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Jeep Grand Cherokee 1999-2004 WJ WG Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual download

- Quick summary and safety
- Work with the engine off, key out, parking brake set, engine cool. Wear gloves and safety glasses. Have a rag and a trash bag for the old filter.
- Typical job time: 10–30 minutes for a beginner.

- Which filter I’m describing
- Engine intake air filter in the airbox (most common request on WJ/WG Grand Cherokee). If you meant the cabin/pollen filter, note that some WJs have one behind the glovebox — different procedure.

- Tools (each tool described and exactly how to use it)
- Flat-head screwdriver (medium blade)
- Description: single-blade screwdriver with flat tip.
- How to use: slip the blade under plastic clips or pry tabs, then lift gently to release. Use the handle as a lever; don’t force — pry a bit at several points. Also useful for turning slotted screws or nudging the airbox lip.
- Phillips screwdriver (cross-head)
- Description: cross-shaped tip screwdriver for Phillips-head screws.
- How to use: place centered in the screw recess, press in and turn counterclockwise to loosen. Good for any small screws on snorkel or duct clamps.
- 1/4" or 3/8" ratchet with a small socket set (common sizes: 7mm, 8mm, 10mm)
- Description: ratchet handle with hex sockets that snap on; used to turn bolts/nuts faster than a wrench.
- How to use: pick the right-size socket for the clamp/bolt, push onto the ratchet, place on the nut/bolt, turn counterclockwise to loosen (use small back-and-forth strokes in tight spaces). Use a short extension if access is tight. Tighten clockwise after reassembly—snug, not over-torqued.
- Pliers (slip-joint needle-nose or regular)
- Description: metal jaws that pinch when handles are squeezed.
- How to use: pinch spring clamps or to pull stubborn clips. Grip gently to avoid breaking plastic.
- Work gloves
- Description: durable gloves to protect hands.
- How to use: wear them to avoid cuts and keep hands clean.
- Flashlight or phone light
- Description: focused light source.
- How to use: illuminate inside the airbox and hose connections to see clips/screws.
- Clean rag and small vacuum (optional)
- Description: rag for wiping, small shop vac or handheld vacuum to remove dirt.
- How to use: vacuum loose debris from the airbox before installing new filter; wipe edges to ensure a good seal.
- Small container or magnetic tray (optional)
- Description: holds screws/clips so they don’t get lost.
- How to use: put fasteners in it during disassembly.

- Extra tools you might need and why
- Socket set (if airbox is held with bolts rather than clips)
- Why: some models use bolts on intake snorkel or mounting brackets; sockets give leverage and fit bolts properly.
- Plastic trim tool (optional)
- Why: safer to remove plastic clips without breaking them; less chance of scratching.
- Shop vacuum (optional)
- Why: faster and cleaner to remove accumulated dirt from the airbox.
- Replacement clamps or clips (if clips are cracked)
- Why: plastic clips can break with age; replacement ensures the airbox seals correctly.

- Parts: what may need replacing and why
- Engine air filter element (almost always replaced)
- Why: the filter is the component designed to be replaced when dirty; a clogged filter reduces engine airflow, fuel economy and performance.
- What to buy: a direct-fit engine air filter for your exact year and engine (e.g., 4.0L I6 or 4.7L V8). Buy by vehicle year/model/engine or match the old filter’s shape and dimensions. OEM or aftermarket (Fram, Mann, K&N, Bosch) are acceptable; if considering a reusable filter (K&N), follow cleaning instructions.
- Tip: if uncertain, take the old filter to the parts store and match it.
- Airbox clips/snaps, clamps, intake snorkel (only if broken)
- Why: cracked airbox or broken clips cause unfiltered air to enter and must be repaired/replaced to maintain a proper seal.
- Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor cleaning (not replacement unless faulty)
- Why: dirt near the air inlet can affect the MAF; use MAF cleaner if readings are suspect. Don’t touch the sensor element with tools.
- Gaskets/seals (rare)
- Why: if the airbox rubber seal or mounting bushings are degraded, replace to ensure airtight fit.

- Step-by-step procedure (beginner-friendly)
- Prepare: gather tools, new air filter, rag, vacuum, flashlight. Park on level ground with engine off and cool.
- Locate the airbox: passenger-side engine bay near the fender. You'll see a plastic box with an intake snorkel or duct and clips or screws on the top.
- Remove top of airbox:
- Inspect clips. If they’re plastic pop clips, use flat-head screwdriver or hands to flip/unsnap them.
- If screws/bolts hold the lid, use the appropriate socket or Phillips screwdriver and turn counterclockwise to loosen. Keep fasteners in a container.
- Lift the lid carefully:
- Open the lid slowly. Support it so it doesn’t hang on any hoses. If it’s attached to a snorkel, you may need to slide the lid slightly to clear the duct.
- Use flashlight to see inside.
- Remove old filter:
- Lift straight up and out. Note orientation (airflow direction—often arrow on filter).
- Inspect filter: hold up to light. If heavily dark, oily, or clogged, replace.
- Clean the airbox:
- Use a rag to wipe the top and seal surfaces. Use vacuum to remove loose leaves and debris. Make sure the sealing edge is clean and free of damage.
- Inspect surrounding parts:
- Check snorkel duct, clamps, and the airbox lip for cracks. If you see gaps, either replace the clip or repair the crack with appropriate part or sealer—don’t reinstall a leaking airbox.
- Install new filter:
- Place the new filter in the airbox in the same orientation as the old one. Ensure it sits fully into the lower half and seals evenly all around.
- Reassemble the lid:
- Lower the lid into place, ensuring the seal lines up. Reinstall clips or fasteners. Tighten bolts/snaps snugly—do not overtighten plastic clips.
- Final check:
- Ensure all clamps and ducts are secure. Start engine and listen for any abnormal intake noises. Recheck that everything is seated after a short drive.

- How to judge whether replacement is required
- Replace filter if:
- Filter is dark, caked with dirt, oily residue, torn, or the pleats are compressed.
- Mileage since last change is high (typical intervals: 12,000–30,000 miles depending on conditions — consult manual).
- You drive in dusty conditions more frequently — change sooner.
- Replace other parts if:
- Clips are broken and won’t hold the lid closed.
- Airbox or intake duct has visible cracks or holes.
- MAF sensor is giving error codes after filter work — inspect/clean sensor and replace only if faulty.

- Parts buying tips
- Match by vehicle year, engine size, and VIN if possible.
- Keep the old filter to match shape and size at the parts store if you’re uncertain.
- OEM vs aftermarket: OEM fits directly; aftermarket often cheaper and fine if it’s the right shape. Reusable filters require maintenance (cleaning/oiling) and may change airflow slightly.

- Troubleshooting common beginner issues
- Lid won’t seat: check for obstructions or a misaligned filter. Re-seat the filter and try again.
- Broken clips: replace clips or use small screws/clamps as a temporary fix, but replace with proper parts ASAP.
- Debris fell into the lower airbox: remove debris with shop vac before reinstalling the filter.

- Final notes
- If you find extensive cracks or missing pieces in the airbox or ducting, replacement of the damaged parts is required to prevent unfiltered air entering the engine.
- If you want, keep a record of the date and mileage when you replaced the filter — useful for next service.


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