Enthusiasts, off-roaders, DIY mechanics, and professional technicians seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information for the 2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors 2006:
Toyota Tacoma (early 4x4 variants), Nissan Xterra, Ford Bronco (older generations but perceived segment overlap), Suzuki Samurai (historically)
Key Features
Manual Strength:
Manufacturer-written, dealership-level detail, comprehensive coverage of all major systems, extensive illustrations and diagrams, and advanced diagnostic procedures.
Vehicle Selling Points:
Renowned off-road capability, iconic design, relatively simple mechanicals (compared to modern vehicles), robust powertrains, and a strong aftermarket support ecosystem.
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System (Power Steering, Manual Steering), Brakes (Front and Rear, ABS if equipped), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting (Headlamps, Taillamps, Interior), Instruments and Gauges, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks), HVAC Controls, Anti-theft System (if equipped), Airbag System (SRS), Wiper/Washer System
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Checks and Changes, Filter Replacements, Belt Inspections and Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Tire Rotation and Balancing
Repair:
Engine Disassembly and Reassembly, Transmission Overhaul and Replacement, Differential Repair, Axle Service, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Gearbox/Rack and Pinion Service, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, HVAC System Repair, Body Panel Replacement, Interior Trim Removal and Installation
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Retrieval and Interpretation, Component Testing Procedures, Circuit Diagnosis, Fuel System Diagnosis, Ignition System Diagnosis, Emissions System Diagnosis, HVAC System Troubleshooting
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks and adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic strategies used by dealership technicians.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Fully Searchable Text
Bookmarking:
Fully Bookmarked for easy navigation
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable (specific pages or entire manual)
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.4 Liters
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder (DOHC)
Engine 1 Induction:
Naturally Aspirated
Engine 1 Fuel System:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Engine 2 Displacement:
4.0 Liters
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder (OHV, 'Tornado' I6)
Engine 2 Induction:
Naturally Aspirated
Engine 2 Fuel System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Performance
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 147 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 190 hp @ 4600 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Cooling System
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent
Lubrication System
Engine Oil Type 2 4L:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Recommended
Engine Oil Type 4 0L:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 Recommended (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (NSG-370)
Optional
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (42RLE)
Manual Transmission Option:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (NV-3550) - less common for 2006, primarily phased out for NSG-370
Features
Transfer Case Options:
NV-231 Command-Trac (Part-time, 2-speed), NV-241 OR Part-Time (Rock-Trac) with lower gearing for off-road (Rubicon models)
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid Nsg 370:
MB 235.10 / SAE 75W-85 GL-4 Synthetic
Manual Transmission Fluid Nv3550:
NVT G50 / SAE 75W-90 GL-3 or GL-4 Synthetic
Transfer Case Fluid Nv231 Nv241:
Mopar NV231/241 Transfer Case Fluid or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Synthetic Gear Oil
70.4 - 72.3 inches (1788 - 1836 mm), depending on roof and suspension
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,000 - 3,400 lbs (1361 - 1542 kg), depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4,400 lbs (1996 kg)
Towing Capacity:
2,000 lbs (907 kg) (with appropriate equipment)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for 4WD models)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good (for its class and era)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Available on all four wheels for some models/packages.
Traction Control:
Available on some models/packages.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear lap belts (early models) or 3-point rear belts (later models)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium sound system with amplifier and subwoofer. Basic auxiliary input (on some models).
Driver Assistance
Driver Aids:
Limited. Primarily ABS. No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Minimal by modern standards. Some models might have provisions for satellite radio or aftermarket Bluetooth integration.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions - consult manual for specifics)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 6,000 - 8,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (ATF+4, severe use may require more frequent changes)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific transmission)
Transfer Case Fluid Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-5 years
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (or ATF+4 in many cases, consult manual)
Known Issues
Common Issues 4 0L:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially earlier '90s models, less common by 2006 but possible), oil filter housing leaks, rear main seal leaks.
Common Issues 2 4L:
Oil filter housing leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks, timing chain wear (less common than head issues on older engines).
Common Issues Chassis:
Death Wobble (shimmy or violent shake at speed, often related to worn suspension components like track bar, ball joints, tie rod ends), rust (especially frame and rocker panels), wheel bearing wear, exhaust system corrosion.
Common Issues Electrical:
Interior light issues, gauge cluster problems, intermittent wiring faults, issues with the immobilizer system (if equipped).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep's heritage dates back to World War II with the Willys MB, establishing its reputation for ruggedness, off-road capability, and utilitarian design.
Model Evolution
Tj Generation:
The TJ Wrangler (1997-2006) marked a significant departure from its YJ predecessor by reintroducing the iconic round headlights and, crucially, adopting coil spring suspension for all four wheels, enhancing both ride comfort and articulation over rough terrain.
Tj Updates 2006:
The 2006 model year represented the final year of the TJ generation. Minor updates included revised interior trim and potential availability of the NSG-370 6-speed manual, replacing the older NV3550 in many configurations.
Production
Production Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Model Production Years:
1997-2006
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Off Road Accolades:
Consistently praised by off-road publications and enthusiasts for its class-leading off-road capability, particularly Rubicon models.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Variable. The 4.0L engine is generally considered robust, but overall reliability ratings for the TJ can be average due to some known issues and the vehicle's intended use.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.