1996 Jeep Wrangler problems
The Jeep Wrangler is a series of compact and mid-size four-wheel drive off-road SUVs manufactured by Jeep since 1986, and currently in its fourth generation. The Wrangler JL, the most recent generation, was unveiled in late 2017 and is produced at Jeep's Toledo Complex.
The Wrangler is a direct progression from the World War II Jeep, through the CJ (Civilian Jeeps) produced by Willys, Kaiser-Jeep, and American Motors Corporation (AMC) from the mid-1940s through the 1980s. Although neither AMC nor Chrysler (after it purchased AMC in 1987) have claimed that the Wrangler was a direct descendant of the original military model — both the CJ Jeeps and the conceptually consistent Wrangler, with their solid axles and open top, have been called the Jeep model as central to Jeep's brand identity as the rear-engine 911 is to Porsche.
Similar to the Willys MB and the CJ Jeeps before it, all Wrangler models continue to use a separate body and frame, rigid live axles both front and rear, a tapering nose design with flared fenders, a fold-flat windshield and can be driven without doors. Also, with few exceptions, they have part-time four-wheel drive systems, with the choice of high and low gearing, and standard open bodies with removable hard or soft tops. However, the Wrangler series was specifically redesigned to be safer and more comfortable on-road, to attract more daily drivers, by upgrading its suspension, drivetrain, and interior, compared to the CJ line. The suspension on all Wranglers included trackbars and anti-roll bars, and, from the 1997 TJ onwards, front and rear coil springs instead of the previous leaf springs.
From 2004 on, the Wrangler has been complemented with long-wheelbase versions, called Wrangler Unlimited. 2004-2006 models were longer versions with 2 doors. In 2004 only automatic transmission-equipped “Unlimited” versions were sold. In 2005 both an automatic and manual 6-speed (NSG-370) were offered. Since 2007, the long-wheelbase Wranglers were four-door models, offering over 20 in (508 mm) more room. By mid-2017 the four-door models represented three-quarters of all new Wranglers on the market.
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Common 1996 Jeep Wrangler problems
The Jeep Wrangler, a popular off-roading vehicle, has been known to have several common problems throughout the years. This article will focus on the Jeep Wrangler 1996 model, highlighting the most frequently reported issues by owners.
- Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure: The exhaust manifold bolt failure is a common problem in the 1987-1995 Jeep Wranglers, including the 1996 model. The manifold's constant shrinking and expanding can stretch the mounting stud, causing it to fracture and the bolts to fail. This issue can lead to a more expensive repair, such as replacing the exhaust manifold, which costs between $950 and $1,100.
- Body Damage: Given the Jeep Wrangler's off-roading capabilities, body damage is a common issue in the 1987-1995 models, including the 1996 model. This damage can be repaired using Raybuck's wide selection of repair panels.
- Oil Leaks: Despite good maintenance, vehicles as old as the 1996 Jeep Wrangler are prone to oil leaks. Identifying the source of the leak can be challenging, as there are multiple systems within a Wrangler that can leak oil. Each system has a different color of fluid that mixes with the leaking oil, which can help pinpoint the source of the leak. Engine oil is amber when new but turns brown or black over time. Power steering fluid can be red, green, brown, or transparent. Transmission fluid is red, and engine coolant can be transparent, red, orange, or green.
These common problems in the Jeep Wrangler 1996 model are essential to consider when purchasing a used vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address these issues before they become more expensive to repair.
What years to avoid in a Jeep Wrangler?
FAQ: Jeep Wrangler Years To Avoid
A: Potential buyers should be cautious with the 2012, 2007, and 2008 Jeep Wrangler models. The 2012 model is particularly notorious for its high number of recalls, while the 2007 and 2008 models also have a significant recall history, indicating potential reliability issues.
What is the most common problem with Jeep Wranglers?
A list of some of the most common issues Wrangler owners have to deal with.
- Electronic Sway Bar Disconnect. Make room, death wobble. ...
- TRW Crash Sensor Defect. ...
- Jeep Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. ...
- Faulty Wrangler Welds. ...
- Jeep TIPM Electrical Problems. ...
- Death Wobble. ...
- Window Regulator Failure. ...
- Wrangler Gas Overflow Complaints.
At what mileage do Jeep Wranglers start having problems?
Per MotorAndWheels.com, you can expect the average Jeep engine to run for over 200,000 miles. Depending on how many miles you drive annually, a used Jeep can last over 20 years. There isn't a specific mileage that causes a Jeep to suddenly develop problems.
What years are the most reliable Jeep Wranglers?
A: The most reliable Jeep Wrangler years, as identified in the guide above, include 2018, 2015, 2010, 2003, and 1997 models. These selections are based on their performance, durability, and fewer reported issues - solid choices for longevity and dependability.
What is the most common problem with Jeep Wranglers?
A list of some of the most common issues Wrangler owners have to deal with.
- Electronic Sway Bar Disconnect. Make room, death wobble. ...
- TRW Crash Sensor Defect. ...
- Jeep Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. ...
- Faulty Wrangler Welds. ...
- Jeep TIPM Electrical Problems. ...
- Death Wobble. ...
- Window Regulator Failure. ...
- Wrangler Gas Overflow Complaints.
Why is there no 1996 Wrangler?
Production of the Wrangler YJ ended in 1995 at which point production switched to the newer model Wrangler TJ . For marketing reasons more than anything else, Jeep marketed the new model TJ's as being an 'early release' of the 1997 model and sold them through 1996 as 'next years model.
What years to avoid in a Jeep Wrangler?
FAQ: Jeep Wrangler Years To Avoid
A: Potential buyers should be cautious with the 2012, 2007, and 2008 Jeep Wrangler models. The 2012 model is particularly notorious for its high number of recalls, while the 2007 and 2008 models also have a significant recall history, indicating potential reliability issues.
What are the negatives of a Jeep Wrangler?
Other Wrangler drawbacks include a narrow cabin and driving position, as well as limited legroom, particularly for taller drivers. Because of the flat windshield and a steering wheel that's closer than in most vehicles, the driving position can take some getting used to.
1996 Jeep Wrangler car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Jeep Wrangler problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Jeep Wrangler vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1996 Jeep Wrangler complaints
The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Jeep Wrangler.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-04
- VIN: 1J4FA29S86P
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MY JEEP WRANGLER SUFFERED WHAT IS BEING DESCRIBED AS A "DEATH WOBBLE". THIS VEHICLE, PURCHASED NEW BY ME, WITH ALL ORIGINAL STOCK EQUIPMENT, TO INCLUDE TIRES WITH 6900 (SIX THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED) MILES EXPERIENCED A SEVERE FRONT-END WOBBLE THAT NEARLY CAUSED A CAR BEHIND ME (AND SEVERAL OTHERS BEHIND IT) TO PILE-UP AS I HAD TO SLOW DOWN AND PULL OVER TO THE SHOULDER. THIS VEHICLE IS ONLY USED FOR WEEKEND DRIVING AROUND TOWN AND IS GARAGED. THE VEHICLE HAS NEVER BEEN TOWED NOR HAS IT EVER BEEN IN 4-WHEEL DRIVE. I PREVIOUSLY TOOK THE VEHICLE INTO THE LOCAL CHRYSLER DEALERSHIP IN VACAVILLE, CA TWO YEARS PRIOR FOR THE SAME PROBLEM BUT WAS TOLD NO PROBLEM WAS FOUND. I DOUBT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS ACTUALLY "TESTED" ON THE ROAD. TO CLARIFY, I HAVE ONLY HAD THIS VEHICLE ON THE FREEWAY TWICE. INCREDIBLY, THIS TIME (JULY 26, 2013) CHRYSLER JEEP VACAVILLE TOLD THAT STEERING STABILIZER AND RIGHT-SIDE BUSHING WAS "WORN" - $853.94 LATER, PROBLEM IS FIXED. I HAVE VEHICLE PARTS THAT WERE REPLACED FOR YOUR EXAMINATION IF NECESSARY. THANK YOU!! *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-01
- VIN: 1J4FA39S16P
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: SPEEDOMETER FAILS... ODOMETER FAILS.... TAKEN TO DEALER SEVERAL TIMES... PARTS HAVE BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE OCCURS ALMOST EVERY TIME I DRIVE OVER 50 MILES AN HOUR AND MANY TIMES AT LOWER SPEEDS. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-01
- VIN: 1J4GZ78S7TC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE A 1996 PRE-OWNED JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THERE HAS BEEN A RECALL ON ITS CATYLIC CONVERTER AT LEAST A YEAR AGO. I HAD CALLED AGAIN TO HAVE MY CAR ON THE LIST. MOST RECENTLY, I CALLED ABOUT A MONTH AGO IN FEBRUARY TO DEALERSHIP. THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY ONLY RECEIVED THE BACK-ORDER PART ONCE EVERY 3 WEEKS IF THEY WERE LUCKY. WAS FAMILIAR WITH THE RATTLING NOISE. WELL, LAST WEEK MY CAR HAD TWO EPISODES OF SHUDDERING WHILE AT A COMPLETE STOP. THIS WEEK, MY ENGINE CCHECK LIGHT HAS BEEN ON FOR AT LEAST TWO DAYS. I WAS TOLD THAT THIS COULD VERY MUCH BE DUE TO THE CONVERTER BY A SERVICE PERSON. MY CAR WAS ALREADY AT A CRITICALSTAGE OF NEEDING THE REPLACEMENT. I COULD NOT AFFORD TO WAIT UNTIL MY ENGINE NEEDED REPLACING. SO WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE ?*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-19
- VIN: 1J4EZ78Y7TC
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: POWERTRAIN TRANSMISSION: AUTOMATIC. MY TRANSMISSION WILL NOT SHIFT FROM SECOND TO THIRD GEAR PROPERLY, CAUSING LOSS OF POWER AND WHINNING. THIS OCCURS MOSTLY THE FALL AND WINTER MONTHS DURING COLDER TEMPERATURE UNDER 32 DEGREES. PLEASE ADVISE.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-02
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE TIRE WHILE DRIVING (SEARS RESPONSE 215X70X15 DOT #CKUL 220-051). NLM
1996 Jeep Wrangler recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1996 Jeep Wrangler.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Jeep Wrangler problems:
What were the first year TJ problems? | Jeep Wrangler TJ Forum
I bought my '97 TJ May 1996. The very early models had a few minor easily fixed problems... the radiators tended to leak where they were sealed, ...
Common YJ Problems | Jeep Wrangler Forum
Apr 17, 2014 ... Hi, I'm looking to buy a jeep and the YJ really catches my eye! But I'd like to know what some common problems are beforehand so I know what ...
2nd Generation (1996-2006) Wrangler Problems
Common 1996-2006 Jeep Wrangler Problems · Death Wobble · Window Regulator Failure · Wrangler Gas Overflow Complaints.
Any common issues with the YJ? | Jeeps.net Forum
Mar 26, 2020 ... Regarding some common problems with YJs, I would say one of them is flooding the floor when it rains, I have never been 100% sure exactly where ...
Do Jeep Wranglers have a lot of problems? - Quora
May 1, 2020 ... Older Wranglers - from 1987 through 1996 - known as the YJ, replaced the CJ7. This is the first Jeep officially called the "Wrangler" by the ...
Other years of Jeep Wrangler
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