Jeep Wrangler is a mid-size SUV available in the market since 1987 in 4 generations, with multiple variants and trim levels. It has a unique design and body styling making it distinguishable from the rest of the SUVs.
What Year Jeep Wrangler Parts are Interchangeable? According to our experience, you can interchange most body parts of Jeep Wrangler from 1987-1995, 1997-2006, 2007-2010, 2011-2017, and 2018-onwards with few exceptions. You can also swap their frames for 1987-1995, 1997-2002, 2003-2006, 2007-2010, and 2014-2017 models. Other parts like the engine and transmission system are interchangeable within the same or adjacent model years, having the same options. You can replace the fuel tanks in the 1997-1999, 2000-2002, 2003-2004, 2005-2006, and 2007-2017 variants.
We will discuss Jeep Wrangler’s different years in all 4 generations and 3 trim levels, including Sport, Sahara, and Rubicon.
What year does the Jeep wrangler have interchangeable parts?
There are 4 generations of the Jeep Wrangler from 1987 to the present, with few exceptions.
You have to check for individual parts according to the year of your SUV and look for compatible parts accordingly.
Body parts
Body parts include doors, windows, windshields, tailgates, fenders, back glass, grille, and trunk, and they are compatible across generations.
Most body parts are interchangeable for the 1987-1995 variant YJ generation, with exceptions for engine compartment and door designs.
There are 2 types of doors with pointed and rounded corners according to the door frame.
In the 2nd generation, the tailgate is compatible for 1997-2001, 2002-2003, 2004-2006, door glass for 1997-2006, rear glass for 1997-2002 and 2003-2006, door assembly for 1997-2006, fender for 1997, 1998-2006, front bumper assembly for 1998-2006, windshield glass for 1997-2006, windshield frame for 1997-2002, 2003-2006 and grille for 1997, 1998-2006 model years.
The 3rd generation TJ variants, Rear glass is compatible between 2007-2010,2011-2016, rear bumper assembly for 2007-2013, 2014-2015, front bumper assembly for 2007-2010, 2011-2012, 2014-2017 decklid tailgate for 2007-2010,2011-2017, front door assembly for 2007-2010, 2011-2017, fender for 2007-2017, and grille for 2007-2013, 2014-2017 models.
There are also changes in the windshield frame for the 2007-2010, 2011-2013, and 2014-2017 variants of the Jeep.
You should check for the hood according to the specific part number on your vehicle. In 4th generation JL variants, most body parts are distinct and works with the same model year and trim level.
Frame
This SUV has a body-on-frame or ladder design, and there are changes within the same generations.
Besides its interchangeability in different years, it also affects the compatibility of other parts, including the suspension, and exhaust system, due to different mounting positions.
You can swap the frame for all YJ variants from 1987-1995. For Jeep Wrangler TJ, you can replace them in 1997-2002 and 2003-2006 models.
For the 3rd generation JK models, frames are compatible for 2007-2010 and 2014-2017 SUVs. Moreover, for JL from 2018-2021, they are well-suited to individual years.
Other variants, including 2011, 2012, and 2013 have compatibility regarding frames with SUVs from the same years.
Engine
You can swap the engine in any year with the same option. In later models, with the advancement of electronics, you also have to take care of modifications and interface with other parts like transmission systems, electronic locking differential, and exhaust systems.
The 2.5-liter I4 engine’s assembly is compatible for 1987-1988, 1989-1990, 1991-1995, 1997-1998, and 2000-2002 versions.
You can swap it for the 4.2-liter I6 in 1987-1988, 1989-1990, 4.0-liter I6 in 1992-1995, 1997-1998, 2000-2002, 2003-2004, and 2005-2006 Jeep Wrangler.
Other engine options are 2.4-liter I4 swappable in 2005-2006, 3.8-liter V6 in 2008-2011, and 3.6-liter V6 in 2012-2013 and 2014-2017.
4th generation JL has undergone several electronics upgrades, and you should check their respective engine options for swap.
Besides complete assembly interchange, you can also look for individual compatible parts like cylinder head, block, ignition module, and electronic control modules.
Hardtop
It has a removable hard top to provide better shielding against weather and a durable structure.
There is a difference in size between 2-door and 4-door models, and you should choose accordingly. For YJ variants, 1987-1993 and 1994-1995 have compatible hard tops for the same door configuration.
For TJ variants, 1997-2003 and 2004-2006 models have interchangeable roof assemblies. For JK versions, you can swap the hard top for the 2007-2010 and 2011-2016 years.
All Jeep Wrangler JL from 2018-2021 variants have not undergone any redesigns regarding rooftops, and you can replace them without any modifications.
Transmission system
Transmission system compatibility depends on the engine option available on specific versions to ensure the matching bell housing pattern.
For example, a 5-speed BA-10 manual transmission compatible with a 4.2-liter I6 engine is compatible in 1987-1989 versions.
For the 2.5-liter I4 engine, the 5-speed manual is compatible in 1987-1990, 1991-1993, and 1994-1995, and the 3-speed automatic in 1993-1994 model years.
You can also swap the 5-speed manual in 1990-1993, and 1994-1995 models with a 4.0-liter I6 engine.
3-speed automatic 30RH and 5-speed manual AX5 manual transmissions are compatible with 2.5-liter I4 motors from 1997-2002 models. You can replace 3-speed automatic 32RH in 1997-2002 models with 4.0-liter I6 engines.
You can swap the 4-speed automatic 42RLE in 2003-2004 and 2005-2006 and 6-speed manual in 2005-2006 models with 2.4-liter I4 and 4.0-liter I6 engine options.
You can replace the 4-speed automatic 42RLE in 2007-2011 models and 6-speed manual NSG370 in 2007-2010 versions having a 3.8-liter V6 engine.
In addition, 5-speed automatic W5A580 and 6-speed manual transmission are swappable in the 2012-2016 Jeep Wrangler with the 3.6-liter V6 engine. The 8-speed automatic 850RE is compatible with the 3.6-liter V6 from 2018-onwards JL models.
Axles
All YJ have Dana 30 and 35 as front and rear axles, respectively. They are interchangeable for 1987-1989, 1990-1992, 1993-1995, its front housing for 1987-1989, 1990-1995, and rear housing for 1987-1995 variants having the same gear ratios.
Other parts of the drivetrain, including the front drive shaft front, are swappable for 1987-1995, differential assembly on the front axle for 1987-1989, 1990-1995, locking differential on the rear axle for 1987-1995, and non-locking differential for 1987-1989, 1990-1993, 1994-1995 models with same gear ratio.
For 2nd generation, TJ variants, Dana 30 and 44 axles are options for the front, and Dana 35 or 44 are options for the rear.
In addition, you can replace axle assembly with round cover for 1997-2002, 2003-2005, axle housing for 1997-2002, 2003-2004 for Dana axle, differential assembly for 1997-1998, and front and rear drive shaft for 1997-2002 and 2003-2006 versions.
For 3rd generation, axle assembly is compatible with 2008-2015 models with and without electronic locking differential, axle housing for 2007-2015, axle shaft for 2007-2016, and drive shaft can vary according to the specific trim level.
A few axle options for 4th generation JL variants are upgraded Dana 30, 35, and 44, depending on the trim level. You can swap them with ones having the matching dimensions and gear ratios.
Seats
You can swap the front seats in the 1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler YJ. For interchanging with other generations, you have to use adapters.
In the 2nd generation, 2000-2002 and 2003-2006 TJ models have front bucket seats without airbags, with a cloth or vinyl upholstery, and are manually adjustable.
Buckle seat belts are also compatible with 2000-2002 and 2003-2006 models. For Jeep Wrangler JK, fabric, vinyl, and leather trims are available with or without airbags and manually adjustable seats for 2007-2010, 2011-2013, 2014-2016, and 2017.
Aftermarket options will be the best, with multiple features like heated seats to increase the comfort level for older variants and newer trims without advanced variants.
Similarly, the Sahara trim level has a more comfortable ride on-road than Rubicon with off-road capabilities, and you can swap their seats.
Instrument cluster
Instrument clusters, including dashboard panels, are suitable for 1987-1991 and 1992-1995 models. In addition, temperature control inside the cabin is compatible with the 1987-1995 models.
For TJ models, you can swap it for the 1997-1999, 2000, 2001-2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 models, while the dash panel and temperature control system for 1997- 1998, 1999-2002, 2003-2004, and 2005-2006.
For JK models, you have to check the individual instrument cluster specific to your SUV and trim level.
There can be multiple variants within the same year. It will help you install it without significant modifications or ECU reflash. For JL versions, there are aftermarket solutions available that are compatible with 2018-2021 models.
Electrical parts
Electrical parts like wiper motor, blower motor, and headlamp assembly are interchangeable for 1987-1995 models.
Other parts like alternators are compatible for 1987-1990, 1992-1995 models, and starter motors for 1987, 1988-1993, 1994, and 1995 models according to engine type.
For example, for TJ models, you can swap the alternator for 1997-1999, 2000, 2001-2006, blower motor for 1997-2005, headlamp assembly for 1997-2006, and starter motor for 1997-1998, 1999-2002, and 2003-2006 models.
For the 3rd generation, JK variants, headlamp assembly, and power window motors are compatible with 2007-2016 models.
While you can swap alternators for 2007-2008, 2009-2011, 2012, and 2013-2017 models, blower motor for 2007-2010, 2011-2013, 2014-2017, and starter motor for 2007-2008, 2009-2011, and 2012-2017.
You should also check the alternator’s current rating as its multiple variants are available. For the 4th generation, electrical parts are compatible with the same year models having matching part numbers and other specifications.
Fuel system
Its fuel system includes a fuel pump, fuel tank, hosepipes, carburetor, and fuel injector parts.
For YJ models, fuel pump and level sender for 1987-1990, 1991-1993, and 1994-1995 Wrangler are interchangeable.
2 fuel tank variants for 15 and 20 gallons capacity are available and are compatible for 1987-1990 and 1991-1995 according to the fuel capacity of your vehicle. In addition, 1987-1990 models have carburetors, while 1991-1995 model SUVs have fuel injectors available.
Fuel pump and 19-gallon fuel tanks are compatible for 1997-1999,2000-2002, 2003-2004, and 2005-2006 models, while fuel injector parts are compatible for 1997-1998, 1999-2002, 2003-2004 and 2005-2006 in the 2nd generation.
For JK models, fuel tanks are compatible with 2007-2017 models of 18-22 gallon capacity. Fuel pumps are swappable for 2007-2009 and 2010-2016.
Fuel injector parts are specific for engine options, and you can replace them in 2007-2011, 2012-2016, and 2017.
For the 4th generation Jeep Wrangler JL, you can swap fuel system parts from 2018-2021 models by matching the dimensions of the fuel tank, its filler cap, and neck design.
Radiator
Its cooling system has parts like a thermostat, radiator, fan clutch, fan blades, coolant pump, hoses, and radiator cap.
For YJ models, these parts are compatible for all model years from 1987-1995, with few exceptions. Therefore, you should check for the specific model year.
For example, you can replace radiators from 1987-1990, 1991-1993, 1994, 1995, 1997-2001, 2002-2004, 2005 and 2006 variants.
However, for Jeep Wrangler (JK) it is swappable between any two models from 2007-2017 models. Other parts, including the coolant pump and reservoir, are compatible between the 2007-2011 and 2012-2017 models.
There are changes in conduction fan assembly every couple of years and select the compatible one by matching its part number with your SUV. You can replace the radiators from any JL version year from 2018-2021.
Soft top
This SUV has an option for a soft top to enjoy nice weather, and you can also remove it to travel without a roof.
It has a vinyl top layer and fabric on the bottom. You can swap its cover for 1988-1995 for full and 1991-1994 for half doors.
Their soft top frame is compatible for 1990-1995 for full and 1993-1995 for half-door designs. Moreover, the cover and its mount for TJ 1997-2002, 2003, and 2004-2006 models are interchangeable.
You can swap it for 2007-2010, 2011-2012, 2013-2016, and 2017 for 4-door models and 2008-2010, 2011-2012, 2013-2016, and 2017 for 2-door models.
Are parts between different generations of Jeep wrangler interchangeable?
Jeep Wrangler is available in 4 generations, including YJ from 1987-1995, TJ from 1997 to 2006, YJ from 2007-2017, and JL from 2018-onwards. You cannot adapt any parts from YJ variants to use in TJ variants without making any modifications.
You have limited options to swap the few transmission and engine parts between them. The same is true for interchange between TJ and JK versions.
Similarly, most parts are different in JK and JL models except the front bumper, wheels, and factory hitch.
What parts are interchangeable between Jeep wrangler and jeep wrangler unlimited?
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is a bigger SUV than the Wrangler. However, both have a lot of similarities.
The closest matching trim level of this Jeep model with Wrangler Unlimited is Rubicon with bigger dimensions. Both are available with the same engine options, and you can swap their parts between them.
Similarly, the transmission system and wheels have been compatible for a few years. Moreover, Wrangler Unlimited comes standard with 4 doors compared to 2 in Wrangler and has larger dimensions to cater to 5 passengers compared to 4 in the other.
What parts are interchangeable between wrangler sport and Rubicon trim levels?
The main difference between Jeep Wrangler Sport and Rubicon trim levels is the updated interior in the later one.
It has options for premium leather-upholstered bucket seats compared to the cloth seats in the other.
A major similarity between the 2 is the same motor to power both vehicles. Some models have interchangeable parts like wheels, engines, a few suspension parts, and Dana axles.
Moreover, both are available in 2-door and 4-door variants, and you should look for compatible parts like motors for power windows, side mirrors, and other electrical components.
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