5 Worst Jeep Wrangler Years to Avoid

Jeeps are the dream SUVs of off-roaders for their fantastic performance capability, durability, and lifespan. Still, unfortunately, the heavy price of these American classics forces people to buy older versions instead of new ones. 

This blog is for those who intend to buy preloved Jeeps as it will guide them to avoid the indicated years as significant problems were reported.

Since Jeep comes with heavy maintenance costs and finding old spare parts is not that easy, we highly recommend not buying from the years to avoid as it will bring misfortune for you.

The year 2012 was voted the worst year for Jeep Wranglers as the SUV was reported with significant problems and a total of 10 recalls. Moreover, 2007 and 2008 Wranglers were also designated lemon years, followed by 10 and 9 recalls, respectively.

Let’s dive into the article and learn more about the Jeep Wranglers.

Also Read: What is The Jeep Wave? Jeep Hand Signs & Rules!

Which Jeep Wrangler years to avoid?

Although Jeeps are one of the most credible vehicles in the category of SUVs, unfortunately, every batch was not built to perfection. Out of these, some of the most problematic models are listed below:

Jeep Wrangler Years to Avoid

1. 2007 Jeep Wrangler

According to the Jeepers and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the 2007 model was reported with several issues of death wobble, TIPM failure, steering stabilizer, and track arm bushing issues affecting millions of users.

Moreover, 10 recalls were also made by the company due to the Airbag issue. Since airbags are an essential safety feature, the Jeep manufacturers took total responsibility for replacing the faulty airbags. However, the average repair cost for the death wobble costs around $800 to the users, which exceeds $4,500 in case of engine failure and braking problems.

2. 2008 Jeep Wrangler

Unfortunately, death wobble remained a significant issue in 2008 also. However, airbag issues were partially resolved. 

Another issue this year was excessive engine oil consumption which was a big issue to resolve for the users. In contrast, other prominent issues were TIPM failure, faulty steering wheel, fuel system problems, and drivetrain problems.

3. 2012 Jeep Wrangler

2012 is rated as the worst year in history with the significant 10 recalls. Issues of the years 2007 and 2008 remain prevalent, including TIPM failure, airbag problems, steering rack issues, and drivetrain problems. However, the problem of death wobble was significantly reduced.

Some new issues, like engine stalling, came up in 2012, leading to a total replacement costing around $4,500, along with the heater issues.

4. 2013 Jeep Wrangler

Another Jeep Wrangler year you must avoid is the year 2013. This year the major problems that came under light were electrical problems that led to turning off the AC, wipers, headlights, horns, or indicator lights. Significant issues with the TIPM module were also reported.

Along with these issues, a faulty crankshaft position sensor was another major problem that caused the Jeeps to stall intermittently.

5. 2014 Jeep Wrangler 

Undoubtedly,Jeep developers have created the most desirable vehicles of the century. Still, there are a few model years that buyers need to avoid due to their underrated performance. 2014 is another lemon year for this German classic.

This year’s major issue was an oil housing leak that aggravated engine seizing, stalling, and engine whining sounds. 

The owners reported other common issues related to electrical problems leading to the TPS, ECM, and shift control problems. However, the TIPM module inefficiency remained prevalent as with the previous troublesome model years.

Jeep Wrangler Golden Years

Indeed everything that comes with a con has a blissful side too. Similarly, Jeep Wranglers have had great years, too, in which they outperformed and continue to satisfy their customers.

1. Generation YJ and TJ:

The Jeep models from the 80s and 90s were the sturdiest vehicles. They outperformed in their respective years due to their enhanced safety features, including roll bars, steel bumpers, and firm suspension bars.

Even at steep climbing, arched turns, and higher mileage, these Wranglers gave promising performances. Crossing 150,000 miles with no issues was their edge over other models.

Even these Jeeps are still used for load-carrying purposes in some parts of the world.

2. 2019 Jeep Wrangler

After a continuous problematic decade, the Jeep manufacturers released their 2019 model, which broke all the previous issues with the sturdy roll cage, improved safety features, and fault-less air bags—vowing to their customers that Jeep will not compromise on quality and will continue to deliver the best to its customers.

What year is the most reliable Jeep Wrangler?

Jeep manufacturers vow to design state-of-the-art vehicles with good quality, comfort, and the best roading experience. Although there were a few disappointing years, the downfall is part of every business.

So, let’s celebrate the winning Jeep years too.

  • 2003-2004 Jeep Wrangler TJ
  • 2015-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK
  • 2019 -present Jeep Wrangler JL is the most reliable model.

What to look for when buying a Jeep Wrangler according to the years

Jeep Wranglers are famous among drivers for their incredible off-roading capabilities. Buying a second-hand Jeep is fine if you are short on a budget. Also, the troublesome years mean that only some of the Jeeps delivered in the particular year were reported with the problems. So, therefore you need to look out precisely to avoid future problems.

Here we will give you a rundown on what parts to consider when buying an old-modeled Jeep.

  • 1999 – 2000 model: If you buy this model, look for transmission issues. 
  • 2001 – 2002 model: If you buy this model, look out for transmission, engine, and brake issues. 
  • 2003 – 2004 model: If you buy this model, look for transmission, engine, brake, and suspension issues. 
  • 2005 – 2006 model: If you buy this model, look out for transmission, engine, brake, and suspension issues. 
  • 2007 – 2008 model: It was the worst year of the Jeep as it reported significant mechanical problems with the transmission, TIPM, steering, clunky engine, and a death wobble.

Also Read: Jeep Hot Oil Warning And Won’t Start [FIXED]

Final Thoughts

Honestly, buying a Jeep is an actual win-win situation due to its outstanding safety features, incredible off-roading capabilities, and the comfy ride it gives to the passengers. However, it is better to keep you informed when buying an old model. I have tried to provide authentic information about the problematic Jeep Wrangler years in this article. So, perform a complete market research while purchasing and go for a reputable buyer.

Leave a Comment