1998 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 1998 Jeep Wrangler problems
The Jeep Wrangler, known for its ruggedness and off-roading capabilities, has had its fair share of issues throughout the years. This article will focus on the 1998 Jeep Wrangler, highlighting common problems based on complaints from owners.
- Recalls: The 1998 Jeep Wrangler has had six recalls issued by the NHTSA, covering issues such as airbag failures, brake fluid leaks, fuel leaks, seatbelt issues, and engine idle speed increases. These recalls address critical safety concerns and should be addressed promptly by Jeep service departments.
In conclusion, the 1998 Jeep Wrangler has several common problems that owners should be aware of. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.
Was 1998 a good year for Jeep Wrangler?
Owners rated the 1998 Jeep Wrangler quality a 4.7 out of 5. The 1998 Jeep Wrangler receives an average consumer rating of 4.6 overall and a 4.8 for reliability, which means owners consider its reliability to be above average.
How many miles can a 1998 Jeep Wrangler last?
200,000 miles
How common is it for a Jeep to last 200,000 miles? An older, decently cared for Jeep Wrangler can last up to 200,000 miles meanwhile, a Jeep Wrangler in perfectly good condition with frequent maintenance can last up to 400,000 miles. The numbers depend on how well you take care of it!
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 in the Jeep Wrangler?
2 Common Problem With Jeep Wranglers: The Death Wobble
Many owners will have heard of the Jeep's Notorious Death Wobble, or worse yet, have experienced if first hand. Hitting a pothole or even braking very hard can cause the steering components to become loose or damaged, shaking the vehicle violently.
Is 1998 Jeep Wrangler reliable?
The 1998 Jeep Wrangler receives an average consumer rating of 4.6 overall and a 4.8 for reliability, which means owners consider its reliability to be above average. According to drivers of the 1998 Wrangler, here are some of its best features: Goes any where in any weather. Fun to drive,reliable,friendly.
How long do 1998 Jeep Wranglers last?
An older, decently cared for Jeep Wrangler can last up to 200,000 miles meanwhile, a Jeep Wrangler in perfectly good condition with frequent maintenance can last up to 400,000 miles. The numbers depend on how well you take care of it!
What is the most common problem in the Jeep Wrangler?
2 Common Problem With Jeep Wranglers: The Death Wobble
Many owners will have heard of the Jeep's Notorious Death Wobble, or worse yet, have experienced if first hand. Hitting a pothole or even braking very hard can cause the steering components to become loose or damaged, shaking the vehicle violently.
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.
1998 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:
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Jeep Wrangler vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1998 Jeep Wrangler complaints
The NHTSA has received 21 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Jeep Wrangler.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-01
- VIN: 1J4FY19S2WP
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Frame started showing signs of rusted out frame in 2003 when the transmission skid weld nuts in the bottom of the frame rusted out as well as the body side step weld nuts in the frame. In 2010, 3 or the 4 rear axle control arms broke free from the frame causing brake lines to fail while driving. I was able to use parking brake and downshifting manual transmission to get home. I was lucky that the rear axle didn't completely separate or the failed brake cause a serious accident. The TJ frames are poorly designed with no drainage causing them to rust from the inside out.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-10
- VIN: 1J4FY19S1WP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT COME ON AND SPEEDO AND TACH STOPS WORKING. VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT AND THIS IS OCCURING ON NUMEROUS JEEPS OF THIS YEAR. WHY HAS THERE NOT BEEN A RECALL? IF SOMETHING ISN'T DONE ABOUT THIS I WILL BE GETTING A LOT OF JEEP OWNERS TOGETHER AND FILING A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT!! IT IS A SERIOUS SAFETY PROBLEM. I JUST PURCHASED THE VEHICLE AND AFTER RESEARCHING THIS ITS HAPPENING TO THE MAJORITY ON THIS YEARS WRANGLERS
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-15
- VIN: 1J4FY29P7WP
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: JEEP WRANGLER FRAMES RUST FROM INSIDE OUT DUE TO MOISTURE GETTING IN THROUGH UPPER PART OF FRAMES WHERE THEIR ARE HOLES AND SETTLING TO LOWER PART OF FRAME WHERE THEIR ARE NO DRAIN HOLES. THEIR MAY HAVE NOT BEEN AN ISSUE IF JEEP HAD JUST PUT IN DRAIN HOLES IN LOWER PART OF FRAME. IT IS A COMMON PROBLEM IN 1997 THROUGH 2006 JEEP WRANGLERS. I HAVE THIS ISSUE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-27
- VIN: 1J4FY29P6WP
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: JEEP TJ FRAME SEPARATED AT THE TORSION BAR ON PASSENGER REAR WHEEL MAKING VEHICLE UNSTABLE AND UN- USABLE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-09
- VIN: 1J4FY19S1WP
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY FRAME IS ROTTING OUT FAST AND FURIOUS, I'VE ALREADY HAD TO REPLACE SECTIONS, THE UPPER AND LOWER CONTROLS ARMS HAVE RIPPED OFF, THE BODY FELL THREW THE MOUNTS, PAID TO HAVE THAT FIXED
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-01
- VIN: 1J4FY19S2WP
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I HAVE A 1998 JEEP WRANGLER. I'VE OWNED MY JEEP FOR 15 YEARS. IT HAS BEEN GARAGE KEPT. WE WERE CHANGING THE SHOCKS A FEW WEEKS AGO AND NOTICED SEVERE RUST DAMAGE. THE FRAME IS RUSTING FROM THE INSIDE OUT. IT'S SEVERE. YEARS BEFORE I WAS TRAVELING DOWN A 2 LAND RD AND HAD TO PRESS MY BRAKES HARDER THAN I USUALLY WOULD DUE TO A CAR PULLING OUT IN FRONT OF ME. AT THAT MOMENT I BLEW A BRAKE LINE. I COULD NOT GET MY VEHICLE STOPPED. LUCKILY IT'S A 5 SPEED. I GEARED DOWN AS FAST AS I COULD AND MANAGED TO PULL IT OFF THE MAIN ROAD ONTO A HILL TO GET IT STOPPED. AFTER INSPECTING MY VEHICLE I FOUND SEVERE DAMAGE. THE MOTORS MOUNTS ARE BARELY THERE. THE PART WHERE THE FRAME MOUNTS TO THE BODY IS ACTUALLY MISSING ONE DUE TO RUSTING COMPLETELY OUT. EVERY SINGLE BOLT AND NUT IS RUSTED. EVERY SINGLE SQUARE INCH OF THE FRAME IS RUSTED. THE PROBLEM IS THAT JEEP POORLY DESIGNED THE FRAME WITH SIDE HOLES FOR WATER AND DIRT TO ENTER BUT DID NOT DESIGN IT WITH DRAINAGE HOLES ON THE BOTTOM OF THE FRAME. WATER AND DIRT ENTER AND NEVER LEAVE. IT'S EXTREMELY UNSAFE TO DRIVE. I'VE READ THOUSANDS OF COMPLAINTS ONLINE AND THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-19
- VIN: 1J4FY29PXWP
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: HAD TO REPLACE THE FRAME DUE TO LEFT REAR RUSTED THROUGH THE WHOLE FRAME, JUST A SMALL AMOUNT OF THE FRAME WAS LEFT. OTHER AREAS HAD RUST EATING THREW THE FRAME, AND IN A MATTER OF TIME WOULD HAVE FAILED!!!.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-01
- VIN: 1J4FY29PXWP
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: "TJ WRANGLER FRAME RUST" - SEVERE RUST OCCURRED IN THE FRAME OF MY 1998 JEEP WRANGLER. VEHICLE WOULD NO LONGER PASS PA STATE INSPECTION. RUST WAS DUE TO NO DRAINAGE HOLE AND FRAME RUSTED FROM INSIDE OUT. RUST OCCURRED ON BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDES JUST IN FRONT OF THE REAR CONTROL ARMS AND EXTENDED FRONT TO THE TRANSFER CASE MOUNTING POINTS. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS ISSUE AND IT IS VERY COMMON AND MANY POOR JEEP OWNERS ARE PARTING OUT PERFECTLY GOOD JEEPS DUE TO THEM NOT BEING ABLE TO PASS STATE INSPECTIONS - LUCKILY NO ONE HAS BEEN HARMED DUE TO THIS FRAME DAMAGE THAT I AM AWARE OF - SOME VIDEOS ON THE INTERNET SHOW THE ENTIRE FRAME RUSTED AWAY! THIS NEEDS TO BE BROUGHT TO THE ATTENTION OF JEEP AS THIS IS OBVIOUS A DESIGN FLAW AND OWNERS SHOULD BE COMPENSATED. IF THERE IS ANY DOUBT OF HOW SEVERE THIS IS SIMPLE DO A GOOGLE SEARCH! TOYOTA TOOK CARE OF THEIR CUSTOMERS!!!
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-09
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF FRAME RUST AND MY VEHICLE HAS LESS THAN 150XXX MILES AND THIS IS A SEVERE SAFETY HAZARD. I HAVE READ THAT THERE ARE MANY PEOPLE WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS AND I AM WANTING TO KNOW WHAT YOU GUYS COULD DO TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE. I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE AND I DO NOT WANT TO RESALE BECAUSE I DO NOT WANT TO SELL IT IN THIS CONDITION AND I WANT TO KEEP IT BUT I ALSO DO NOT WANT TO DRIVE BECAUSE OF THIS. THERE'S A LOT OF LIFE LEFT IN THIS VEHICLE AND IT ONLY HAS 126XXX MILES SO I NEED HELP
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-08
- VIN: 1J4FY19S0WP
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ON MY 1998 JEEP WRANGLER SPORT, CHRYSLER PUT A HOLE IN THE FRAME TO ACCESS THE REAR SWAY ARM BOLT AND WHEN THEY DID THAT IT LET WATER , DIRT, SALT ETC INTO THE FRAME AND CAUSE THE FRAME TO ROT FROM THE INSIDE OUT. I HAVE RESEARCHED THE PROBLEM AND MANY PEOPLE SEEM TO HAVE THE SAME ONE I WANT TO PUT THE WORD OUT TO HAVE IT FIX BECAUSE IF IT WAS TO BREAK WHILE DRIVING YOUR JEEP IT CAN COST SOMEONE THERE LIFE. MINE HAS YET TO DO SO BECAUSE I SEEN IT IN TIME AND WANT SOMETHING DONE ABOUT IT A RECALL IS NEEDED TO FIX THE PROBLEM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-30
- VIN: 1J4FY29P8WP
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL REPORTING THIS IN HOPES OF HAVING THE ISSUE RESOLVED BY NHTSA OR CHRYSLER... I HAVE A 1998 JEEP WRANGLER AND LIKE THOUSANDS OF OTHERS, MINE HAS DEVELOPED MAJOR FRAME RUST. I KNOW THIS ISNT GOING TO BE RESOLVED ANYTIME SOON, BUT I NEED TO GET MINE FIXED NOW. HOPEFULLY IF THERE IS EVER A RECALL I CAN STILL BE APART OF IT EVEN AFTER MINE IS REPAIRED. IM GOING TO BE HAVING IT PATCHED FOR NOW AS A FRAME REPLACEMENT WILL COST WAY TOO MUCH FOR ME AT THE MOMENT. MYSELF, ALONG WITH MANY OTHERS WOULD GREATLY BENIFIT FROM THIS BEING RECALLED. THERE ARE A LOT OF JEEPS OUT THERE DRIVING ON REPAIRED FRAMES. THIS ISSUE SHOULD BE RESOLVED BEING AS THERE ARE SO MANY WITH THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-17
- VIN: 1J4FY19S1WP
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELTS DO NOT GRAB WHEN PULLED RAPIDLY, MOST OF THE TIME. THE CENTRIFUGAL PAWLS SEEM TO NOT BE FREELY MOVING OUTWARD AND HOLDING THE BELT FROM FREELY PLAYING OUT, WHEN THEY SHOULD. I MADE THE TEST WHILE PARKED WITH ENGINE RUNNING AND OFF, AND ALSO WHILE IN MOTION.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-04
- VIN: 1J4FY29P5WP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP WRANGLER. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE SPEEDOMETER FAILED TO DISPLAY THE SPEED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 124,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-09-10
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DESIGN FLAW WHICH ALLOWS WATER IN BUT NOT OUT CAUSES WATER AND DIRT TO COLLECT INSIDE OF CHASSIS FRAME, CAUSING IT TO RUST FROM THE INSIDE OUT.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-06
- VIN: 1J4FY49S9WP
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE USING CRUISE CONTROL SPEED INCREASED AND WOULD NOT RESPOND TO SHUTTING OFF SPEED CONTROL OR BY HITTING THE BRAKES CAR COULD NOT BE STOPPED ONLY PUSHING IN CLUTCH WHILE THE ENGINE RACED UNCONTROLLABLY AND PULLING OFF THE INTERSTATE ONTO SIDE OF ROAD TURNING OFF KEY STOPPED THIS . WHEN STARTED BACK UP ENGINE STILL RACING. SAME THING HAPPENED ABOUT SEVEN YEARS AGO NEVER USED SPEED CONTROL AGAIN UNTIL THIS
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-05
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE RUST IS SO BAD ON THE JEEPS IT'S RIDICULOUS IT'S NOT SAFE YOUR GOING TO KILL SOMEONE WHEN THERE REAR AXLE SHOOTS OUT FROM UNDER THEM THIS IS A ISSUE YOU SHOULD FIX NOT THE CONSUMER I WILL NOT BE BUYING THIS PRODUCT AGAIN IF IT IS MY FIXED. 98 TJ JEEP WRANGLER
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-02
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHILE REPLACING SHOCKS I FOUND MULTIPLE ROT SPOTS IN THE FRAME OF THE JEEP. THESE ROT SPOTS WERE SO BADLY ROTTED THAT I COULD POKE THROUGH WITH MY INDEX FINGER WITH MINIMAL FORCE. HAD TO SEND IT TO A REPAIR SHOP TO REPAIR THE FRAME IN MULTIPLE LOCATIONS.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-14
- VIN: 1J4FY49SXWP
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: DUE TO EXCESSIVE ROT THAT IS COMMON ON THIS VEHICLE, WHILE TRAVELING I HIT A BUMP AND SNAPPED MY DRIVER SIDE CONTROL ARM. THIS CONSEQUENTLY MADE FOR A DANGEROUS RIDE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO REPAIR IT I NOTICED HOW BAD THE FRAME WAS ROTTED, BUT UNLIKE NORMAL CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE THE OUTSIDE AND INSIDE WOULD HAVE EQUAL CORROSION. THE INSIDE WAS ROTTED MUCH WORSE, AND PARTS OF THE FRAME EASILY CRUMBLED. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-07
- VIN: 1J4FY19S2WP
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PURCHASED A USED 1998 JEEP WRANGLER SPORT ON DECEMBER 27 2014. HAD IT IN A SHOP FOR NEW TIRES WHEN THEY TOLD ME THE FRAME WAS ROTTED AND IT WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE DEALERSHIP I BOUGHT IT FROM INSPECTED IT AND SURE ENOUGH, ROTTED FRAME AND UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THEY AGREED TO PAY 1700 DOLLARS TOWARDS THE COST OF A FRAME SWAP AND IT COST ME 1000 DOLLARS MORE FOR A TOTAL OF 2700 DOLLARS. THIS SEEMS TO BE A REAL ISSUE WITH JEEPS BETWEEN THE YEARS OF 97 TO 04, I MAY BE WRONG ON THE EXACT YEARS BUT THERE IS A DEFINITE PATTERN OF BAD MANUFACTURING PRACTICES/BAD QUALITY STEEL TO BE CONTRIBUTING TO THIS FRAME ROT. IS CHRYSLER WAITING FOR SOMEONE TO GET KILLED IN ORDER TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE? BIG CORPORATIONS AND POLITICS MEET TO SCREW THE GENERAL PUBLIC ONCE AGAIN? CHRYSLER, TAKE A LESSON FROM TOYOTA AND FIX THESE FRAMES BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT 65 MPH AND THEIR FRAME BREAKS. MY JEEP WAS TOTALLY BONE STOCK WHEN THIS WAS DISCOVERED. I'M NOT TRYING TO GET A DOLLAR BACK FOR WHAT I PAID, JUST TRYING TO BRING AWARENESS TO THIS AS HAVE MANY OTHERS. JEEPERS LOVER THEIR JEEPS NO DOUBT AND ARE VERY LOYAL TO THE BRAND. CHRYSLER SHOULD RECOGNIZE THIS AND DO THE RIGHT THING. I HOPE MANY MORE COME FORWARD AND STEPS ARE TAKEN TO RIGHT THIS WRONG BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED. CHRYSLER CAN BLAME IT ON ROAD SALT OR SEA AIR OR WHATEVER, BUT THERE ARE OTHER AUTO MANUFACTURERS WITH CARS STILL ON THE ROAD FROM THE 60'S AND 70'S AND EARLIER ERAS WITH NO FRAME PROBLEMS AT ALL. BIG CORPORATIONS HIDE BEHIND BAD POLITICS AND THEY WORK HAND IN HAND TO NOT TAKE BLAME FOR THINGS LIKE THIS. ONE OF MANY PROBLEMS WITH POLITICS IN AMERICA. *TR
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-18
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FRAME AROUND THE CONTROL ARMS ARE RUSTING, THIS COULD BE A SERIOUS PROBLEM THAT NEEDS ADDRESSED AND THERE ARE MORE 97-06 WRANGLERS WITH RUSTED FRAMES THAN NOT. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-01
- VIN: 1J4FY19S3WP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALL OF A SUDDEN THE SPEEDOMETER AND TACHOMETER GO DEAD, AND THE AIRBAG AND ENGINE LIGHT COME ON. SEEMS TO HAPPEN DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS. I HAVE TO HIT THE DASH A COUPLE OF TIMES AND EVERYTHING STARTS WORKING AGAIN. DOESN'T HAPPEN IN THE WINTER WHEN IT'S COLD. IT'S A LITTLE UNNERVING WHEN THE SPEEDOMETER STOPS WORKING. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-08
- VIN: 1J4FY29P2WP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING AND RUNNING THE HEATER AND NOTICED A BURNING SMELL. I IMMEDIATELY SHUT DOWN THE HVAC UNIT AND SMELL SUBSIDED. I PULLED THE HVAC HEAD UNIT OUT AND HAD A VACUUM LINE AND IT'S INSULATION MELTED. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A FIRE. THE HEAT AND AC NOW ONLY WORK ON THE HIGHEST SETTING. *TR
1998 Jeep Wrangler recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1998 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.
- Manufacturer: BRAKE PARTS, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT BRAKE CYLINDERS FOR CERTAIN FORD, DAIMLERCHRYSLER, AND JEEP PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE BRAKE CYLINDERS WERE SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF NAPA, RAYBESTOS, AIMCO, AC DELCO, CARQUEST, BENDIX, AND WAGNER. ONLY PRODUCTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 27, 2005 THROUGH JANUARY 17, 2006 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.
- Consequence: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN LEAD TO A DECREASE IN BRAKE LINE PRESSURE AND AN INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE, WHICH CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: AFFINIA (BRAKE PARTS, INC.) WILL REPLACE THE SUBJECT BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AFFINA GROUP CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-323-0354.
- Manufacturer: AIRTEX PRODUCTS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: CERTAIN AFTERMARKET AIRTEX ELECTRIC FUEL PUMPS INSTALLED FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR CERTAIN 1997-2004 JEEP WRANGLER; 1997-2001 JEEP CHEROKEE; 1997-2004 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE; AND 2000-2003 DODGE DAKOTA VEHICLES. THE PLASTIC ELECTRICAL GROMMET CONNECTORS AT THE TOP OF THE FUEL PUMP MODULE ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH AUTOMOTIVE FUELS AND MAY DEGRADE CAUSING A POTENTIAL LEAK PATH FOR FUEL.
- Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FUEL LEAK COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: AIRTEX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 25, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AIRTEX CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT 1-800-880-3056.
- Manufacturer: BESTOP, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: BESTOP AFTERMARKET REAR SHELL ROOF RACKS,MANUFACTURED BETWEEN APRIL 27 AND MAY 20, 2004, DESIGNED FOR USE WITH THE BESTOP HARDTOP MADE FOR THE 1986-1995 AND 1997-2003 JEEP WRANGLER. THE COCKPIT COVER MAY NOT STAY LATCHED TO THE ROOF RACK BECAUSE THE LATCH BRACKET MISPOSITIONS THE ROTARY LATCH TO THE COCKPIT COVER. AS A RESULT, THE COCKPIT COVER MAY NOT STAY LATCHED TO THE ROOF RACK AND COULD SEPARATE FROM THE ROOF RACK. THIS RECALL ONLY PERTAINS TO AFTERMARKET REAR SHELL ROOF RACKS AND HAS NO RELATION TO ANY ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED ON JEEP WRANGLER VEHICLES BY DAIMLERCHRYSLER.
- Consequence: SHOULD THIS OCCUR, THE COCKPIT COULD CAUSE INJURY BY STRIKING PERSONS OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE OR COULD BECOME A DISTRACTION OR AN OBSTACLE TO OTHER DRIVERS, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: BESTOP WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A REPAIR KIT AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FREE OF CHARGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 16, 2004. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BESTOP CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT (800) 845-3567.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE. THE FRONT SEAT BELT SHOULDER TURNING LOOP ANCHORS WERE NOT PROPERLY HEAT TREATED AND ARE NOT PROPERLY HARDENED.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE FRONT SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED INCREASING THE RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SEAT SHOULDER BELT TURNING LOOP ON THESE VEHICLES.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE POWER BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM RESERVOIR DIAPHRAGM CAN SPLIT OR TEAR.
- Consequence: THIS CAN CAUSE AN INCREASE IN ENGINE IDLE SPEED AND A LOSS OF POWER ASSIST DURING BRAKE APPLICATION WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE BOOSTER DATE CODE AND ANY BOOSTERS WITH THE SUSPECT MANUFACTURING DATE RANGE WILL BE REPLACED.
Negative 1998 Jeep Wrangler car reviews
Positive 1998 Jeep Wrangler car reviews
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Firstly, let me say that there's nothing quite like a Jeep. While it may lack some abilities, it more than makes up for it in fun. I do wish I had opted for glass windows instead of plastic, as they tend to be much noisier. Additionally, plastic windows can be a bit of a hassle when it's raining and you go through a drive-through. However, I have never regretted not getting a hard top. They seem like more of an inconvenience than an aesthetic improvement. Also, I'd like to dispel the myth that Jeeps are cold. A soft top is more than sufficient in keeping a Jeep warm, and the heater and air conditioning are both awesome. Overall, I absolutely love this car and have enjoyed it since the day I got it!
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to let you know that I bought it with 27k miles for 8,000 dollars.
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The Jeep began as a military vehicle and has not lost its off-road ability throughout the years. With its removable top and 4WD capability, it's a very versatile rig.
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I'm so glad I bought this vehicle! It's really roomy (I'm 6'4
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I understand that some people may have complaints about Jeeps, but as a Jeep owner myself, I can confidently say that the investment is worth it. While it does require some maintenance, the benefits are undeniable. I love going off-roading every weekend and my Jeep has never let me down. As the saying goes, 'you wouldn't be stuck if you bought a Jeep.' Thank you for taking the time to read this and let's go out there and have some fun in our Jeeps!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Jeep Wrangler problems:
1998 Jeep Wrangler Problems and Complaints - 18 Issues
Top 1998 Jeep Wrangler Problems · Water May Leak From A-pillar on Side Doors · Jeep recall on ignition switch due to short-circuit · Throttle Position Sensor ...
'98 4 cyl TJ's....any issues? | Jeep Wrangler Forum
Sep 7, 2017 ... There are no major reported issues. The 2.5 gets a bad rap sometimes (as it is underpowered) but with proper maintenance will run just as long ...
What were the first year TJ problems? | Jeep Wrangler TJ Forum
What problems did the 97,98 TJs have that were later ironed out?? Reply ...
1998 4.0 Engine Problems | Jeep Wrangler Forum
Oct 22, 2015 ... Sounds like it could indeed be a fuel pump or fuel pressure issue. However, it might also be a sticking or slowly dying IAC sensor/valve located ...
TJ Common Problems? | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
Sep 28, 2010 ... TJ Common Problems? · 1) Wiring. · 2) RUST. · 3) Most jeeps w/ 100K+ miles leak a little. · 4) When you drive it make sure it goes into 4H and 4L ...
Other years of Jeep Wrangler
Are you having problems with your 1998 Jeep Wrangler?
Haleigh Anderson 2025-01-02
Great to hear from you again! I noticed that this is your second transmission in just two years.
Wayne Casper 2024-07-25
For off-roading and driving in the snow, this car is a lot of fun to have. However, if you plan on using it as your daily driver, it may not be the best option. Additionally, if you prioritize reliability and low maintenance, this may not be the car for you as it requires a fair amount of upkeep. That being said, it is an absolute blast to drive off-road!
Cody Jacobs 2024-06-20
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Jeep that I bought from a private seller. When I first got it, it was a pretty basic model with just A/C. But I wanted to add a little personality to it, so I put on a new top, tinted the windows, added some cool 'Canyon' wheels, and even installed some fog lights. It was a lot of fun customizing it! Of course, like any car, it's had its fair share of issues. I had to replace the radiator at 115,000 miles, and the power steering pump blew at 133,000 miles. I've also had to replace the muffler 4 times and the catalytic converter 3 times. Unfortunately, Chrysler had a recall on it, but I was out of warranty and over the mileage limit. Overall, though, I still love my Jeep and all the adventures it's taken me on!
Pierce Fisher 2024-05-27
I bought the Jeep to drive to my office daily (1 mile) and for weekends off the beaten path. The Jeep has done these things without any problem. I knew the strengths and weaknesses of the Wrangler when I bought it and I have not been disappointed. Although it is not a highway cruiser, I have driven it on several long road trips and the only complaints I have are the road noise and lack of power. The gas mileage is poor for a 4 cyl. However, off-road it is unbeatable.
Warren Carroll 2024-05-02
I got a 98 as my first car and I absolutely love it! It may not be the most powerful car in the world, but it helps me avoid speeding tickets. The suspension is unique and bouncy, making it fun to go over bumps. I have added a few bolt-on accessories like Nerf bars and brush guards, which can be found cheaply used. Mine is an automatic and it's really nice unless you're a serious off-roader or have to do a lot of interstate travel. The Jeep isn't for everyone (my dad doesn't care for it), but if you want a fun car, they're awesome. And if you want to get into off-roading, they're beasts. Even stock, I don't get stuck in light mud under a foot or so thick, and nothing is more fun than going off-roading!