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Used 1997 Jeep Wrangler Consumer Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
77 reviews

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Pros
Cons
4.25 out of 5 stars

Overall worth every penny

timo88, 03/20/2013
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
27 of 27 people found this review helpful

Bought my 97 wrangler SE a couple weeks ago with 115k miles on it. it had a 4" lift and 33x 12.5 tires on it. over all it is a fun ride and even better when i drop the soft top. the only issue i have is a common one with jeeps. the infamous death wobble. every now and then i the jeep will go into a violent shake that is only stopped by slowing down. after plenty of research i have found that is a moderatly easy and cheap fix. about $375. kevinsoffroad has kits for this specific problem that are supposed to fix it completely. i will be installing mine tomorrow and im sure ill see an improvement. even with this problem i still can rely on it for a everyday driver.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Great little tank

katiec3, 12/15/2012
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
30 of 31 people found this review helpful

I have only had her about a month, and this is my first car. I always wanted a jeep and waited until I found a good deal, and I can honestly say it was well worth the money even though she's 15 years old. My boyfriend calls her "the tank" and makes fun of me for driving it, but he just doesn't get it! It's not the smoothest ride, it doesn't accelerate fast, and she has her quirks, but we'll see what he says when I'm pulling his brand new chevy cruze out of snowbanks all winter, offroading by myself all summer and mowing down zombies during the apocolypse. It runs like a top and so far, I am very pleased. I'm officially a Jeep Girl!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Highly Reliable, Highly Fun!

krakenbound, 07/28/2013
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
28 of 30 people found this review helpful

I picked up a stock 97 TJ SE (2.5L, 5-speed, No A/C) with 140k for $4k. I then spent $8k and two years of hobby time on full lockers, gears, suspension, winch, rack, bumpers, etc, etc. It is highly reliable; starts fast and never hicups. The engine is easy to work on, and striping out the interior bits is also quite easy for upgrades and fixes. A Reman motor will only cost you $1500 and a weekend to swap it, or half that for a transmission, so long term cost to run it is dirt cheap, vs. the 6cyl w/auto at twice that price, or my 1/2 ton truck, which costs three times that to rebuild. It's not plush or fast, but it crawls up anything, gets lots of admiration and ride requests! FUN!

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Jeep - There's Only One

Jeeper4Life, 08/29/2006
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
12 of 12 people found this review helpful

I have owned my Wrangler for about 4 years now. I must say it is my favorite vehicle i have ever owned. if you are looking for good gas mileage do not buy this vehicle. it is as aerodynamic as a brick. However if you want the go anywhere do anything capability this is the vehicle for you. I have a 4" lift kit and 33" tires on my 4 cylinder which do just fine but if I had to do it again I would have bought the 4.0 liter.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

There truely is only one Jeep

Stephen "Slacker", 06/02/2009
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
14 of 15 people found this review helpful

I bought my '97 TJ Jeep (her name is Jessie) with 86,000 miles in 2004. My ex-wife used to say I loved my Jeep more than her. Well, apparently she was right...I still have the Jeep! It now has 162,000 miles on it and runs stronger than ever. The 4.0 may not be fast, but it will pull trees out of the ground and get you out of the stickiest situations. There are very few vehicles out there that generate such a since of pride, excitement, and comradery as a Jeep. Hands down the best vehicle I've ever owned. For those who have a Jeep (wrangler) it is customary to waive at other wrangler's you pass on the road. I know you're checking out my Jeep so don't forget to waive, you are family now.

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5 out of 5 stars

It's not a car, it's a jeep

Dave Bennett, 03/30/2016
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
10 of 11 people found this review helpful

Its awkward getting in and out, leaves a lot to be desired in freeway driving, and gets poor milage, but getting behind the wheel changes your perspective. I've been driving mine for 19 years - they really do seem to last forever. The short wheelbase, wide track, and high center of gravity make for unsettled travel at 70mph, but it's a minimally compromised drive aimed at the off road. A turn off the pavement turns the just tolerable highway cruiser into the master of its environment. Even if you don't spend a lot of your time in the back country, it's alway there in the back of your mind.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.88 out of 5 stars

Frank the Tank

PAPA SMURF, 12/04/2010
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

I bought this Jeep and it has a 4 cylinder engine in it and it has plenty of power, it can always use more, but really I dont see that big of a difference... This truck makes you feel like your driving a tank and is a great 2nd vehicle but could easily be a primary vehicle. WARNING: I heard that the hood vent gets clogged and lets water in, it didnt happen to me, but my new soft top window seals let water in 2 days after I bought it. I did some research and It happens a lot! To all years! That ok cause there are drain plugs and I use it for trailing so its no biggie for me, but I would have been mad if this was my primary vehicle. PS its not that hard to fix so dont worry...

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Its a JEEP thing(you wouldnt understand)

JEEP MAN, 02/18/2010
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

I LOVE my Jeep..got a kick out of the last review i read about a guys jeep with a bad tranny..mine has 198000 miles on it and have NEVER had a transmission problem. I live in Georgia and ole Blacky will go anywhere i want it to go.It is after all a hummer rescue vehicle..My jeep has had 2 problems in all the years and miles i've put on it.,I had to have brushes put in the alternator,and i replaced the seal in the steering box once.It dosen't have a lift kit on it and i run 1050s on it..When i first got it it was one of about 6 or 7 jeeps in my area of NW Georgia.Now Jeeps are EVERYWHERE.and mine still looks the best..LOL..want a great reliable FUN vehicle?? Buy a JEEP

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5 out of 5 stars

great jeep

wrangler4x4me2003, 12/09/2009
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Always owned a Jeep, cj7, yj, and Cherokee. But never thought of owning a tj. Once bought I love it right away. Great performance, strong, comfortable, great in the snow, and smooth driving down the hwy, even great on the offroad. I would buy one again if anything Major happens.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

I'd always wanted one...

jstevep00, 11/14/2002
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I always wanted a Jeep and finally I bought the 97 Wrangler used a few months ago. I'm happy so far. I love driving it and actually think the noise and discomfort aren't nearly as bad as I thought they'd be, even with my soft top. I love off-roading it (spins donuts really well due to the short wheelbase), but haven't 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 it's price range. I agree, a little weak with the 2.5 and gas mileage still sucks.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

My big bear green Wrangler 97 cyl

my bear, 07/01/2008
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Had my 97 4 cyl banger for 2 shy years only but it's the most fun car I've ever driven, at 31 it makes me feel, active, Young and adventurer in it like in my 20's. I gave it a 10 in performance not for fast because is not really but because of offroad, flooding and winter capabilities, the thing is extremely slow, the half doors suck, but a set of full doors can cure that, the a/c is amazingly cold and heat is extremely hot, gas mileage isn't good at all due to the boxy shape of the car, so don't buy this truck counting you will get good mpg. When the top is down and put on my baseball shades, it's like you have a total different car in the summer and fun factors is higher.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Best Ride Ever!

Jeff, 06/23/2010
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
5 of 6 people found this review helpful

I bought my Jeep Wrangler as a demo in 1998. I've put 188,000 miles on it and have been more then happy with it since day 1. It goes everywhere, from the tropics to winter blizzards. I've owned many high end vehicles and get more enjoyment out of this Jeep then any of the others!

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Fun adn Reliable

Doug Thompson, 03/02/2002
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Have owned the Wrangler 5 years no maintenance issues, replace the belt and rear brakes over 57,000 miles. Passing this one on to my son and buy a 01 Wrangler for me

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Amazing Jeep

JeepOwner112, 01/03/2008
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
6 of 8 people found this review helpful

Got it a year ago with 84,000 miles now have 94,000 miles on it, and love it. In Wisconsin theres nothing like putting the top down in the summer and throwing it in 4WD in the winter snow. I like how everyone looks at you b/c they all want one for themselves, and everyone should at some point in their life. But there have been a few reliability issues, but should live forever if I keep up on routine maintenance, I know a guy with 290,000 miles on his.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Best vehicle ive ever owned

BB, 09/26/2008
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
5 of 7 people found this review helpful

Always wanted one and finally got one with 98,000 miles on it and it runs like new. The 4.0 has a great amount of torque. It is the best vehicle i have owned, I love it. It drives my buddy crazy because his 93 ford ranger got stuck for 3 hours in this mud hole that i made it thorough effortlessly in 2 wheel drive, he was so mad. Then i drove it though the river when it was high from a month of rain the water came up over the hood and halfway up the door it scared the heck out of me i i thought i was for sure going to take in water but still i am never doing that again i like it to much to trash it. Thanks Jeep.. for such a great Vehicle.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Black and Tan TJ

risard, 01/15/2006
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Latest of a long line of Land Rovers, Jeeps and F150's 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 it's getting.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Worth the Purchase

natestj, 04/30/2005
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

This vehicle is awesome! Fun to drive, especially in the summer with the top off. I bought it with 74K miles and now have over 98k. Every time I change the oil it looks exactly the same as when I put it in, clean! No problems with engine or transmission. Excellent capability in the snow, never stuck once. The 6 cylinder is a must, despite poor gas mileage. Comfort isn't too bad, but the ride is that of a Jeep, it's supposed to be a little rough. Right? The only minor problems I've had is replacing the sway bar brackets and bushings. Also the universal joints on the drive shaft seem to wear out quick. They make a very annoying clicking sound when you take off out of first gear.

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5 out of 5 stars

28 years old and still rocking

Kenneth Roko, 04/14/2019
updated 04/15/2024
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I have had this Jeep since it was new; I picked up the Jeep in August of 1996 and it was the new 1997 model year. By far the most reliable engine - the I-6 4.0 liter. My mechanic said that it is not going to die and of course I do take good care of it. I have 290,000 miles on this car and have no intention of replacing it. I have a farm now and for hauling trailer or through the mud, can’t beat it. Update 04/14/2024: replaced the engine wirh another I-6 engine at 300,000 miles. Runs like a champ.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.75 out of 5 stars

Bulletproof! Best purchase ive ever made

JeeperTJ97, 10/25/2007
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I bought this 97 TJ Sport 4.0 in August of 07 with 205k on the odometer. It's my daily driver and weekend getaway vehicle. I have a 4" lift on 33" tires and average 15.2 mpg not bad. It fires up every morning, has all the power you need. Most capable stock vehicle ever produced. Solid front axle, strong drivetrain. Built to last. I now have nearly 215k and its perfect. does not leak or burn oil, very strong engine, trans, and tcase. Have been on some harsh trails, deep mud and snow and have not even come close to being stuck. This is my 2nd wrangler

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4.75 out of 5 stars

great all around suv

jeepgeek2002, 10/01/2002
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Great for city drives as well as long distance drives. I drove mine from NC to GA to FL then back to NC during period i had it. Its comfortable considering it has bigger tires and you cant expect performance with a vehicle with aerodynamics of a brick. Offroad: if it be going camping or the beach, you cant beat it. Shift on the fly 4wd hi or stop and shift 4Low for rocks or slippery terrain. I went places with my jeep that i wouldnt have tried with any other SUV.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

A rockbashed/mud covered 97 Wrangler

muddyjeepbob, 03/27/2002
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

My 97 Jeep Wrangler has been through the mill. In the past five years I have beaten this vehicle to death and it comes back for more. My Jeep has offroaded on many medium to high difficulty trails in the mountains and deserts near San Diego. It shows battle scars from many encounters with rocks and desert cactus. It has traveled to 44 states (3 cross-country runs). It has never broke down. The A/C works great even crawling on 120 degree offroad trails in the deserts. It has plenty of power and gets decent mileage (18-22 mpg) on highway (as long as I keep it at 60-65 mph.) It's it Jeep Thing.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Never Go Back

Mark, 02/16/2008
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I had always wanted a Wrangler and when I got one I was more than pleased. I was a little nervous to get one with all the problems I had heard about with the Cherokees, but, now that I have a Wrangler, I will never go back to another vehicle. I live in Alaska and the Jeep works great on and off the road. Heat is great even at - 40F, fuel economy is alright, very fun to drive. No problems so far even after I got in an accident. The only damage I had was a dented bumper. Other vehicle could not say the same. The only things I could complain about would be a better stereo package (hard to hear with the top down) and the amount of rust on the underside. Overall, an awesome reliable vehicle

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Reliable and fun

Jeeppr, 07/19/2004
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Jeeps are not cars, so drivers shouldn't expect that. Love Jeeps for what they are: fun, great off-roads, convertible, and rugged.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Reliable

Capt Mike, 01/06/2004
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Over 133,000 miles in six years. Got me to work everyday and six weeks vacations every year to Belize, New Mexico deserts and Texas hill country. I will drive nothing else, just Jeeps.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Good for off-roading

Clayton, 11/07/2005
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

SOOOO fun to drive off-road, can handle just about everything. We've gone up VERY steep hills that most likely not very many other Jeeps can handle like this one! My first time driving it off-road was hard since I'm only 15 and don't even have my permit yet. But it was fun, we even went over some pretty big rocks with it. Can handle the heat -- we tested it out in about 98 degree heat and the color is black. It's a dependable car.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Love my Jeep

Tommy C., 01/12/2004
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I love my jeep it's a off road monster, the steet drivin isn't bad either

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2.88 out of 5 stars

local car

pds, 01/19/2004
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

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

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Hurst

Taylor Hurst, 02/27/2006
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

No power steering but very good off road. I think it is good for someone who likes to off road because it has a lift kit and spotlights.

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5 out of 5 stars

tank

Dave, 03/21/2018
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Reliable heavy duty, go anywhere, over anything. 6" lift with 33's winch, hardtop, sliding glass windows. Nothing ever breaks.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.75 out of 5 stars

My first car

Jon Lance, 10/05/2004
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought this car myself in 97. I did a lot of it comparitive shopping and I found this to be a perfect fit for me. Great quality for the money, inside and out. Rugged and very good off road perfect for hard core drivers, even the whole carpet snaps out and plugs can be pulled to drain out water(in case you get stuck in the rain). The updated interior was new to this model in 97 and I liked it then and it is fine now. My biggest piece of advice is don't skimp on the AC you'll regret it. Overall a great reliable everyday use or offroad vehicle.

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5 out of 5 stars

Fun Vehicle

Jim Drake, 01/11/2018
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

It depends on what you are looking for. If you want a fun vehicle and you don't want all the bells and whistles then you will like this vehicle. It is fun to drive and easy to work on, which is important if you drive off-road in isolated areas and if something goes wrong you're on your own to fix it. This is a utility vehicle so you shouldn't expect it to a refined luxury vehicle. It may be a little difficult to get in and out of and have a pretty basic interior, but that simplicity is what makes it a great vehicle to drive in remote areas and allows for endless personal customization.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.13 out of 5 stars

Mr. Reliability

Jim/PA, 11/29/2004
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I have 105,000 miles on the Jeep and it still runs well. The mileage is poor, but it starts up ever morning. I had both the hardtop and soft top until the soft top ripped off while driving on the highway. The driver seat is comfortable and the seatbelt holds you in your seat over all terrain. I planned on having the car til it dies [ or I die], but I'm getting sick of the water puddles. I have the hardtop and I had to remove all of the carpet and plugs so I do not have the musty smell. I definitely recommend the Jeep, it was well worth the money I paid in 97 -$18,000. Not to mention the resale value is great!!!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My '97 Wrangler

Aaron, 06/23/2005
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I am very pleased with my purchase. It is a well put together machine and it is a ton of fun to drive. The only drawback is the fuel economy, but it's still worth it. I use it as my daily driver and on weekends take it off-road for a little fun.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

1997 Wrangler Sport

Paul, 07/16/2005
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I find it amazing, I've 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

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5 out of 5 stars

Its a family Member

jeff, 12/15/2022
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I have had this 1997 for 8 years now. I have owned lots of 4X4 through the years. This is my favorite. It is a multitasker to the 10th degree. I purchased it to hunt with. I liked it so much I "prettied" it up and drive it all the time now. If I ever go anywhere, someone wants to buy it. I had just as soon sell my dog as my jeep. It has seen a wrench very very few times in the 8 years I have owned it. I needed a radiator at 100K. It now has 149K and thats all I remember changing on it mechanically. It just runs. If something happened to it, it would be replaced immediately with the same similar model.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.75 out of 5 stars

This thing is built like a tank

Ryan, 09/09/2007
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

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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4.5 out of 5 stars

Fun 2 Drive

Sharkie, 01/04/2003
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

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.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Find

algobull, 04/04/2011
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I got this wrangler with 68K Mi about 2 years ago. I know have over 90K and it feels like it could go on forever. It was only supposed to be a weekend car, but after I lost my job, it's my everyday driver, and I love it. I live in Florida and people always look at me with envy when driving it down the road. I got an automatic because I blew 3 clutches in in 4 years on my previous jeep... I found out later it's due to a minor and fixable repair in the master cylinder... I do miss the 5 speed though, better power and much better MPG's. Even young girls love it (not as much as my old mustang, but hey)... and I'm glad it's slow because fast cars are def not a good idea for me (i.e. 3 clutches)

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5 out of 5 stars

Gotta love a Jeep

mpyusko, 03/15/2006
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

The ride comfort will make your teeth chatter, but let's face it ... if you are looking to buy one of these, you are more likely concerned about being able to go anywhere than be comfortable. The 4 cylinder I have does about 21mpg highway and 17 city. I've had it for a year and a half and all I've replaced are the tires (when I bought it). It currently has 125,000 miles on it and runs like a top.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

My Jeep

T M Smith, 03/23/2004
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

i love my jeep. that's it. i have always wanted one, and i finally talked my husband into getting one. in order to love a jeep, you have to be a jeep person. you have to love it for the pluses and minuses. it's a fun vehicle that lives up to the jeep name. i have a 4 cylinder, gutless wonder that it is, but put it in 4 low and there is no place you can't go. i have standard tires, and haven't modified any part of the jeep, and i am happy with it. It's red. that's the other thing, if you get a jeep, buy a bold color so people can see you coming. i also have a soft top, tan, because why else would you buy a jeep if not to bring the top down.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

New owner

Mr. "D", 09/01/2009
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2dr SUV 4WD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I just replaced my 2003 Jeep Liberty for a 97 Sahara and I don't regret it. I enjoy driving a little more and can't wait to find where to store its hardtop so that I can enjoy its soft top and go topless on weekends to enjoy Puerto Rico's 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.

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2.88 out of 5 stars

The Fun Money Pit

Jennafrito, 11/20/2002
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
2 of 7 people found this review helpful

From my experience with my 1997 Wrangler, and through discussion with the dealers, and my dad (a certified master mechanic) I have learned that this vehicle is a disaster. Since I purchased the car 1 1/2 years ago, I have had four major problems that totaled over $1,500. The dealer said that since 1997 was the first year for the new model, it was riddled with design flaws as they were trying to still work the bugs out. Instead of minor repair, the company makes you replace the entire system that is defective, which results in a hefty fee, and the company will not pay for it.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Fun unless on the highway...

erik1493, 06/23/2011
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
8 of 41 people found this review helpful

Jeeps are great, fun, and reliable cars. The ride is bumpy, but if you buy padded seat covers you will be VERY comfortable. Don't, and I repeat, do not, get a Jeep with 4 cylinder engine. My jeep has the v4 and honestly, I can barely pass cars on the highway at 60mph

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3.75 out of 5 stars

Been through hell and back

bigfortdawg, 09/23/2010
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have a 97 tj 2.5l 5 speed this was my first Jeep/car I have replaced the engine twice once at 27,000 and again at 93,000 it now has been converted to an off-road vehicle with 33-13.50 ltbs and a 5 inch lift oh yea I had to replace the computer at 140,000 that was fun to track down, so I still got it and it's running good at 156,000

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4 out of 5 stars

Wrangler Sport

4x4wrangler, 07/18/2002
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have had a tremendous amount of fun with my Wrangler. It's fun to drive and has had almost no mechanical problems in over 100K. Not the best for long road trips or noisy freeways, but for weekend fun or trips to the beach it is unbeatable.

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4 out of 5 stars

4.0L Yes 2.5L NO

GotMach, 07/26/2002
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love my jeep. Its been a fun dependable car that I've took off roading many times and have never had a problem with it. It only has 70,000 but everything works and it still runs great after all the abuse I put it through. There are only 3 think I dislike and they are: 1. Soft tops are noisy on the Highway. 2. Gas Mileage stinks 3. 2.5L Has now power in 5th gear and stinks on long drives. I find myself downshifting alot on long highway trips.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

love it ? hell yeah !!!

0llll0, 08/27/2009
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this used 1997 Jeep wrangler se with the little 2.5 and a five speed man. Trans.. A little over 3 years ago the money was well spent. And I say that with a smile. Have put about 5 grand into it for the suspension and wheels soft top 33" tires with a 4" lift .. Have to remind myself its not a sports car and the gas mileage is Rather good. Will I buy another Jeep. Hell yes.

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5 out of 5 stars

Excellent car

hinge1616, 08/06/2002
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I can't say enough about my Wrangler. It the most fun car to drive that I've ever imagine. It's versatile, looks great and surprisingly practical. I will always own one, even if it is as a second car.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

I Love Jeeps!!!!!!!

VEP, 03/20/2004
1997 Jeep Wrangler SE 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is my fourth jeep. I can't say aything more positive about them. The outdoor reputation..the jeep lives up to it. I have put 30,000 over the past year and have not had any major problems. I take it on the highway every week and it has started and run well everyday this winter. Currently has 115,000 miles. Clutch needed to be replaced when I bought it but it has held up for the last 30,000 miles, again, I think the car was abused before I got it on e-bay. No leaks of any type. Also it handles much better than you would think. I would and will buy again.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

NEVER BRAKE DOWN OR GET STUCK

4xfun, 08/11/2002
1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr SUV 4WD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

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 suv's. 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

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