1st Oct 2001, 14:53

I have a 2001 Sahara and the tranny growls in neutral, too. However, so did my old '80 model CJ5 and every military version I ever drove. In gear she's smooth as silk. Just remember they are 1/4 ton trucks, not SUV's. That's why they are so great off road!

16th Apr 2003, 22:56

I have a 2000 Wrangler that makes the same annoying sound in neutral when the clutch is out. I haven't had any problems shifting, etc.; does anyone know if this is simply annoying or if it is indicative of something that needs fixing?

17th Jun 2003, 10:42

Mine had the same problem and at 400 miles started creaking when I shifted. The dealer replaced the clutch and throw out bearing. Now at 39,000 miles the thing won't shift at all. The dealer tells me it needs a new clutch and throwout bearing! I reminded them about the previous clutch problem and they said they would check something with Chrysler and call me back. Meanwhile, I have spoken with an independent mechanic and he tells me the clutch hydraulics on these things is prone to failure.

18th Jun 2003, 09:20

Here's Daimler's take on the sudden clutch self-destruction after 39,000 miles. "Thank you for the recent e-mail regarding your 2000 Jeep Wrangler Sport.

Your concerns, particularly in view of the expense and inconvenience involved in this issue, are understandable. However, your request for consideration in this matter must be declined, because the vehicle in question has exceeded the time or mileage limitations of the manufacturer's warranty at the time the expense was incurred.

Although a more favorable reply could not be provided, sharing your concerns with us is appreciated."

Very nice, within the letter of the warranty. But will I buy another Daimler Chrysler product? Never.

3rd Sep 2004, 13:13

My 2004 Wrangler Sport also makes the growling noise when running and not in gear. It has done so since I purchased it new. While I don't think that this is problem, it is an annoying sound. Otherwise, a great vehicle.

30th Sep 2004, 10:28

I just bought a 2000 Wrangler Sahara.

It does not growl or make any noises when in nuetral. Though it does sound like a diesel when I start off. Overall I am deeply in love with this vehicle and I just bought it with just over 40K miles and it is running very well.

6th Dec 2004, 22:18

I have a 2000 Sahara and it to makes the noise you are all talking about and as for the clutch failure mine just quit tonight. it has 62,000 miles on it and other than this I have had no problems hopefully this turns out to be something minor.