Transfer case operation and overhaul, front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, universal joints, CV joints, differentials
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars, steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS system components, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake system, brake fluid specifications
Electrical Power Distribution:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, fuse boxes, relays, wiring diagrams for all systems
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, frame, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, weatherstripping, interior trim, bumpers, paint and corrosion protection
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser), heating system, ventilation, climate control module, blower motor, ducts
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system components, seat belt mechanisms, SRS module, diagnostic procedures
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, wiring diagrams, bulb specifications
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, differential overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system overhaul, steering system repair
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and intermittent faults, interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using diagnostic scan tools
Troubleshooting:
System-specific troubleshooting trees, common symptom identification and resolution
Electrical Diagnosis:
Circuit testing, voltage drop testing, continuity testing, troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams
Specifications And Tolerances:
All critical torque specifications, measurement tolerances, clearances, and adjustments
Front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player, optional Infinity Gold premium sound system
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system available on some higher trims
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not available (pre-auxiliary era)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (4,800-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles (19,000-24,000 km) or annually
Spark Plug Replacement 4.0L:
Around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs
Spark Plug Replacement 4.7L:
Around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as recommended based on usage
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil 4.0L:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30
Engine Oil 4.7L:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Problem 1:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.7L V8 models)
Common Problem 2:
Water pump leaks and failures
Common Problem 3:
Transfer case chain stretch and wear
Common Problem 4:
Cooling fan clutch issues
Common Problem 5:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings)
Common Problem 6:
Power steering pump leaks
Common Problem 7:
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) issues on later models (not applicable to 1998, but a common WJ issue)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep's long history of off-road capability and ruggedness dating back to WWII
Model Evolution
First Generation Xj:
The compact XJ Cherokee (1984-2001) established Jeep's SUV dominance. The Grand Cherokee was introduced as a larger, more luxurious sibling in 1993 (ZJ).
Wj Introduction:
The WJ Grand Cherokee debuted for the 1999 model year, replacing the ZJ. The product information provided appears to be for a model year that did not exist (1988 WJ). This is a critical discrepancy. Assuming the '1988' in the product name is an error and it refers to the WJ generation, the WJ ran from 1999 to 2004.
Discrepancy Note:
The product name 'Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ 1988' is factually incorrect, as the WJ generation was introduced for the 1999 model year. The 1988 model year would correspond to the ZJ generation of the Grand Cherokee, or potentially an earlier Cherokee XJ model. For the purpose of this manual's coverage, we will assume it pertains to the WJ generation (1999-2004) and the '1988' is a data entry error.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Jefferson North Assembly, Detroit, Michigan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Popular Mechanics Editors Choice:
The WJ Grand Cherokee was recognized by Popular Mechanics as an Editors' Choice award winner in its segment upon its introduction.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Variable; often cited for comfort and capability but with mixed reliability ratings, particularly for the V8 engine.