Data for 1987 may be limited; early models generally had basic safety features.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (ABS not available)
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Lap and shoulder belts (front), lap belts (rear)
Rollover Protection:
Internal roll cage structure inherent to the unibody design (XJ), basic roll bar (YJ)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System 1987:
AM/FM Radio, Cassette Player (Optional)
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Not available on 1987 models
Traction Control:
Not available on 1987 models
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not available on 1987 models
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals Oil Change
Interval Miles Xj 4.0L:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (conventional oil)
Interval Miles Xj 2.5L:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (conventional oil)
Interval Miles Yj 4.2L:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (conventional oil)
Interval Miles Yj 2.5L:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (conventional oil)
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil
Xj 4.0L Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific conditions)
Xj 2.5L Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40
Yj 4.2L Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40
Yj 2.5L Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, meeting Chrysler MS-0654T (typically a green coolant)
Fluid Specifications Transmission Auto
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (or equivalent spec for Chrysler transmissions)
Fluid Specifications Transmission Manual
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil
Fluid Specifications Transfer Case
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF type T or Dexron II for NP231/NP242
Fluid Specifications Power Steering
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF type H or equivalent
Known Issues
Xj Common Issues Early:
Head gasket failures (especially 4.0L), aging fuel pumps, rust on unibody (particularly rocker panels and rear quarters), starter motor issues
Yj Common Issues Early:
Clutch issues (manual), transmission synchro wear (manual), axle seal leaks, leaf spring fatigue, starter and alternator failures, carburation issues (4.2L)
Filter Part Numbers
Oil Filter Example:
Wix 51064, Fram PH8A, K&N HP-3001 (Verify for specific engine)
Air Filter Example:
Wix 42744, Fram CA3980 (Verify for specific engine)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Legacy:
Established military and off-road vehicle manufacturer with a long history dating back to WWII.
Model Evolution
Xj Introduction:
Introduced in 1984 as a revolutionary unibody compact SUV, setting a new benchmark for the class.
Yj Introduction:
Introduced in 1987, replacing the CJ series, featuring coil springs in front and a coil-sprung rear axle. Significant departure from CJ's leaf springs.
Production Period Xj
Xj Production Years:
1984-2001
Production Period Yj
Yj Production Years:
1987-1995
Manufacturing Locations
Manufacturing Plant:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press Reviews:
The XJ Cherokee was widely praised for its compact size, off-road prowess, and comfortable ride compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs of its era. Often lauded for its blend of utility and daily drivability.
Off Road Publications:
Frequently featured in off-road enthusiast magazines for its capability and aftermarket support.