1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler BUYERS GUIDE!

[@hectormerc350]

Every man at some point in his life has wanted a jeep. And some of us who’ve owned one ca man still smile when remembering that feeling of driving it.

[@BrianVonClick]

Wow. One of, if not the BEST, purely informative TJ videos online. It’s so incredibly refreshing that you’re so well spoken, clear, and honest. True vehicular enthusiasm. No BS, merch drop preludes, or cringe-inducing background music! Ahh. This was great. *So many “influencers” really give whatever they’re keen on a bad wrap because it comes across as “I’m here to help you buy into a culture like I did! Beg your bank for the largest loan you can get or refinance your house so you can get a 392 Rubicon, or a Raptor Bronco, like I’ve got in my spotless garage, and strap GoPro’s on it and some kitschy stickers and document how awesome your life is!” Just no. Grass Roots man. Much props.

[@MorFabIndustries]

Thanks man I appreciate the kind words!!

[@BrianVonClick]

You’re most welcome. Say, I wondered if you might weigh in on a subject I don’t think I’ve run across (maybe ever) concerning “classic” era Jeeps with 4.0’s. So, I’ve got a 1991 XJ Briarwood with a remanufactured/built 4.0 that’s being a real problem child in the realms of electronics and ignition. The entire harness and ect is being sorted out, but after all this time, my mechanic and I are in agreement to throw on a good carburetor as our Hail Mary pass to squelch some of our woes and in hopes to simplify things in terms of reliability. Any thoughts or suggestions on the matter?

[@BrianVonClick]

Mechanic Feedback (ex Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge Master Mechanic for 25+ years): “I’m having issues finding out why it has an ignition spark problem. It reads the crank sensor and it reads the cam sensor when I have the scan tool hooked up. It goes from zero RPM while I’m cranking it, will stay at zero, and then it will jump 200 RPM, and then go back to zero for a little bit, and then 100 RPM, and then back to zero. It’s possible it has the wrong flex plate on it or it got installed incorrectly or something to do with the cam sensor or the wiring.” **The new engine was installed at another shop, and couldn’t finish it (get it to fire) and this is where we are.

[@rolenrodes1371]

I've owned over 6 Jeeps and this is one of the Best Jeep Video's I've seen. So spot on....Love my Jeep.

[@timplessinger3670]

What I love about my jeep is that I can work on it myself! What I hate about my Jeep is that I have to! 😂

[@donrunnels3100]

I have had my 2000 Sahara for 23 years.. 243,000 miles.. original drive train, never lifted, Automatic. Love it… my favorite car. Remember it’s a Jeep!!

[@Sebcrab-ml1cu]

So what kind of shape is your frame in?

[@tomowens1111]

I bought a 2006 in 2020 for 15000 it’s in very good condition with no rot anywhere. It all depends on where you live an where you buy the Jeep from I live in Arizona and bought mine in Mesa an am very happy with it

[@TheNaturalust]

I totally don't understand the problem with synthetic oil. Doesn't it retain viscosity longer! I mean wtf?

[@LarryMaccc]

I think it’s because it’s so thin…

[@gofasters1]

I have 2004 TJ 4 cylinder automatic all stock except 31" tires and love it. I live in a dry climate and don't have any rust issues and it's been garaged all it's life. Thx for the video

[@johnlamont9026]

You might be right about the sloppy late model castings, but, have to politely disagree regarding the use of synthetics. I bought my 1994 4.0 jeep xj new in November of 1993, after proper break in with mineral oils it has been on a steady diet of factory filters with Mobil 1 and Amsoil. It currently has 424,000 miles without touching the bottom end

[@markiskool]

I picked up on his synthetic oil comments, too. I also noticed you mentioned Amzoil, which I run in my 2012 roadking. Are you recommending Amzoil for the 03 inline 6?

[@cinnreds18]

yea i have never (until today) heard of engine damage caused by synthetic oils lol

[@Jake-pq3iz]

Been running Mobile 1 and Amsoil synthetic in my 2004 TJ for twenty years. I changed to Mobile 1 at 800 miles…a few years later I changed to Amsoil. Sold it. Next owner ran extended oil Mobile 1 for 13 years and only put 17k miles on it. No issues at 73k.

[@rickreese5794]

Bingo PAL 😊

[@Koda18]

As a tech and shop owner I can say with confidence he is wrong. Film strength is not less with synthetic oil. 5w30 is also virtually the same viscosity hot as a 10w30. That being said used oil analysis shows 10w30 does work better in the 4.0. but it has nothing to do with being synthetic or conventional

[@danielm593]

Bought my TJ new in ‘99… still driving it! “If it doesn’t creak, squeak, or leak… then it isn’t a Jeep!” Damn I love that bucket 🤙

[@craig9802]

I really appreciate this video. I bought my '04 two years ago in KY (from a family member), and drove it home to CO. Quite the adventure, with the rear diff. screaming the whole way. Several $$$ in, with a lot of new parts along the way, I'm getting comfortable with doing my own work and knowing where everything is. I've put 20 k miles on it in 2 years, and I trust it more than most vehicles I've owned, but I also know I need a second vehicle to use whenever I have to take the TJ off the road for a few days when I need to work on it. Still glad I have it, and spending time and money on it is better than other hobbies for me.

[@KenSiefert]

I did drive my ‘99 TJ round trip to California…5k mile round trip. It became, and still is, my personal Time Machine.

[@markjames9205]

I’ve been running 10w 30 full synthetic oil for the last decade on my 04 4ltr. No problems.

[@MilitaryMobility]

Same here, we have an 04' since new running synthetic with almost 170k miles on it. Always been perfect. We also have 05 and 06 LJ's with almost 200k that are perfect too, zero issues.

[@yamhammer]

It was not the block casting that caused the piston slap it was an undersized piston. I would get my facts correct before putting this out there. Just a tip to not make the creator look stupid

[@JohnnyDouchbag-nr5yf]

Yeah...don't know what he's talking about

[@zanewilliams1905]

Have had an 01 sport since new. You are 100% correct on everything you said about them. Best and worst vehicle you can own. Wouldn't trade it for anything, although I don't drive it every day any more. Your videos have been helping me this month with some overdue maintenance. I try to do it all myself. Thanks for posting.

[@joyw.3999]

I’ve had my ‘98 23 of her 25 yrs. I love it. My sister whines - it’s so bumpy. It’s a Jeep. Run only Castrol oil in it . Not planning to get rid of her for a Loooong time

[@tomralls2766]

Got our 01 TJ in 02, 200,000+ miles. Ben to Canada and the gulf coast, Leadville , Co all over the Black Hills and Wyoming. Never let us down. Regular maintenance and use. Love this Jeep.

[@vingooch]

Thanks so much. This video made me lose my itch to buy a jeep.

[@Nigriff]

Same, so I bought a Nissan Xterra Pro 4X 😂

[@Sebcrab-ml1cu]

​@@Nigriffsorry but I'd take a rusty Ole jeep over that 😂

[@jaysmith6013]

Finally shopping for my first wrangler. It will just be a fun side project, not a daily driver. This video was tremendously helpful

[@featheredcoyote5477]

My 2.5l is not useless. Cheaper than a side by side, have a plow on it, and runs up and down the road wonderfully. Happy to have my 2001 2.5.

[@MrRainrunner]

Same here! It runs great!

[@TheRedStateBlue]

my 2.5 goes places JKU Rubicons can't. anyone who says the 4.0 is better to have than the 2.5 is a complete idiot that doesn't know shit about shit. all the 4.0 gets you is more highway speed, which us 2.5l drivers don't give a shit about. the 2.5 is far superior to the 4.0 offroad.

[@nwmetalbug]

Yep me too.

[@timpenny5749]

Mine too .. with plow

[@ryderhook7438]

I have a 2.5 too, here in Taiwan. It has 150k on the clock. As it is from 1997 with automatic, I have no problems with the engine at all and no rust. Underbody coating was not applied. I do just some offroading with rivercrossings…..no problems

[@civicisaye1]

Rescued mine from a salvage yard for $1200. Solid frame, 250k miles. Valvetrain noise but no engine lights. Needs some love but got it at such a good price.

[@midnightboymc]

Hey man I dig this video thanks a million.!!!! SoCal/'00/2.5l/5 speed manual/ you gave me back that fire from buying it in the first place. I've been so stressed out with little things about my TJ but now thanks to you I feel proud of my cool crappy little Jeep lol... This is on point.💯💯💯✌🏼👍🏼🤙🏼🎯

[@jeremy8715]

I had to cut mine out and welding in new sheetmetal. What I did was, primer + paint, seam-sealed all welded butt-joints, paint, and Surface Shield on top. For the torq boxes, I cut out the bad part, seam-sealed all the joint on the new one, painted any scratches + the seam-sealed area, painted the butt-welds, and Surface Shield the on top of all that. 16:45 - 19:35 The best thing I did was to no longer drive it in Maine winters.

[@gregsousa7382]

This video really stands out as a source of some really great information. I especially appreciate the comments near the end of the video, confirming what I've felt about my TJ, but couldn't quite articulate: "cool, crappy vehicles" (also, my dog loves the Jeep, so there's that).

[@Kahoro1]

Man. You are he most familiar person with these vehicle you answer almost everything on a single video. Including also experience of owning driving and psychological part of it. Just traded one which requires I was almost hating the experience but you precisely described if and now I love it.

[@natesteiner5460]

I have 284,000 miles on the 4.0L in my 05 Rubicon. I have run synthetic the whole life of the vehicle (Rotella T6 5w40). I have never heard piston slap on startup. An occasional lifter is slow to pump up, but no worse than on any other American engine with some miles.

[@onemanarmy1980]

That's because of the zinc.....tractor motor craves zinc

[@connor3288]

Have had 3 2004 4.0 jeeps, still have 04 rubi. All 3 have had piston slap when cold, no big deal I just don't beat on a cold engine. 240k miles😎

[@Mike_E_44]

I have to agree with ALMOST everything you said about the TJ. I bought a 99 a year ago with a 2.5. Has 150,000 miles on it. I have never driven one with the 4.0 until recently. Now I wish I did have a bigger motor but this thing runs like a champ! I have 33s and has not been regeared. I have no problem with that untill I go on mountain highways. I will more than likely regear it but it is still the most fun vehicle I've ever driven. I have a very well built JK that I am selling D60s and 40s and I honestly like my little 4 banger TJ better. It is everything you said it is but I wouldn't "walk away" from the 2.5L just know what you are getting. Great video!!

[@TheArtOfCool]

I just bought my first 2000 jeep TJ 2.5 and it has 33’s. Was thinking of going down to 31’s. Wandering all over the place and feels like it’s getting pushed by wind all over the place. Are you taking yours on the freeway?

[@Mike_E_44]

@@TheArtOfCool I do but the speed limit is 70 here and I keep it around 60-65 in the right lane.

[@2times2is4]

Fantastic video. I have a 2003 and have replaced part of the frame. 194000 miles 😮and runs smoothly. Rides exactly as you said. Love it anyway.

[@reedcarpenter2994]

A little confused with him saying the 2.5L. That engine has been around longer than the 4.0. Most YJ have this engine. The 4.0 was designed from the 2.5L they share the exact same qualities. They are both inline. One is 4 cylinder and one is 6 and there is not a much difference in power. For sure not any difference with off roading. I think people talk about this without knowing the similarities and the history of the 2.5. The army Jeep’s would have loved that 2.5 lol.

[@Mike_E_44]

@@reedcarpenter2994 The inline 4 helped win the second world war. I Love mine!!

[@tripleseven8361]

This was a really excellent review… Thank you! I had a brand new 1986 Jeep CJ-7 Renegade, which I drove for 11 years until it was stolen… I’ve had my ‘06 TJ since new as well… In spite of living in eastern Canada, where they like to put copious amounts of salt on the roads, the annual rust treatments, have kept 98% of the problems at bay! (FYI, I’ve never experienced any of the idiosyncratic problems, driving this vehicle) I did appreciate the comment about synthetic oil… I’ve always used conventional oil, but the last oil change was done at the Jeep dealership, and they insisted on using synthetic… I haven’t run too many miles on it, so it shouldn’t be a problem, but I will definitely swap the oil out with conventional as soon as possible…)

[@texmtnbiker]

I’ve owned various Jeeps for 30 years, currently have a 2004 Rubicon and 1984 CJ7. This is the tough love info every Jeep owner and potential owners need to hear. Thanks for throwing in….”BUT, they are awesome!” I might spend all morning fixing it, but that early evening drive with top down and doors off, I go from hating her in the morning to loving that wonderfully awful bucket of bolts.

[@Sebcrab-ml1cu]

Not unlike any other marriage 😂

[@billmillmine3106]

Great video, so much information for a first time buyer. Getting on for my 16 year old son.

[@GoMcGregorGo]

Great video! Just bought a 2002 Sport with 125k miles and had to replace plenty of suspension parts, but drive train is great and no leaks. Thank you for all the great intel!!

[@kleetus88]

very very smart commentary. This video justifies my subscription to your channel and the money I send to YT every month for no ads. Thank you very much. With as much enthusiasm there is for Jeeps, these videos get made, but the same principles apply to any car really.

[@m13monroy]

Amazing i just find your channel by mistake. but Waoo i wish i seen this video before so much true real information great video man . i own a TJ 2001 i done lots of frame repairs new axels new suspension. metalcloak fender gmae changer . well i have invested and learn . but see in you a new jeep owner will learn so much from this. i learn the hard way. thanks for video great for jeep community 👍🏻 .. you are the doctor of Jeeps a genius 😎

[@goodtalker]

I had an 05 Rubi with an auto transmission. It was 8 years old when I bought it and had only one previous owner. A few years after I bought it I began having problems with the module that rules the transmission and engine. The dealer worked on it for sometime but told me replacement computers were very difficult to come by. I finally traded it in on a Tacoma...best truck I have ever had.

[@Sebcrab-ml1cu]

Bro this is a jeep channel cmon 😂

[@jkgkjgkijk]

I weld. I bought a jeep with all these issues. Plenty of cheap frame kits online. Two years of weekends that had no rain or I was not busy doing something else. The repairs are dirty, difficult and daisy chain into multiple new found issues. I'm talking rusted brake lines and captured body mounts. Gas tank skid plate that only goes in one way. Fuel hoses that only go in one way. Rusted fuel filter, etc. Like building a vehicle from scratch.

[@stephenhajovsky3971]

Thanks for taking the time to make that video! Great information! Explaining and showing where to look is extremely helpful (or will be).

[@dennisbo5004]

One of the common issues with the 05 / 06 TJ LJ is the PCM. Mercedes redesigned the PCM which is vulnerable to the engine heat. Causes hard shifting to 2nd, dash lights blink, goes into limp mode and triggers the check engine light with false codes.

[@michelsolounias1447]

Is there a way to shield it from the heat?

[@dg98adams]

Omg! As the 4th Jeep I’ve bought I knew several of the things to look for but learned a few more from the video… the latest purchase is an 01 TJ same yellow with the “rust hiders”. But frame has been repaired center & rear. Front looks good for now.

[@jamiefarnsworth5584]

I own a TJ that i have to do the safety caps on. I love that you do these videos i hope to see more and more!!

[@xiangfu8743]

Thanks for sharing the knowledge! I’m thinking about purchasing a wrangler, this video is really helpful!

[@wwiegersma]

Hi, I bought a TJ Sahara from 2000 on copart in 2021 the rear axle was bent and some frame parts were rotten. during Covid (needed something to do) Shipped it over to the Netherlands and started taking it all apart. Some parts off the frame were rotten mostly the center part. I took all the rust parts off and replaced it with new steel. It was really nice to do all off this. Also fixed a lot off the engine it has 211000 miles on it but now it runs beautifull again. Thanks for your clear explanation.

[@jeffallan3761]

I bought my 4th TJ, over 3 years ago. A 2004, Rubicon with 31K miles on it. They don't have electric lockers, like said here. Not a single issue, leak etc.. no OPDA issues like 05-06... was well taken care of. My prior 3 TJs were purchased new, but this used one is nicest. Love TJs!

[@brianraymer5542]

Mine does

[@LAGuitarnetwork]

My dad has a ‘98 2.5 4 cylinder, it’s never had engine work done to it and has 185,000 on it. It’s been his daily since 2006 with basic maintenance. Now road tripping it 600 miles to Yosemite was a little taxing 😂

[@ericbauer4897]

Got an '03 Rubicon (purchased 10/02) in really good condition, 175k miles, wheeled but not too hard, and most of the receipts. Original owner. 😁

[@scottjgillishere]

Nice video… i have a 98 wrangler in bama,no rust with 221,000 miles .. 4.0 with a 3 speed automatic.. it runs great i absolutely love it.. also 3 in lift running 33x12.5 tires..

[@DavidBraasch]

How is the 3spd auto? Looking at getting a 98 auto for the wife. Worried about the gearing/lack thereof.

[@jplumb5591]

Great video. I’m looking at a 1998 2.5 with 120k on it today. In the north east area. Wish me luck 😎

[@Jake-pq3iz]

Synthetic oil changes at normal intervals is perfectly fine on a low mileage 2004 TJ. Everybody used synthetic oil in their TJs when I bought mine new. Mobile 1.

[@Lafly84]

Had an AX15 97 sport for 10 years - 3rd owner. Frame and body mounts finally rusted out and I had to put her down. Was driving tractor trailer at the time, so used spare Rotella T6 in it, and the 300k+ 4.0 ran like a freaking top. Miss it every day - driving a 2003 Yukon now lol.

[@slav1north764]

I have a 1997 with the 2.5 and the 5 speed. 70 k on it. kept inside and it's extremely clean example. It ducks on the highway but it's an awesome michigan two tracker . They are out there.

[@nwmetalbug]

Agree with most of what you said but the part about the 2.5L. I have a 97 2.5 with 33s 2 1/5 lift and its a great driving rig. Not great on the highway but I have a Vette for that purpose.

[@KarlVogue92]

Wow, I’m in the middle of buying a 2000 TJ. It only has 40k miles on it. This video is incredible!

[@p47rr]

Drilled drain holes in the frame years ago. Never drove it in the winter. Brought it with us when we moved south. It’s staying in the family. Ours is a 2006 Sport with 94,000 miles. Changed the rear main, valve cover gasket, pion seals and resealed the differential covers.

[@mrgiron53052]

I had a 2005 grand Cherokee. I loved that jeep.it had a 5.7 L V 8. I only had it a few months, but it was so fun to drive. I bought it from a mechanic shop up the street BE Smart Napa Repair shop. Stay away from them. The engine let go. I would love another one. I am looking.

[@michellegloe1201]

I have a 2001 TJ with the half doors. It sits way too much in the garage now. It's become a mouse house and i need to get the things out of there. I'm glad i found this video so i know what to look for and fix before i sell it. Ive owned it 20 years and was a daily driver for many years. 189000 miles.

[@JEEPDadXJ]

I'm on my 2nd 2000 TJ SPORT. Both have been 5spd manual, 4.0L, current one just crossed 190k on it. I will say that it seems alot of people focus on RUBICONS but overlook the SPORT editions.

[@aarongerman7857]

fantastic real life break down of how to purchase a TJ

[@markwybierala4936]

Thank you. I’m heading out tomorrow to look at a 2002 that’s for sale for a really good price. I needed to know where to look.

[@ArmyMomMarineDaughter]

Great video!!! I’m going to look at a green ‘97 TJ tomorrow! It’s a manual too! I’m excited!! Hopefully nobody else it’s it before I get there!!

[@BlackTopBoondocker]

Great Video Justin. I will be doing a few Jeep videos soon to show off your skills. You can always tell if a repair is quality by inspecting the welds and my welds look great!!!. Rust will not go away on its own it only gets worse with time so do it now and Justin at MorFab is your man to get it done the right way.

[@IslandUncharted]

Awesome video, thinking of buying one... thanks for all the well presented info!

[@offrodnolefmr7445]

Perfect video from a very reliable Jeep owner. I have had my 05 TJ since 05. It had 13k on it when I bought it and I’ve had all the mods done on it, but I haven’t abused it. It has 226,000 on it and I’m replacing the engine with a Golen 4.6 stroker. I kept having head gasket issues and now have it again so instead of having the head resurfaced…again, I decided to replace the engine. I would like to know your opinion on the stroker engines especially Golen. I don’t get the engine for another 2 months, so there’s still time.

[@WilliamVG]

I picked a nice triple lens endoscope and decided to check out my 2019 Jeep Wrangler which i picked up recently and guess what? Inside the frame is starting to rust, mostly at all the welds where the 2 seams are joined, and on the bottom surface. Previous owner didn't take the preventive steps or clean the dirt out but it's not too bad. Plan on pressure washing the inside with a high pressure 360 degree wand , then spray it with B'Laster Surface Shield.

[@ZoneTelevision]

The TJ is the last real Jeep. I’m sick and tired of the underserved hate the YJ gets. It’s completely unfair. I happen to like the square lights. It’s like their from an alternate timeline in history.

[@jerryhoward7910]

Totally agree. I have a 91 and a 95. Love them. Both have 4.0 6 cyl. No better vehicles. Got an 05 same engine thats right there with them. Love em all. Got an 81 wagoneer too. Wifey has 2 jeeps too!

[@Shultzchet]

Often times in highschool and during my summers between college I would drive a 1980 cj7. A little chilly in the middle of winter, but it didn't bother me for a 5 minute ride to school. Amazing for the summer. Only problem with it is the carburetor, fuel seems to escape when it's hot outside (also on those hot days the engine diesels a little bit after you take the key out) and then it doesn't start back up when you go to start it next and I've gotten stuck in town a few times because of that. I still have the truck I drive for college and it's a good reliable, and well driving vehicle. But I moved across the country for work with few items, and now I need a vehicle, I could have mine sent, but I had been thinking about a jeep tj for a while as an offroad toy, but now I see this as an opportunity to buy one to use for the next few years as a reliable vehicle, as well as a fun toy. Probably gonna keep it as an offroad toy even after I get my truck back. For me I think older Jeeps, or older vehicles in general, are great, because creature comforts are great and all but they aren't fun to drive, my parents have a fairly new Subaru Forrester with all the radio stuff, leather seats, backup cam, lane keep, vision and other collision sensors, adaptive cruise control, it's great and a nice vehicle, but I don't like the drive it. I want to get a nice jeep tj with a manual trans and no cameras or sensors, but also no blindspots because they didn't put small windows in the rear.

[@DDdeljeeper]

Spot on assessment. I have an 04 LJ. Bought used in 2021. They are a great second vehicle. I would not want to daily. Did that for 9 years with a 95 YJ I bought in 99. You are a little harsh on the YJ though lol. Although it did ride like a stagecoach with the leaf springs.

[@jaysmith6013]

Are dealers or owners going to allow you start stabbing all over the undercarriage with a screwdriver as part of a pre-purchase inspection?

[@orionoutdoorsandworkshop5617]

check those spring perches.

[@ostekuste3646]

I have a 2000 Sahara owned since new, daily driver. I treated it early on with a spray in oil film (Fluidfilm) in all the frame rails and crossmembers. Every few years I’ve redone it. If you put a scope anywhere in my frame it still looks like new metal. I also have painted the undercarriage as best I can every few years, taking the skid off and painting it. All body bolts and most anything else I can remove I anti seize any time I am doing spring cleaning. I live in eastern Tn and daily drive it, no top six months of the year. You have to be nuts to like these things but I’d not drive anything else.

[@jameswellssc]

Ive had an 03 and now owned an 06 for several years. Even when the heater core literally exploded behind the dash it wasn’t all that difficult to fix it myself. I also don’t run sway bars at all, once you’re used to it, I’d describe it as balancing on a top at 55mph.

[@shilergelin7855]

Thanks for your input I am looking a 2000 jeep wrangler last time it was registered 2010 same one you have on this video and I heard I am looking a little harder in the frame

[@SimonParr-qu1on]

Absolutely brilliant video, please make many more 😂

[@washburnb1]

This is the best Jeep info I have ever seen.. And very well done.

[@Jake-pq3iz]

I could have sworn I was told the 2004 TJ shipped with Mobile 1 synthetic. That was oil of choice back in the day.

[@Charles-f9j]

Have an 01. Spent a whole summer welding the spots u missed around the steering box the spot is beside the fuel tank inside frame unless u take the tank out. Evev welded up the trans pan and the front cross pc behind the bumper

[@1fsttoy]

Interesting what you said about the low mileage. I have a 2005 that I’ve owned since 2007 and it has 62800 miles on it. Runs great but starting to leak oil from the rear main seal and other minor issues.

[@Jake-pq3iz]

They all leak via RMS at some point. Mine did a few years after I bought it new and never replaced it again after that. Used Amsoil. Mine was fixed for free under a TSB.

[@ScottPlude]

Thanks!

[@MorFabIndustries]

Thank you!!!

[@connor3288]

In my experiance owning 2 2004 wranglers, both 4.0 nv3550 5spd d44 rear (one sport sold and one rubicon still have), both over 200k in new england. Sport had cyl 5 injector driver fail inside ecm. Vacuum leaks can be an issue and sometimes hard to find. The coil spring and trackbar perches on the axle housings can rust/rot out. The frames rot out from the inside, can be so bad the control arm mounts can break off. Same with steering box area. The trans crossmember bolts can get so rotted that they fail or rivnuts spin when bolts need removal. the body rots as well especially in the hollow tub channel inside and below the bottom edge of door sill. This can spread to roll bar attachment area and floorpan, especially behind front seats. Throw out bearings seem to not last as long as they should on these. The control arm ends can get dangerously rusty and be safety concern, requiring replacement. For some reason the passenger side seatbelt tensioner seems to fail to work properly(where it should lock almost right away when you tug it fast). The nv3550 syncros may be more prome to wearing out than an ax15 or nsg370, hard to say since i bought both jeeps with over 200k, but i have driven ax15 and nsg370 and they shifted way nicer. You can still get rebuilt ax15's, nv3550 has little parts available to my knowledge but you can swap to ax15. Nsg370 idk but is in jk so parts should be available. I drove an nsg370 that had the grind/trouble when trying to get into reverse, some 2005/2006 i believe had recall for that. had a ps steering pump bearing go bad and now have steering gearbox leak. I would only buy a 4.0 d44 rear end TJ that has not been lifted and has a solid frame and body. You really need to oil undercoat these inside the frame and out. Im at the point where I'm probably gonna buy a newer JK for a daily driver. They have more power and mpg, quieter, less rust issues, more safe, cruise control, and 4 door option. Never seen a rotted out Jk frame. Engines need more repairs though. I love my TJ but these jeeps are 20yrs old now and less dependable daily drivers as a result

[@chrisplace3024]

Welcome back

[@queensapphire7717]

I looked at a 2006 with 54k miles, the frame had that rubber coating on it, I walked away, ended up buying a 2010 Rubicon with 58k miles, spotless, no rust, so far only issue was a frozen lug nut and the EGR valve, which was a simple fix I did myself.

[@thomasmcgovern2431]

Glad to see you Justin,very pleased that you are being honest with the masses,and my restoration is coming along,our weatherhete in Michigan is just like north east,Heinz 57 each day. Glad you have Been busy,keep it coming !!!!

[@JackAustin-hf4ek]

I have had thousands of dollars of electronic troubles with my 2005 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Sahara Unlimited 1 of 1000....Otherwise a great machine with only 98,000 miles...At 6000 miles synthetic oil caused a leak at the rear main seal....I went to 10-30....I had the seal replaced....But I still have a leak....Have a blessed day....

[@zxborg9681]

Solid video! Spot on advice, best and worst at the same time :-)

[@nathanmortenson914]

I got a 95 S10 with 56k mile the transmission went out 2 years ago. The trans shop said it looked like it had 150k miles on it. It's not necessarily the mileage and the wear and tear,but the actual age parts get brittle over time whether they're used or not.

[@hectormerc350]

My last tj was breaking apart from all those parts in the frame

[@pirateatfourty]

about 10 years ago i bought a 99 jeep wrangler, paid 4500 for it,, was super nice, it had that lil 6 cycl in it with a/c being a old hotrodder i decided to put a small black chevy in it lol well im glad it had a automatic in it, so i ordered a new 525 hp small black with a automatic cost? 22 grand lol then had to put a different transfer case i got out of a late model silverrado, then i drove it, goes sideways really fast, new custom wheels and tires, no lift kit, now remember i only paid 4500 for it body was perfect so i custom painted it. with a diamond mist rolls royce paint, replaced the whole suspension, off road? not gonna happen lol i wont ever get my money out of it. i also had leather interior installed.so after 10 years i have way more than it will ever be worth,i always liked jeeps custom bumperrs had 180000 miles on it, up graded brakes, all new seals, bushings, shocks etc, i did enter it in a car show last year damn thing won lol i still have the original 6 cycl engine and transmission, i rebuilt for something to do,i will sell it. i still have a/c in her, i wont even take it out in the winter loli built it for my enjoyment,hard top, th ejeep dealer wont touch it, said it is too modified, i do not use rubberized coatings, i use paint,sound insulation,lots of fun to buildone i bought another one this last summer has 250000 miles on it for5 gand, they are out there cheap, have fun to me it is nothing more than a blank canvas

[@marcgannello2923]

I been driving my 2004 jeep wrangler unlimited for 18 years. Bought it 2 years old. Over the 18 years used plenty of fluid film. And kept up blowing out the frame.with my air compressor.

[@RadioReprised]

I have a 06 Rubicon Unlimited 6-speed LJ with 44K original miles and about 5K in ''Goodies''. That just means I use it for what it's good at and not to run around Town! No rust in the Desert!

[@davidoergel8710]

Thanks for getting back to me. With the question I had asked. I will ask someone else.

[@MorFabIndustries]

@@davidoergel8710 it’s always good to get multiple opinions 😉

[@armysnoopy1562]

What is the best year for the wrangler , Counting all years 2006 and back to the first generation ? Thanks

[@tonybuxton5154]

...got a 2005 X...I6....6spd...on 35's w/3.07's.....best vehicle i've ever owned....has close to 200K miles....no leaks....burns NO oil!....couple of issues i'v head : OPDA, front pinion seal, bushings, a/c control panel, clockspring, water pump, rad....that's about it....getting ready to replace the clutch....cheers!

[@gorillius]

Very informative , I will be looking at a used 99' this coming weekend , thanks for the great info , I have very limited income so i dont know if buying one is for me . I do have mech experience and welding also so it could put me right in the game . I will be using for at least 2-3 years till I can get a nicer ride . I'm in soCal , no bad weather , supposedly this is a Ca. Jeep , I'll know once I look at the frame spots.

[@brianandglendaharkin9457]

Of roading in mud an not hosing it out an treating it with protection treatment I always blow my rails out with compressed air to keep it clean of rubbish .👍🏻🇦🇺💯⛽️

[@sasukecruz2000]

wow i finally know what that noise is every time i start it up. gonna start using conventional oil instead of synthetic… made that mistake this past oil change.

[@timluffman6440]

Justin is the man. 😎

[@GoldenK9Campers]

Do you need to be concerned about the size of the tires on the jeep? Loved the video. Thanks for sharing !!

[@michelsolounias1447]

Found a nice one but has had a frame repair kit installed. Would that be a buy if everything else is ok including price?

[@helloeveryone906]

So inclined 6 cylinders with manual transmission is way to go.

[@MorFabIndustries]

Yes!

[@helloeveryone906]

Thanks just saw your helpful video about what to look for .

[@ms.karihart2983]

I’ve been looking for a TJ or LJ then info is amazing great detail and thx for sharing your experience

[@Montbound1]

That yellow TJ on the rack doesn’t need the frame repaired, it needs a whole new frame. Apparently it’s been in some salty conditions and never been cleaned underneath.😄

[@wemsky]

My jeep frame looks alright from the outside but it has a ton of rust inside of it and has expanding foam sprayed all up in there.

[@kerryengdahl7931]

Does that yellow jeep have a differential gear change