Manual Transaxle Assy, Automatic Transaxle Assy, Manual Transaxle System, Torque Converter Clutch, Transmission Control Cable, Transmission Revolution Sensor, Output Shaft Assy, Drive Shaft, Front Drive Shaft, Differential Case Assy.
Suspension And Steering
Suspension:
Front Suspension System, Rear Suspension System, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Front Shock Absorber, Rear Shock Absorber Assy, Front Stabilizer Bar, Front Coil Spring, Rear Coil Spring, Front Wheel Alignment, Rear Wheel Alignment.
Steering:
Steering System, Power Steering, Power Steering Link Assy, Steering Column, Steering Sensor, Horn, Horn Button Assy.
Wheel And Tire System, Tire & Wheel, Front Axle Hub, Rear Axle Hub, Wheel Bolt Pattern.
Electrical And Lighting
Electrical Lighting:
Charging System, Lighting System, Headlamp Assy, Front Marker Lamp Assy, Side Turn Signal Lamp Assy, Rear Combination Lamp Assy, Center Stop Lamp Assy, License Plate Lamp Assy, Interior Lighting, Wiring Diagrams, Wire Harness Repair.
Body And Chassis
Body Chassis:
Body Repair, Hood, Front Bumper, Rear Bumper, Fender Panel Mudguard, Side Mudguard, Front Door, Rear Door, Back Door, Back Door Garnish, Windshield Glass, Rear Door Glass Weatherstrip, Front Door Glass Weatherstrip, Roof Headlining, Roof Drip Side Finish Moulding, Sun Roof, Sun Roof System.
Interior And Comfort
Interior Comfort:
Instrument Panel, Seat, Seat Belt, Front Seat Belt, Rear Seat Belt, Seat Belt Warning System, Air Conditioning System, Heater & Air Conditioner, Heater Radiator Assy, Air Conditioning Blower Assy, Wiper And Washer System, Wiper Rubber, Washer Nozzle, Radio Receiver Assy, Audio & Visual System, Cigarette Lighter Assy, Inner Rear View Mirror Assy, Outer Rear View Mirror Assy.
Safety And Restraints
Safety Restraints:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Air Bag Sensor Front, Air Bag Sensor Rear, Center Air Bag Sensor Assy, Side Air Bag Sensor Assy, Front Seat Airbag Assy, Passenger Airbag Assy, Curtain Shield Air Bag Assy, Seat Position Air Bag Sensor, Air Bag System Components.
Emissions And Diagnostics
Emissions Diagnostics:
Emission Control Systems, SFI System, OBD-I Diagnostics (applicable for the era), DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes), Troubleshooting, Component Testing.
Procedures Included
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt adjustments, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems, including engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.
Print Quality
Quality:
Digital format provides consistent clarity. Content is derived from original factory documentation.
Binding Type
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Options:
2.5L (150 cu in) AMC I4, 4.0L (242 cu in) AMC I6
Performance
4.0L I6 Horsepower:
Approx. 173 hp @ 4700 rpm (figures can vary slightly)
4.0L I6 Torque:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (figures can vary slightly)
Command-Trac part-time 4WD system with NP231 transfer case, or Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,300 - 3,700 lbs (depending on configuration)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
NHTSA crash test data for this era may be limited or not directly comparable to modern standards. Focus on passive safety features.
Active Features
Active Safety:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims.
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Seat belts, reinforced body structure.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM Radio with cassette player, optional premium sound systems.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Features like ABS were optional. Primarily focused on mechanical capability.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None (analog era, no Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era, consult manual for precise interval based on usage).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on transmission type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific intervals).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG classification (verify with manual).
Coolant Type:
Conventional Green Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+3 or equivalent (verify with manual).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (viscosity varies based on temperature, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90).
Known Issues
Common Issues 1988 Cherokee:
Radiator leaks (especially the plastic end tanks on some models), head gasket issues on early 4.0L engines (less common by '88 but still possible), catalytic converter failure, distributor cap and rotor wear, rust (particularly in wheel wells and rocker panels).
Service Points:
Critical to monitor cooling system, check for oil and transmission fluid leaks, inspect exhaust system for corrosion, and ensure proper functioning of 4WD system components.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history of producing robust, off-road capable vehicles, tracing its roots back to WWII military Jeeps.
Model Evolution
Xj Generation Start:
The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984 as a groundbreaking unibody compact SUV, a departure from traditional body-on-frame construction.
1988 Updates:
The 1988 model year saw enhancements, including the introduction of the popular 4.0L inline-six engine, which quickly became a hallmark of Jeep performance and reliability.
Production
Production Location:
Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journalism:
While specific awards for the 1988 model might be scarce, the XJ Cherokee platform was widely praised for its innovative design and off-road prowess, earning it a strong reputation in the automotive press.