Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road Vehicle
Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and owners performing DIY maintenance and repairs.
Competitors:
Toyota FJ Cruiser, Nissan Xterra, Land Rover Defender (historically), Ford Bronco (upcoming).
Iconic Design:
Iconic Jeep design with removable doors, hood, and roof options.
Off Road Capability:
Renowned off-road capability, solid axle front and rear suspension (JK generation), available locking differentials.
Engine Upgrade:
Introduction of the Pentastar 3.6L V6 engine, a significant upgrade in power and efficiency for this generation.
Engine Systems:
3.6L Pentastar V6 (Ergonomics, Diagnosis, Repair Procedures, Component Replacement, Timing System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control Systems)
Transmission Systems:
6-speed manual (NSG370), 5-speed automatic (W5A580) - Diagnosis, Repair, Fluid Specifications, Clutch System, Torque Converter, Valve Body, Gearbox Internals
Drivetrain Systems:
4x4 Transfer Case (NV241GHD), Front & Rear Axles (Dana 30/44), Driveshafts, CV Joints, Wheel Bearings, Differentials (including locking differentials if applicable)
Suspension Steering:
Front & Rear Solid Axle Suspension, Coil Springs, Shock Absorbers, Control Arms, Track Bars, Steering Gearbox, Power Steering System, Tie Rods, Drag Links
Braking Systems:
Front & Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System, Brake Lines, Calipers, Master Cylinder, Parking Brake
Electrical Systems:
12V Battery, Charging System (Alternator), Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Body Electrical Features (Wipers, Horn, Power Windows, Power Locks)
HVAC Systems:
Air Conditioning, Heater, Blower Motor, Climate Control Panel, Refrigerant Handling
Body Panels:
Body Panel Repair, Door Mechanisms, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Convertible Top Repair, Hardtop Removal/Installation
Interior Trim:
Seat Removal/Installation, Dashboard Components, Center Console, Trim Panels
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Fluid Checks & Top-offs, Tire Rotation, Brake Inspection, Belt Inspection/Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush
Repair Procedures:
Engine Component Replacement (Alternator, Starter, Water Pump, Fuel Pump, Injectors), Transmission Service/Rebuild, Axle Gear Ratio Changes, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper/Rotor Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement, HVAC Component Replacement
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Electrical Circuit Testing, Component Testing, OBD-II Scan Tool Usage
Depth:
Comprehensive: Basic to advanced repairs, full rebuilds, detailed diagnostics, factory specifications and tolerances.
Factory Accuracy:
Vehicle Specific - Exact same information used by dealership technicians.
Wheelbase:
95.4 inches (2-door), 116.0 inches (4-door Unlimited)
Length:
160.0 inches (2-door), 179.4 inches (4-door Unlimited)
Height:
70.5 inches (soft top), 72.1 inches (hardtop)
Ground Clearance:
10.1 inches
Curb Weight:
4,000 - 4,500 lbs (approx.)
Towing Capacity:
2,000 lbs (2-door), 3,500 lbs (4-door Unlimited)
Infotainment System:
Uconnect infotainment system with optional navigation, touchscreen display, SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Audio Options:
AM/FM stereo, CD/MP3 player, Auxiliary input jack, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity (availability varies by trim level).
Driver Assistance Features:
Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) - standard with some configurations.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (iridium type for Pentastar engine).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Refer to manual for specific inspection/service. Automatic: Refer to manual for specific inspection/service, typically around 60,000 miles under normal use.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (refer to manual for specific specification)
Common Problems:
Water pump leaks (early Pentastar models), clutch wear (manual transmissions under heavy use), steering box play, oil filter housing leaks, evap system leaks (loose gas cap), exhaust manifold cracks (some early Pentastar engines).