Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)
Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, utility buyers
Key Competitors:
Toyota Tacoma (early versions), Nissan Xterra, Ford Bronco (earlier generations), Suzuki Samurai/Vitara
Unique Selling Proposition:
Renowned off-road capability, solid front axle, classic open-air experience, robust platform
Design:
Iconic Jeep styling, removable doors and top, short wheelbase (typical for Wrangler)
Powertrain:
Proven inline-six engine, robust four-wheel-drive systems
Chassis:
Body-on-frame construction, solid front and rear axles
Engine:
4.0L Power Tech I-6 (TJ Engine Family), 2.5L (optional, less common for 2002 TJ)
Engine Management:
Ignition, Fuel Delivery, Emissions Control, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Transmission:
AX-15 Manual Transmission, NV3550 Manual Transmission, 30/42RLE Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain:
Transfer Case (NP231 Command-Trac), Front Axle (Dana 30), Rear Axle (Dana 35c C-clip, Dana 44 optional)
Suspension:
Front and Rear Multi-Link Solid Axle Suspension (Coil Springs, Shocks, Control Arms, Track Bars)
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Column, Steering Gear
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (optional rear discs), Parking Brake System, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) & Engine Control Module (ECM) related diagnostics
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Fenders, Bumpers, Soft Top/Hardtop Components, Interior Trim
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System
Chassis:
Frame, Body Mounting, Fuel System (Tank, Lines, Pump), Exhaust System
Maintenance:
Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Transmission Fluid, Axle Fluid), Filter Replacements, Inspections, Lubrication Points
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, Symptom-based diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), PCM/ECM data interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, Rebuild procedures for major systems (engine, transmission, axles), Body panel repair, Electrical component repair
Installation:
Accessory installation guidance (often in separate supplements, but core systems covered)
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive schematics for all electrical systems
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Tools:
References OBD-II scanner usage and interpretation of live data
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners and critical components
Clearances:
Specifications for critical component clearances and tolerances (e.g., ring gear backlash, piston-to-wall)
Engine Code:
4.0L Inline-6 (G) - AMC/Chrysler 242 cu in
Engine Type:
Overhead Valve (OHV), Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Cylinder Head
Displacement:
3952 cc (242 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 4,600 rpm
Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
Bore X Stroke:
3.88 in x 3.56 in (98.5 mm x 90.5 mm)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Distributorless Coil Ignition (DCL) on later models, or distributor with coil pack.
Emissions Control:
Catalytic Converter, EGR Valve, Oxygen Sensors
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (NV3550)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (30/42RLE)
Transfer Case:
NP231 Command-Trac (Part-Time 2-Speed Transfer Case)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MS-9224) or equivalent API GL-3/GL-4 SAE 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent
Transfer Case Fluid:
Mopar NV241 Transfer Case Lubricant (MS-9050) or equivalent API GL-5 SAE 75W-90
Wheelbase:
93.4 inches (2372 mm)
Length:
150.0 inches (3810 mm)
Width:
66.5 inches (1689 mm)
Height:
73.0 inches (1854 mm) (with soft top)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.5 inches (216 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3400-3700 lbs (1542-1678 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4950 lbs (2245 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 13.4 cubic feet (379 liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 40.0 cubic feet (1133 liters)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3-star (for 2WD models, 4WD may vary slightly)
IIHS Crash Tests:
Adequate (for front impact in its era)
ABS:
Available (Optional on Rear Drum Brake models, standard on some trims/optional rear disc)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this model year
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, lap belts in rear (or 3-point depending on configuration)
Rollover Protection:
Integral sport bar (roll cage) behind front seats
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., copper, platinum, iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect at 30,000 miles, replace as needed. Automatic: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Axle Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), especially if used for off-roading.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 (preferred for 4.0L) or SAE 5W-30. Consult manual for specifics based on climate.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Common Problems:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.0L), leaks (oil, coolant, transmission), sway bar disconnect issues (if equipped), transfer case chain stretch, rear main seal leaks, death wobble (requires diagnosis and proper alignment/component replacement).
Common Maintenance Items:
Regularly inspect and grease U-joints, control arm bushings, and ball joints.
Brand Legacy:
Jeep brand has a storied history dating back to World War II, known for rugged off-road vehicles.
Tj Introduction:
The TJ Wrangler generation was introduced for the 1997 model year, replacing the YJ.
Tj Distinctive Features:
Return to round headlights, introduction of coil spring suspension, new chassis and body design.
2002 Updates:
Minor interior refinements, potential for powertrain updates (check VIN specific).
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo North Complex, Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Years:
1997-2006