Market Segment:
Compact SUV, Off-Road Vehicle
Key Competitors:
Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Land Rover Defender (earlier models)
Design Philosophy:
Rugged, trail-capable, open-air experience
Vehicle Identity:
Iconic Jeep capability, solid axles, removable doors and top
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, overhaul for all TJ powertrain options
Transmission:
Service and repair for manual and automatic transmissions
Drivetrain:
Axles, differentials, transfer case, driveshafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering linkage
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), disc and drum brake service
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, battery, charging, ignition systems
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, interior trim, convertible top service
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnosis and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, lines, evaporative emissions control
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan
Exhaust System:
Mufflers, catalytic converter, pipes, hangers
Emissions Control:
EGR, PCV, O2 sensors, evaporative emissions system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common and uncommon faults
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Diagnostics:
Fault code interpretation, component testing, circuit analysis
Installation:
Component replacement and installation guidelines
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, alignments, fluid capacities
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to complete engine rebuilds
Engine Code Common:
4.0L Inline-6 (G/E) - PowerTech
Engine Displacement Primary:
3952 cc (241 cubic inches)
Horsepower Primary:
190 hp @ 4,600 rpm
Torque Primary:
235 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
Engine Code Optional:
2.4L Inline-4 (D) - World Gas Engine
Engine Displacement Optional:
2429 cc (148 cubic inches)
Horsepower Optional:
150 hp @ 5,200 rpm
Torque Optional:
177 lb-ft @ 3,800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (50/50 mixture with distilled water)
Transmission Type Standard:
6-Speed Manual (NV3550)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)
Transfer Case:
Selec-Trac NV242 (Command-Trac NP231 also common)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
NV3550: Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MS-9224) or equivalent, 2.1 liters (2.2 qts)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
42RLE: ATF+4 (MS-9602), 7.2 liters (7.6 qts) total capacity
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3 stars (Class II SUV)
ABS:
Optional on most models, standard on some later TJ's
Traction Control:
Not generally available on 2004 TJ models
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front, two-point rear (lap belts)
Oil Change Interval Severe:
3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months
Oil Change Interval Normal:
5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months (depending on oil used)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement 4.0L:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Champion Copper Plus or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity 4.0L:
5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter (API SG or higher, 10W-30 recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter (API SG or higher, 5W-30 recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters) for 4.0L, 7.7 quarts (7.3 liters) for 2.4L
Common Issues 4.0L:
Oil leaks (rear main seal, valve cover gasket), occasional death wobble (steering/suspension related), exhaust manifold cracks
Common Issues 2.4L:
Oil consumption, head gasket issues in some cases
Common Issues Transmission:
NV3550: Clutch wear, 2WD models may experience rear main seal issues from output shaft. 42RLE: Occasional solenoid issues, torque converter shudder
Common Issues Drivetrain:
U-joint wear, differential seal leaks, transfer case chain stretch
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, track bar issues (leading to death wobble), worn ball joints
Common Issues Electrical:
Cracked wiring harnesses (especially near engine bay), failing instrument cluster components, C101 connector issues
Brand Legacy:
Jeep's long history of off-road vehicle development dating back to WWII
Tj Introduction:
Introduced for the 1997 model year, replacing the YJ Wrangler
Tj Key Innovations:
Return to coil springs for improved ride and articulation, elimination of leaf springs
Tj Updates 2004:
Minor interior revisions, potential for improved NV3550 transmission in later years, optional 17" wheels
Production Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Years Tj:
1997-2006
Off Road Capability:
Consistently recognized for superior off-road performance in its class
Consumer Reports:
Varied ratings depending on year and powertrain, often praised for capability but criticized for reliability and ride comfort
Emissions Certifications:
Meets EPA and CARB standards for model year 2004