Basic information and history

The 1990 Jeep Wrangler YJ marks the transition from the CJ era to a more road-oriented but still rugged off-road vehicle. The YJ is known for its square headlights, leaf springs and simple, easy-to-service mechanicals. The Islander trim was offered with special trim and a more vibrant design, while the 1990 model often combined the 4.2-liter straight-six with a three-speed automatic. For enthusiasts, this means an analog driving experience with a classic Jeep feel.

This example is said to be a Wrangler Islander with a straight six 4.2 liters (stated 114 horsepower) and automatic transmission. The odometer reading is 185,000 kilometers and the seller can guarantee it. The car is sold new in Sweden. The seller states that the car has been recently inspected without any complaints (stated as Aug 2025). A repaint has been done from red to black according to the seller. The windshield has been replaced and the car comes with several extra accessories, including a soft top with doors, dual wheel sets and original headlights.

Fun fact: 1990 was the last model year for the carburetor-fed 4.2-liter engine in the Wrangler YJ before the 4.0-liter with fuel injection was introduced the following year.

Specifications

• Straight six 4.2 liters, carburetor, automatic transmission
• New power steering pump and steering gear according to seller
• New front steering and ball joints (upper and lower)
• New front wheel bearings and left front wheel bearing replaced again
• New starter motor and alternator
• New belts for alternator and power steering
• New water pump
• New front brake discs and pads
• New brake pipe and new nipples
• New fuel pump
• HEI distributor and new ignition cables
• New valve cover gasket
• New exhaust pipe
• New gearbox mount
• Cleaned carburetor
• Wheel alignment done
• Review of electrical system, cleaned and refreshed
• LED reversing lights and two round auxiliary lights with LEDs
• New headlights
• New rearview mirrors
• New knuckles in the rear gimbal
• New window frame with moldings and hinges
• Service with oil and filter
• Fan motor replaced
• Total reconditioning with polishing

Extras included: bumper, softtop with doors, two keys for hardtop and softtop locks, double sets of tires and wheels, including one set of winter wheels with friction tires and a black, wider set, roll bar and original headlights.

Modifications and improvements: HEI ignition, upgraded rear lighting with round LED auxiliary lights at the front, improved electrical system and new exhaust system. This is complemented by extensive updates to the steering, brakes and suspension as described above.

Condition

Body and exterior: The paint is described as okay to good with minor damage and varying surface finish in places. The seller states that the car has probably been repainted from red to black. There may be some rust but nothing particularly noticeable. The windows are fine and the windshield has been replaced. Moldings, headlight lenses, emblems and chrome are described as good. New window frame with moldings and hinges have been installed as well as new headlights and rearview mirrors.

Interior: Used condition, rated 7/10 by the seller. The dashboard has a drill hole for a mobile phone holder. The steering wheel, controls and buttons are in working condition without major damage. The headliner is rated as good.

Tires and rims: Fitted tires are described as good. Dual sets are included, including winter tires with friction and a black and wider set of wheels.

Mechanics and function: Engine, brakes, gearbox and driveline are reported to be in good condition. Recently, a number of components have been replaced or renovated, including the fuel, ignition and cooling systems as well as the steering, wheel bearings, universal joints and front axle joints. The carburetor has been cleaned, the wheels have been aligned and the car has been serviced with oil and filters. The fan motor has been replaced.

Service history

The seller states that extensive workshop work was carried out from autumn 2024 onwards. The latest service is stated to be April 25, 2026. The basis should consist of receipts and documentation that are reportedly available at least until April 2025.

The measures include, among other things, a new power steering pump and steering gear, new steering and steering knuckles, new wheel bearings, new starter motor and alternator, new belts, new water pump, new front brake components, new brake pipe, new fuel pump, HEI distributor and ignition cables, new valve cover gasket, new exhaust pipe, new gearbox mount, cleaned carburetor, wheel alignment, electrical sanitation, upgraded lighting and replacement of fan motor. A total overhaul with polishing has been carried out.

Inspection was carried out on August 4, 2025 and is stated to be without any remarks according to the seller.

Speculators are advised to check the accompanying documents to verify the date and extent of the actions.

Summary

1990 Jeep Wrangler Islander with 4.2-liter straight six and automatic, 185,000 kilometers and stated mileage warranty. The car is cosmetically in working condition with repaint to black, minor blemishes and possible minor rust, while the glass, moldings and headlight lenses are described as good. The interior is rated 7/10. Mechanically, the car has recently received an extensive overhaul with many new parts in ignition, fuel, cooling, steering, brakes and driveline. Softtop with doors, extra wheel sets, roll bar and original headlights are included.

For those looking for an analog YJ with the classic straight six and documented updates, this appears to be an interesting object to use in summer and winter or to continue refining in your own company.

Please check the documentation and work performed before bidding.