You’ll notice that 2020 Jeep Gladiator models are starting to hit used truck lots. Also, the 2021 model is out too, but is it worth buying? With the Jeep Gladiator being such a new truck, it could be a gamble. So, let’s see what the owners thought. 

Is the Jeep Gladiator worth buying? 

Yes, but it’s important to remember that the Jeep Gladiator isn’t for everyone. It’s built for off-roading and adventuring. Therefore it may have a lightly bumpier ride on pavement compared to other options. 

According to Edmunds, the ride quality can feel jiggly at times with the 2021 Jeep Gladiator. But this is due to the solid-axle front suspension. Plus, the boxy shape of the truck generates noticeable wind noise. 

Aside from that, the seats are very supportive, the climate control system is strong, it has one of the largest back seats in its segment, and more. It’s pretty comfortable, and it’s the only convertible truck. 

Is the Gladiator reliable?

It can be difficult to determine how reliable new trucks are because predicted reliability ratings are based on previous years. The 2020 Jeep Gladiator is the very first model year, but Consumer Reports still gave it a score of five out of five for predicted reliability. 

The 2020 Gladiator also scored a five out of five for consumer satisfaction. So, based on the survey they sent out to owners, people had mostly good things to report. It has the lowest score in value, with a 45/100. But this isn’t surprising because the Jeep Gladiator is expensive with an MSRP of around $33,565. 

The 2021 Gladiator has similar scores for reliability and owner satisfaction. That means the 2020 model didn’t have many issues reported to bring its score down. Of course, it did lose a few points for road noise, but it is a Jeep. 

Does the Gladiator have problems? 

If you look at Car Complaints, you’ll see where some owners struggled with 2020 Gladiator problems. This forum allows owners to post what exactly went wrong with their vehicles. Complaints are also added from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

While the 2020 Jeep Gladiator has ranked up about 128 complaints, the most common issue includes steering problems. Drivers reported that the vehicle wanders on the highway, and the steering is unresponsive or loose. At speeds as low as 30 mph, drivers had trouble driving straight. 

However, there was a service bulletin released to acknowledge the issue. If your Gladiator feels like it’s wandering, then schedule a maintenance appointment. Replacing the steering gear or updating the Electric Hydraulic Power Steering software should correct the problem. It may also be covered under your warranty. 

So far, not enough complaints have been added to other categories such as engine or transmission issues to cause any concern. So, maybe a few people regret buying the Jeep Gladiator, but overall, it’s been making people happy. 

Positives for the Jeep Gladiator include its off-roading prowess, a robust towing capacity that maxes out at 7,650 lb when properly equipped, tech that’s easy to use, abundant cargo space, and for being fun.