How Many Miles Will A Jeep Wrangler Last: Reliability, Issues & Tips

If anyone has always wanted to know how many miles will a Jeep Wrangler last. Especially if the plan is to purchase or invest in the desired model sometime in the future.

This article provides the necessary details that ensure the best purchase decision is made.

Over the years (for more than two decades), the Jeep Wrangler has established itself as the most famous/distinguishable model.

Thanks to its impressive off-road performance and the immense satisfaction it delivers to owners. Since the Jeep Wrangler isn’t perfect, considering its list of issues.

Many people are interested in the longevity the Wrangler offers across all terrains. Hence, the question, “How long do Jeep Wranglers last?”

How Long Does a Jeep Wrangler Last?

The Jeep Wrangler’s immense durability and outstanding satisfaction and performance are significant attributes that have contributed to the exciting popularity and recognition it enjoys to date.

If you are an off-road enthusiast and have a great interest in a vehicle that offers extended and reliable longevity.

The Jeep Wrangler is worth the money. It is specifically/specially designed and equipped for outdoor activities.

This explains why it can confront whatever challenges or obstacles that come its way, especially on rough/irregular terrains.

Owners/individuals committed to off-road rides believe or envisage that the Jeep Wrangler can consistently take the hit while offering consistent performance.

These attributes are highly commendable, ensuring they last thousands of miles with no disappointment.

Jeep Wrangler Reliability

Usually, the Jeep Wrangler is free of severe issues in the first five (5) years and continues to drive well for about fifteen (15) years or even more.

It’s a versatile vehicle, considering how easily it switches between operation/use, offering exceptional satisfaction and peace of mind.

Owners can drive their truck on the highway or across the city during the week and take it out on off-road adventures with friends and other off-road enthusiasts/adventurers during the weekend.

Impressively, it offers incredible performance across all operations/uses. To answer the question:  How long does a Jeep Wrangler last?

We will look at the average number of miles it covers during its impressive/excellent lifespan.

The Jeep Wrangler is solid/robust enough to last up to two hundred and eighty thousand (280K) miles before severe issues/problems may begin to occur.

However, a Jeep Wrangler that is appropriately used and well-managed can stay on top for over twenty (20) years, covering more than four hundred thousand (400K) miles.

How Reliable Are Jeep Wranglers on Average?

The Jeep Wrangler is available across several generations and models.

Interestingly, every model is designed as an advanced/improved version of the previous, offering noticeable performance upgrades that adventurers and Jeep enthusiasts love and appreciate.

The Jeep Wrangler is famous for its immense durability/strength, especially on rough terrains and adverse weather conditions. It has its weaknesses also, which are inevitable.

Nevertheless, the reliability of the Jeep Wrangler is undoubtedly fascinating. For over two (2) decades now, it has been able to showcase this.

When a Jeep Wrangler owner maintains or adheres to scheduled maintenance according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensures immediate replacement/upgrade of worn-out parts or accessories.

The impact or effect of aging on performance can be lowered/controlled exceptionally.

Which Model Years of Jeep Wrangler Last The Longest?

The 2018 Jeep Wrangler is widely rated and positioned as the best Jeep Wrangler.

When the 2018 model was launched, it redefined a new era in the Jeep Wrangler’s history. Besides its reliability, the tech improvements/upgrades are incredible and countless.

The handling performance and control become better than in previous models. The 2018 model is a suitable pick if you are an off-road adventurer.

It allows drivers/owners to drive across steep hills, mud, and other rugged paths freely and safely, ensuring possible pull-backs are totally eliminated.

Also, the fuel efficiency is impressive. About twenty-three (23) miles per gallon and twenty-five (25) miles per gallon are achievable in the city and highway, respectively.

Also, the manufacturer’s ability to deliver significant upgrades across key areas to achieve a modern feel without jeopardizing the classic box-like appearance is a really brilliant one to watch.

Which Model Years Are the Least Reliable For Jeep Wrangler?

The 2012 Jeep Wrangler is rated lower than the models before it.

This model is positioned or addressed as the least reliable of all the Jeep Wranglers ever made, having experienced/recorded one of the highest numbers of safety recalls (10) in Jeep Wrangler history.

While the major issues reported or associated with the older models had to do with the airbag. The 2012 model was not left behind.

Just that this time around, the airbag-related issues took a new form. These new problems affected several vehicles, counting to millions, and a recall was initiated.

We need to point out that many people expected significant improvement in the 2012 model.

Instead of fixing the issues that the 2007 and 2008 models were affected with, it inherited these issues instead.

For instance, the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) isn’t safe from premature failure, which is a costly replacement to make.

Other issues include unexpected engine failure and inadequate heater. Fixing the engine issue could possibly mean engaging in a complete engine replacement.

Related Article: Are Jeep Wranglers Safe?

Common Problems Found With Jeep Wrangler

01. Engine Issues

The Jeep Wrangler has witnessed several evolutions and upgrades over the years, the engine inclusive.

While the Jeep Wrangler’s engine is decent enough and considered pretty reliable. That doesn’t stop or prevent issues from occurring.

In most cases, engine problems are associated with or can be traced to old vehicles with many miles covered. A common issue is head gasket leakage.

02. Transmission Failures

The transmission is one of the most critical parts that make up your Jeep Wrangler.

When the transmission fails, the vehicle could be sidelined or totally unable to be driven until the issue is fixed.

03. Suspension Noise

The suspension system could take a big hit when the Jeep Wrangler is consistently used or engaged in off-road adventures.

Fair enough, several aftermarket suspension parts/accessories can be purchased and installed on the Jeep Wrangler to deliver the performance that matches the owner’s off-road expectations/needs.

04. Rust and Corrosion

The Jeep Wrangler is prone to rust/corrosion when overexposed to ultraviolet radiation or other harmful/damaging environmental elements/situations.

It is essential to always have your vehicle parked in the garage and properly stored using a top-quality cover to extend its lifespan.

Also, regular washing and waxing go a long way in enhancing appearance and longevity.

05. Spark Plug Failures

When the spark plug begins to degrade or fail, some signs/symptoms that are experienced or perceived include high fuel consumption or lowered fuel economy, rough idle, poor acceleration, the check engine light coming on, disturbing engine sound, and the engine may start misfiring.

Do not hesitate to get the spark plug inspected/replaced as soon as possible once any of the indicated issues are detected.

06. Brake Degradation

The brake degradation depends on the owner’s driving habits. On average, the Jeep Wrangler brake pads last between thirty thousand (30K) miles and seventy thousand (70K) miles.

For instance, individuals who live in cities with heavy traffic will require brake applications every now and then. As a result, the brake pads’ lifespan could be impacted.

We recommend regular brake pad inspection if you drive under such a condition.

07. Electrical Failures (Air Conditioning, Mostly)

Considering the challenges the Jeep Wrangler faces on rugged roads or during off-road events or adventures. Electrical issues can’t be eliminated or taken out of the cards.

Some notable electrical issues include difficulty in starting the engine, malfunctioning air conditioning system, faulty/inefficient lights, and gauges, and the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) problem.

Are Jeep Wranglers Expensive To Repair?

When it comes to finding out how long a Jeep Wrangler will last, maintenance requirements and expectations play a significant role.

A vehicle that is not expensive to maintain makes a lot of economic sense once it starts getting old.

Since maintenance is affordable and can be easily/quickly considered when due. This extends the number of years it stays or continues cruising on the road.

The Jeep Wrangler has an average maintenance cost ranging between four hundred and sixty-two ($462) dollars and four hundred and sixty-five ($465) dollars per annum.

On average, the annual repair/maintenance cost is between seventy-eight ($78) and eighty ($80) dollars lower than the Toyota Highlander and between twenty-seven ($27) and thirty ($30) dollars lower than the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Do Jeep Wranglers Last Longer Than the Competition

Considering the immense performance and capabilities the Jeep Wrangler delivers during off-road adventures. Drivers/owners are confident that they can keep cruising until they are ready to stop.

The off-road abilities are top-tier, and only a few other Jeep vehicles can be regarded as worthy competitors.

The Jeep Wrangler has been able to stay ahead of its competitors by assuring timeless/ageless upgrades, which is reflected in the resale value.

Its resale value price is rated as one of the highest in its category/class. For instance, it has a lower depreciation percentage than the Jeep Renegade and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Owners are convinced that their Jeep Wrangler will retain its value for as long as possible, keeping the vehicle on the road for years, extending across thousands of miles.

The drivetrain is robust, offering a desirable/satisfying level of freedom (increased handling, balance/stability, and control) on rugged roads.

Maintenance Tips To Make Your Jeep Wranglers Last Longer

• In case of repairs, maintenance, or service. The Jeep Wrangler should only be inspected and fixed by accredited service centers or an experienced Jeep Wrangler mechanic/expert.
• A Jeep Wrangler with a soft top should be kept away from extended UV penetration by parking it in a garage.
• The oil should be changed/replaced as recommended or advised by the manufacturer. At least once every 6 months.
• The tires should be rotated at least once per annum. Also, the tire pressure should be inspected from time to time to ensure the recommended PSI is maintained.
• The tires should be inspected frequently and replaced when necessary.
• The brake pads, electrical wires, belts, and vehicle fluids should be checked and maintained from time to time.
• If you engage in off-road adventures from time to time. The suspension system should be inspected by an experienced mechanic more often.
• The shock absorber should be upgraded/replaced when necessary. Four (4) and five (5) years are a good bet.

The Buying Considerations of Jeep Wrangler

If a Jeep Wrangler is rightly used/maintained. The average depreciation value is fixed at about three percent (3%) during its first five years of purchase/use.

The resell value is more favorable when compared to Jeep Renegade and Jeep Grand Cherokee with forty percent (40%) and forty-five percent (45%) average depreciation value, respectively.

Also, the insurance costs can influence the number of years or miles the vehicle can still be road-worthy.

With low insurance costs, new owners will be motivated/driven to pay, keeping the vehicle in the best condition that allows it to be on the road for a long time.

The average insurance cost for the Jeep Wrangler ranges between one thousand two hundred and fifty-six dollars ($1,256) and one thousand three hundred ($1,300) dollars.

Which is $54 lower than the Toyota Highlander and $58 lower than the Grand Cherokee.

Relevant Frequently Asked Questions

What Important Tips Should I Consider When Choosing a Model To Buy?

When picking up any Jeep Wrangler model, especially the older ones. We recommend adequate research to know possible issues (how severe they are) and how they can be detected.

Does Resell Value Affect Longevity?

Yes, it does. A vehicle that can retain its value will stay on the road for a more extended period than those that easily lose their value.

What Jeep Wrangler Models Have The Best Resell Value?

Since its inception, the Jeep Wrangler has been able to retain its resale value, leading to winning several awards and many recommendations. On top of the list are the 2009 model and the 2012 & 2013 models.

How Much Does it Cost To Fix The TIPM?

On average, fixing a failed Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) costs between one thousand three hundred ($1300) and one thousand five hundred ($1,500) dollars.

What is The Price of an Engine Replacement and Heater Repair?

On average, an engine replacement costs between four thousand five hundred ($4,500) to five thousand ($5000) dollars.

On the other hand, the average cost of having the heater fixed/corrected is between one thousand ($1,000) and one thousand two ($1,200) dollars.

Last Thoughts

So far, we have had a lot of discussions about the Jeep Wrangler, explaining how many miles will a Jeep Wrangler last.

This includes the problems that could lower/affect reliability and lifespan and how these issues can be maintained or controlled for improved performance.

Remember, every Jeep has its uniqueness and issues. Hence, no vehicle is perfect. In the case of the Jeep Wrangler, many owners are satisfied with the performance it offers.