What I Wish I Knew Before Buying A Jeep Wrangler

Buying a used car is challenging, specifically a Jeep designed for off-roading ventures. Due to its services, there is much more to check in a used Jeep, like undercarriage parts, rust, etc., than in a regular car. But buying a secondhand Wrangler can save you a great deal of budget as it is one of the cars that depreciate fast when pulled out of a showroom. 

Also, you need to know that Jeeps are the most accessible modified vehicles due to which people add up multiple local market upgrades that are not as reliable as the genuine parts, so the best deal is to buy the one which has been left forgotten in a garage for long and has the most negligible mileage value. 

Still, if you have no option except for a long-used Jeep, we will guide you through the list of markers to check before buying a used Jeep Wrangler.

Let’s review all the pointers and prepare a checklist before going to the market.

What to look for when buying a used Jeep Wrangler

Here are some of the features you must look out for physically before signing the deal.

1: Rust

“Rust is your worst enemy.” This defines it all.

It is the number one marker you need to check before buying a used Jeep Wrangler since Jeep undergoes quite challenging ventures throughout its use, due to which rust develops in its body, including frame, undercarriage, and other parts.

When going to a dealer, you should go under the Jeep and physically check the underbody conditions. If it is shaky, old, and rusted, believe us, it will be the worst deal you will make in your life, as replacing these parts will make a fortune. Therefore, ensure no spots or blemishes on the exterior, as it will gradually destroy the whole frame.

Open the doors, and check the frame and hinges, as these are where moisture usually stays and develops into rust later.

2: Undercarriage

Inspecting the undercarriage will also give you a good idea of how long this Jeep has been used. Suppose you see a lot of modifications down there. In that case, it could mean several parts have been replaced, which is not a good sign as local market parts initially look great but become troublesome with time.

Moreover, many Jeep owners install skid or steel plates under the Jeep body to protect it from bumps and overwater exposure, which is a good sign. It retells the story that the owner has been a careful person towards his Jeep.

3: Modifications

Only creative people can understand the love of modifying your Jeep. As we initially said, Jeeps are the most easily modified vehicles; therefore, users choose to change their fenders, tires, soft covers, and many more parts.

But over modifications in a Jeep can be a warning sign too for you as it indicates that there might be some long-standing performance issue. So check each replaced part if you buy a heavily modified Jeep. If you need to be better-versed, then accompany yourself with a professional.

4: Suspension

Modifying the suspension is typically a Jeep thing.

Only Jeepers could relate to their excitement after lifting their suspension and putting beast tires on their Jeep. So, if you see that the suspension has been modified, inspect all the elements, including bushings, ball joints, control arms, bearings, etc., and if at any point you get negative vibes that the suspension is shaky and flaky then don’t go for this Jeep Wrangler.

5: Tires

This may look like a simple marker on your checklist but undoubtedly an important one. Do look for the condition of tires when buying a used Jeep Wrangler. Check for the tires’ treads and wear/ tear, which may indicate long-lasting Jeep problems.

For example, uneven wearing on the front and back tires can indicate the uneven distribution of the vehicle’s weight, and nonuniform wearing on the edges indicate jeep alignment issues.

Moreover, replacing all tires immediately after buying a Jeep will be massive damage to your pocket as it will be a hefty replacement.

6: Leaks

Make sure you go on a dry day for a Jeep inspection so that you can inquire aptly about the leakage of brake oil, engine oil, or other hoses. Also, open the hood and inspect for the coolant hose, oil pan condition, and seals.

If the hoses are punctured, cracked, or worn out, then it is a clear red flag for you to go for this Jeep.

7: Dents

Inspect for dents, burrs, and scratches while buying a secondhand Jeep Wrangler. For this, the best time for inspection is a bright sunny day, as the light reflection reveals all the exterior blemishes. 

Moreover, you can also check your physical condition by moving your hand swiftly throughout the body. If any surface imperfection appears, it indicates that the Jeep has undergone some accident. But, remember, Jeep usage is quite different from the other cars, so keep in mind that if there is a minute surface imperfection, you must neglect it, but if it is more significant than a plate, then you must give your decision a second thought.

8: Test drive 

After checking the exterior, it is time to take the Wrangler for a test drive. While driving, observe in-depth all the interior features; for example, how the gear shifts and the acceleration and brake. Moreover, listen to the engine noise, put your foot on the exhaust, and depress the pedal multiple times. Listen over to that noise because engine health is, in short, your Jeep’s health.

Also, while taking a test drive, ensure that there is no death wobble and that the drive is smooth and balanced. Moreover, check other technological things like radio, navigation system, TIPM, etc.

Other performance features

Before signing the deal, there are a few other things given below that you must check.

1. Functioning of mirrors
2. Cruise control
3. Back camera
4. Bluetooth
5. Seatbelts
6. Windshield wipers
7. Power windows
8. Seat reclination
9. Dashboard lights
10. Heating/air-conditioning

Final Words

Buying a used Jeep Wrangler is a common practice worldwide. People usually prefer purchasing a secondhand Jeep due to its affordable price and durable features. 

Remember, the Jeep is, on the whole, a different concept than other vehicles; where for other cars, 50,000 to 100,000 mileage tells the story of a long run, Jeep goes to 400,000 miles and more due to its rugged and resilient nature. But it would be best to look for a responsible driver and an honest dealership while buying a used Wrangler. 

This blog will guide you with all the markers you need to check before buying a used Wrangler.

FAQs

1: What years should I not buy a Jeep Wrangler?

Although Jeeps are one of the most reliable vehicles in America, Golden Jeeps are not produced every year. Therefore, while buying a used Wrangler, avoid Jeep Wrangler from 2007, 2008, 2012, 2013, and 2014. 

In these years, multiple callbacks were made, and thousands of Jeeps came to the dealership with suspension, death wobble, and TIPM failure.

2: What are the most common problems with Jeep Wranglers?

The most recurring problems with the Jeep Wranglers are:

• Death wobble
• TIPM failure
• Suspension issues
• Transfer care leaks
• Fuel consumption

3: Are Jeeps worth the price?

What the Jeep brand vouches for its users is reliability. Although the Jeep is one of the cars with high maintenance costs, it is all beneficial in the long run as this vehicle will never deceive you while off-roading or on regular commuting.