Jeep Wrangler 4-dr 4x4 problems

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The Jeep Wrangler is a series of compact and mid-size four-wheel drive off-road SUVs manufactured by Jeep since 1986, and currently in its fourth generation. The Wrangler JL, the most recent generation, was unveiled in late 2017 and is produced at Jeep's Toledo Complex.

The Wrangler is a direct progression from the World War II Jeep, through the CJ (Civilian Jeeps) produced by Willys, Kaiser-Jeep, and American Motors Corporation (AMC) from the mid-1940s through the 1980s. Although neither AMC nor Chrysler (after it purchased AMC in 1987) have claimed that the Wrangler was a direct descendant of the original military model — both the CJ Jeeps and the conceptually consistent Wrangler, with their solid axles and open top, have been called the Jeep model as central to Jeep's brand identity as the rear-engine 911 is to Porsche.

Similar to the Willys MB and the CJ Jeeps before it, all Wrangler models continue to use a separate body and frame, rigid live axles both front and rear, a tapering nose design with flared fenders, a fold-flat windshield and can be driven without doors. Also, with few exceptions, they have part-time four-wheel drive systems, with the choice of high and low gearing, and standard open bodies with removable hard or soft tops. However, the Wrangler series was specifically redesigned to be safer and more comfortable on-road, to attract more daily drivers, by upgrading its suspension, drivetrain, and interior, compared to the CJ line. The suspension on all Wranglers included trackbars and anti-roll bars, and, from the 1997 TJ onwards, front and rear coil springs instead of the previous leaf springs.

From 2004 on, the Wrangler has been complemented with long-wheelbase versions, called Wrangler Unlimited. 2004-2006 models were longer versions with 2 doors. In 2004 only automatic transmission-equipped “Unlimited” versions were sold. In 2005 both an automatic and manual 6-speed (NSG-370) were offered. Since 2007, the long-wheelbase Wranglers were four-door models, offering over 20 in (508 mm) more room. By mid-2017 the four-door models represented three-quarters of all new Wranglers on the market.

photo of Jeep Wrangler 4-dr 4x4 car production

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Jeep Wrangler 4-dr 4x4 model years

jeep wrangler 4-dr 4x4 2009 photo
Wrangler 4-dr 4x4 2009
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Wrangler 4-dr 4x4 2007
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Common Jeep Wrangler 4-dr 4x4 problems

The Jeep Wrangler 4-dr 4x4 is a popular off-road vehicle, but like any other vehicle, it has its fair share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues by owners of this car:

Faded bumpers: This issue affects early cars mostly with black plastic bumpers that fade over time. While this is primarily a cosmetic concern, it can affect the overall appearance of the vehicle. There are a number of black plastic trim restoration products in both gel and spray-on forms that you can use to bring back the color and shine to your bumpers.

Off-road damage: Look underneath the vehicle for any ladder chassis damage or rust near to where suspension components are fixed since this can lead to an MOT failure. Also, make sure there aren’t clumps of mud under there: it can trap moisture and cause corrosion. This issue is particularly relevant for those who use their Jeep Wrangler for off-roading activities. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to prevent any damage to the vehicle's undercarriage.

Condition of tires: The chunky tyres mean kerbed alloy wheels are unlikely, but make sure there are no cuts in the sidewall of the tyres caused by catching a jagged edge of a rock while off-road; they can compromise safety and lead to a tyre blow out at speed. This issue is particularly relevant for those who use their Jeep Wrangler for off-roading activities. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the safety of the vehicle.

Spare wheel: The spare wheel is mounted on the outside of the vehicle and needs to have a security lock on it to prevent thieves from stealing it. Also, because it’s exposed to the sun, make sure there are no cracks in the sidewall that might render the tyre unsafe to use. This issue is particularly relevant for those who use their Jeep Wrangler for off-roading activities. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the safety of the vehicle.

Water leaks: This could simply be due to one or more of the removable panels being loose, so check that everything is clipped down correctly. Inspect the removable doors, too, because they could be out of alignment. If none of that fixes the issue, then you may have perished door seals. This issue is particularly relevant for those who use their Jeep Wrangler for off-roading activities. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to prevent any damage to the vehicle's undercarriage.

Death wobble: Excessive shimmying through the steering has been named as the ‘death wobble’ by owners and can, in some extreme cases, affect control. The root cause is a combination of worn suspension and steering components including ball joints, wheel bearings and anti-roll bar drop links. If you feel a shimmy, we recommend you get the car inspected. This issue is particularly relevant for those who use their Jeep Wrangler for off-roading activities. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the safety of the vehicle.

Ball joints: The ball joint can wear out alarmingly quickly. Some have suggested that the protective rubber gaiter surrounding the sealed joint can perish within 10,000 miles, or less if the vehicle has lifted suspension. Budget for regular replacements. This issue is particularly relevant for those who use their Jeep Wrangler for off-roading activities. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the safety of the vehicle.

Leaking axle seals: The differentials on both the front and rear axles, that help to send power from the engine to the wheels, can leak oil. This is a problem because, not only do you not want them to run dry, you also don’t want dirt to get in and ruin the mechanicals. This issue is particularly relevant for those who use their Jeep Wrangler for off-roading activities. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the safety of the vehicle.

Rattles: Interior rattles are part of the Wrangler experience, due to way things are easily disassembled for cleaning. An individual rattle could be caused by a loose panel that needs re-assembling correctly or something that needs tightening. Try lubricating rubber roof seals with an appropriate rubber friendly product, too. This issue is particularly relevant for those who use their Jeep Wrangler for off-roading activities. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the safety of the vehicle.

Infotainment glitches: If fitted, infotainment systems can sometimes have glitches that can go away if you switch the car off and then on again. If that doesn’t sort it, then you might have to get an update from the dealer. Later Uconnect systems can be updated over the air. This issue is particularly relevant for those who use their Jeep Wrangler for off-roading activities. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the safety of the vehicle.

Exhaust: Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, etc. This issue is particularly relevant for those who use their Jeep Wrangler for off-roading activities. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the safety of the vehicle.

In general, regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the safety and reliability of the Jeep Wrangler 4-dr 4x4. Off-roading activities can increase the likelihood of certain issues, so it's important to take extra care when using the vehicle in such conditions.

Jeep Wrangler 4-dr 4x4

What is the most common problem with Jeep Wranglers?

A list of some of the most common issues Wrangler owners have to deal with.

  • Electronic Sway Bar Disconnect. Make room, death wobble. ...
  • TRW Crash Sensor Defect. ...
  • Jeep Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. ...
  • Faulty Wrangler Welds. ...
  • Jeep TIPM Electrical Problems. ...
  • Death Wobble. ...
  • Window Regulator Failure. ...
  • Wrangler Gas Overflow Complaints.

Is the Jeep Wrangler a good 4x4?

A TRUE OFF-ROAD PIONEER

The 2024 Wrangler Willys is a 4x4 powerhouse, offering 33-inch off-road tires, rear locking differential, Rubicon shocks and rock rails along with its legendary Trail Rated® capability.

What is the best year for Jeep Wranglers?

Which are the best Wrangler years?

Model YearHighlights
2015Best in terms of reliability
2003Best Trend-Setter
2011Best for Smooth Driving Upgrades
1996Best Optimized Safety Features

How reliable is Jeep 4 cylinder engine?

The 2.5L engine can last 200,000 miles or more

The 2.5-liter four-cylinder Jeep engine shared some design elements and internal components with the 4.0-liter six but was designed specifically for the vehicles it went into.

Recalls Jeep Wrangler 4-dr 4x4

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Jeep Wrangler 4-dr 4x4.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Jeep Wrangler 4-dr 4x4 2009
  • Report Received Date: 2009-04-09
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER LLC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
  • Summary: CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 4,314 MY 2009 DODGE JOURNEY, JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE, COMMANDER AND WRANGLER VEHICLES. WIRING MAY BE REVERSED ON THE STEERING COLUMN CONTROL MODULE DRIVER AIRBAG SQUIB CONNECTOR. THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG MAY NOT DEPLOY AS INTENDED.
  • Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG MAY NOT PROPERLY INFLATE AND MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY PROTECT AN OCCUPANT, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURIES.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG SQUIB WIRES AND REPLACE THE STEERING COLUMN CONTROL MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

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