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Jeep Wrangler TJ (2nd Generation)

1997–2006 · TJ · suv

The TJ (1997-2006) brought back round headlights and is the generation most enthusiasts call the sweet spot of the Wrangler lineage. Coil springs at all four corners replaced the YJ's leafs, which gave the TJ real on-road manners without giving up trail capability. Engines were the 2.5L AMC four (1997-2002), the 2.4L PowerTech four (2003-2006), and the legendary 4.0L PowerTech inline-six. The longer-wheelbase LJ Unlimited arrived for 2004. Body-on-frame, solid axles front and rear.

Watch out: Death wobble: violent front-end shimmy triggered at highway speed by a bump or expansion joint. Caused by worn track bar bushings, ball joints, steering damper, or tie-rod ends; lifted TJs are especially prone. Diagnose the front end as a system, not by replacing one part. The 4.0L 0331-casting cylinder head used on roughly 2000-2003 builds is also known to develop cracks between the exhaust valve seats; have a leak-down test done before buying.