00:00 - SHOW OPEN

The first Jeep vehicles were made more than 80 years ago, but they're still being sold today, and if you have ever considered buying one, the Jeep Wrangler TJ series from 1997-2006 should be at the top of your bucket list.

03:55 - THE WRANGLER TJ: A BIG LEAP FORWARD IN RIDE QUALITY

• A return to round headlights (no more rectangular lights)
• Old-style leaf springs were eliminated
• Coil springs used at each corner with 4-link control arms
• Much better ride quality on paved roads
• More suspension travel and better articulation off-road
• Additional improvements to interior materials, dash and seats

05:21 - LARGE NUMBER OF TRIM AND FEATURE VARIATIONS

• 3 Different Engine Options
• Manual or Automatic Transmission
• Built in full roll cage
• Available with Hard Top or Folding Soft Top
• Full Metal or half metal doors
• Doors can be removed for a more open feel

06:21 - MOST COMMON WRANGLER TJ TRIM LEVELS

• Wrangler SE
• Wrangler X
• Wrangler Sport
• Wrangler Sahara
• Wrangler Unlimited
• Wrangler Rubicon

10:00 - WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR IN A WRANGLER TJ?

• Focus on condition first
• Do a prepurchase inspection
• Improved over time, so newer examples are typically a better choice, however any well-maintained Wrangler TJ in good to excellent condition is worth consideration

11:25 - WHICH IS BEST?

• Go with the 6-cylinder model over the 4-cylinder
• Get a stock example or one with professionally installed upgrades
• Get a Wrangler TJ with a hardtop for security (you can always remove the top later)
• I recommend the manual transmission over the automatic
• If you have to get an automatic, the 2003 and later models had a 4-speed (rather than 3-speed) transmission, so go that route

13:00 - WHICH WRANGLER TJ MODEL WOULD I BUY?

• Wrangler Rubicon for serious off-road use
• Wrangler Unlimited for daily drive and weekend family fun
• Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon for the ultimate Jeep Wrangler TJ

14:00 - SHOW WRAP UP