How Long Do Jeep Gladiators Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan
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Debuting for the 2020 model year, the Gladiator reinvigorated Jeep’s pickup legacy from the 1940s. Although based on the Jeep Wrangler, the Gladiator is unique thanks to a longer wheelbase and greater payload capacity. At the same time, the Gladiator shares the Wrangler’s off-road capability, enabling this pickup to tackle the toughest terrain. But does this ruggedness help with longevity? Prospective buyers will wonder, how long do Jeep Gladiators last?
In truth, the Gladiator’s newness makes finding answers to these questions challenging. Yet, its shared DNA with the Wrangler provides some insight. We’ll also look at CoPilot data and reviews from Consumer Reports and others to answer the “how long do Jeep Gladiators last?” question. Let’s dive into the details.
How Long Do Jeep Gladiators Last?
Consumer Reports says that a well-maintained automobile from a brand known for reliability should last at least 200,000 miles, if not more. Let’s see if the Jeep Gladiator can match this standard. Unfortunately, given the truck’s short history, there’s not a lot of real-world data to support a rock-solid answer.
CoPilot’s marketplace listings (as of this writing) show 6,683 used Gladiators for sale nationwide. None had more than 150,000 miles, and only 28 had 100,000-150,000 miles. The numbers are unsurprising because the oldest Gladiator is from the 2020 model year. With the U.S. Department of Transportation estimating an average annual per-car use of about 13,500 miles, the Gladiator has to get a lot older before we see higher mileage examples.
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Yet, a look at the mechanically similar Jeep Wrangler offers additional clues. The current-generation (JL) Wrangler hit the streets in 2018, so it’s not much older than the Gladiator. As a result, we’ll go back another ten years and include Wranglers from the JK generation since 2008.
Here, we see more high-mileage examples. CoPilot data shows 11,687 pre-owned Wranglers for sale nationwide from the 2008-2023 model years. Of these, 1,209 (10.3%) had at least 100,000 miles. Meanwhile, 193 (1.7%) had 150,000-200,000 miles. Listings with ultra-high mileage (over 200,000 miles) Wranglers are still rarer. Only 77 (0.7%) fall into this category.
Based on the look at Wrangler data, it’s fair to say that the Gladiator can reach 150,000 miles. Hitting the 200,000-mile benchmark isn’t out of the question either. But crossing this higher milestone is the exception, not the rule. So, what’s the answer to the “How long do Jeep Gladiators last?” question? 150,000-200,000 miles.
What Is High Mileage for a Jeep Gladiators?
The dive into CoPIlot’s marketplace information shows that high mileage for the Jeep Gladiator begins at 100,000 miles. We can assign a “very high-mileage” label to the Gladiator starting at 150,000 miles.
How Long Do Jeep Gladiators Last? What Others Think
With reliability being a pivotal contributor to vehicle longevity (along with routine maintenance and accident-free driving), getting others’ takes on the Gladiator’s dependability can be helpful to shoppers.
Consumer Reports isn’t too favorable toward the Gladiator, giving this Jeep mostly poor marks for reliability. The 2020 model year is ranked one (out of five), while the 2021 Gladiator isn’t much better with a two. Curiously, the 2022 edition scores a five, while the predicted reliability for the 2024 Wrangle is two (there’s no score for the 2023 model year).
Carcomplaints.com also gives the 2020 Wrangler low marks for reliability, while the jury is still out on newer model years. RepairPal has no word about Gladiator dependability, given the vehicle’s newness.
JEEP GLADIATOR RESALE VALUE
If you’re interested in the Jeep Gladiator, it’s helpful to consider the Jeep Gladiator resale value. How much will you be able to sell the vehicle for if it’s time to get it out of your driveway?
How Long Do Jeep Gladiators Last? Should I Buy a Used One with More Than 100k?
The Jeep Gladiator only hit the market in 2020, so finding one with over 100,000 miles will be less common for a few more years (as we’ve seen from CoPilot marketplace data). However, buying any used vehicle with that many miles under its belt requires careful evaluation before making a purchase. There are several crucial steps to consider:
- Thoroughly review all maintenance and service records to ensure routine items like oil changes, fluid flushes, and belt replacements were completed per the factory recommendations. Specifically, see if timing belt replacements (if applicable) were done at the correct intervals.
- Take the Gladiator for an extensive test drive, keeping your senses on alert. Listen and feel for any troubling engine noises, steering wander, pulsing brakes, odd vibrations, or a gear slipping in the transmission.
- Closely inspect the frame and undercarriage for corrosion, collision damage, or wear from extensive off-road use. Some surface rust is expected, but structural frame rust could mean significant trouble.
- Obtain a vehicle history report to check for accidents or other negative factors.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted, independent mechanic. They will spot potential issues that the average person could miss.
- Ask the seller detailed questions about the vehicle’s history and how the miles were accrued. Highway miles are easier than stop-and-go city miles. Off-road and towing use also adds more strain.
If the vehicle under consideration gets a green light after these steps, then a used Gladiator could still have plenty of adventure left in it, even with more than 100,000 miles on the odometer. But be diligent in evaluating its condition to avoid inheriting someone else’s neglected vehicle.
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How Long Do Jeep Gladiators Last? What Helps Vehicle Longevity
Making your vehicle last comes down to regular maintenance and avoiding overly aggressive driving. Follow these tips to help any car go the distance:
- Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule for fluid changes and filter replacements. Fresh engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid minimize component damage over time.
- Replace items like air filters, spark plugs, timing belts, and battery cables at suggested intervals. These components wear out and can affect performance or leave you stranded.
- Check tire inflation frequently, rotate tires, and get wheel alignments. Proper tire care reduces uneven tread wear.
- Avoid harsh acceleration and braking. Gentle driving puts less strain on the engine, transmission, and brakes.
- Address minor problems right away before they become major repairs. Catching things early is cheaper and prevents cascading issues.
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