The Jeep Y is a 4,009 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1993 and 2001. It features multi-point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and cast-iron construction. This durable powerplant delivered 130 kW (177 PS) and 300 Nm of torque, with its long-stroke design enabling strong low-end torque for off-road capability.
Fitted primarily to the Cherokee (XJ) and Grand Cherokee (ZJ/WJ) SUVs, the Y engine was engineered for rugged reliability and towing. Emissions compliance for Euro 2 was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and sequential fuel injection, meeting regulatory requirements for its era.
One documented concern is potential failure of the distributor cap and rotor, noted in FCA service documentation. This issue, addressed in FCA Service Bulletin 08-01-98, was linked to moisture ingress and carbon tracking causing ignition misfires. Revised distributor components with improved sealing were introduced for 1999+ models.
Production years 1993–2001 meet Euro 2 standards across all applicable markets (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 historical application).
The Jeep Y is a 4,009 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engineered for mid-size SUVs (1993-2001). It combines multi-point fuel injection with robust cast-iron construction to deliver strong low-end torque and legendary off-road durability. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritized mechanical simplicity and field serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,009 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 98.4 mm × 88.9 mm | |
| Power output | 130 kW (177 PS) | |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH (SAE 10W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg |
The long-stroke inline-six provides exceptional low-RPM torque ideal for off-roading and towing but requires adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using API SG/SH specification oil to maintain bearing and chain longevity. The distributor-based ignition system is susceptible to moisture; inspecting and replacing the cap and rotor per FCA SIB 08-01-98 is critical in humid climates. Fuel quality meeting EN 228 standards is recommended to prevent injector clogging. The timing chain is robust but should be inspected after 150,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH (10W-30) specification for pre-2000 models; API SJ for 2000+ (FCA Owner's Manual 1999/2000).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1993–2001 production models (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 historical application).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across specified fuel grades (FCA TIS Doc. FT-7050).
FCA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs FT-7001, FT-7050, SIB 08 01 98
European Commission: Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Historical Application)
FCA ETK Documentation: FCA-Y-006
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Jeep Y – Petrol (FCA) was used across Jeep's XJ and ZJ/WJ platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts and accessory brackets for the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee-with a significant update in 1999 introducing the revised distributor and updated ECU. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block, just below the cylinder head (FCA TIS FT-7020). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'S' for the 4.0L petrol variant. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its long inline-six configuration, cast-iron block, and the prominent distributor on the intake manifold. Differentiation from the 2.5L engine: The Y engine is significantly longer with six cylinders. Service parts for ignition and fuel systems changed significantly for 1999+ models.
The Y engine's primary reliability consideration is distributor cap and rotor failure, with elevated incidence in high-humidity environments. FCA service data indicates this was addressed with a running change, while owner reports consistently cite its legendary mechanical durability. Extended oil change intervals and poor ignition maintenance accelerate wear on bearings and the timing chain, making adherence to the factory service schedule critical.
Analysis derived from FCA technical bulletins (1993-2001) and historical service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about JEEP Y.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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