1997 Jeep Wrangler Standard 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

Is this a real Jeep - or does it just

Faults:

Radiator, cylinder heads, rust on mirrors, plugs, suspension.

General Comments:

I love this car……EXCEPT, in the last year alone I have had countless problems and dealt with hideously rude customer service staff at Daimler/Chrysler. I would like to organize a petition against this company because of their terrible service and less that "Jeep-like" manufacturing quality. Have you had problems with your 1997 Jeep Wrangler – in particular, parts like transmissions, cylinders and radiators (i.e., parts that should never need to be replaced on a car less than 10 years old)? Please e-mail problemjeeps97@yahoo.com. If you know of any other people, give them this address. THANKS.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 15th July, 2002

19th Aug 2006, 22:01

I have a 1997 jeep wrangler and it has 112,000 miles on it and I off road it at least 2-3 times a week and owned it 5 years and had no problems at all. changed gears not because I had to be cause I wanted to. I would have to say one of the best investments of my life and buying another one and would never sell my 1997.

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1997 Jeep Wrangler T.J. four cylinder from North America

Summary:

A horrible example of American engineering

Faults:

At 5,000 miles, the exhaust manifold broke off, and the engine sounded like a tank.

The gas level was marking at empty when I had a full tank at 45,000 miles.

The idle speed varies greatly and I have to rev up the engine frequently to keep the engine running at 55,000 miles.

No one seems to be able to fix this problem.

Even after an alignment, the car still pulls to the right.

I have started using premium unleaded gasoline to try and prevent the backfiring and knocks in the engine.

The vehicle is difficult to drive in even the smallest amount of wind.

Any time it rains, the four wheel drive must be engaged in order to have any type of control over the vehicle.

The slide control for the heating and cooling system has broken.

The back bench seat is constantly making rattling noises and vibrating up and down.

There is a significant amount of noise made by the power steering unit.

The seat belts began to stick at 40,000 miles and are usually hanging limp on the floor, or caught in one of the doors.

General Comments:

The jeep is a joy to drive off-road, however any jaunt down a paved highway should be considered a calculated risk. I find myself waiting by the roadside if there is any type of windy conditions or rain on the horizon. The design of the vehicle is simply too light and the front windshield acts like a sail to carry you away in the lightest of winds.

The seating is abhorrent and if you must sit in these chairs for anything more than an hour you'll surely be hurting the next day.

Leaks have prevailed in this car since delivery and have become something to be expected after an evening shower.

The fuel mileage is also a crime, and the engine has begun to backfire and knock as well.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 2nd July, 2002

1st Aug 2002, 19:18

My 1997 Wrangler has 51,000 miles as of August 2002.

It is a six cylinder, standard transmission, and I have had no problems. It handles well in rain and snow though I'll admit strong winds can be problematic. I only use 4 wheel when several inches of snow lie on the road or when off road. The Jeep handles well on major highways as long as I remember it's not a sport car. The handling is far better than my previous Jeep a 1984 CJ-7.

We have long cold winters in upstate NY. I have been in many winter storms and summer thunder storms. The Jeep is always outside. No garage. It is a soft top and so far it has never leaked. I am replacing the side windows this fall since the plastic is becoming opaque. I believe the main top has about two years left.

The seats are very comfortable. I have driven for 7 hours without back pain. I generally can't last longer than two or three hours in most cars.

4th Aug 2002, 15:38

97 6 cyl. Fuel sender replaced, oil pressure sensor replaced, air bag (cosmetic) replaced, and steering wheel replaced - all under warranty. I have had a little water on the right floor, seems to be condensate from A/C that doesn't drain well at interstate speeds. I have learned to stop every couple hours and aim it down hill to drain water from drip pipe on the firewall. Dealer looked it over, but couldn't find an elbow to fit. Under hood air must keep it from draining at 60-80mph on open interstate. Fuel mileage was 20 new and still 20 with 62,000+, 3.55 rear end. Great in wind and much better in rain since I replaced original GSA's with AT/S at 55,000. Love to drive it and regularly drive 7 hours at a whack then get out and mow the yard. It drives the way I like to drive. Wife has '98 GC, and daughter drives a '96 Cherokee. I prefer mine.

21st Mar 2009, 18:50

You should not use 4 wheel drive in the rain. That is only for snow or loose gravel. Don't complain when you blow out your transfer case, universal and CV joints.