Jeep Cherokee (XJ): Lamp systems

Lamp systems

Each vehicle is equipped with various lamp assemblies.

A good ground is necessary for proper lighting operation. Grounding is provided through a separate ground wire.

When changing lamp bulbs check the socket for corrosion. If corrosion is present, clean it with a wire brush and coat the inside of the socket lightly with Mopart Multi-Purpose Grease or equivalent.

HEADLAMPS

DESCRIPTION

Headlamps on the Cherokee are sealed beam units.

Each module contains a low beam filament and a high beam filament.

OPERATION

The headlamps are controlled by the headlamp switch and the high beams by the multifunction switch. Each headlamp unit can be serviced individually.

HEADLAMP SWITCH

DESCRIPTION

The headlamp switch is located on the instrument panel. The headlamp switch controls the parking lamps, the headlamps, the interior lamps, and instrument cluster illumination. The headlamp switch also contains a rheostat for controlling the illumination level of the instrument cluster lamps.

OPERATION

The headlamp switch has an off position, a parking lamp position, and a headlamp on position. High beams are controlled by the multifunction switch on the steering column. The headlamp switch cannot be repaired. It must be replaced. Refer to Group 8E for removal and installation procedures, and Group 8W for wiring.

SENTINEL HEADLAMP DELAY MODULE

DESCRIPTION

The Headlamp Module delays the de-activation of the headlamps for 45 6 15 seconds after the ignition switch is turned OFF.

OPERATION

The driver engages the module by turning the ignition switch OFF, then turning the headlamps OFF.

The module is mounted to a bracket attached to the inside of the instrument panel.

TAIL/TURN SIGNAL/STOP/BACK-UP LAMP DESCRIPTION

The rear tail lamp modules contains three bulbs, a lens, and a housing. One bulb is a two filament bulb used for tail light and stop lamp functions. One single filament bulb is for turn signal functions. The other bulb is a single filament bulb used for back-up light illumination.

OPERATION

Each tail lamp module can be serviced separately.

Each bulb can also be serviced separately. The headlamp switch controls tail lamp operation. The multifunction switch on the steering column controls turn signal operation, and the back-up light switch controls the back-up light operation. The brake lamp switch controls the stop lamp function.

FRONT TURN SIGNAL/PARKING LAMP

DESCRIPTION

The front turn signal and parking lamp module contains a housing, a lens, and two bulbs.

OPERATION

The parking lamp function is controlled by the headlamp switch. The turn signal function is controlled by the multifunction switch on the steering column. Each bulb can be serviced separately.

CHMSL (CENTER HIGH MOUNTED STOP LAMP)

DESCRIPTION

The center high mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) is mounted on the liftgate. The module consists of a housing, a lens, and a single filament bulb.

OPERATION

The CHMSL is controlled by the brake lamp switch.

DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS

DESCRIPTION

The Daytime Running Lights (Headlamps) System is installed on vehicles manufactured for sale in Canada only. A separate module, mounted on the cowl, controls the DRL.

OPERATION

The headlamps are illuminated when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position. The DRL module receives a vehicle-moving signal from the vehicle speed sensor. This provides a constant headlamps- on condition as long as the vehicle is moving.

The lamps are illuminated at less than 50 percent of normal intensity.

Safety precautions

WARNING: EYE PROTECTION SHOULD BE USED WHEN SERVICING GLASS COMPONENTS. PERSONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.

CAUTION: Do not touch the glass of halogen bulbs with fingers or other possibly oily surface, reduced bulb life will result.

Do not use bulbs with higher candle power than indicated in the Bulb Application table at the end of this group. Damage to lamp and/or Daytime Running Lamp Module can result.

Do not use fuses, circuit breakers or relays having greater amperage value than indicated on the fuse panel or in the Owners Manual.

When it is necessary to remove components to service another, it should not be necessary to apply excessive force or bend a component to remove it.

Before damaging a trim component, verify hidden fasteners or captured edges are not holding the component in place.