1999 Jeep TJ

Introduction to the 1999 Jeep TJ

The 1999 Jeep TJ was a compact, off-road-oriented SUV. It was offered with two engine options: a 2.5L inline-four and a 4.0L inline-six. The 2.5L engine produced 120 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, while the 4.0L engine produced 180 horsepower and 220 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a standard five-speed manual transmission, with a four-speed automatic transmission being offered as an option. The TJ was known for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and iconic Jeep styling. However, it also had some common issues.

Engine

2.5L Inline-Four

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks coolant, causes overheating, and can lead to engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls or idles poorly. Can cause the Check Engine light to illuminate.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L Inline-Six

• Cylinder Head Crack
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and engine misfires.
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pan Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil pan.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks transmission fluid, causes slipping gears or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid pan or other leaking components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration while shifting.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, reduced off-road capability.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling sounds from the front end while driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $150+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery does not charge, electrical system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical problems, including flickering lights, power window failure, or engine stalling.
  • Solution: Inspect the wiring harness for damage and repair or replace as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the extent of damage
  • Recalls: 01V398000, 01V399000, 02V453000

Exterior

• Rust on Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust and corrosion on the vehicle’s frame, especially around the front and rear control arms.
  • Solution: Clean and treat rust, apply rust protectant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the severity of rust
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Hinge Pin Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Door sags or does not open or close properly.
  • Solution: Replace the door hinge pins.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air flow from the vents.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges or displays do not work properly.
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Jeep TJ was a capable off-roader but it was not without its issues. While the engine and transmission issues were not widespread, they could be costly to fix. Suspension and electrical problems were more common and could affect the vehicle’s performance and reliability. Some exterior rust issues were also a concern. Overall, the TJ’s pros outweighed its cons for many owners, but it’s important to be aware of potential problems before purchasing one.