YJ is not an abbreviation but stands for a generic title for Jeep Wrangler models from 1986 to 1995. Being curious about what Jeep YJ stands for is quite natural for anyone who recently got interested in off-road jeeps. Jeep Wrangler ranks as the top choice for most off-roaders in America. But the difference between Jeep TJ, YJ, CJ, and JK can be confusing sometimes.
You may have an idea that YJ represents the initial models of Wrangler back in the 1980s, but what’s the story behind this name? JY jeeps are regarded as a milestone in jeep manufacturing history. Plus, they have got characteristic features that set them apart from modern jeep models. You can identify a YJ jeep by its outlook.
Keep reading to find out the characteristic design and functional features of this historical Jeep in the article below;
What Does YJ Stand For – Jeep Wrangler
YJ represents the first Wrangler generation launched by AMC after CJ-jeeps.
It appeared on the market at the 1986 Chicago Auto Show by American Motor Corporation. It was the first Wrangler Jeep in history which soon became the favorite four-wheel drive vehicle for adventurous drivers.
This Jeep was different from previous models in various features. It included coil suspension instead of leaf suspension and also has some design changes, especially the headlight’s shape, to distinguish it from older CJ jeeps.
It was started by AMC, but later on, the Chrysler Corporation acquired the Jeep brand in 1987 and owns it to date.
YJ Jeep Features
YJ was thoughtfully built to stand apart from existing CJ jeep models. That is why the main features that set these cars apart are anterior design modifications. You can identify a YJ by its;
- Square headlights
- Larger windshields
- Characteristic fender and hood design
Besides design features, YJ jeeps had modifications in sway bars, track bars, spring suspension system, wheelbase, and ride height to provide more stability, handling efficiency, and comfort both on and off-road.
What Are Different Jeep Generations?
Off-road jeeps evolved from the military jeeps used in World War II. The story started when Willys – the major producer of military jeeps in 1944, introduced CJ, aka. The Civilian Jeep for layman users.
Since then, various Jeep models have been introduced. Also, the ownership of the Jeep-Brand has traveled through four different companies, from Willys to Chrysler Corporation.
| Jeep Generations | Model Years | Manufacturer |
| CJ (Civilian Jeep) | 1944 to 1986 | ~ Willys-Overland (1944 to 1953) ~ Willys Motors (1953 to 1963) ~ Kaiser-Jeep (1963 to 1970) ~ Americans Motor Corporation-Jeep (1971 to 1986) |
| Wrangler YJ | 1986 to 1995 | ~ Americans Motor Corporation – Jeep (1986 to 1987) ~ Chrysler Corporation – Jeep (1987 to 1996) |
| Wrangler TJ | 1997 to 2006 | Chrysler Corporation- Jeep |
| Wrangler JK | 2007 to 2018 | Chrysler Corporation- Jeep |
| Wrangler JL | 2018 to present | Chrysler Corporation- Jeep |
Why Does YJ Have Square Headlights?
YJ jeeps have square headlights because the manufacturer company, AMC, didn’t want the newly launched jeeps to be confused with older CJ jeeps.
The story behind this modification is that in the 1980s, CJ jeeps got a bad reputation after a short rolling scene became popular on TV. The reputation of the Jeep was wrecked, and it got defamed for the risk of rolling up.
That is why AMC wanted a design for YJs to look different than traditional jeeps. So, they included square headlights in place of rounded ones.
Though this trick worked well for distinction purposes, however, this design modification was not much welcomed by jeep enthusiasts, and the company was forced to shift back to round headlights in the next generation.
FAQs
How Much Is My YJ Worth?
The worth of YJ jeeps spans from $8000 to $252000, depending upon the condition of your vehicle.
If your Jeep has fewer modifications and looks stocked and brand new, you will get a better resale price. Such jeeps are quite rare, but if you have one in your collection like this, you may get up to $22000.
Also, moderately used jeeps get a good price, but their interior, excel, and other parts should be in good condition. On average such jeeps are sold at about $15000. However, if the Jeep is damaged or has dents or rust on the frame or other parts, it’s worth it.
Which Jeep Is Better, YJ Or TJ?
Both YJ and TJ have their own characteristic features. If you are looking for the 80’s Jeep with square headlights and classic anterior, YJ is the option to go for.
On the other side, TJ provides you with a mix of classic and modern features. Due to their newer design and updated technology, TJs offer an enhanced off-road experience compared to YJs.
What Engine Does A Jeep YJ Have?
Initially, jeep YJ had a four-cylinder gasoline engine with a 2.5-liter capacity and 122 horsepower. These models used to have a manual gearbox with 5-speed options. Later models have six-cylinder engines with 4-liter gasoline capacity and 183 horsepower.
Conclusion
YJ represents the first generation of the Wrangler Jeeps, famous as the compact, 4×4 off-road vehicles famous among adventure seekers. You need to look into the history of Wrangler Jeeps if you are thinking about what Jeep YJ stands for.
YJ is not an abbreviation but rather just a generic name for the Jeep models produced from 1986 to 1995. Jeep YJ was initially manufactured by American Motor Corporation (AMC), but a year after, Chrysler Corporation acquired the brand from AMC.
This Jeep can be recognized by its characteristic design, having a large windshield and boxed headlights. If you are a fan of old, classic jeeps, a YJ will be a good addition to your collection.
3 thoughts on “What Does Jeep YJ Stand For?”