1997 Jeep Wrangler Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.43/5 Average
70 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Jeep has totally redesigned this American icon. A Quadra-coil suspension improves on- and off-road manners; while dual airbags and optional antilock brakes increase the Wrangler's ability to keep occupants safe. Round, retro-style headlights add a nostalgic touch to this venerable ground-pounder. Fortunately, none of these refinements soften the Wrangler's tough exterior. A restyled interior includes integrated air vents, a glovebox and carlike stereo controls and accessory switches.

Pros:
  • Unmatched off-road capability, overflowing with character, dual airbags, optional ABS, fun to drive, speedy with manual transmission
Cons:
  • Soft top is improved, but still a pain in the $%!@#

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 70.00
  • 1997 Wrangler Sport - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
    By -

    I find it amazing, Ive had it in water up to the air intake twice; in other words, almost everything was under water, including the alternator. This was in 1989 and it caused no problems. The shocks were still good last summer when I installed adjustable ones. I find the way I drive, the stiffer the better. I also added quick release sway bar joints, a high end winch, bumper and mount, remote starter and soft top. Then I saw the RUBICON and gave up before I bought lockers. I will find a RUBICON soon I hope with the features I want. I have ABS, it has saved me from crashing at least 6 times, pulling an overloaded trailer on two occasions. I will never drive anything but a Wrangler. Zero complaints

  • local car - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
    By -

    research what you need before buying this jeep. Not a highway or commuter car. Not good on wet roads. (other than deep snow)

  • Id always wanted one... - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
    By -

    I always wanted a Jeep and finally I bought the 97 Wrangler used a few months ago. Im happy so far. I love driving it and actually think the noise and discomfort arent nearly as bad as I thought theyd be, even with my soft top. I love off-roading it (spins donuts really well due to the short wheelbase), but havent done any hardcore stuff yet. Love driving in summer with the top down and the heat in the winter kicks butt. Fun, comfortable, and more versatile and unique than anything in its price range. I agree, a little weak with the 2.5 and gas mileage still sucks.

  • NEVER BRAKE DOWN OR GET STUCK - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
    By -

    if you want a car that will always get you where you want to go buy a wrangler. get a 4.0 it has a stronger engine. I have alittle over 96k miles and the engine is still going strong, Its never had engine problems.if you cant deal with a bumpy ride dont by an suv,because jeep is the grandfather of the suvs. Fun in the winter(4x4 in the snow) and fun in the summer top down and doors off buy hard top and an after market soft top (best top) because it comes with full metal doors

  • mattman - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
    By -

    I purchased this vehicle two years ago from the original owner with 74,000 miles. It runs great and has given me no problems. I have all of the records since I purchased the vehicle regarding oil changes, etc. It is alot of fun to drive, especially with the top down. During the cold winter months, the heater works great!

  • Black and Tan TJ - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
    By -

    Latest of a long line of Land Rovers, Jeeps and F150s that have lived in my family. It is all that it has promised to be. Tough, rugged and charming. Handles all road conditions with ease. Noise off the freeway is limited to the sounds out of the rollbar speakers. Smooth shifting through all the gears, no surprise there. Braking is consistent. Enjoy taking it everywhere, its big brother Grand Cherokee is jealous of all the attention its getting.

  • Fun 2 Drive - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
    By -

    I was impressed how smooth this Jeep drove after driving some of the older models with the leaf springs. Jeep has come a long way. This machine really knows how to handle rough terrain. The top still needs much work to make it easy to bring up and down.

  • Its a Jeep...what else do you expect - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
    By -

    I am always suprised by some of the critiques on this vehicle, like its fuel consumption, loudness and hard ride. What do you expect from a kick- ass ultimate 4WD convertable. Mind you, it is loud as loud can be on a road trip, but if you plan on making multiple long distances car trips, then the jeep isnt your best bet. If I was concerned with fuel consumption, I would have got a Honda Civic. Overall, I plan on running the wrangler into the ground. It takes everything I give it. Finally, it is just plain fun. From the first time you drive with the top down to every time afterwards, you will understand why you bought the wrangler many years before.

  • New owner - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
    By -

    I just replaced my 2003 Jeep Liberty for a 97 Sahara and I dont regret it. I enjoy driving a little more and cant wait to find where to store its hardtop so that I can enjoy its soft top and go topless on weekends to enjoy Puerto Ricos year-around tropical weather. I am considering a 4" lift and some 33s, but I fear affecting the MPGs too much. I might just get some traction tires for the Rubicon 16" rims it has now add a header, a KN intake and call it Christmas. Other than that just some TLC a nice carpet and catch me if you can.

  • This thing is built like a tank - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
    By -

    Well I own a 97 TJ sport with the 4.0L I6 (aka bulletproof) with a 5-speed manual transmission. My Jeep just rolled over to 206,000 and the only thing I need to replace is the muffler. Engine starts as good as an 06 with 500 miles, I reccomend a deep cycle marine battery. Very powerful on the low end. Accelerates quickly. Unbelievably fun to drive. Will literally go anywhere.. I can blow FJ Cruisers away offroad.

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