🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Wrangler

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

TJ

Generation Code:

TJ

Generation Years:

1997-2006

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), Off-Road Vehicle

Jeep Heritage:

Continues Jeep's legacy of rugged, go-anywhere capability and iconic design.

Primary Competitors:

Toyota Tacoma (when configured for off-road), Ford Bronco (older models), Land Rover Defender (older models), Suzuki Samurai.

Design Philosophy:

Body-on-frame construction, solid axles front and rear, removable doors and top, extreme off-road capability.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical data for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the 2003 Jeep Wrangler TJ, enabling cost-effective ownership and maximizing its off-road potential.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Instant Download)

Completeness Claim:

100% Complete, No Missing/Corrupt Pages/Sections

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, diagnosis, troubleshooting, repair procedures for all engine variants.

Engine Management:

Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control systems, sensors, actuators, ECM/PCM diagnosis and programming.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission removal, installation, overhaul, diagnosis, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Transfer case operation, servicing, and repair; front and rear axle assemblies, differentials, driveshafts, and U-joints.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, springs, shocks, control arms, steering knuckles, bushings, and alignment procedures.

Steering:

Steering column, steering gear, power steering system diagnosis and repair, tie rods, and drag links.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic components, ABS system (if equipped), bleeding procedures, and rotor/pad replacement.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, accessory circuits, wiring diagrams, and component testing.

Body And Chassis:

Frame diagnosis and repair, body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, and convertible top servicing.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, and component replacement.

Restraints:

Airbag system diagnosis and replacement procedures, seat belts.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed maintenance schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and component inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Comprehensive diagnostic charts and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, rebuilding, and adjustment.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Techniques for diagnosing electrical, mechanical, and system faults using test equipment and visual inspection.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values for all components.

Depth Level:

Expert-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and serious DIY enthusiasts.

Content Scope:

Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

Document Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for in-shop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams.

Diagrams Clarity:

Clear, easy-to-understand illustrations and schematics.

Binding Method:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

NV3550 (5-Speed Manual), 42RLE (4-Speed Automatic)

Engine Type:

Inline 6-Cylinder, Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Displacement:

4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.88 in x 3.57 in (98.5 mm x 90.5 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.7:1

Horsepower Net @ Rpm:

190 hp @ 4,600 RPM

Torque Net @ Rpm:

235 lb-ft @ 3,200 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic MPI

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular (87 Octane Recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

15.0 Gallons (57 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

NV3550 5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

42RLE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transfer Case:

NV241OR (2.72:1 Low Range Ratio)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate

Manual Transmission Fluid:

NV3550: Chrysler MS-9224 (or equivalent spec, often GL-3/GL-4 rated)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

42RLE: ATF+4 (Chrysler MS-9602)

Transfer Case Fluid:

NV241OR: NVG 241 Spec (often NV230 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

93.4 inches (2372 mm)

Overall Length:

150.5 inches (3823 mm)

Overall Width:

66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Overall Height:

70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Ground Clearance Front Axle:

10.2 inches (259 mm)

Approach Angle:

43.4 degrees

Departure Angle:

37.2 degrees

Breakover Angle:

22.3 degrees

Passenger Volume:

56.7 cu. ft. (1605 L)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

13.4 cu. ft. (379 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

45.2 cu. ft. (1280 L)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,300 - 3,450 lbs (1497 - 1565 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4,600 lbs (2087 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3-star (may vary by configuration)

Brake System:

Front ventilated discs, Rear solid discs or drums (depending on configuration). ABS available.

Traction Control:

Optional

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Infinity sound system with amplifier and subwoofer. Cassette player also available.

Dashboard Layout:

Functional and utilitarian, focused on off-road usability with clear gauge readouts.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Cruise Control:

Optional

Connectivity Options:

Limited by the era; primarily for audio inputs. No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil type).

Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace with every oil change. Common part number: Mopar 04540031AA (or equivalent).

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Common part number: Mopar 53007376 (or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Inspect at 30,000 miles, change as needed. Automatic: 42RLE: Every 60,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific conditions).

Transfer Case Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-30 (API SG, SH, SJ, or higher rating)

Coolant:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Blue) 5/150, or equivalent HOAT coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Common Problems:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (due to heat cycles and stress), NP241OR transfer case chain stretch/wear, typical rust issues on body and frame, sway bar disconnect issues (on Rubicon models), radiator leaks, minor oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan.

Troubleshooting Focus Areas:

Diagnosis of P0420 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold) often points to cracked exhaust manifolds or O2 sensor issues. Proper diagnosis of the 42RLE automatic transmission is critical due to its known slip issues under heavy load.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Rooted in military utility vehicles, Jeep has a long history of producing highly capable off-road vehicles.

Tj Introduction:

The TJ generation replaced the YJ Wrangler and marked a significant return to Jeep's heritage with the reintroduction of coil springs and the elimination of the leaf springs.

Tj Key Changes For 2003:

Minor updates, typically focusing on interior refinements, optional equipment, and potential powertrain tweaks. The 4.0L inline-6 remained the primary engine.

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Production Years:

1997-2006

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Capability:

Consistently praised by automotive media and off-road enthusiasts for its exceptional off-road prowess, particularly the Rubicon trim.