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USCar Trader import service
Choose a specific vehicle. Where data is available, its detail page shows the import cost calculation. We assess any possible duty benefit with you before purchase.
Important: A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact us before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support through the process. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
CarHub · Jeep
The TJ is the Wrangler many enthusiasts consider the sweet spot: it kept the round headlights and open-air character of the classic Jeep but finally added coil-spring suspension, transforming ride and articulation.
Model profile
The TJ replaced the leaf-sprung YJ in 1997 and is defined by its Quadra-Coil suspension front and rear. A mid-life refresh in 2003 brought the tougher NSG370 six-speed manual option and, most significantly, the Rubicon trim with front and rear Dana 44 axles, air lockers and a 4:1 transfer case.
Powertrain and equipment
The engine to have is the 4.0-litre AMC-derived inline-six, about 190 hp and a torque curve made for low-range crawling — famously durable and simple to service. Entry cars used the 2.5-litre four (1997–2002) and later the 2.4-litre PowerTech four (2003–2006), both adequate but slow.
The TJ is a two-door soft-top or hard-top only (the long LJ shares the two-door layout). Trims ran SE, Sport, Sahara, the off-road X, and the range-topping Rubicon.
Vehicle selection
TJs are plentiful in the States across a wide condition spectrum, from thrashed trail rigs to garaged low-mileage originals.
Buy a TJ if you want a genuine, mechanically simple off-roader that is easy to work on, holds its value and is fun open-topped.
Vehicle data
| Body | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): 2-door soft/hard-top 4x4 (LJ = long wheelbase) |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): ~2.37 m (TJ) / ~2.75 m (LJ) |
| Length | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): ~3.85 m (TJ) |
| Kerb weight | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): ~1,400–1,550 kg |
| Main engine | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): 4.0 L inline-six, OHV |
|---|---|
| Power | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): ~190 hp |
| Torque | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): ~319 Nm |
| Base engines | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): 2.5 L I4 (–2002), 2.4 L I4 (2003–2006) |
| Transmissions | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): 5/6-speed manual, 3/4-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): Part-time 4WD, 2-speed transfer case |
| Fuel tank | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): ~72 L |
| Fuel | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): Petrol |
| Axles | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): Dana 30 front / Dana 35 or 44 rear |
|---|---|
| Suspension | Detail (typical, 4.0 TJ): Coil springs, live axles (Quadra-Coil) |
Values are reproduced verbatim from the existing article table. The documents for the specific vehicle govern.
Pre-purchase review
The 4.0 six is legendarily tough, but the TJ has a few well-known weak points. The rear Dana 35 axle is the least robust component and can suffer bent tubes or broken axles under abuse — a Dana 44 or an upgraded rear is preferable.
Germany and Europe
US TJs use amber or combined rear lamps, sealed-beam-style round headlights with a US beam pattern, no rear fog lamp, and mph clusters.
Expect to convert the rear lighting to European indicator behaviour, add a rear fog lamp, adjust or replace the headlights for the correct beam, and document the odometer in km.
USCar Trader services
As a buyer based in Germany, you do not have to inspect the vehicle yourself in the United States or Canada. Within the agreed scope, USCar Trader can coordinate document review, a separately commissioned on-site inspection and purchase processing.
Covered inspection points are agreed in advance. An on-site inspection records condition at the appointment and is not a guarantee.
Next step: Before commissioning, USCar Trader and the customer agree which document, history, inspection and transaction checks suit the vehicle and are included in the service. This records what was actually checked.
Import process
The assessment depends on the specific vehicle and the circumstances of the transaction. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review any possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are considered separately.
Questions and answers
The 4.0-litre inline-six is the one to have for durability, torque and resale; the four-cylinders are noticeably slower.
A front-end shimmy caused by worn steering and suspension parts. It is common on aging TJs and fully repairable — just confirm the front end before buying.
No, not automatically. A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.
Import VAT and other taxes or costs are assessed separately under the applicable rules and the circumstances of the individual case. A blanket answer for every vehicle would not be reliable.
Often yes, but each modification needs proper documentation (ABE or single-part approval). A near-stock car is simpler.
Rust is the TJ's main enemy. Southern/Southwestern US cars are usually cleaner; always inspect the frame and tub.
The 2004–2006 long-wheelbase Wrangler Unlimited — more stable, roomier and now especially collectible.
By ocean freight (RoRo or container) from a US port to Bremerhaven or Rotterdam, then customs clearance.
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