Skip to main content

Saving with a used Jeep Wrangler can be an excellent idea. Wranglers are pretty popular options that can be found all over the market. They have a reputation for being durable and reliable. However, not all Wranglers were created equally, so avoid the worst used Jeep Wrangler models. 

Stay away from the worst used Jeep Wrangler years 

green 2022 Jeep Wrangler Willys Xtreme Recon parked in a desert
2022 Jeep Wrangler Willys Xtreme Recon | Jeep

The right used Jeep Wrangler can be a reliable option. How long a Jeep Wrangler will last depends on its age. An older Wrangler that has been moderately cared for can last up to 200,000 miles

Newer Wrangler models that’ are properly taken care of with frequent maintenance can make it over 400,000 miles. Wranglers are long-lasting options because they are built to survive extreme conditions. 

The 2012 Wrangler should be avoided 

Runaway from the 2012 Jeep Wrangler. The used Wrangler option has racked up hundreds of complaints on the Car Complaints forum. Most of the issues involve problems with the drive train. 

One driver experienced their Wrangler stalling while driving, and another noticed that the oil pan on the transmission were rotted out. The air conditioning leaked on the transmission and oil pan, causing them to rust. 

Other drivers had their engines fail, the cylinders misfire, random braking, and more. This model year had 10 recalls. The recalls were for Takata airbags, fire risks, transmission fluid leaks, and more. Plus, there were six National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigations. 

Be careful with a 2007 Wrangler 

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon during the 2006 North American International Auto Show
The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon | JEFF HAYNES/AFP via Getty Images

The 2007 Jeep Wrangler has even more complaints! This used Wrangler option primarily struggles with the dreaded death wobble. Drivers seemed to experience shuttering and shaking around 50,000 miles. One person paid $1,500 to have this issue repaired, only for it to occur again. 

This used Jeep Wrangler is also known for engine failure. The engine is prone to randomly stalling in traffic, burning oil, leaking oil, making knocking noises, and needing to be replaced. Owners discovered that their engines needed to be replaced around 40,000 miles. 

There are 10 recalls for this model for the transmission overheating, loss of service brakes, engine stalling, steering shaft issues, and more. Also, the NHTSA has 10 investigations for defects. 

Avoid the 2008 Wrangler at all costs 

The 2008 Jeep Wrangler is the used model with the most complaints. Seriously, there are thousands of complaints. The most common issue involves the airbags and seat belts. 

The airbags sometimes didn’t deploy during wrecks, randomly deployed, and the sensor would remain illuminated and beeping. Then replacing the airbags took an unreasonable amount of time. 

Electrical system issues plague this used Jeep Wrangler model too. Some drivers had their horns randomly blare, their headlights randomly turn off, and the engine wouldn’t turn off with the key. 

Replacing the battery, alternator, and starter failed to correct the cranking issues. Some drivers struggled with their Jeeps randomly stalling in traffic too. These issues were on top of suspension problems, transmission defects, engine problems, and more. 

This Wrangler had nine recalls involving airbag problems, clockspring assembly failure, overheating transmissions, padel entrapment, and more. There are also eight NHTSA investigations for defects. 

Related

The Worst Mistake You Can Make Buying a Jeep Wrangler