Are Jeep Wranglers Reliable? [Review of Ratings, Common Issues, & Real-world Experiences]

The Jeep Wrangler is a truly remarkable vehicle, and it’s no wonder it has been an integral part of the automotive industry for over 75 years.

Its rugged and iconic design has attracted a vast following of adventure enthusiasts and off-road aficionados alike.

There’s no mistaking the Jeep Wrangler’s unique style, which has become synonymous with adventure and freedom, making it one of the most highly sought-after vehicles on the market.

Nevertheless, when it comes to selecting a vehicle, reliability is a crucial factor to consider. No one wants to be left stranded on the side of the road or trail due to a mechanical failure.

That’s why we’ve taken it upon ourselves to examine the Jeep Wrangler’s reliability in-depth in this article.

We’ll take a deep dive into its history, reliability ratings, common issues, maintenance tips, and real-world experiences from owners.

By the time you finish reading this, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of the Jeep Wrangler’s reliability, giving you the knowledge you need to make an informed decision on whether it’s the right vehicle for you.

So, let’s get started and explore every aspect of this incredible vehicle that has captured the imagination of adventure seekers and off-road enthusiasts for decades.

Brief History of The Jeep Wrangler

The history of the Jeep Wrangler is fascinating and full of adventure! It all started during World War II when the US Army needed a durable and versatile vehicle that could handle the rough terrain of the battlefield.

American Bantam was the first to develop a Jeep, but because of financial problems, Willys-Overland and Ford took over production, creating a fleet of tough and dependable vehicles that became an essential part of military operations.

After the war ended, Willys-Overland saw an opportunity to bring the Jeep to the civilian population, and in 1945, the first civilian model, the Willys-Overland CJ-2A, was born.

The CJ (Civilian Jeep) series became a hit among farmers, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts who admired the vehicle’s ruggedness and versatility.

With each new iteration, the CJ underwent various improvements, including a switch to a four-wheel-drive system, better suspension, and a more powerful engine.

But the real game-changer came in 1986 when the Jeep CJ was replaced by the Jeep Wrangler, a more refined and comfortable version of the CJ.

The Wrangler was designed to cater to both off-road enthusiasts and casual drivers, and it quickly gained popularity among a wide range of people. As the years went by, the Wrangler evolved into different models, each with unique features and upgrades.

In 1997, the Wrangler TJ was introduced, featuring a coil-spring suspension system, a smoother ride, and a more modern interior.

The 2007 JK model had an updated design, a more spacious interior, and improved off-road capabilities. The JK also introduced the four-door Wrangler Unlimited, which became a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

And then in 2018, the latest addition to the Wrangler family was introduced: the JL model. With its sleek design, improved fuel efficiency, and modern technology features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the JL took the Wrangler to a whole new level.

But don’t be fooled by its sophisticated look; the JL is still a capable off-road vehicle, ready to take on any challenge that comes its way.

The Jeep Wrangler has come a long way since its early days as a military vehicle. With each new model, it has evolved and improved, becoming a beloved civilian vehicle that can handle any terrain.

From its rugged origins to its modern design, the Jeep Wrangler will always be an icon of adventure and exploration.

Are Jeep Wranglers Reliable?

When it comes to buying a car, reliability is a top priority. And when it comes to the Jeep Wrangler, you can breathe easy knowing that it has been put to the test by some of the most reputable sources out there, like Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and Edmunds.

Now, Consumer Reports might have given the Jeep Wrangler a reliability rating of just 2 out of 5, which is below average, coupled with the fact that there have been 8 recalls of the 2022 model by the NHTSA so far.

But J.D. Power which is another great source to turn to gave the 2022 Wrangler an overall quality and reliability rating of 86 out of 100, which is above average for its class.

And let’s not forget about Edmunds, who also recognize the Wrangler’s reliability and have given it an overall rating of 7.7 out of 10.

One thing to note is that the Jeep Wrangler’s reliability has come a long way over the years. The car used to have problems with its electrical system, brakes, and steering, but these issues have been addressed in recent models, resulting in a much more reliable vehicle.

What’s more, the Wrangler has even won awards for its reliability. In 2021, it ranked the best for the J.D. Power resale rating.

So, while the Wrangler might not be top of the class when it comes to reliability, it’s still a highly dependable car that has undergone significant improvements in recent years.

All it needs is some love and care, and it will provide a reliable and enjoyable driving experience that you won’t soon forget.

Common Issues with Jeep Wranglers

Jeep Wranglers are undoubtedly one of the most popular off-road vehicles on the market, known for their rugged design and impressive capabilities.

However, like any other vehicle, they can suffer from issues that can put a damper on your driving experience. Here are some of the most frequent problems that Jeep Wrangler owners have encountered:

1. Death Wobble

One of the most notorious issues that have plagued older Jeep Wranglers is the dreaded Death Wobble.

It’s a frightening experience when your front wheels start to oscillate rapidly, making the steering wheel shake uncontrollably.

This typically occurs at high speeds above 45 mph and can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out suspension components, unbalanced tires, loose steering components, or the most common according to Wrangler owners which is the track bar.

It was even reported that Jeep owners impacted by the Death Wobble could get reimbursements for repairs carried out.

2. Water Leaks

Water leaks are another issue that many Jeep Wrangler owners have reported, particularly around the doors and windows. It’s not uncommon to find water seeping through poorly sealed tops, doors, windows, or even worn-out seals.

According to some Wrangler owners who experienced this issue, the leak can be fixed by checking the seals at the top of the doors, at the front where they meet the top/windshield.

If they do not meet up well, or there is a gap, water will get in there. The water will run down the inside of the seal and drop out at the bottom, upfront, onto the floor. Once you replace this seal, the leak will stop.

3. Transmission Problems

Transmission problems can also affect some Jeep Wranglers, especially those with automatic transmissions. Issues like slipping, delayed shifting, or rough shifting can occur due to low fluid levels, worn-out clutches or bands, or damaged solenoids.

This is common with the TJ model. According to some TJ owners who reported this issue, it can happen when you stop at a traffic light and then try to move. It feels like it’s stuck.

One of the common reasons why this happens is low fluid level. With the shallow pick tube on the filter, it’s very easy to under-fill the 42RLE automatic transmission of the Wrangler.

Also, a cold weather temperature can cause the transmission fluid to thicken. This would cause the filter to suck air as the fluid moves forward while coming to a stop and slowly returning to the pick-up tube at the rear of the valve body.

It’s important to keep in mind that as the fluid and everything else inside the transmission warms up, the fluid volume will increase. This would account for why it shifts normally when warm.

4. Engine Problems

Engine problems are not unheard of among Jeep Wrangler owners either, with issues like misfiring, stalling, or poor acceleration being reported. These issues can be caused by various factors, such as dirty air filters, faulty sensors, or clogged fuel injectors.

One of the symptoms of this is that the engine never starts on the first try. You’ll have to turn off the key, and then on again before it starts. After about a minute, it “shudders and spits”, and then runs fine in between.

Most times, this would be a result of a fuel pressure issue. Carrying out a visual check of all your wiring. loose connections, shaft/bare wires, broken grounds loose grounds, and melted wires could help.

5. Electrical Issues

Electrical issues can also plague Jeep Wrangler owners, such as flickering headlights, dead batteries, or malfunctioning power windows or locks. These issues can be caused by corroded connectors, damaged fuses, or faulty alternators.

Some owners have reported a particular case where they start up the vehicle and all their dash lights come on – ABS, service 4WD, service Stability Control, Brake, Start Stop, and Airbag Light.

6. Braking Problems

Braking problems are yet another issue that can affect some Jeep Wranglers, such as squeaking, grinding, or pulling to one side. These issues can be caused by worn-out brake pads, warped rotors, or damaged brake lines. This is usually accompanied by the ABS light coming on on the dashboard, and the brakes feeling like they’re slipping and not engaging.

Tips for Maintaining a Jeep Wrangler

Owning a Jeep Wrangler can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure it stays in top condition.

Here are some tips to help you maintain your Jeep Wrangler:

1. Regularly Change the Oil and Oil Filter

This is one of the most important things you can do to keep your engine running smoothly. The oil lubricates the engine and helps to keep it cool, so be sure to change it at least every 5,000 miles.

2. Check the Fluids

Your Jeep Wrangler has several fluids that need to be checked regularly, including coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Check these fluids at least once a month to ensure they are at the proper levels.

3. Rotate the Tires

Your Jeep Wrangler’s tires wear out unevenly, so it’s important to rotate them every 5,000 to 7,000 miles to ensure they wear evenly and last longer.

4. Inspect the Brakes

Your brakes are critical for safety, so it’s important to have them inspected at least once a year to ensure they are in good condition. Look for signs of wear, such as squeaking or grinding, and have them replaced if necessary.

5. Replace Worn-out Components

Over time, components such as belts, hoses, and spark plugs will wear out and need to be replaced. Check these components regularly and replace them as needed to avoid breakdowns.

6. Keep it Clean

Regularly washing and waxing your Jeep Wrangler not only keeps it looking good, but it also helps to protect the paint and prevent rust.

7. Store it Properly

If you’re storing your Jeep Wrangler for an extended period of time, such as during the winter months, it’s important to store it properly.

This includes filling the tank with gas, removing the battery, and using a car cover to protect it from the elements.

Real-world Experiences of Jeep Wrangler Owners

Positive Experiences

1. Off-road Capabilities

Most Wrangler owners we’ve come in contact with believe that the one thing it has going for it over any other Jeep model is the ground clearance.

The more advanced 4WD systems in many ways may be better for conditions where you don’t have much traction (i.e. driving to the mountain to go skiing).

Compared to cars similar to Jeep Wrangler, they unanimously agree that it is ‘off-road capable’.

2. Fun and Adventurous

Some Jeep Wrangler owners have shared experiences of successful fun adventures on the trail with their Jeep. All they had to do was leave the axles open for most of the time and air down the tire to 11.

3. Customization

The Jeep Wrangler is fully customizable in many different ways. Some of the customizations we’ve seen include the installation of a rigid driving beam aux light on the relocation bracket instead of using the brake light, the installation of vinyl lug nut protectors on the wheels, the installation of Baja design lights to the roof rack for camping and night wheeling, the installation of a 24″ CB antenna which is 7″ shorter than the factory fitted antenna, bulkier, with great reception, etc.

Negative Experiences

1. Comfort

Some Wrangler owners have reported that the rear seats can be quite uncomfortable, especially on bumpy roads, while some others complained about the discomfort they experience when sitting in the back seat of a Wrangler on long trips.

2. Reliability

The Jeep Wrangler is definitely not a 10/10 in terms of reliability considering some of the issues that come up. But nonetheless, most off-road experience lovers just don’t care.

Common Theme

Overall, the real-world experiences of Jeep Wrangler owners show that while there may be some downsides to owning this vehicle, there are also many rewards.

From the sense of community to the thrill of off-roading, Wrangler owners tend to be a passionate and enthusiastic group.

Conclusion

The Jeep Wrangler is a fairly reliable vehicle that has proven to be a top choice for off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

While there are some common issues that owners may encounter, such as Death Wobble or transmission problems, these can often be easily addressed through proper maintenance and repairs.

Overall, if you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle tough terrain and provide a fun driving experience, the Jeep Wrangler is definitely worth considering.

With its rugged design, powerful engine options, and impressive off-road capabilities, it’s no wonder why this vehicle has such a loyal following.

At the end of the day, whether you’re planning to take your Jeep Wrangler off the beaten path or just use it as a daily driver, it’s important to take good care of it.

By following the tips for maintaining your Jeep Wrangler that we’ve outlined in this post, you can help ensure that your vehicle remains reliable and enjoyable to drive for years to come.

So, if you’re in the market for a new vehicle and are considering a Jeep Wrangler, we highly recommend giving it a test drive.

And if you’re already a proud owner of a Jeep Wrangler, we hope that the information in this post has been helpful in ensuring the continued reliability of your vehicle.