1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ

Jeep Wrangler (TJ)

Jeep wrangler 4.0 L Special Edition at Arkhangelskoye Estate (Moscow Region, Russia)

The Jeep Wrangler (TJ) is the second generation of the iconic Jeep Wrangler SUV. Introduced in 1996, the TJ revived the round headlights that had become the signature feature of classic models. In 2004, a long-wheelbase version, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, was released.

History

Testing of YJ-based prototypes lasted from 1990 to 1993. Prototypes with production bodies were built in early 1994. They were tested until the end of 1995. When YJ production ceased in December 1995, the last pre-production TJs were assembled. Series production began in January 1996.

On January 2, 1996, the TJ was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show. This was an evolutionary step forward. In April 1996, after six years of investment and three years of development, the vehicle arrived in dealerships.

Instead of leaf spring suspension, the new Wrangler received a modern coil-spring suspension front and rear. It was based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s suspension, improving comfort and handling. The CJ’s round headlights returned. Under the hood, the same 4.0-liter AMC 242 inline-six engine remained as in the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. A 2.5-liter AMC 150 was available on base models until 2002. In 2003, it was replaced by a 2.4-liter DOHC engine from the Chrysler PT Cruiser.

In 1998, the fuel tank capacity became standard at 19 US gallons (72 liters). From 1996 to 2002, the side mirrors had a black metal frame, and from 2003 to 2006, they were plastic. The design of the softtop and hardtop roofs changed slightly. Fabric and color choices varied from 2001 to 2003. In 2002, the 3-speed automatic transmission was replaced by a 4-speed overdrive unit. This can be disengaged with a switch. The radio frame changed from rectangular to rounded. The interior soundbar was replaced with sound modules. In 2003, the underbody protection was redesigned to accommodate the larger NV241OR transfer case from the Rubicon.

This version of the Wrangler was the last production vehicle to feature AMC components. The AMC Straight-4 engine was discontinued after 2002. The AMC Straight-6 engine and door handles, first introduced on AMC in 1968, were discontinued along with this generation of the TJ in 2006. Like the YJ Wrangler, the TJ used door handles from AMC passenger cars and larger door handles from the Jeep CJ on higher-end models.

Trim levels

North American TJ/Wranglers were available in the following standard trims.