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The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Years to Avoid


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We've identified six Jeep Wrangler Unlimited years to avoid based on commonly-reported issues. Read on to learn which ones, and which years are considered most reliable instead.

Blue Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
Source: Flickr

The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is a four-door variety of the classic Jeep Wrangler SUV, offering a unique design for those passionate about the Jeep name. Like any vehicle, there are excellent years and some to avoid. Before purchasing a car, you might want to ask yourself - what are the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited years to avoid?

If you’re ready to learn more about which years of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited it’s best to stay away from, we have all the tidbits you need to move forward. Unfortunately, several years don’t make the mark. Read on to learn more about the worst iterations of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, troubles in the machine, and other helpful information.

Quick Answer: Avoid Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2021, and 2022.

We have suggestions if you want to refrain from some of the worst Jeep Wrangler Unlimited selections available. If it’s possible, do not purchase the 2014, 2015, 2016, 2016, 2021, or 2022 model years. These have a poor history from drivers and won’t be worth the money if they end up in your driveway. 


THE JEEP WRANGLER YEARS TO AVOID

We share some Jeep Wrangler years to avoid keeping you out of the hot seat when purchasing an older model.


Which Year Models of Jeep Wrangler Unlimited are Safe to Buy Used? 

Many excellent versions of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited are available on the used market, offering a top-notch driving and ownership experience for those behind the wheel. There are more solid used models than selections you should avoid whenever possible. 

Here are the top available model years for the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited:

  • 2004 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2005 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2006 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

These are some of the best from what’s available. 

There is a massive stretch of available, solid selections on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited choices, from the very first release of the model year to some of the more recent selections from the 2020s. Those who want better technology could go with the 2018-2020 selections, and those who want to spend less could go with some of the first model years.

Which Year Models of Jeep Wrangler Unlimited to Avoid?

Where there are excellent versions of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited to select, there are also versions that are less than ideal. We’ve put together some of the most frustrating selections according to previous owners and various professional review companies.

Here are the versions of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited to avoid:

  • 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • 2022 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

These have an unfortunate history on the road.

Out of these, we’d recommend staying away from the oldest selections in the least dependable years. They have more wear and tear under their belts, which means they are more likely to break down than some of the newest selections.


THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR FOR THE JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED

If you’re hunting for a four-door variety of the traditional Jeep Wrangler SUV, you will find it in the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. What is the most reliable Jeep Wrangler Unlimited year?


Common Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Problems

It’s normal for any year of any car to have problems it faces, as that’s part of the typical lifespan of a vehicle. The same goes for the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. Let’s tackle some of the most common items in the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

According to repairpal.com, here are some frequent troubles with the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited:

  • Water leaking from the sides
  • Recall the ignition switch
  • Failure of the throttle position sensor
  • Loose and worn suspension system

These are some faulty areas of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

Though these can appear in any model year of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, they are most likely in undependable years and versions of the vehicle that receive poor care from the person behind the wheel. The second you encounter something of error, get someone with experience to check it out for an extension on its life. 

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Problem Counts by Year

Looking at complaints per vehicle is another helpful way to learn more about the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited years to avoid. These individuals have experience with various model years and will be helpful in your decision process. 

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information available to determine specific problem counts by year. However, it seems safe to assume that the least dependable versions of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited will take on more complaints than more dependable selections.

Are Jeep Wrangler Unlimiteds typically reliable?

There isn’t information on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, but there is information on the Jeep Wrangler. According to repairpal.com, the Jeep Wrangler scores 3.55 in dependability, placing it second to last out of several car selections. Ownership costs are about average for this machine. 

How much does a used Jeep Wrangler Unlimited typically cost?

We know the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited years to avoid, so let’s say you want to go out and purchase one for yourself. A used variety will stretch from $10,000-$34,000.

Is the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited a good car to purchase?

Unfortunately, we don’t recommend the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. It costs ample money and isn’t reliable enough to warrant what they require.


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FAQs: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Years to Avoid

Q: Which Jeep Wrangler Unlimited years should I avoid?

There are several unfortunate Jeep Wrangler Unlimited years. We advise keeping away from the 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2021, and 2022 iterations.

Q: Did any of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited years to avoid have other significant issues?

Common faults with the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited years to avoid include water leaking from the sides, loose suspension system, and failure of throttle switches. Keep your eyes peeled for these issues. 

Q: Are newer Jeep Wrangler Unlimited models more reliable?

Several newer versions of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited are dependable, such as the 2018-2020 selections. However, the 2021 and 2022 iterations should be avoided.

Q: Is the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited a good car to purchase?

No, we don’t recommend the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. It can be less dependable and is expensive.



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