Jeep TJ (1997–2006)

The Jeep TJ gave way to the TJ for the 1997 model year (note that there was no 1996 model year; the 1997 Jeep TJ was released in Spring 1996). This updated Wrangler featured a coil-spring suspension (based on that of the Jeep Grand Cherokee) for better ride and handling, and a return to the classic CJ's round headlamps. The engine is the same 4.0 L AMC 242 Straight-6 used in the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. A 2.5 L AMC 150 Inline-4 motor was available on entry-level models until 2003 when the 2.4 L DOHC Neon 4-cylinder engine replaced it.
A right hand drive version of the Jeep TJ was available for export markets, and was also offered for sale to US rural route postal carriers. The version offered to US postal carriers was only available with an automatic transmission.
In 1999 the fuel tank became standard at 19 gallon capacity. There were some changes that occurred between 2002 and 2003 years that have caused some parts difficult to directly swap back and forth and also made it easy to identify certain years. From 1997 to 2002 the side door mirrors were black metal framed mirrors and from 2003 to 2006 they were plastic molded mirrors. The fit of hard and soft tops is slightly different, and the fabric and colors available changed from 2002 to 2003. In 2003 the 3-speed automatic transmission was replaced with a 4 speed automatic with overdrive. It has the standard option of turning off overdrive by dash switch if desired. The radio bezels went from a retangle in 2002 to a rounded edged retangle in 2003 so swapping these required the console to swap as well or be modified.The sound bar inside changed to sound pods. The interior seats also changed design from 2002 to 2003 going from a rounder model to one with a distinct separation beween back and headrest areas. There are other changes as well, too many to list here.