4-Speed Automatic (42RE for I6 and 5.2L V8; 46RE for 5.9L V8)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
None (Automatic was standard for 1997)
Features
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac NV242 (full-time 4WD with 2WD mode), Command-Trac NV244 (part-time 4WD with 2WD mode - less common on higher trims)
Transmission Fluid Type 42Re:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Re:
Approximately 9 quarts (8.5 liters) for a full refill
Transmission Fluid Type 46Re:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Transmission Fluid Capacity 46Re:
Approximately 11 quarts (10.4 liters) for a full refill
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
113.0 inches (2870 mm)
Length:
189.4 inches (4811 mm)
Width:
72.1 inches (1831 mm)
Height:
66.1 inches (1679 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Min:
Approximately 4200 lbs (1905 kg)
Curb Weight Max:
Approximately 4700 lbs (2132 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5000 lbs (2268 kg) with optional towing package
Wheelbase 4Wd:
113.0 inches (2870 mm)
Wheelbase 2Wd:
113.0 inches (2870 mm)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 33.5 cu ft (949 liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 74.5 cu ft (2110 liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1997 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1997 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
N/A (testing not performed for all models/years)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
N/A (testing not performed for all models/years)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on all models (4-wheel disc with ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts, height-adjustable shoulder belts
Child Safety Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) not standard, top tether anchors available on rear seats
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional Infinity Gold premium sound system with 8 speakers and external amplifier
Radio Options:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player and CD player (optional)
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Climate Control
HVAC System:
Manual or automatic climate control (optional)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km), more frequently under severe service conditions
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (50,000-80,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement I6:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs
Spark Plug Replacement V8:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant (typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant, 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602) or Mopar Power Steering Fluid
Known Issues
Common Problems I6:
Head gasket leaks (particularly the 4.0L I6), valve cover gasket leaks, oil filter adapter O-ring leaks
Common Problems V8:
Intake manifold gasket leaks, valve seal issues, oil pan gasket leaks
Common Problems Transmission:
Transmission solenoid failures, cracked transmission cooler lines (especially those routed near exhaust components)
Common Problems Electrical:
Faulty power window motors, intermittent gauge operation, issues with the Central Timer Module (CTM)
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn ball joints, worn control arm bushings, leaking shock absorbers/struts
Common Problems Cooling System:
Leaking radiator, failed water pump, faulty radiator fan clutch
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Heritage:
Jeep has a storied history dating back to World War II with robust off-road vehicles.
Model Evolution
Zj Generation:
Second generation of the Grand Cherokee (ZJ series, 1993-1998)
1997 Model Year Changes:
Minor updates, potential introduction of new features or trim levels. This generation marked the move to a unibody construction for improved ride and handling.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA
Production Years Zj:
1993-1998
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Jeep Grand Cherokee Awards:
The ZJ Grand Cherokee was generally well-received for its luxury and off-road capabilities, often praised for its refinement compared to previous Jeep models and competing SUVs.
Industry Ratings:
Consistently ranked among the better SUVs in its class for ride comfort and interior amenities during its production run.