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2005 Jeep TJ

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2005 Jeep TJ, formatted for your website.

The 2005 Jeep TJ represents the last year of this iconic generation, known for its simplicity, off-road prowess, and removable doors and top. It’s available with two primary engine choices: a 2.4L inline-4 producing around 147 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, and a more desirable 4.0L inline-6 generating approximately 190 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners love the TJ for its trail capability and customization potential, but often dislike the relatively poor fuel economy, limited cargo space, and sometimes rough ride on pavement.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than normal oil consumption, especially in older, higher-mileage engines. Symptoms include needing to add oil frequently between changes and bluish smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Monitoring oil levels, using thicker oil, or addressing underlying causes like worn valve seals or piston rings. In severe cases, an engine rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (oil change with thicker oil) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cooling System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating due to a clogged radiator or failing water pump.
    • Solution: Flush the cooling system, replace the radiator, or replace the water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

4.0L Inline-6

  • Oil Leaks (Rear Main Seal)
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the rear main seal, often dripping onto the exhaust and causing a burning smell.
    • Solution: Replace the rear main seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or complete failure to start.
    • Solution: Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Manifold Cracks
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or hissing sound from the engine, especially when cold, along with a noticeable exhaust leak smell.
    • Solution: Replace the cracked exhaust manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

NSG370 6-Speed Manual (Rare on 2005 TJs, Primarily Rubicon)

  • No Issues Found

NV3550 5-Speed Manual

  • Synchro Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially 2nd or 3rd, particularly when cold.
    • Solution: Replacing worn synchronizers, potentially requiring a full transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

42RLE 4-Speed Automatic

  • Overdrive Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The 42RLE transmission can have issues shifting into overdrive at the correct speed or issues slipping out of overdrive at highway speeds.
    • Solution: Replacing the solenoid pack or rebuilding the transmission to remedy internal wear.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially during light acceleration or when the torque converter is locking up.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Ball Joints
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Steering may feel loose or wander.
    • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (both sides)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Track Bar Issues (Death Wobble)
    • Description/Symptoms: Severe shaking or wobbling of the front end at certain speeds, often triggered by bumps or road imperfections. Can be extremely dangerous.
    • Solution: Inspect and replace worn track bar bushings, the track bar itself, or other steering components (tie rod ends, drag link). Proper alignment is critical.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on the component and whether alignment is needed)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Shocks/Springs
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll in turns, and poor handling.
    • Solution: Replace worn shocks and/or springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the quality of the replacement parts)
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Clock Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of horn function, airbag warning light illumination, and/or cruise control malfunction.
    • Solution: Replace the clock spring assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Wiring Harness Issues (Under Hood)
    • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion and cracking of wiring insulation, especially in the engine bay, leading to intermittent electrical problems.
    • Solution: Repair or replace damaged wiring sections, using appropriate weather-resistant connectors and insulation.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on the severity and complexity of the repairs)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery not charging, warning lights on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Replace the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust (Frame)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust, especially on the frame rails, rocker panels, and underbody. This is a very common and serious issue on older TJs.
    • Solution: Rust repair (welding patches), rust preventative coatings, or frame replacement (expensive).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (minor rust treatment) - $5000+ (frame replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents, often resulting in only hot or only cold air.
    • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Wipers not working or only working intermittently.
    • Solution: Replace the windshield wiper motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Jeep TJ is a highly desirable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of its common issues. Frame rust is a significant concern, potentially leading to expensive repairs. Engine and transmission issues vary depending on the configuration, but oil leaks and synchro wear are notable. Electrical problems can also occur. Thorough inspection, particularly for rust and maintenance records, is crucial before purchasing a used 2005 TJ. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs costing thousands of dollars.

Jeep, TJ
Jeep TJ 2005
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