The Jeep Cherokee XJ, produced from 1984 through 2001, did not use a single transmission across its entire run. Depending on year, engine and drivetrain, XJs were offered with both manual and automatic gearboxes. The most common pairings were a five-speed manual when equipped with the 4.0-liter inline-six and a four-speed automatic across many model years.
Overview of XJ transmissions
The XJ family offered both manual and automatic transmissions, depending on year and engine. The sections below outline the typical options you could encounter, along with notes on where they were commonly found and what to expect in terms of performance and reliability.
Manual transmissions
Manual gearboxes were available on some XJ trims, primarily with the reliable 4.0L inline-six engine. The dominant manually shifted option is the five-speed unit commonly referred to by enthusiasts as the AX-15. Availability varied by year and market.
- AX-15 five-speed manual transmission (commonly paired with the 4.0L inline-six in mid-to-late XJs; not universal across all years or engines).
Manual transmissions offered a straightforward, durable option for off-road and enthusiast use, especially when paired with the 4.0L engine.
Automatic transmissions
The automatic lineup was broad, with the four-speed automatic being the standard pairing for most XJs, especially those with the 4.0L I6. Early XJ models with smaller engines sometimes used a three-speed automatic, while later years most commonly used a four-speed automatic with overdrive.
- Four-speed automatic transmission (the most common option on 4.0L XJs for many years; appreciated for smooth shifting and off-road readiness).
- Three-speed automatic (found on earlier XJs with smaller engines; less common on later models).
In practice, the automatic option most buyers encounter on a typical XJ—especially a mid-1990s to early-2000s model with the 4.0L engine—is a four-speed automatic with overdrive.
Summary
In short, the Jeep XJ did not have a single transmission. Across its production run, buyers could choose between a five-speed manual (primarily with the 4.0L engine) and a four-speed automatic (the workhorse option for most builds). Always verify the specific transmission code or the model year when assessing a particular XJ, as options varied by year and trim.
What transmission came in the XJ?
| Jeep Cherokee (XJ) | |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 4-speed Aisin AX-4 manual 5-speed Aisin AX-5 manual 5-speed Peugeot BA-10/5 manual 5-speed Aisin AX-15 manual 5-speed NVG NV3550 manual 3-speed Chrysler A904 automatic 3-speed 30RH automatic 4-speed Aisin AW-4 automatic |
| Dimensions |
What transmission is in a 2000 Jeep XJ?
Aisin AW4 - (4-speed) - The AW stands for Aisin-Warner, because at one time, they built transmission as a joint venture with Borg-Warner (pre-1987). This transmission is very similar to the Chrysler A340H, and was used in Cherokees from 1987 to 2001.
Why is the XJ so good?
The XJ Cherokee was a great off-roader. Yes, many people drove XJ Cherokees who wanted nothing to do with off-roading. But in 4×4 spec, the XJ was quite well-equipped for hitting the trail. It was comparatively lightweight and had a ton of torque; plus, it was stable, with a relatively long wheelbase for a short length ...
What are the worst years for the Jeep Cherokee to avoid?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee years that buyers most often try to avoid are 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 because these model years are more commonly associated with reliability concerns and owner complaints.