Here's what I consider acceptable rust:
Here's what I consider unacceptable frame rust:
Here's what I consider unacceptable frame rust:
I should add that I personally don't consider ANY frame rust to be acceptable in all honesty.
Ha! I read the previous post thinking, that rust on the frame in the first picture would bug the shit out of me and I would need to address it immediately.
This is a really, really common question we see a lot of. I'm going to try to answer it as best I can, and if anyone else has anything to add please free free to respond.
Rust
If you're in the market for a 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ the number one thing you want to look for over anything else is rust. The chassis of these vehicles is extremely prone to rust issues, especially if you're located in the mid-west, east coast or other areas where they use salt on the roads in the Winter time.
Rust can be a huge issue on these vehicles. I've seen rust so bad that it's literally caused the frames to snap in half while driving down the road. It's no joking matter as that can be life threatening and extremely dangerous should something like that happen.
Having said that, when looking to purchase a TJ it would be a wise investment to either have a professional shop to a PPI (Pre Purchase Inspection) or if you feel comfortable doing it yourself, make sure to crawl underneath the vehicle and inspect every nook and cranny for rust. A few areas of surface rust isn't a big deal as it can be treated easily. What you're looking for will be huge areas of rust, and it will usually involve the frame of the vehicle.
In addition to checking the underside, it's a good idea to hit the frame (possibly with a rubber mallet) to see if you can knock any chunks of rust flakes loose from inside the frame (another area prone to rust).
It's always a safe bet to purchase a Wrangler TJ that has been a west coast car (or somewhere warm) where they don't salt the roads. Those vehicles usually have a much better chance of being free of rust issues.
Engine
You might have heard from someone that Jeeps are unreliable. This is actually quite inaccurate as a properly maintained Wrangler TJ is probably one of the most reliable vehicles out there. Take into consideration that you're dealing with an iron block, iron head, underhead cam pushrod driven engine. That's basically a tractor engine, and if you know about tractors, you'll know they build those things to be bullet proof.
The 4.0 engine in the TJ doesn't have any notorious weak points other than the OPDA (Oil Pump Drive Assembly). If the OPDA is going bad you will know because it will make a loud sound that almost sounds like a laughing barrel of monkeys. If you hear this noise it's bad news, so either have it inspected before purchasing it or walk away. It's a cheap part to fix and very easy to do, but if it goes bad it can result it catastrophic engine failure.
Other than the OPDA, the 4.0 (like most other engines out there) is as reliable as they come. Change the oil, do the scheduled maintenance and you shouldn't have anything to worry about. It's not uncommon by any means to see these things running healthy with perfect compression well past 300k miles. I've seen some with half a million miles still on the original internals.
This engine may not be the best performing engine, and it may be a gas hog at that. However, it certainly was built with longevity and durability in mind. The 4.0 engine found in the Wrangler has been around since 1965 since AMC first introduced it. It's got a proven track record and it's stood the test of time.
Drivetrain
Make sure you look at the trackbar(s) for wear and slotting of the mounts, especially the front one. This can cause death wobble and a potentially very dangerous situation. Also make sure that the transfer case shifts into 4WD (both high and low range) and functions properly. If the rig came with or has been retrofitted with lockers, be sure test them as well.
It's also helpful to determine what kind of axles the vehicle has prior to purchasing it. The addition of Dana 44 axles makes the Wrangler worth a bit more money and more desirable over all.
Conclusion
Rust should be your first concern when purchasing any used Wrangler TJ. It is hands down the number one issue with all used Wrangler TJs, and you really do not want to purchase a vehicle with major rust issues as it will be a huge, huge money pit.
Other than rust, there's really nothing vehicle specific that comes to my mind that you should look for when purchasing a used Wrangler TJ. Just like any other vehicle, you want to make sure you know the maintenance history, get a good CarFax, make sure the vehicle has never had any major accidents, clean title, etc. Unless you're looking for a project stay away from the cheap Wranglers as they often always spell trouble.
The Wrangler TJ is notorious for having a high resale value. Expect to pay a good chunk of change for one that is well kept and in good condition. Do your homework first, and if you see one that you're unsure about (or just want a second opinion) post pictures and details up on the forum so we can help you decide. A lot of us on here have a huge knowledge of Wranglers and would be more than happy to give you our thoughts and opinions.
Last but not least, check out the sticky on stock Wrangler TJ specifications as it will give you a complete break down of all the factory trim packages, models, options and specifications.
Looking at a 2006 Wrangler Unlimited TJ Long WH with 82,000 miles for my 16 year old. Obviously safety is a concern, and this forum is very helpful. Visible rust between front and rear bumper and frame; also at muffler/tail pipe and windshield wipers. Will probably need new soft top because rear window would not zip in. Only after factory is rear tow pkg with tow light kit and front fog lights on front bumper. Check engine light was on during test drive and radio did not work, as vehicle was just traded in to dealer and has not gone through detail or service check yet. Uploading photos for your opinion on buy or pass.
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Asking $14,995 and I offered $12,500 because of top and possible engine problems.What are they asking for it? Also, do you happen to have any photos of the frame at all?
The inside and outside look pretty good to me. A new soft top for an LJ model will set you back about $400-$1200 give or take (so factor that into the price, or negotiate them down on the price to compensate for that), but other than that and the rusty wiper blade, it looks good from what I can see!
Sounds like a reasonable offer. Let us know what they say.Asking $14,995 and I offered $12,500 because of top and possible engine problems.
Asking $14,995 and I offered $12,500 because of top and possible engine problems.
They are doing a service check in the morning so I'll know more then.$12,500 is a reasonable offer, if I were them, I would take it.
What possible engine problems do you think there are?
Very cool, keep us posted!They are doing a service check in the morning so I'll know more then.
I don't know if you bought that Jeep, but for others looking I would like to make a few comments... one that is an unlimited Jeep wrangler so the asking price will be a little higher then a typical Jeep. I am assuming it is because not many of them are made each year vs demand for them. I live in PA pricing will change throughout the year, I am currently looking at Jeeps and have been price shopping for 5 years. most years june, july, and August are the height of sales so price will go up... that being said I noticed this year prices are falling right now which means it is a buyers market so be willing to offer much less. I found Car Gurus site to be very helpful in price changes and price fairness. Don't be afraid to get on your back or belly and crawl under the Jeep to search for rust in all locations, and if you don't have a hammer use your fist to knock on any rust to see if it crumbles, breaks, and how does it sound. this may sound like a waste of time but it isn't as stated above sellers will use paint to try and hide rust using your other sense will help you uncover what may be hidden. I have also found an app called VIN useful, just enter the vehicle vin and it will tell you about it. 3 lift up the carpet on the inside of the jeep, is the floor in good shape? 4 test soft top resiliency hard tops look for cracks or crack repairs. 5 drive the jeep and listen as you drive. That should give anyone a good head startAsking $14,995 and I offered $12,500 because of top and possible engine problems.
I Ann looking to buy my first Wrangler and I have my eye on this 2003 Tj Rubicon. It has been in Georgia all of its life so I'm am not too worried about rust. My main concern are the mods done to it, but who ever owned it spend a sizeabke chunk of money on rigid industries led lights so I'm hoping that they also used quality parts for the rest of the mods. One question I have is the vent looking thing on the hard top. I'm fairly sure that they don't come on the oem hardtop but I could be wrong. If anyone has any input or ideas on that or what I should be concerned about please let me know.
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That's a good looking Rubi. You do want to check that the lockers are working. Also, climb underneath and check for things like mud in the frame. If you can pull the plugs on the diffs and check for any water or oil fluid. Looks like it once had a winch. Check to see that the wiring hasn't been jacked up.Thanks Chris. Yeah I'm not a huge fan of the lights, but I'm hoping if someone is willing to spend 2 grand on lights then they wouldn't skimp out on the lift and other mods. I love the color also it's pretty sweet. I'll make sure to get under it and under the carpets to check for rust. It is from a dealer too so I doubt whoever traded it in told the dealer what parts they put on but I'll find out next weekend when I go check it out. Thanks again for the quick reply! Love the forum so far, tons of info.