2002 Jeep TJ

The 2002 Jeep TJ is a popular off-road vehicle known for its ruggedness and simplicity. Engine options for the 2002 TJ include a 2.5L inline-4 engine producing 120 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque and a 4.0L inline-6 engine producing 190 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options are a 3-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. Owners appreciate the TJ’s off-road capability, removable doors and top, and classic Jeep styling. However, they sometimes dislike the TJ’s limited cargo space, rough ride, and potential for rust.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Cracked Exhaust Manifold
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when cold, exhaust leak.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Rear Main Seal, Valve Cover)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking seals or gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Rear Main Seal: $300 - $600+; Valve Cover Gasket: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L Inline-6

• Cracked Exhaust Manifold
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when cold, exhaust leak.
  • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Rear Main Seal, Valve Cover, Oil Filter Adapter)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking seals or gaskets. Oil Filter Adapter may require a full replacement if the gaskets are no longer sealing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Rear Main Seal: $300 - $600+; Valve Cover Gasket: $50 - $200+; Oil Filter Adapter: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Overheating
  • Description/Symptoms: Temperature gauge reads high, coolant boiling, engine performance loss.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace the radiator, thermostat, water pump, or radiator cap as needed. Check for clogged coolant passages.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Thermostat: $50 - $150; Water Pump: $150 - $400+; Radiator: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

3-Speed Automatic (30RH/32RH)

• Shifting Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid and filter change. If the problem persists, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid/Filter Change: $100 - $250; Rebuild: $1500 - $3000+; Replacement: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (AX-15)

• Hard Shifting/Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into gears, grinding noises, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Check and replace the transmission fluid. Inspect the clutch linkage and adjust as necessary. Clutch may need to be replaced. Synchros may be damaged, requiring a transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid Change: $50 - $150; Clutch Replacement: $500 - $1200+; Rebuild: $1000 - $2500+; Replacement: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front end, especially when going over bumps. Loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side (including alignment)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the suspension, especially during acceleration or braking.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Bushings: $100 - $400+ per arm; Control Arm Assembly: $200 - $800+ per arm (including alignment)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Death Wobble
  • Description/Symptoms: Violent shaking of the front end at certain speeds, often triggered by bumps.
  • Solution: This can be caused by a variety of worn suspension or steering components. Common culprits include worn track bar bushings, loose track bar bolts, worn steering stabilizer, worn ball joints, or improperly balanced tires. Diagnosis and repair can be complex.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the cause. $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Clock Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light illumination, non-functional horn, non-functional cruise control, potentially non-functional steering wheel controls.
  • Solution: Replace the clock spring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow starting, battery light illumination, eventually a no-start condition.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Frame Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the frame, especially in areas prone to water and salt exposure. Can weaken the frame and compromise structural integrity.
  • Solution: Inspect frame thoroughly. Minor surface rust can be treated with rust converters. Severe rust may require welding repairs or even frame replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Treatment: $100 - $500+; Welding Repairs: $500 - $2000+; Frame Replacement: $5000 - $10000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Soft Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rips, tears, leaks, broken zippers.
  • Solution: Repair tears or rips in soft top material with appropriate patching material or adhesive. Replace zippers if damaged. Replace the entire soft top if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Repairs: $50- $200+; Replacement: $500- $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor does not work on any speed, or only works on certain speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Blower Motor Resistor: $50 - $200+; Blower Motor: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Cover: $50 - $150+; Replacement: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Jeep TJ is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues. The most common problems include exhaust manifold cracks, oil leaks, suspension wear, and frame rust. Electrical issues such as clock spring failure can also occur. While some issues like replacing worn bushings are relatively inexpensive, others, like frame repair or transmission rebuilds, can be costly. The severity and cost of these issues vary greatly depending on the vehicle’s condition and maintenance history. Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial for mitigating these potential problems.