A new Jeep Wrangler Spotter’s Guide from Sam’s 4×4 shows how to identify Jeep Wrangler generations based on slight visual differences. The new Jeep Wrangler Spotter’s Guide reviews more than 30 years of exterior design changes, from the CJ-7 to the newly released JL model. Those who want to test their knowledge or improve their Jeep-identifying skills can use this handy chart.
“As an aftermarket parts retailer and Jeep service shop, we know many Jeep CJ-7s and Wranglers are modified,” says John Guffey, General Manager at Sam’s 4×4. “So we wanted to point out two or three stock characteristics anyone could use to accurately identify a Jeep Wrangler. That’s why we decided to share this spotter’s guide.”
A few years after WWII, civilian jeeps (CJs) were sold to the public as an alternative to the standard automobiles of the day. These early recreational vehicles were designed very similar to the military Jeeps before them. The Wrangler’s predecessor, the CJ-7, was introduced in 1976, and the basic exterior design has remained consistent over the years. However, there have been tweaks with each iteration of Wrangler.
Here are a few details to help anyone spot the platform code of a Jeep Wrangler:
- The CJ-7 arrived 10 inches longer than the CJ-5 chassis. This Jeep’s body style was less curvy, more squared off. The CJ-7 square doors were the first offered in steel with roll-down windows. The front grill setup featured round headlights and the same grille as the CJ-5. Since aftermarket upgrades for this model are plentiful, it may not be easily recognized.
- The YJ is the first “Wrangler” and was introduced in 1987. Its square headlights make the YJ stand out from the others. The grille shape remained square yet the vertical bars gained a slight angle. During the YJ years, the Jeeps had a diagonal sport bar until the “family bar” was added in 1992.
- The 1997 TJ Wrangler arrived with a return to round headlamps and looked more like the CJ-7. Jeep squared up the front fenders, and these new style fenders included signal and marker lights, removing the driving lights from the grille area. The TJ’s grille features a slight bend, just past the halfway point, on the grille slats. In 2004, the Wrangler grew its wheelbase and gained cargo room to offer the “Unlimited” 2-door version.
- The JK Wrangler’s grille slants backward a bit more than the TJ’s did. The hood size was reduced, and the overall body sloped slightly more. The headlights kept their round shape and new round turn signals were set beneath them. The large, plastic bumper now offered the option of integrated fog lights. With the 2007 introduction of the JK, Jeep now offered a Wrangler with four doors. It’s also called the “Unlimited.”
- The 2018 JL body reverts to the direction of the CJ’s profile. The newest Jeep’s headlamps not only share the front end with the grille but now actually seem to hone in on the grille’s space, reshaping the last bar or each side of the grille. Jeep kept the big bumper but restyled it slightly to feature the standard fog lights.
Check out the entire graphic here: https://sams4x4.com/n-6-wrangler-spotters-guide.html
About Sam’s 4×4:
Founded in 1984, this family business had a simple goal: to provide the best parts, service, and prices to the off-road market. They’ve spent the last 33 years building long-lasting relationships with major aftermarket brands, so they offer premium brands at unbeatable prices. They also service and restore SUVs at their shop in Tulsa, OK. As off-road enthusiasts, the Sam’s 4×4 team organizes rides and other events on a regular basis. Learn more here : https://sams4x4.com/p-8-about-us.html