What Transmission Is In A Jeep Cherokee Xj

For “what transmission is in a jeep cherokee xj”, the Jeep Cherokee XJ came with either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission. This answer covers the 1984 to 2001 model years. Knowing your specific transmission helps with repairs, upgrades, and resale value.

The XJ Cherokee is a legend. It was built tough and simple. The transmission choice depended on the engine and model year. Most XJs have the automatic. Manuals are rarer and sought after.

Let’s break down each transmission option. We will cover the models, years, and common issues. This guide is for owners, buyers, and mechanics.

The exact transmission in your XJ depends on the engine. The 2.5L four-cylinder and the 4.0L six-cylinder used different gearboxes. The automatic and manual options also changed over time.

Here is a quick overview of the main transmissions used in the XJ:

Automatic (4-speed): Aisin-Warner AW4 (1987-2001), Chrysler A904 (1984-1986).
Manual (5-speed): Peugeot BA10/5 (1987-1989), Aisin-Warner AX15 (1989-1999), New Venture Gear NV3550 (2000-2001).
Manual (4-speed): Borg-Warner T4 (1984-1986), Borg-Warner T5 (1986-1987).

The AW4 automatic is the most common. It is known for its reliability. The manual transmissions vary in strength and parts availability.

Automatic Transmission Options

The automatic transmissions in the XJ are robust. They handle the 4.0L engine’s torque well. The AW4 is a favorite among off-roaders.

Aisin-Warner AW4 (1987-2001)

The AW4 is a 4-speed overdrive automatic. It was used with both the 2.5L and 4.0L engines. It is known for its durability. Many XJs with over 200,000 miles still have the original AW4.

Key features of the AW4:

Electronic control unit (TCU) manages shift points.
Has a “Power” and “Comfort” shift mode switch.
Uses Dexron II or III transmission fluid.
Weighs about 140 pounds dry.

Common issues with the AW4 include:

Shift solenoid failure (causes harsh or delayed shifts).
Torque converter lockup problems (shudder at highway speeds).
Fluid leaks from the cooler lines or pan gasket.

Maintenance is simple. Change the fluid and filter every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Use a good quality fluid. The AW4 is a strong transmission for daily driving and off-road use.

Chrysler A904 (1984-1986)

The A904 is a 3-speed automatic. It was used in early XJs with the 2.5L or 2.8L V6 engine. It is a simpler design than the AW4. It lacks overdrive, so highway RPMs are higher.

Key features of the A904:

TorqueFlite family, known for toughness.
Non-electronic, fully hydraulic control.
Uses ATF+3 or ATF+4 fluid.

Common issues with the A904:

Band adjustment needed periodically.
Seal leaks are common with age.
No overdrive limits fuel economy.

The A904 is reliable but outdated. If you have an early XJ, it works fine. Swapping to an AW4 is possible but requires wiring changes.

Manual Transmission Options

Manual XJs are less common. They offer better control off-road. The manual transmissions changed several times during production.

Borg-Warner T4 (1984-1986)

The T4 is a 4-speed manual. It was used in early XJs with the 2.5L or 2.8L V6. It is a light-duty transmission. It is not known for strength.

Key features of the T4:

Four forward gears, no overdrive.
Integrated bellhousing.
Used with a Dana 300 or NP207 transfer case.

Common issues with the T4:

Weak synchros (hard shifting into second or third).
Bearing noise at high mileage.
Hard to find replacement parts.

The T4 is fine for stock engines. Avoid heavy off-roading or large tires. Many owners swap to a stronger manual later.

Borg-Warner T5 (1986-1987)

The T5 is a 5-speed manual. It was used for a short time. It is stronger than the T4 but still not ideal for the 4.0L. It has a removable bellhousing.

Key features of the T5:

Five forward gears, overdrive.
Used with the 2.5L and early 4.0L.
Rated for about 300 lb-ft of torque.

Common issues with the T5:

Input shaft bearing failure.
Synchro wear, especially second gear.
Limited aftermarket support.

The T5 is better than the T4 but still not a heavy-duty unit. If you have one, treat it gently. It can handle mild off-roading.

Peugeot BA10/5 (1987-1989)

The BA10/5 is a 5-speed manual. It was used with the 4.0L engine. It is widely considered the weakest manual in the XJ. It has a bad reputation for reliability.

Key features of the BA10/5:

Aluminum case, internal shift rails.
Integrated bellhousing.
Used with the NP231 or NP242 transfer case.

Common issues with the BA10/5:

Fifth gear nut loosens and destroys the transmission.
Bearing failures at moderate mileage.
Hard to find parts, expensive to rebuild.

The BA10/5 is a weak point. If you have one, consider swapping to an AX15 or NV3550. Many owners do this upgrade.

Aisin-Warner AX15 (1989-1999)

The AX15 is a 5-speed manual. It is the most common manual in the XJ. It is strong and reliable. It was used with the 4.0L engine from 1989 to 1999.

Key features of the AX15:

Cast iron case, removable bellhousing.
Rated for about 300 lb-ft of torque.
Used with the NP231 or NP242 transfer case.

Common issues with the AX15:

Synchro wear, especially second and third gear.
Input shaft bearing noise.
Fluid leaks from the shifter tower.

The AX15 is a great transmission. It handles the 4.0L well. It is common in junkyards and has good aftermarket support. Change the fluid regularly to extend its life.

New Venture Gear NV3550 (2000-2001)

The NV3550 is a 5-speed manual. It replaced the AX15 in the final years. It is also strong and reliable. It has a different shift feel and internal design.

Key features of the NV3550:

Aluminum case, removable bellhousing.
Rated for about 300 lb-ft of torque.
Uses synthetic gear oil.

Common issues with the NV3550:

Synchro wear, especially second gear.
Reverse gear noise (common for this design).
Hard to find replacement parts compared to AX15.

The NV3550 is a good transmission. It is less common than the AX15. Parts availability is decent but not as good. It works well with the 4.0L engine.

How To Identify Your XJ’s Transmission

Not sure which transmission you have? Here are simple ways to check. You can look at the vehicle, the VIN, or the transmission itself.

Check The VIN And Build Sheet

The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) can tell you the original transmission. The 8th digit is the engine code. The transmission code is on the build sheet or door sticker.

Steps to check:

Find the VIN on the dashboard or door jamb.
Look for a build sheet online using the VIN.
Check the transmission code on the sticker inside the glovebox or driver door.

Common transmission codes:

AW4 automatic: Code “AW4” or “A” (varies by year).
AX15 manual: Code “AX15” or “M” (varies).
NV3550 manual: Code “NV3550” or “N” (varies).

This method is accurate if the transmission is original. If swapped, you need to look under the vehicle.

Look Under The Vehicle

You can identify the transmission by its shape and features. Here are visual clues:

AW4 automatic: Square pan with 14 bolts, dipstick on the driver side.
A904 automatic: Rectangular pan with 10 bolts, dipstick on the passenger side.
AX15 manual: Cast iron case, large shift tower, drain plug on the bottom.
NV3550 manual: Aluminum case, smaller shift tower, no drain plug (must pump fluid out).
BA10/5 manual: Aluminum case with ribs, shift tower on top, no drain plug.

Check the number of bolts on the pan for automatics. Manuals have distinct case materials. Take a photo and compare online.

Check The Shift Pattern

Manuals have different shift patterns. The AX15 and NV3550 have a standard H-pattern. The BA10/5 has reverse to the left and up. The T4 and T5 have reverse to the right and down.

Test the shifter. If reverse is hard to engage, it might be a BA10/5. If it shifts smoothly, it is likely an AX15 or NV3550.

Which Transmission Is Best?

The best transmission depends on your use. For daily driving and light off-roading, the AW4 automatic is great. It is reliable and easy to maintain.

For off-roading and towing, the AX15 manual is a favorite. It gives you control. It is strong and has good parts support.

Here is a quick comparison:

Best automatic: AW4 (1987-2001) – reliable, parts available, easy to maintain.
Best manual: AX15 (1989-1999) – strong, common, good aftermarket.
Avoid: BA10/5 (1987-1989) – weak, hard to find parts.

If you have a BA10/5, plan a swap. The AX15 is a direct replacement with the right parts. The NV3550 is also good but less common.

Common Transmission Swaps

Many XJ owners swap transmissions. Common upgrades include:

AW4 to AX15: For manual control and strength.
BA10/5 to AX15: To replace a weak transmission.
A904 to AW4: To gain overdrive and better gearing.

Swapping requires new bellhousing, flywheel, clutch, and wiring. It is a weekend project for experienced mechanics. Parts are available from junkyards or aftermarket suppliers.

Maintenance Tips For Your XJ Transmission

Keep your transmission running well. Follow these tips:

Automatic: Change fluid and filter every 30,000-60,000 miles. Use Dexron III for AW4, ATF+4 for A904.
Manual: Change gear oil every 30,000-50,000 miles. Use 75W-90 GL-5 for AX15 and NV3550.
Check for leaks: Inspect the pan, seals, and cooler lines regularly.
Listen for noise: Grinding or whining means a problem. Fix it early.

Regular maintenance extends transmission life. Many XJs go 200,000+ miles with proper care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What transmission is in a 1990 Jeep Cherokee XJ?
A 1990 XJ with the 4.0L engine has either an AW4 automatic or an AX15 manual. The 2.5L engine uses the same transmissions.

Is the AW4 transmission reliable?
Yes, the AW4 is very reliable. It is common in high-mileage XJs. Regular fluid changes keep it running.

Can I swap a manual into my automatic XJ?
Yes, it is possible. You need a manual transmission, pedal assembly, clutch kit, and wiring changes. Many guides are available online.

What transmission fluid does a Jeep Cherokee XJ take?
The AW4 uses Dexron II or III. The A904 uses ATF+3 or ATF+4. Manuals use 75W-90 gear oil.

How do I know if my XJ has the BA10/5 transmission?
Look for an aluminum case with ribs and no drain plug. The shift pattern has reverse to the left and up. It is common in 1987-1989 XJs.

Final Thoughts

Knowing “what transmission is in a jeep cherokee xj” helps you maintain and upgrade your vehicle. The AW4 automatic is the most common and reliable. The AX15 manual is the best manual option.

Check your VIN or look under the vehicle to identify your transmission. Avoid the BA10/5 if possible. With proper care, your XJ transmission will last for years.

Whether you have an automatic or manual, keep up with fluid changes. Your Jeep Cherokee XJ is a classic. The right transmission makes it even better.