Unlike automatic transmissions, manual transmissions do not have a dipstick under the hood. Transmission fluid must be changed through the fill plug underneath the car. In an automatic transmission, transmission fluid is poured into the dipstick tube under the hood. You should change manual transmission fluid at least every 30,000 miles to keep the transmission running smoothly.
Park the Jeep Cherokee on a level surface and put the emergency brake on.
Go underneath the Jeep with an oil drip pan and a wrench.
Unscrew the filler plug. This is located above the drain plug on the transmission-fluid reservoir. This will release pressure and allow the fluid to drain faster.
Unscrew the drain plug with a wrench. The drain plug is located near or on the bottom of the transmission-fluid reservoir. If the drain plug is stuck, spray it with some oil. The fluid will start draining immediately, so situate the oil drip pan underneath the drain plug before removing the plug. Let the fluid drain for at least 10 minutes to get as much fluid out as possible.
Clean the drain plug with a rag and screw it back into place when the fluid is done draining.
Fill an oil pump can with manual transmission fluid. You will need 3 quarts of manual transmission fluid. The Mopar brand is recommended for the Jeep Cherokee. Make sure you use a clean oil-pump can. Do not use a dirty can that has been used with other types of fluids.
Place the tube of the oil pump can into the filler hole and begin pumping transmission oil into the tank. Pump until the tank is completely full. The fluid will start to come back into the tube when it is full.
Screw the filler bolt back on and tighten it with a torque wrench.
Record the transmission-fluid change. Complete the process again in 30,000 miles or sooner.
