Segment:
Compact SUV/Off-road Vehicle
Brand Perception:
Iconic off-road capability, ruggedness, and adventure.
Direct Competitors:
Toyota Tacoma (as an off-road pickup), Nissan Xterra, Suzuki Vitara (earlier models), Land Rover Defender (historically).
Design:
Classic Jeep design with removable doors, top, and fold-down windshield for maximum open-air experience.
Off Road Capability:
Solid front and rear axles, high ground clearance, short overhangs, robust 4x4 system (Command-Trac or optional Rock-Trac).
Durability:
Built for rugged use and off-road abuse, known for its robust construction.
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnostics, component testing, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions controls.
Powertrain:
Engine overhaul, clutch, flywheel, torque converter, driveline components (e.g., NV241 transfer case).
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Coil spring suspension, shock absorbers, ball joints, tie rod ends, steering gear, power steering system.
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, wipers, horns, fuses, relays.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, controls.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, convertible top mechanisms.
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (if applicable), and related diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements, tire rotation, spark plug replacement.
Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter motor, water pump, radiator, brake pads and rotors, clutch assembly, universal joints, wheel bearings.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex faults, using symptom-based guides.
Rebuilding Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds.
Electrical Repairs:
Wiring harness repair, component testing, circuit diagnosis.
Alignment And Balancing:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic strategies and wiring schematics.
Transmission Type:
Manual
Manual Transmission Model:
AX-15 (early TJ, phased out for NSG 370)
Manual Transmission Model 2004:
NSG 370 (6-speed)
Transmission Type:
Automatic
Automatic Transmission Model:
42RLE (4-speed automatic)
Transfer Case:
NV241 GII Command-Trac (standard), NV241 OR Rock-Trac (optional on Rubicon)
Transfer Case Gear Ratios:
Command-Trac: 2.72:1 low range; Rock-Trac: 4.0:1 low range
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar Material Standard MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-3/GL-4)
Transfer Case Fluid:
Mopar NV241 Transfer Case Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-3/GL-4)
Wheelbase:
93.4 inches (2372 mm)
Length:
151.4 inches (3845 mm)
Width:
66.5 inches (1689 mm)
Height:
72.6 inches (1844 mm) (with hardtop)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.5 inches (216 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4,400 lbs (1996 kg)
Max Towing Capacity:
2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Max Tongue Weight:
200 lbs (91 kg)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (typical for its class and era, specific 2004 rating may vary slightly)
ABS:
Standard on all 4x4 models for 2004 (Front disc, Rear disc).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear seat belts (lap belts).
Frame Construction:
Body-on-frame construction for durability and off-road resilience.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (4,800-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for the 4.0L engine with platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 (preferred for the 4.0L engine under most conditions, consult owner's manual for variations).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter change.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4
Common Wear Items:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings (due to off-road use and suspension design).
Engine Issues:
Oil filter adapter housing leaks (common on 4.0L), CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure.
Transmission Issues:
Clutch wear on manual transmissions, potential for 42RLE automatic transmission issues if not maintained.
Electrical Issues:
Ground strap issues, window regulator failures, common Jeep electrical gremlins if not properly maintained.
Rust Corrosion:
Frame rust, especially in regions with road salt, and body panel rust (wheel wells, rocker panels).
Brand Origin:
Jeep has a long history dating back to World War II military vehicles, known for ruggedness and off-road prowess.
Tj Generation Start:
The TJ generation replaced the YJ in 1996 for the 1997 model year.
Tj Key Changes:
Key differentiator from YJ was the return to coil springs (from leaf springs) for improved ride and articulation. Introduction of the 4.0L inline-6 as the primary engine.
Tj 2004 Updates:
For 2004, the TJ received minor updates, including the availability of the 6-speed NSG 370 manual transmission, replacing the older AX-15. Minor interior and exterior trim refinements.
Production Period:
1997-2006
Assembly Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA