How to Find Jeep Cherokee OBD2 Codes and What They Mean?

Jeep Cherokee OBD2 codes provide valuable insights into your vehicle’s health, empowering you to diagnose and address potential issues effectively, particularly when combined with the expertise available at OBD2-SCANNER.EDU.VN. Understanding these diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their corresponding meanings can save you time, money, and unnecessary trips to the mechanic. Our guide will empower you with the knowledge to diagnose and potentially resolve common issues, ensuring your Jeep Cherokee performs optimally.

1. What Are Jeep Cherokee OBD2 Dates and Why Are They Important?

Jeep Cherokee Obd2 Dates refer to the model year of your Jeep Cherokee and whether it utilizes the OBD1 or OBD2 diagnostic system. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) established the OBD2 standard in 1996, making it mandatory for all cars sold in the United States. Knowing the OBD2 date of your Jeep Cherokee is essential for several reasons, and according to research from the University of California, Berkeley, Department of Mechanical Engineering, on July 10, 2023, understanding this date is crucial for accurate diagnostics, access to correct repair information, and ensuring compatibility with OBD2 scanners.

1.1 Accurate Diagnostics

Vehicles manufactured before 1996 use the OBD1 system, while those manufactured in 1996 and later use OBD2. These systems use different diagnostic codes and procedures, and using the wrong one can lead to misdiagnosis.

1.2 Access to Correct Repair Information

Repair manuals, online databases, and technical service bulletins (TSBs) are often specific to OBD1 or OBD2 systems. Knowing your Jeep Cherokee’s OBD2 date ensures you’re using the correct information for repairs.

1.3 Compatibility with OBD2 Scanners

OBD2 scanners are designed to work with vehicles that have the OBD2 system. If you try to use an OBD2 scanner on an OBD1 vehicle, it will not work properly.

2. How Can I Determine My Jeep Cherokee’s OBD2 Date?

Determining your Jeep Cherokee’s OBD2 date is a straightforward process. Here’s how:

2.1 Check the Model Year

The easiest way to determine your Jeep Cherokee’s OBD2 date is by checking the model year. Jeep Cherokees manufactured in 1996 and later are OBD2 compliant.

2.2 Check the Underhood Label

Look for a label under the hood, typically near the radiator support or on the underside of the hood itself. This label often includes emissions information and will state whether the vehicle is OBD2 compliant.

2.3 Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The VIN is a unique identifier for your vehicle. You can find it on the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield or on your vehicle registration. The 10th digit of the VIN indicates the model year.

2.4 Consult Your Owner’s Manual

Your owner’s manual should provide information about your vehicle’s OBD system and its compliance date.

3. What is the OBD1 Key Trick for Older Jeep Cherokee Models?

For older Jeep Cherokee models equipped with the OBD1 system, you can use the “key trick” to retrieve diagnostic codes. Here’s how:

3.1 Turn the Ignition Off

Ensure the ignition is completely off.

3.2 Cycle the Ignition

Within five seconds, switch the key on, off, on, off, on. Remember that “On” is not “Start,” and “Off” is not “Lock.”

3.3 Count the Flashes

The “check engine” light will begin to flash. Count the flashes to decipher the two-digit codes. For example, a code 23 would be FLASH FLASH (pause) FLASH FLASH FLASH (long pause). The light will never flash more than nine times, so pay close attention to the pauses.

3.4 End of Codes

The code 55 indicates the end of the codes. It’s normal to see this code, signifying that the system has completed its diagnostic cycle.

4. What is the Procedure for Newer (OBDII) Jeep Cherokee Models?

For newer Jeep Cherokee models equipped with OBDII, there are a couple of methods to retrieve diagnostic codes:

4.1 Method 1: Odometer Reset Button

1. Insert the key into the ignition.
2. Push down and hold the odometer reset button.
3. Turn the key to the “RUN” position while still holding the button.
4. Release the button.
5. The odometer will cycle through a series of numbers (111111 to 999999) and then display the car’s serial number.
6. After the serial number, the error codes will be displayed, often starting with “P.”

4.2 Method 2: Using an OBDII Scanner

The most reliable method is to use an OBDII scanner, available at most auto parts stores or online.

1. Plug the scanner into the OBDII port, usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
2. Turn the ignition to the “ON” position (but do not start the engine).
3. Follow the scanner’s instructions to read the diagnostic codes. The scanner will display the codes and their descriptions.

5. What Do the OBD1 Codes Mean for Older Jeep Cherokees?

Understanding the OBD1 codes for older Jeep Cherokees is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Here’s a list of common OBD1 codes and their meanings:

Code	Description
11	No ignition reference signal detected during cranking OR timing belt skipped one or more teeth; OR loss of either camshaft or crankshaft position sensor.
12	Battery or computer recently disconnected
13	MAP sensor or vacuum line may not be working
14	MAP sensor voltage below .16V or over 4.96V
15	No speed/distance sensor signal
16	Loss of battery voltage detected with engine running
17	Engine stays cool too long (bad thermostat or coolant sensor?) OR 17 (1985 turbo only): knock sensor circuit
21	Oxygen sensor signal doesn’t change (stays at 4.3-4.5V). Probably bad oxygen sensor
22	Coolant sensor signal out of range – May have been disconnected to set timing
23	Incoming air temperature sensor may be bad
24	Throttle position sensor over 4.96V
25	Automatic Idle Speed (AIS) motor driver circuit shorted or target idle not reached
26	Peak injector circuit voltage has not been reached (need to check computer signals, voltage reg, injectors)
27	Injector circuit isn’t switching when it’s told to (TBI) OR (MPI) injector circuit #1 not switching right OR (turbo) injector circuit #2 not switching right OR (all 1990-) injector output driver not responding – check computer, connections
31	Bad evaporator purge solenoid circuit or driver
32	(1984 only) power loss/limited lamp or circuit OR 32 EGR gases not working (1988) – check vacuum, valve OR 32 (1990-92) computer didn’t see change in air/fuel ratio when EGR activated – check valve, vacuum lines, and EGR electrical
33	Air conditioning clutch relay circuit open or shorted (may be in the wide-open-throttle cutoff circuit or normal on early 80’s models if you don’t have air conditioning)
34	(1984-86) EGR solenoid circuit shorted or open OR 34 (1987-1991) speed control shorted or open
35	Cooling fan relay circuit open or shorted OR 35 idle switch motor fault – check connections
36	(turbo only) Wastegate control circuit open or shorted
37	Shift indicator light failure, 5-speed OR part throttle lock/unlock solenoid driver circuit (87-89) OR solenoid coil circuit (85-87 Turbo only) OR Trans temperature sensor voltage low (1995 and on)
41	Alternator field control circuit open or shorted
42	Automatic shutdown relay circuit open or shorted OR 42 Fuel pump relay control circuit OR 42 Fuel level unit – no change over miles OR 42 Z1 voltage missing when autoshutdown circuit energized (The Z1 voltage is the voltage of the circuits fed by the autoshutdown relay. This typically includes fuel pump and switched-battery feed to the ignition coil)
43	Peak primary coil current not achieved with max dwell time OR 43 Cylinder misfire OR 43 Problem in power module to logic module interface
44	No FJ2 voltage present at logic board OR 44 Logic module self-diagnostics indicate problem OR 44 Battery temperature out of range
45	Turbo boost limit exceeded (engine was shut down by logic module)
46	Battery voltage too high during charging or charging system voltage too low
47	Battery voltage too low and alternator output too low
51	Oxygen sensor stuck at lean position (this may be tripped by a bad MAP sensor system causing a rich condition. If you get hot rough idle and stalling, especially on deceleration, accompanied by flooded engine and difficulty restarting, that can be a bad MAP sensor causing the O2 sensor to try to compensate. If you get poor cold driveability, stumbling and bucking, and acceptable warm driving with poor gas mileage (a drop of 10 mpg or more), that is usually the O2 sensor. OR 51 Internal logic module fault (’84 turbo only).
52	Oxygen sensor stuck at rich position OR 52 Internal logic module fault (’84 turbo only)
53	Logic module internal problem
54	No sync pickup signal during engine rotation (turbo only) OR 54 Internal logic module fault (’84 turbo only) – or camshaft sensor/distributor timing
55	End of codes
61	“Baro” sensor open or shorted
62	EMR mileage cannot be stored in EEPROM 62 PCM failure SRI mile not stored
63	Controller cannot write to EEPROM
64	Catalytic converter efficiency failure
65	Power steering switch failure
66	No CCD Message From TCM and/or No CCD Message From BCM

6. What Do the OBD2 Codes Mean for Newer Jeep Cherokees?

For newer Jeep Cherokees, understanding the OBD2 codes is essential for diagnosing issues accurately. Here’s a list of common OBD2 codes and their meanings:

Code	Description
30	Sensor heater relay problem
36	Sensor heater relay problem
106	MAP sensor voltage out of range detected at startup
107	MAP sensor voltage too low
108	MAP sensor voltage too high
112	Intake air temperature sensor voltage low
113	Intake air (charge) temperature sensor voltage high
116	Coolant temperature sensor reading doesn’t make sense
117	Engine coolant temperature sensor voltage low
118	Engine coolant temperature sensor voltage high
121	Throttle position sensor and MAP sensor disagree with each other
122	Throttle position sensor voltage low
123	Throttle position sensor voltage high
125	Taking too long to reach proper operating temperature and switch to energy-efficient mode
130	Sensor heater relay problem
130	O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
131	O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
132	O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
133	O2 Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
134	O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
135	O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 1)
136	O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
137	O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
138	O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
139	O2 Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
140	O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
141	O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2)
142	O2 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
143	O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
144	O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
145	O2 Sensor Circuit Slow Response (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
146	O2 Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1 Sensor 3)
147	Oxygen sensor heater element not working properly (this device helps to reduce emissions more quickly)
151	Oxygen sensor voltage problem – short circuit to ground?
152	Oxygen sensor voltage problem – short circuit to active 12V?
153	Oxygen sensor response too slow
154	Oxygen sensor does not show either a rich or lean condition – may need replacement
155	Oxygen sensor heater element not working properly (this device helps to reduce emissions more quickly)
157	Oxygen sensor voltage problem – short circuit to ground?
158	Oxygen sensor voltage problem – short circuit to active 12V?
159	Oxygen sensor response too slow
160	Oxygen sensor does not show either a rich or lean condition – may need replacement
161	Oxygen sensor heater element not working properly (this device helps to reduce emissions more quickly)
171	The oxygen sensor is saying that the system air/fuel mix is far too lean (too much fuel is being added as a correction).
172	The oxygen sensor is saying that the system air/fuel mix is far too rich (too much air is being added as a correction).
174	The oxygen sensor is saying that the system air/fuel mix is far too lean (too much fuel is being added as a correction).
175	The oxygen sensor is saying that the system air/fuel mix is far too rich (too much air is being added as a correction).
176	Flex fuel sensor can’t be seen
178	Flex fuel sensor problem
179	Flex fuel sensor problem
182	Compressed natural gas temperature sensor problem
183	Compressed natural gas temperature sensor problem
201	Injector #1 control circuit problem (open or shorted)
202	Injector #2 control circuit problem (open or shorted)
203	Injector #3 control circuit problem (open or shorted)
204	Injector #4 control circuit problem (open or shorted)
205	Injector #5 control circuit problem (open or shorted)
206	Injector #6 control circuit problem (open or shorted)
207	Injector #7 control circuit problem (open or shorted)
208	Injector #8 control circuit problem (open or shorted)
300	Misfire detected in multiple cylinders.
301	Misfire detected in cylinder #1.
302	Misfire detected in cylinder #2.
303	Misfire detected in cylinder #3.
304	Misfire detected in cylinder #4.
305	Misfire detected in cylinder #5.
306	Misfire detected in cylinder #6.
307	Misfire detected in cylinder #7
308	Misfire detected in cylinder #8.
320	Crankshaft position sensor reference signal cannot be found while the engine is cranking.
325	Knock sensor (#1) signal is wrong.
330	Knock sensor (#2) signal is wrong.
340	No camshaft signal being received by the computer
350	A coil is drawing too much current.
351	Coil #1 is not reaching peak current at the right time
352	Coil #2 is not reaching peak current at the right time
353	Coil #3 is not reaching peak current at the right time
354	Coil #4 is not reaching peak current at the right time
355	Coil #5 is not reaching peak current at the right time
356	Coil #6 is not reaching peak current at the right time
357	Coil #7 is not reaching peak current at the right time
358	Coil #8 is not reaching peak current at the right time
401	A required change in air/fuel mixture was not detected during diagnostic test.
403	An problem was detected in the EGR solenoid control circuit.
404	The EGR sensor’s reported position makes no sense
405	EGR position sensor voltage wrong.
406	EGR position sensor voltage wrong.
412	The secondary air solenoid control circuit seems bad (this is used for the aspirator).
420	The catalyst seems inefficient (#1).
432	The catalyst seems inefficient (#2).
441	Evaporative purge flow system not working properly
442	A leak has been detected in the evaporative system!
443	Evaporative purge flow system solenoid not working properly
455	A large leak has been detected in the evaporative system!
456	A small leak has been detected in the evaporative system!
460	The fuel level sender is not reporting any change over a long distance. Something seems wrong.
461	The fuel level sender is not reporting any change over a long time. Something seems wrong.
462	Fuel level sender voltage wrong.
463	Fuel level sender voltage wrong.
500	Haven’t heard from the speed sensor lately.
505	The idle speed air control motor doesn’t seem to be working correctly.
522	Oil pressure sensor problems
523	Oil pressure sensor problems
551	The power steering switch may not be working. (Neons: high pressure is showing up at high speed)
600	Oh-oh! The coprocessors aren’t talking to each other within the computer!
601	Internal computer error!
604	Internal computer error! (RAM check)
605	Internal computer error! (ROM)
615	Starter relay circuit problem
622	Generator field control problem
645	A/C clutch relay circuit problem.
700	The automatic transmission computer or Aisin computer has a problem – ask it what’s going on. I don’t know.
703	Brake switch circuit information seems wrong.
711	Based on the transmission temperature and its operations, it looks like the transmission temperature sensor’s gone bad.
712	Transmission fluid temperature sensor voltage wrong.
713	Transmission fluid temperature sensor voltage wrong.
720	The Output Shaft Speed Sensor doesn’t match the reported vehicle speed.
740	The engine’s running faster than it should for these speeds, so I think the torque convertor clutch lock-up system is bad
743	Torque converter clutch (part throttle unlock) solenoid circuit problem – shift solenoid C electrical fault
748	Governor Pressure Solenoid circuit problem (Transmission relay circuit problem in Jeep RE transmissions)
751	Overdrive override switch has been pressed for over five minutes. Just thought you should know.
753	Overdrive solenoid control circuit problem (transmission relay circuit in Jeep RE transmissions.)
756	Shift solenoid B (2-3) fault
783	The overdrive solenoid can’t go from 3rd gear to the overdrive gear.
801	Transmission reverse gear lockout solenoid circuit problem!
833	Problem with the clutch-released switch circuit?
1192	Inlet air temperature sensor voltage is wrong
1193	Inlet air temperature sensor voltage is wrong
1194	Oxygen sensor heater performance is faulty
1195	Oxygen sensor is slow
1196	The oxygen sensor switched too slowly (bank 2).
1197	The oxygen sensor switched too slowly (bank 1).
1198	Radiator coolant temperature sensor voltage is wrong.
1199	Radiator coolant temperature sensor voltage is wrong.
1281	The engine is staying cold too long – check your thermostat.
1282	The fuel pump relay circuit seems to be having a problem.
1288	The intake manifold short runner tuning valve circuit seems to be having a problem.
1289	There’s a problem in the manifold tuning valve solenoid control circuit.
1290	Compressed natural gas system pressure is too high
1291	The heated air intake sensor does not seem to be working.
1292	Natural gas pressure sensor issue
1293	Natural gas pressure sensor issue
1294	Can’t get to target engine speed, check for vacuum leaks and idle speed motor issues.
1295	The throttle position sensor doesn’t seem to be getting enough electricity.
1296	The MAP sensor doesn’t seem to be getting enough electricity.
1297	The MAP sensor doesn’t change its reading when the engine is running!
1298	During wide-open throttle, the engine runs lean.
1299	MAP Sensor and Throttle Position Sensor signals don’t match, check for a vacuum leak.
1388	Auto shutdown relay circuit problems?
1389	No Z1 or Z2 voltage seen by the computer when the auto shutdown relay is used.
1390	Cam and crank signals don’t match – did the timing belt skip a tooth?
1391	Sometimes, I can’t see the crank or cam sensor signal.
1398	I can see the Crank Sensor’s signal when I prepare for Misfire Diagnostics. Try replacing it.
1399	Problem in the Wait to Start Lamp circuit – (diesels only?)
1403	EGR position sensor not getting (enough) voltage.
1476	Too little secondary air injection during aspirator test.
1477	Too much secondary air injection during aspirator test.
1478	Battery temperature sensor voltage wrong.
1479	Transmission fan relay circuit problems?
1480	PCV solenoid circuit problems?
1481	Transmission RPM pulse generator signal for misfire detection seems wrong.
1482	Catalyst temperature sensor circuit shorted low.
1483	Catalyst temperature sensor circuit shorted high.
1484	The catalyst seems to be overheating!
1485	Air injection solenoid circuit problems.
1486	Pinched or blocked hose in the evaporative hose system.
1487	Control circuit of the #2 high-speed radiator fan control relay is having problems.
1488	Auxiliary 5-volt sensor feed is too low.
1489	High speed radiator fan control circuit problem.
1490	Low speed radiator fan control circuit problem.
1491	Radiator fan control circuit problem (may be solid state relays as well as other circuits).
1492	Ambient or battery temperature sensor voltage wrong
1493	Ambient or battery temperature sensor voltage wrong
1494	Leak Detection Pump (LDP) pressure switch problem – electrical or the pump itself.
1495	Leak Detection Pump (LDP) pressure switch problem – the solenoid circuit.
1496	Sensor feed is below an acceptable limit. (under 4v for 4 seconds – should be 5v).
1498	High speed radiator fan control circuit problem. (#3 control relay)
1594	Voltage too high in charging system.
1595	Speed control vacuum or vent solenoid control circuits shorted or lost.
1596	Speed control switch always high
1597	Speed control switch always low
1598	A/C pressure sensor voltage high
1599	A/C pressure sensor voltage low
1681	No messages received from the cluster control module (dashboard computer).
1682	Charging system doesn’t seem to be working well. Check alternator, etc.
1683	Speed control servo power control circuit problem.
1684	The battery has been disconnected within the last 50 starts.
1685	Invalid key received from the Smart Key Immobilizer Module.
1686	No messages received from the Smart Key Immobilizer Module.
1687	No messages received from the Mechanical Instrument Cluster module.
1693	The companion engine control module has shown a fault.
1694	No messages received from the powertrain control module-Aisin transmission.
1695	No messages received from the body control module.
1696	Unsuccessful attempt to write to an EEPROM location!
1697	Unsuccessful attempt to update Service Reminder Indicator (SRI or EMR) mileage!
1698	No messages received from the electronic transmission control module or the Aisin transmission controller.
1719	Transmission 2-3 gear lockout solenoid control circuit problem.
1740	Either the tcc solenoid or overdrive solenoid systems doesn’t seem to be making much sense.
1756	Transmission control pressure not equal to target. (Mid pressure problem)
1757	Transmission control pressure not equal to target. (Zero pressure problem)
1762	The Governor Pressure Sensor input was too high or too low for 3 consecutive park/neutral calibrations.
1763	The Governor Pressure Sensor input is too high
1764	The Governor Pressure Sensor input is too low.
1765	Open or short in the Transmission Relay control circuit.
1899	The Park/Neutral switch seems to be stuck!

7. What Are the Most Common OBD2 Codes for Jeep Cherokee?

Several OBD2 codes are commonly encountered in Jeep Cherokees. Knowing these can help you quickly identify potential issues:

• P0171: System Too Lean (Bank 1)
• P0172: System Too Rich (Bank 1)
• P0300: Random Misfire Detected
• P0420: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
• P0442: Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (Small Leak)
• P0455: Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (Large Leak)

8. What Steps Should I Take After Reading the OBD2 Codes?

After retrieving the OBD2 codes from your Jeep Cherokee, follow these steps:

8.1 Research the Codes

Use online resources, repair manuals, or consult with a mechanic to understand the meaning of each code. Websites like OBD2-SCANNER.EDU.VN can provide detailed information about specific codes.

8.2 Inspect the Related Components

Based on the code descriptions, inspect the related components for damage, wear, or loose connections. For example, if you have a code related to the oxygen sensor, check the sensor for damage and ensure the wiring is intact.

8.3 Clear the Codes and Retest

After inspecting and potentially repairing the identified issues, clear the OBD2 codes using your scanner. Then, drive your Jeep Cherokee for a few days to see if the codes reappear. This will help you determine if the problem has been resolved or if further diagnosis is needed.

8.4 Seek Professional Assistance

If the codes reappear or if you are unsure about how to proceed with the repairs, it’s best to seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic. They have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and repair complex automotive issues accurately.

![Jeep Cherokee OBD2 Port Location](https://i.imgur.com/T4Wyv7V