YJ, TJ or JK Wrangler? How to identify your jeep

If you’ve ever wondered how to quickly visually distinguish between the three different Jeep Wrangler YJ, TJ and JK models, this article is for you.

Jeep YJ Wrangler: Square Headlights
The YJ Wrangler (1987-1995), the first in the Wrangler line, was produced in 1987 to replace the Civilian Jeep (CJ) and rolled off the production line in Ohio, where the original Willys were created for WWll. The YJ’s most distinctive visual attribute is the shape of its headlights. Jeeps, from the very beginning (dating back to WWII), had always used round headlights up to this point, until AMC changed that by designing rectangular headlights for the YJ Wrangler. Since the TJ and JK Wrangler models, on the other hand, use round headlights, the YJ is easy to identify by this feature … Special models offered for the YJ include the Laredo, Sahara, Islander and Renegade.

Jeep TJ Wrangler – Round Headlights
The TJ Wrangler (1996-2006) is the second generation Jeep Wrangler model. The TJ brought back its Willys Jeep heritage with the reintroduction of round headlights. The look of the new TJ Wrangler didn’t really offer a lot of body style modifications aside from minor changes like wider seats, turn signals on the front fenders, and a factory hardtop option, so the best way to compare the two models is still the shape of the headlight. Special models offered for the TJ include the Sport and the Sahara.

Jeep JK Wrangler: simply bigger
The JK Wrangler (2007-2010) is the only member of the Jeep Wrangler family that really stands out visually. The JK is a much larger jeep in height, weight, length, and overall volume. Like the TJ, the JK model uses round headlights, but also includes a four-door version, 18 “tires, a 6-speed transmission, and a new transfer case, among other distinctive features. Overall, the simplest way The difference between a JK is the space on the road it occupies. If you’re still not sure, look at the turn signals: On the JK, the turn signals are on the side, unlike on the TJ Wrangler, which are facing toward the side. onwards Special models offered for the JK include the Sahara, Rubicon and X.

Whether it’s the YJ’s rectangular headlights, the TJ’s round headlights, or the JK’s sheer size, you know you’re seeing some of the toughest (and most fun to drive) vehicles on off-road driveways and trails across America. When in doubt, use this very short and simple explanation to quickly distinguish between the Jeep Wrangler YJ, TJ and JK. Now you can really annoy your wife (or husband) by constantly pointing them out on road trips!