The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most iconic off-road vehicles of all time. From its appealing design to powerful features, it has captivated the hearts of many global motoring enthusiasts. Despite this, however, this SUV is not free of problems. Many are wondering – how many miles do Jeep Wranglers last?
A lot of factors affect the longevity of the Jeep Wrangler, such as driving conditions and maintenance. Read on to find out how many miles it can last, which will give you an idea of its reliability through the years.
How Many Miles Do Jeep Wranglers Last?
On average, a Jeep Wrangler can last up to 280,000 miles before it can experience significant problems. This can take 10 to 15 years with regular use. Meanwhile, with strict care and maintenance routine, a Jeep Wrangler can last up to 400,000 miles or up to 20 years.
As an off-road vehicle, a Jeep Wrangler is built to perform even in harsh conditions. Over time, however, the different components are prone to wear. From the suspension to the tires, several parts can suffer from damage as the mileage increases. To avoid compromising performance, pay attention to the vehicle’s maintenance needs.
To get the most out of the Jeep Wrangler, choosing the best model is key. It is also good if you can buy brand new to be sure of the overall quality and reliability. Most importantly, pay attention to proper care and maintenance, which we’ll be talking more about in the last part of this article.
The Most Common Problems Jeep Wranglers Experience
Even if the Jeep Wrangler has a reputation for its longevity, it will inevitably experience some problems at one point or another. The more you use it, the more issues you will encounter. Below is a quick rundown of the issues users of Jeep Wrangler often report.
Steering Issues
A common complaint amongst Jeep Wrangler owners is the death wobble. It is a condition wherein drivers lose control of the SUV when driving at an average speed of 65 mph on the highway. It happens when you hit a hole or bump. The steering wheel will oscillate and shake vigorously, which can be scary.
If you are experiencing steering problems, one of the best solutions is to install a steering stabilizer. As the name implies, it will make the steering more stable, which will give you better control of the SUV. More so, you might also need to change the ball joints and tie rods.
Problems With the Wireless Control Module
Today’s Jeep Wranglers have evolved from the old ones. One of the improvements that you can see is the inclusion of a wireless control module. It will let you activate the engine without a key. However, as the mileage increases, the module also suffers from wear, which might make it problematic.
It is frustrating when you are in a hurry but your Jeep Wrangler won’t start. You can get locked out of your car as well. Plus, it can deactivate the interior lights. Radio frequency issues are the culprits for such, and hence, you will need to replace the module.
TIPM Failure
TIPM stands for Totally Integrated Power Module. It is responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of the vehicle’s electrical components. As the Jeep Wrangler accumulates more miles, the TIPM can suffer from serious damages. It can result in a sudden loss of power. You may also not be able to start the SUV, similar to having a problematic wireless control module.
The best solution to the problem is a replacement of the module itself. On average, it will cost around $1,500. According to many users, this is a problem that starts to be apparent once your Jeep Wrangler has over 50,000 miles.
Water Leak
With its boxy exterior, the Jeep Wrangler looks like a tough SUV. While it is indeed built to last, it is not free of structural problems. Among others, a common complaint is a water leak. It happens specifically on the upper corner of the side doors in the front seats. It can accumulate on the floorboard, which will eventually flood the interior.
Over time, with the frequent opening and closing of the front doors, it can develop cracks. This damage will make it difficult for the body of the SUV to direct water out.
How to Make a Jeep Wrangler Last Longer
If you want to increase the mileage of your Jeep Wrangler, pay attention to proper care and maintenance. Below are some of the best things to do to increase its mileage and make it reliable even after years of driving.
Change Oil Regularly
A regular oil change is one of the easiest ways to increase the mileage of the Jeep Wrangler. If it has conventional oil, the manufacturer recommends oil change after running 3,000 to 5,000 miles. On the other hand, if it uses synthetic oil, then you should change it after 75,00 to 10,000 miles. If you have a Wrangler JK, check out our guide on the best oil for Jeep Wrangler JK.
Over time, your Jeep’s engine oil accumulates dirt and debris, which can hurt its performance. Not to mention, it also has a negative impact on fuel economy. By changing into new oil, you can restore the performance of your SUV and prevent an array of problems.
Rotate the Tires
Like with other vehicles, tire rotation is an important part of Jeep Wrangler maintenance. It involves changing the position of the tires at a regular interval. As a result, it will minimize tire wear while also promoting a smoother and more comfortable ride.
The failure to rotate tires will impact the other parts of your Jeep. This means that it can also reduce its lifespan. This can put unnecessary wear on different components, especially if you are often driving on rough terrains.
Replace the Suspension Parts
As an off-road SUV, the suspension system is prone to wear. While it is highly durable, it can flatten out. Once it is damaged, you will have a hard time steering and turning. It will also make the Jeep prone to shaking, which can end up being uncomfortable.
To add miles to your Jeep Wrangler, you need to have a suspension system that works at its peak. From the axle to the leaf springs, make sure that all components are in their prime condition.
Inspect the Engine
The engine is the heart of your Jeep Wrangler, so regular inspection is a must to keep it running at its peak. Even after accumulating miles and years, if the engine is well-maintained, it will seldom encounter problems. Aside from enhancing performance, this is also important to promote better fuel economy.
As a part of engine maintenance, check different parts. If they are damaged, a replacement is necessary. Some of the components to inspect include the piston, timing belt, and crankshaft.
Key Takeaways
How many miles do Jeep Wranglers last? On average, a Jeep Wrangler will last anywhere from 280,000 to 400,000 miles. Make it last longer by emphasizing routine maintenance, as suggested above. Throughout its use, it will experience several problems, but you can minimize such if you are proactive in taking care of your SUV.
