Selecting the right battery for the Jeep Wrangler II (TJ, LJ), produced from 1997 to 2007, is crucial for maintaining the rugged reliability this off-road icon is known for. Whether you’re driving a 2.4-liter base version or a powerful 4.0 Rubicon, the battery needs to handle more than just engine starts. It must support lighting, winches, radios, and other electrical accessories often used in off-roading conditions. Fortunately, since none of the engines from this generation feature start-stop systems, conventional lead-acid batteries are perfectly suitable. However, choosing the correct capacity, cranking power, terminal layout, and mounting type is essential for long-term performance.
For the 2.4 and 2.5-liter petrol engines, the battery requirements are moderate. These engines call for a battery with a capacity between 60 and 63 Ah and a cold cranking amperage (CCA) of 540 to 610 A. Suitable models include examples like the Bosch S50 06, Exide EB621, and Varta D43. These batteries are strong enough to provide reliable starts in varied weather conditions and have the endurance to support moderate accessory loads. A key detail is the terminal layout—these engines may require a battery with the positive terminal on the left, which is less common in European vehicles, so it’s important to double-check polarity before purchase.
Stepping up to the 3.8-liter versions, including the Rubicon trim, the electrical demands increase. These engines require batteries rated at 70 to 75 Ah and a similar CCA range between 540 and 630 A. The Bosch S40 27, Exide EA755, and Varta E24 are all great examples of batteries suited to this configuration. In addition to higher capacity, it’s important to note that these batteries use less common mounting types, such as B01 or B9. Unlike the widespread B13 type, these mounting formats require specific hold-down brackets or trays, which may not be compatible with every battery housing. Ensuring the correct mounting style is essential to avoid fitment issues, especially in a vehicle as rugged as the Wrangler, where battery stability during off-road driving is critical.
The most demanding configuration is the 2.8 CRDi diesel engine. Diesel engines inherently require more starting power due to their higher compression ratios. For this reason, the recommended battery capacity ranges from 74 to 78 Ah, with cold cranking power between 680 and 780 A. This calls for robust batteries such as the Exide EA770, Lucas LP096, or Varta E11. These models provide the high output necessary for reliable cold-weather starts and have the durability to handle frequent stops and starts in both urban and trail environments. Additionally, the larger size of these batteries helps to supply power to multiple electrical systems simultaneously.
An interesting characteristic of the Wrangler II is its versatility. Many owners upgrade their Jeeps with auxiliary lights, audio equipment, and even winches—all of which place added strain on the battery. For drivers who frequently go off-road or use these accessories, it can be beneficial to choose a battery at the higher end of the capacity range, even if the engine could technically accept a lower-capacity model. This added buffer provides extra runtime and helps avoid deep discharge scenarios, which can reduce battery life.
In conclusion, selecting the right battery for the Jeep Wrangler II involves more than just matching the specs. You must also consider terminal orientation and mounting type. For the 2.4 and 2.5 engines, something like the Exide EA601 may be enough. For the 3.8 or 4.0 engines, the Bosch S40 27 or Varta E24 would be ideal. And for the demanding 2.8 CRDi diesel, look toward options like the Exide EA770 or Halfords HCB 096. Matching the battery not just to the engine but also to your lifestyle and off-road needs will ensure that your Wrangler remains as capable and dependable as it was designed to be.
Jeep Wrangler in version II (TJ, LJ) was produced in the years 1997 – 2007. We invite you to a list of batteries matching individual engine versions.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Jeep Wrangler (1997-2007):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – positive on the left side | 1 | B13 |
| 1 – positive on the left side | 1 | B9 |
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
| 1 – positive on the left side | 1 | B01 |
Jeep Wrangler II (TJ, LJ) – petrol engines:
- 2.4
- 2.5
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 06 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 06 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA601 | 60 Ah 600 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB621 | 62 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D43 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D39 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
Jeep Wrangler II (TJ, LJ) – petrol engines:
- 3.8
- 3.8 Rubicon
- 4.0
- 4.0 Rubicon
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 27 | 70 Ah 630 A | 261x175x220 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB705 | 70 Ah 540 A | 270x173x222 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA755 | 75 Ah 630 A | 270x173x222 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E24 | 70 Ah 630 A | 261x175x220 mm | More |
Jeep Wrangler II (TJ, LJ) – diesel engines:
- 2.8 CRDi
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB740 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA770 | 77 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 096 | 76 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP096 | 75 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS096 | 78 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E11 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E44 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Jeep Wrangler , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!