The Jeep Wrangler was introduced into the market in 1986. It is one of the most iconic cars of the last 20 years and a favorite among off-roaders. Despite its popularity and performance off-road, the Jeep Wrangler also has several issues. But what are the common problems with Jeep Wrangler?
Like many Jeep models, the Jeep Wrangler also comes with several issues that have to be addressed. Some of the common problems of the Jeep Wrangler are Jeep Wrangler’s “Death Wobble,” oil housing leaks, faulty ignition switch, blown engine, TIPM failure, cracks in the exhaust manifold, and transmission problems.
What are the common problems with the Jeep Wrangler?
The Jeep Wrangler’s “Death wobble”
If you are a Jeep Wrangler enthusiast or have owned a Jeep Wrangler before, then you should be familiar with this term. Death wobble refers to an experience that Jeep Wrangler drivers experience. The car can lose control while driving at speeds over 65 mph.
So, when the driver hits a pothole or bump, the steering wheel becomes almost impossible to control. To correct his problem, the steering stabilizer has to be replaced.
The faulty wireless control module
A faulty wireless control module on the Jeep Wrangler can disconnect the car’s computer system from the wireless control module. This will make the car not start and there will also be a loss of all lights and dashboard parts. To fix this problem, you will have to replace the faulty wireless control module.
TIPM failure
Another common problem that Jeep Wrangler drivers is the TIPM failure. A bad Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) may not enable the car to start and it may also prohibit the normal functioning of key features, such as windshield wipers and headlights.
Jeep had to recall some models years as they noted that the TIPM had a timing error. Some of the affected cars were from the 2007 and 2008 model years. The TIPM had to be reprogrammed at the dealership.
Oil leaks
This problem is rampant in the 2014 Jeep Wrangler models. The oil filter housing on the vehicle either cracks or goes bad. When this happens, oil leaks into the engine and transmission, which is very dangerous. To fix this problem, you need to replace the oil filter housing.
Leakage from side doors
This is another issue that interested buyers should know about. Water usually leaks into the car through the top corner of both the driver and passenger side doors. Some of the most affected model years are the 1998 and 2002 model years. Ensure to replace door seals to get rid of this problem.
Faulty ignition switch
If you own or intend to purchase a third-generation Jeep Wrangler, you should be ready to deal with a bad ignition switch. Some of the signs of a bad ignition switch are the car failing to start, engine stalling, starting instantly then dying, and battery draining. Replace the faulty ignition switch to avert this problem.
Cracks in the exhaust manifold
Cracks in the exhaust manifold are a common problem in older Jeep Wrangler models. So, if you start to hear a ticking sound emanating from the vehicle’s engine, this is a sign that the exhaust manifold has cracks and needs replacement.
Transmission issues
Transmission problems are very common on almost all Jeep Wranglers. Some of the common transmission issues are the transmission getting stuck, popping out while driving, and slipping in one gear. Most of the transmission issues start showing up after clocking 30,000 miles. Replace the transmission.
Cylinder head problems
This is a common problem in the 2012 Jeep Wrangler model year. A faulty cylinder head may cause an abrupt loss of power and the cylinder misfires. To correct the issue, you will have to replace the defective unit. However, in some cases, you may be forced to replace the entire engine, which can be very costly.
Blown engine
Blown engines in Jeep wranglers are usually caused by low oil levels. Surprisingly, most drivers were never warned and only had some unusual noises. This can be costly to fix as you may have to replace the engine.
FAQ
Is Jeep Wrangler a reliable SUV?
No, Jeep Wrangler is one of the least reliable SUVs on the market. This car comes with lots of problems. However, most reliability agencies rate it above-average reliability. Even though this car has lots of problems, most of them are minor issues that are easy to handle.
What model year Jeep Wrangler should I avoid?
If you’re in the market for a used Jeep Wrangler, it is important to know some of the model years to avoid. The least reliable Jeep Wrangler models years are the 2007 to 2008 modes and the 2012 to 2014 model years. Both of these model years have a lot of problems and should be avoided at all costs.
Aside from having lots of problems, they have hefty repair costs and a poorly designed interior.
Is it expensive to maintain a Jeep Wrangler?
Maintaining a Jeep Wrangler is neither cheap nor expensive but average. This is because most Jeep Wranglers have an average annual repair cost of around $694, while the average repair cost is about $631. And when you compare the Jeep Wrangler to most of its competitors, you will find that it is quite cheaper to maintain.
After how many miles does Jeep Wrangler start having problems?
It depends on how well you take care of your Jeep Wrangler. In most cases, small issues start showing up after the car clocks over 80,000 miles. On the other hand, serious problems show up after the car reaches 200,000 miles. But with proper care and maintenance, most of these problems won’t be experienced.
How many years does a Jeep Wrangler last?
How long the Jeep Wrangler lasts depends on how well the user takes care of the car and their driving habits. If this car is well-maintained, it can last for over 15 or even 20 years. Approximately, most Jeep Wranglers manage to clock over 250,000 miles, which is very exceptional.
Conclusion
After looking at some of the common problems with the Jeep Wrangler, it is important to take good care of your car if you want it to last longer. Also, proper driving habits will help to prolong the lifespan of your car. But despite having several issues, Jeep Wrangler has several fans and it is one of the best off-road SUVs on the market.