Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road Vehicle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and professional mechanics working on Jeep XJ models.
Competitors:
Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.
Platform Legacy:
Unibody construction, a significant departure from traditional body-on-frame SUVs, contributing to lighter weight and improved handling.
Offroad Capability:
Renowned for its off-road prowess, a hallmark of the Jeep brand, with available 4x4 systems and solid axle options (depending on configuration).
Design Longevity:
The XJ's basic design remained largely unchanged throughout its production run (1984-2001), highlighting its enduring appeal and effectiveness.
Engine:
Complete engine diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and specifications for all gasoline and diesel variants (if applicable for 1989).
Transmission:
Service and repair procedures for manual (e.g., AX-4, AX-5) and automatic (e.g., AW4, 30RH) transmissions.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axle service, differentials, transfer case (e.g., NP242 Selec-Trac, NP231 Command-Trac), driveshafts, and U-joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, leaf springs, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, and alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering gearbox, tie rods, ball joints, and steering column.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum brake systems, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped for 1989), component replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse/relay identification, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition system, and accessory circuits.
Fuel:
Fuel delivery system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions control system (EVAP).
Cooling:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan, heater core, and coolant specifications.
Exhaust:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and emission control components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, and refrigerant handling (R-12 for this era).
Body:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, and structural components.
Chassis:
Frame inspection, repair, and related components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul.
Diagnostics:
Component testing procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (OBD-I).
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and measurement data for all components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Designed for professional technicians with detailed diagrams and technical explanations.
Engine Code 1:
4.0L Inline 6-cylinder (242 ci) 'High Output' (OHV)
Engine Code 2:
2.5L Inline 4-cylinder (150 ci) 'Tech' (OHV)
4.0L Horsepower:
Approximately 173 hp @ 4700 rpm (for 1989)
4.0L Torque:
Approximately 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (for 1989)
2.5L Horsepower:
Approximately 105 hp @ 4800 rpm (for 1989)
2.5L Torque:
Approximately 132 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (for 1989)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for 4.0L; Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for 2.5L (typically)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Standard Transmission Type:
AX-4 (4-speed manual) or AX-5 (5-speed manual)
Optional Transmission Type:
AW4 (4-speed automatic) or 30RH (3-speed automatic, less common for XJ in this year)
Aw4 Features:
Electronically controlled, with 'Sport' and 'Comfort' modes.
Automatic Fluid Spec:
Chrysler ATF+3 or equivalent (check manual for exact spec, may be Dexron II/III compatible)
Manual Fluid Spec:
API GL-5 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Audio System:
Typically a factory AM/FM stereo radio with optional cassette player. Speaker configuration varies by trim level.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some trims), fuel, oil pressure, temperature, and voltmeter.
Cruise Control:
Optional feature on most trims.
Towing Features:
Factory trailer towing packages were available, including wiring harnesses and hitch receivers.
OBD Port:
OBD-I diagnostic port (typically located under the dash or in the engine bay).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, using a quality conventional or synthetic blend oil (e.g., 10W-30 for 4.0L).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 30,000 miles (recommend checking manual for specific plug type and gap).
Service Intervals Transmission
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as per severe service schedule.
Service Intervals Drivetrain
Transfer Case Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for precise temperature range viscosity).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Issue 1:
Head gasket failures on the 4.0L engine, particularly on earlier models or if overheating occurred.
Common Issue 2:
Leaking oil pans, valve cover gaskets, and rear main seals.
Common Issue 3:
Worn leaf spring bushings and potential frame rust issues in certain climates.
Common Issue 4:
Aging electrical connectors and grounds can lead to intermittent issues.
Common Issue 5:
Cracked exhaust manifolds on the 4.0L engine.