driveshafts
Suspension Front:
Repair and alignment of the independent front suspension system (short-long arm design), including control arms, ball joints, bushings, and springs
Suspension Rear:
Service and repair of the solid rear axle, leaf springs, shock absorbers, and axle housing
Steering:
Diagnosis and repair of the power steering system, steering gear, intermediate shaft, and steering column
Brakes:
Service and repair of front disc and rear drum/disc brakes, including ABS, brake lines, calipers, rotors, pads, and master cylinder
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component locations, troubleshooting guides for all electrical systems (lighting, power windows, mirrors, instruments)
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, and seals
Body Interior:
Dashboard, seats, upholstery, trim panels, HVAC controls, and sound insulation
HVAC:
Service and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including compressor, condenser, evaporator, and refrigerant handling
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and repair, seat belt mechanisms, and child restraint anchorages
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, battery testing, and spark plug replacement
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system overhauls, and electrical system diagnostics
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues across all vehicle systems
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair information, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Good
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
Acceptable
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
Acceptable
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional
Airbags Front:
Standard driver and passenger front airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
Rollover Detection:
Feature available on some models (ESP)
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (Long Life Platinum)
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or as per severe service schedule
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles
Coolant Replacement:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Common Problems:
Rear main seal leaks, differential pinion seal leaks, radiator leaks, death wobble (front suspension issues), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, PCM failure