Used Jeep Wrangler Quick Facts
- The Jeep Wrangler name first appeared in 1987, offering unique features like a removable top and doors.
- The first generation isn’t the most reliable, but it doesn’t cost much. It makes an excellent off-roader you won’t be afraid to scrape or dent.
- The third-generation Jeep Wrangler is probably the model most frequently seen on the road today.
- If you’re mechanically inclined, most early-model Wranglers are easy to repair.
Sun lovers and off-road enthusiasts alike know and love the Jeep Wrangler. For over three decades, the Wrangler has been taking its owners to the beach, the mountains, the desert, and any place where paved roads are nonexistent. Born from the original Jeep Willys that later morphed into the Jeep CJ5 and CJ7, the Wrangler name sprang into existence in 1987 and has remained part of the Jeep lineup ever since. The Wrangler’s simple design makes it relatively inexpensive but far less safe than an SUV with an enclosed cabin and more robust door and chassis design. And while the Wrangler owns a somewhat checkered repair and reliability history, that seems just fine with the legions of loyal Wrangler fans. We’ll tell you the best years to consider when buying a used Jeep Wrangler, and more.
- What Is the Best Model and Year Used Wrangler to Buy?
- Jeep Wrangler by Generation: Which Should You Buy?
- Is the Jeep Wrangler Safe?
- Do I Need to Modify My Jeep Wrangler for Off-Road Use?
- What Kind of Gas Mileage Does a Jeep Wrangler Get?
- Is the Wrangler Expensive to Maintain?
- What Are the Issues to Watch Out for With a Jeep Wrangler?
- How Does a Wrangler Stack Up to the Competition?
- Is the Jeep Wrangler a Good Vehicle?
What is the Best Model and Year Used Wrangler to Buy?
- Fourth generation Jeep Wrangler JL (2018 — current): If you’re looking for the latest in safety tech, off-road equipment, and reliability, the fourth-generation Wrangler is the way to go. It also offers more features, including several roof options, power seats, and the latest infotainment systems.
- Third generation Jeep Wrangler JK (2007 — 2017): Those looking for a low-mileage Wrangler in the low- to mid-$20,000 range will find the JK a desirable option. We’d go for models equipped with the 3.6-liter V6 over the older 3.8-liter, but you’ll probably pay less for an older version that, other than power, offers most of the same features. The right one to buy depends on whether you want two doors or four and what balance of off-road chops and on-road comfort and convenience you’re looking for. If you’re not planning on doing a lot of off-roading, we’d go with a Sport or Sahara trim.
- Second generation Jeep Wrangler TJ (1997 – 2006): Overall, we think the TJ’s build quality and reliability are much better than those of the first-generation Wrangler it replaces. Although there are still some bugs and shortcomings, they are far fewer and easier to repair. Find a TJ in good condition, and you’ll have a comfortable daily driver that also doubles as a competent off-roader or a rolling tanning booth.
- First generation Jeep Wrangler YJ (1987 – 2005): The YJ makes a good choice if you’re looking to spend as little money as possible on a used Wrangler and are familiar with how to work on your vehicle. These were not the most reliable years in the Wrangler series, with early electrical, mechanical, and body rust issues. The YJ Wrangler also rides rough and after a few hours on the road, can be downright uncomfortable. In the used market, most of these models will have high mileage and lots of wear and tear. But if you can find a decent version, it will likely run around $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the trim.
See used Jeep Wranglers for sale in your area.
Jeep Wrangler by Generation: Which Should You Buy?
YJ, TJ, JK, JL: How the Letters Relate to the Wrangler?
Jeep purists often refer to the Wrangler not by its proper name but by the design code assigned to it by Jeep. The first-generation Wrangler is the YJ, followed by the second-generation TJ and the third-generation JK. The fourth generation is the JL. Each has its pluses and minus regarding quality, reliability, and off-road capability. Here’s a better breakdown of the four generations.
Fourth Generation: 2018 – Current Jeep Wrangler (JL)
The fourth generation, known as the JL Wrangler, debuted in 2018. It offers more modern engineering and architecture but still follows the Jeep JK off-road philosophy. In 2020, Jeep offered a diesel V6 engine for the first time, along with the Selec-Trac 4×4 system, which can be employed at all speeds. The fourth-generation Wrangler also includes more safety systems, such as a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Rubicon features an advanced electronic disconnecting front sway bar.
See 2018 – current Jeep Wranglers for sale in your area.
Third Generation: 2007 – 2017 Jeep Wrangler (JK)
Produced from 2007 until 2017, the third-generation Wrangler JK is probably the model most frequently seen on the road. The JK series sees the Wrangler grow in every dimension. Taller, wider, and longer, the JK Wrangler loses some of the nimble off-road ability of the narrower TJ. Still, it gains significant advances in engine, drivetrain, and interior technology, as well as a vastly improved soft-top mechanism.
Despite complying with more stringent safety standards, the JK retains its folding windshield and removable tops and doors. Speaking of doors, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited arrives in this generation, creating the first-ever 4-door Wrangler. Unlimited models also offer a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version, while all 2-doors and Wrangler Rubicon models come standard with 4-wheel drive (4WD). Trims included the X (which later morphs into the Sport), Sahara, Unlimited, and Rubicon.
The JK also improves with innovative roof options, including a hardtop with removable panels and the Sunrider soft-top featuring a sliding front panel. The interior is more luxurious, with better seat padding and more luxury features offered on base models, such as power windows, locks, and cruise control. Features like a touchscreen audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and front side-impact airbags further enhance the JK’s appeal, while safety upgrades include electronic stability and traction control.
Initially, the JK’s standard engine was a rather anemic 202-hp 3.8-liter V6, but that changed in 2012 when it received a more robust 285-hp 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. Manual and automatic transmissions remain, and all 2-door models except the Rubicon get the standard 2-speed Command-Trac transfer case. Unlike many modern all-wheel drive (AWD) SUVs, the Wrangler can’t travel at high speeds while in 4-wheel drive (this also applies to all the previous generations). Jeep’s Command-Trac can only be used in low-speed and slippery situations.
DID YOU KNOW: Jeep once sold 2WD Wranglers from 2007 to 2010, and only in the 4-door Wrangler Unlimited body style.
See 2007 to 2017 Jeep Wranglers for sale in your area.
Second Generation: 1997 – 2006 Jeep Wrangler (TJ)
The second-generation Wrangler is the TJ. If you’re looking for a low-priced used Wrangler, this is the generation we’d pick. Although similar in size and power to the YJ, the TJ received several improvements, starting with styling that saw the return of Jeep’s traditional round headlights. The interior is more carlike, with better seats, an improved dash, front airbags, and upscale audio options. However, the most significant change is the switch from a leaf-spring suspension to a more modern coil-spring setup. This design significantly improves the Wrangler’s ride and handling, allowing for better off-road abilities and greater wheel articulation. Like the engines, the YJ’s transmission choices carry over until 2003, when a 4-speed automatic replaces the aging 3-speed unit.
The same hardtop and soft-top options remained, with various trims and equipment added over time. However, the most game-changing update to TJ happens with the introduction of the 2003 Rubicon line. This specialized off-road-ready Wrangler features a beefed-up suspension, improved approach and departure angles, locking Dana 44 axles, the more advanced Rock-Trac 4:1 ratio transfer case, skid plates, larger wheels and tires, plus special paint and interior features. In 2004, Jeep introduced a stretched version of the Wrangler dubbed the “Wrangler Unlimited.” This version adds 10 inches to the Wrangler’s wheelbase and 15 inches to its overall length. A new 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine replaces the old 2.5-liter unit for 2003. For 2006, the 2.4-liter gets dropped, leaving the 4.0-liter inline-6 as the only engine.
Jeep had a lot of fun with this generation, offering several special edition models, such as the Apex Edition, Columbia Edition, Willys Edition, and Tomb Raider Edition, all with unique paint schemes, mechanical upgrades, and option packages.
See 1997 to 2006 Jeep Wranglers for sale in your area.
First Generation: 1987 – 2005 Jeep Wrangler (YJ)
The first Wrangler replaces the beloved Jeep CJ7. It offers a better interior, a modern dash, and a few more creature comforts. Square headlights are the telltale sign of a first-generation model. A 117-hp, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder comes standard, with a robust 4.0-liter inline-6 as an option. The 4.0-liter pumps out 180 hp and has a good reputation for durability and ease of repair. Like the CJ, the YJ Wrangler features solid front and rear axles coupled to a leaf-spring suspension. The YJ models are relatively basic, without much in the way of complex electronics or safety features. Buyers can choose between hard or soft tops, half-doors, or full steel doors with manual windows. Trims vary throughout the model run, including base S and SE, the value-leading Sport, upscale Laredo, and well-equipped Sahara. This generation also offers two specialty trims: the Islander (1988-93) and the Renegade (1990-94). It’s important to note during this time, Jeep did make a rear-drive Wrangler, so if you’re looking for 4-wheel drive, be sure the Wrangler you’re looking at has a hi-lo transfer case lever next to the transmission stalk.
See 1987 to 2005 Jeep Wranglers for sale in your area.
Is the Jeep Wrangler Safe?
Keeping in mind that the Wrangler has a removable top and doors, not to mention half-doors on some models that are basically just lightweight sheet metal, you shouldn’t get into an older CJ or Wrangler expecting the same kind of crash protection you’d get in a Jeep Cherokee. The older the Wrangler, the less safety equipment it’s going to have. If you want things like rear shoulder belts, airbags, and better side-impact protection, you’re going to want at least the TJ, but most likely the JK.
As the Jeep Wrangler isn’t a car, it doesn’t have to meet many of the same stringent crash test requirements. However, we did notice the 4-door Unlimited models seem to do better in side impact crash tests than the 2-door models.
Do I Need to Modify My Wrangler for Off-Road Use?
Yes and no. The Wrangler is designed for off-road use, with a rugged suspension, transmission, transfer case, and, on some models, skid plate protection and greater ground clearance. The best-equipped version from the factory is the Rubicon. Still, for those who intend to do serious bouldering or off-road adventures, the Wrangler can easily be modified thanks to numerous aftermarket suppliers.
You can raise the Wrangler’s ride height, increase its tire size plus change its axles, transfer case, and skid plate protection. Jeep owners have been known to perform these upgrades in their driveways, garages, and even while out on the trail.
What Kind of Gas Mileage Does the Jeep Wrangler Get?
With the exception of the new diesel engine option, fuel economy is not one of the Wrangler’s strong points. No early-model 4-cylinder Wrangler could muster much better than 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, with the 6-cylinder versions getting about a mile or two less than that. The 2016 Wrangler with the 3.6-liter V6 returns 17 mpg city/21 mpg highway regardless of transmission choice, while the 2019 Wrangler with the 2.0-liter turbodiesel gets 23 mpg city/25 mpg highway.
Is the Wrangler Expensive to Maintain?
One of the great benefits of being able to work on your car is that it can save you a lot of money. If you look at any automotive repair bill, you’ll see it’s always the labor that costs the most. In the case of the YJ and TJ models, there isn’t much in the way of complex electronics to mess with, and the mechanical bits (transmission, engine, differentials) are all readily available either through salvage yards, automotive stores, or aftermarket suppliers. The late-model JK and JL trims do have more sophisticated engine management and safety systems, so you may need a professional mechanic, depending on the issue.
What Are the Issues to Watch Out for With a Jeep Wrangler?
Buying a used Jeep Wrangler isn’t like buying an ordinary used car. In the case of the Wrangler, the buyer must watch for excessive abuse by the previous owner. You’ll want to check all the suspension parts, drain the differential and transfer cases to look for metal shavings in the oil, check all the seals for leaks, and be sure any modifications made were installed and maintained properly. Any YJ or TJ model with more than 150,000 miles will need to be seen by a professional mechanic for a thorough going-over.
These early Wrangler models also have known issues with their automatic transmissions, blown head gaskets, and cracks that develop in the exhaust manifold. Soft-top models can see their vinyl tops grow weak and crack, and the plastic windows tend to yellow. Many 4-cylinder models used a less robust Dana 35 rear axle, which tended to have issues after prolonged heavy use.
How Does the Wrangler Stack Up to the Competition?
Read on to find out how the Jeep Wrangler compares to other vehicles.
1. Used Wrangler vs. Used Toyota FJ
The FJ is relatively new compared to the Wrangler but is every bit as off-road capable. You can’t remove the FJ’s doors and top, but it is a safer vehicle with a much better reputation for reliability and resale.
2. Used Wrangler vs. Used Nissan Xterra
Like the FJ, the Xterra doesn’t offer removable body parts. Its body-on-frame construction is similar to the Wrangler’s but less capable off-road. However, the Xterra is a more comfortable daily driver with better interior space for people and cargo.
3. Used Wrangler vs. Used Toyota 4Runner
The 4Runner offers superior reliability, good off-road ability, and a large aftermarket supplier base. The 4Runner is quieter than the Wrangler Unlimited and provides a more secure cabin for storing valuables like the FJ and Xterra. Like a new Jeep Wrangler, the Toyota 4Runner is good at providing daily comfort and the ability to go off-road.
Is the Jeep Wrangler a Good Vehicle?
For the better part of its existence, the Wrangler consistently pulls in average to below-average reliability and dependability figures. However, most Wrangler enthusiasts value the vehicle’s off-road abilities and open-air attitude above the occasional repair. Because the Wrangler is commonly used off-road, it takes the kind of beating most of its SUV competitors don’t. This, in turn, leads to some complaints that may be owner-induced.
For all its quirks and issues, the Wrangler is easily fixable. Many Wrangler owners modify and upgrade weaker components such as the standard Dana 35 axles, suspension components, and exhaust systems. The soft-top on the YJ and TJ models can be a royal pain to get on and off, especially as it gets older. The design of the JK models is significantly better. Even if you do experience mechanical issues while out on the trail, the Wrangler community is a tight-knit one, always willing and able to lend a hand. Think of them like a giant off-road AAA.
