what to look for when buying a used jeep wrangler

Things to Know Before Buying a Jeep Wrangler (Used or New)

Jeep Wranglers are among the most popular vehicle brands desired by many people in America and worldwide. They are incredible vehicles for off-roading and can help you explore even in the worst terrains across mountains, rocky, and muddy places.

The engine system in Jeep Wranglers is also superior, guaranteeing you a long service life. Whether old or new, Jeep Wranglers stay true to their heritage.

You can be sure that you will get an efficient Jeep with off-road capability and high-strength. If you are planning to purchase a Jeep Wrangler, there are a few things you will want to know before making up your mind. Below is a list of the ten essential things you need to know before buying a Jeep Wrangler:

Fuel Economy Ratings

It’s the work of any Jeep buyer to determine the fuel economy ratings for the Jeep they want to buy. The fuel economy ratings relate to the amount of fuel a Jeep Wrangler consumes after moving for a given distance.

A Jeep Wrangler with a higher rating will spend a higher amount of fuel for a given distance compared to those with lower ratings. A Jeep that spends a lower amount of fuel for longer distances saves money and preserves the environment.

Safety Features

Another vital feature to consider when buying a Jeep Wrangler is the security features it comes with. The newest Jeep Wrangler has more security features but is a bit expensive. Advanced safety features come at an extra cost. For instance, the 2020 Wrangler comes with rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Infotainment System

Each Jeep Wrangler Model has its own Uconnect infotainment system design. It is essential to ensure that the model you intend to buy has a responsive and user-friendly Infotainment system.

You can check the size and type of the screen available, whether it has a USB port, Bluetooth, number of speakers, cruise control, and a push-button start.

Some other optional features that you can look for are navigation, remote keyless entry, satellite radio, and power windows and door locks.

Storage Space

Before investing in a Jeep Wrangler, it’s crucial to understand what you want to do with it and the amount of storage you will need.

Not all Jeep Wranglers will offer ample storage space. The four-door model is more accessible in the rear and will provide comfortable rides even for long distances. This is not the case with two-door, which has limited space in the rear.

Ease of Modification

Some Jeep Wrangler models can be easily manipulated to suit your needs while others are not. For instance, the new 2020 Wrangler model’s roof, doors, and windscreen can be easily engineered or removed altogether.

Such a Jeep is advantageous over models with sealed roofs as it allows you to remove the roof at some occasions like tours and trips. However, these Jeeps with customizable features will come at a higher price.

Jeep Wrangler Trim Level

Jeep Wranglers come in different trim levels. Every trim level has its own set of features and equipment. A Jeep Wrangler model with a higher trim level comes with better features and improved equipment but at a higher price.

Models with entry trim level are relatively cheap since they come with only the basic features. It is essential to understand the features you want, their trim level, and whether it is within your budget.

Mechanical Condition

The mechanical condition of a used Jeep is essential. This includes factors like the condition of the engine-transmission, the gearbox functioning, among others.

While examining the engine, you can do it in the morning before the owner uses the Jeep Wrangler. Be careful to listen for any irregular idling or misfiring in the engine while in idle.

You can also go for a road test to examine the functioning of the Jeep Wrangler. If you are not familiar with Jeep, you can seek the help of a specialist to help you.

General Exterior Condition

While the mechanical and working condition of a Jeep Wrangler is the most important factor to consider while buying a used car, the exterior condition is also very critical.

You want to buy a good-looking Jeep with pleasing aesthetics and an appealing look. Inspect the exterior of the Jeep for any dents, rust, scratches, and bumps. These conditions are easy to fix, but they are essential in determining the price of the Jeep Wrangler.

Rusty Spots

Whereas rust is a common occurrence in Jeep Wranglers found in areas with salty water, it is perhaps the most expensive problem to solve.

Rust in Jeep is normal and expected in some parts. However, in some important parts of the Jeep, it means a serious issue. These parts include the axles and control arm brackets.

Excessive rust in these parts may lead to pitting and corrosion, therefore compromising the normal functioning of the Jeep Wrangler.

Model Year

The model year is another essential feature to look at before investing in a Jeep Wrangler. Despite the general condition of the vehicle and its mileage, the model year is the obvious way to determine the depreciation of a car.

Older Jeep Wranglers are more likely to be cheap. Nevertheless, Jeep Wranglers are very durable. A 20-year-old jeep can still fetch a reasonable price depending on its general and mechanical conditions.