Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, off-roaders, DIY mechanics, Jeep owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Key Competitors 2002:
Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Xterra, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Tracker
Iconic Design:
Distinctive 7-slot grille, round headlights, exposed hinges, removable doors and top, solid axles.
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its ruggedness, articulation, and off-road prowess, especially with optional Rubicon trim featuring Dana 44 axles and locking differentials.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Transfer Case, Drivetrain, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Frame, Body Mounts
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Audio, HVAC Controls, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM)
Body:
Interior Trim, Exterior Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Convertible Top
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical component testing parameters
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (42RLE)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (NV3550)
Transfer Case Standard:
Command-Trac NV241 G (2-speed part-time)
Transfer Case Optional Rubicon:
Rock-Trac NV241 OR (2-speed part-time with 4:1 low range ratio)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3-star (for 2002 model year)
Brakes:
Front: Vented Disc; Rear: Disc (standard on most models, rear drums on some base models)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seat belts, lap belts in rear
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (severe service), or 6,000 miles (9,600 km) / 6 months (normal service).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 36 months. Manual: Check periodically, typically inspected with clutch service.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 36 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for original equipment (OE) Champion copper plugs, or sooner for aftermarket replacements.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 API SJ or higher
Engine Oil Capacity:
6 US quarts (5.7 liters) with filter
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Specification MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid Nv3550:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-3/GL-4)
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Specification MS-9602)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Mopar 50/50 mix
Common Wear Items:
Clutch components (manual transmission), U-joints, wheel bearings, exhaust system corrosion, radiator.
Engine Specific:
The 4.0L inline-six is generally robust, but can experience rear main seal leaks and occasional distributorless ignition system (DIS) coil pack failures.
Transfer Case Issues:
Potential for chain stretch or wear in older models, though generally reliable.
Jeep Legacy:
Founded on military utility vehicles, Jeep has a long-standing reputation for off-road capability and ruggedness.
Tj Generation Introduction:
The TJ Wrangler was introduced for the 1997 model year, succeeding the YJ Wrangler. It marked a significant return to coil springs and a more refined, yet still rugged, design.
Tj Updates 2002:
For 2002, key updates included the availability of the 6-speed manual transmission (NSG370) as an option, and minor interior and exterior refinements. The Rubicon trim was introduced in 2003, making the 2002 model a direct predecessor to this iconic off-road package.
Production Period:
1997-2006
Assembly Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA