Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MS-9224) or equivalent (Dexron III/VI ATF is NOT correct)
Automatic Transmission Fluid 42Rle:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent
Drivetrain Linkage
Transfer Case:
NP231 Command-Trac (2.72:1 low range ratio)
Transfer Case Fluid
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF+4, MS-9602) or equivalent
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
93.4 inches (2372 mm)
Length:
151.4 inches (3845 mm)
Width:
66.0 inches (1676 mm) (body)
Height:
70.1 inches (1781 mm) (with hardtop, approx.)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.8 inches (224 mm) (unladen)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3400-3600 lbs (1542-1633 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 4900-5000 lbs (2223-2268 kg)
Towing Capacity:
2000 lbs (907 kg) (with optional towing package)
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.5 inch (5 x 114.3 mm)
Standard Tire Size:
215/75R15, 225/75R16, or 30x9.50R15 depending on trim
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for 2000 model, representative of TJ generation)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2000 model, representative of TJ generation)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (for 2000 model, representative of TJ generation)
Active Features
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - typically on front discs and rear drums
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Rollover Protection:
Integrated sport bar (roll cage) structure as standard
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD or AM/FM/Cassette player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level (e.g., 4-speaker, 6-speaker).
Display Screen:
No integrated infotainment screen; basic digital odometer display and indicator lights.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control on most models.
Traction Control:
Limited availability of basic traction control systems, often tied to ABS.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
No factory auxiliary audio input. Aftermarket solutions are common.
Bluetooth:
No factory Bluetooth connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or annually, inspect more frequently
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs (if equipped, check manual for specific type)
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), consult manual for specific recommendation
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km)
Transfer Case Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2-3 years, or as needed based on condition
Known Issues
Engine Cooling System:
Water pump leaks, radiator leaks, thermostat failures are common with age.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, track bar issues, and ball joint wear can occur due to off-road use and age.
Exhaust System:
Rusting of exhaust components, catalytic converter issues.
Electrical Systems:
Corrosion on connectors, starter issues, instrument cluster problems due to age and weather exposure.
Rear Main Seal:
The 4.0L engine is known to sometimes develop rear main seal leaks.
Clutch Slave Cylinder:
External slave cylinder on manual transmissions can be prone to leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Legacy:
Direct descendant of the original World War II Willys Jeep
Model Evolution
Tj Introduction:
Introduced for the 1997 model year as a replacement for the YJ Wrangler
Tj Key Difference From Yj:
Return to round headlights and introduction of coil spring suspension (front and rear), replacing the YJ's leaf springs
Tj Updates 2001:
Minor revisions may include color options, interior trim, and potential powertrain refinements. The 4.0L I6 remained the primary engine.
Production
Production Plant:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Years Tj:
1997-2006
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Offroad Magazine Readers Choice:
Jeep Wrangler (as a model line) has historically been a consistent winner in 'Best 4x4 Vehicle' or 'Most Capable Off-Road' categories in enthusiast magazine reader polls.
Ratings
Kelley Blue Book Value:
The TJ Wrangler is known for its strong resale value, especially well-maintained examples.