Lol that mod is so terrible idk why so many ppl like it. Doesn't go with the style of the vehicle, a lot of ppl get it in unpainted black plastic and swapped out a color matched grill to put it in....I really can't understand it! 😂
@@backwoodstherapy True, if the owner had kept the original grill I would swap it back. Unfortunately, most of the ones I was seeing were at used car lots, so no chance of that.
As a TJ, JK, and JL owner… I’m not sure where I stand yet on the best generation. I get pretty much the same thing, 2 doors, rubicons, stock, and usually yellow. If the JL holds up, I think it’d be my favorite modern wrangler (as fancy as they are, they can take abuse). The TJ is probably my favorite classic wrangler, but let’s be real, the TJ is a lot more modern than people give it credit for.
As a JL owner, who loves their jeep very much, it's been a fantastic vehicle for our family, I will say I think if you just want to do jeep stuff, the TJ is the sweet spot. It's modern enough to be sorted out, but old school enough to be simple. No leaf springs, 4.0 inline 6, no complicated electronics and small. sign me up. For every day use and wheeling, the JL is a great package. We do everything with our JLUR. Great audio, and some small niceties like heated seats and steering wheel, car seats fit better than in my 08 extended cab f150, room for the dogs and a stroller, and can pull our small hybrid camper. Then it can wheel on some serious trails and not break.
Selling jeep to stellantis was mistake #1. However, it being built in usa was success #1. Questionable quality mistake #2. Offering the 2 doof softtop roll down windows, success #2. Prices too high.
I bought my jku winter edition new in 2017 while living in CO. Fast track to present day and my family and i are back in denver vsisting from TN and the jeep has 83k miles. The first 5 years were problem free for the jeep, taking my wife and I from Colorado to california to Canada and more. Always been trusty and never left us stranded. Finally put an AEV 2.5 dual sport and 33s on it in 2022 and it drives way better than it did stock. Im looking forward to another 80k miles of driving it!
I have owned a TJ for 23 years and love it,but it was not a great daily driver and completely impractical for a family of 4. It turned into a trail rig many years ago, but i always wanted it to be more. I dreamed of an LJ, but 2 doors with kids was not ideal. Back in 2017 i bought my 2014 JKUR and it had been great. It is big enough to haul my family on long trips, and do trails. It has been to Moab, Co, Wy and more, all much more comfortably than the TJ. The factory lockers are a game changer, electronic sway bar disconnect is awesome, plenty of room for my crap, plus it has some modern conveniences like cruise, ac, power windows, etc. I have done an oil cooler, lifters and rockers, plus all the suspension mods including steering, axle truss, hd ball joints, lots of skids, etc, but at 150k with lots of off roading, all these things were part of the experience. I do all my own work, and i think Jeeps are in general a higher maintenance vehicle that do require some knwedge to own and use as intended. If you aren't an offroader or aren't handy, this is not the right vehicle.
Just bought my 1st JK. 2014 Sahara...2 door, auto, soft-top, 85k mi from a single owner in Texas. Well maintained, unmolested, and not a speck of rust!
I own and love the TJ, it's small and powerful enough to go anywhere. Also it's 4.0L straight six is nearly indestructible(my 1999 has had an Avenger supercharger for 24 years with no issues). The newer JK and JL when lifted with 35s is as big as a military Hummer, and it's Penstar V6 isn't as stout and tends to self destruct if supercharged or turbocharged.
I had a 2015 2 door JK with a manual. That went to some pretty wild places, with 34” tires. I sold it because it had electrical gremlins that I got sick of chasing. The engine and transmission were solid. I currently have an 81 CJ-5 with a 4.2 and T-176 manual transmission . It is blast to drive provided you’re going 55 and will climb up anything. Above 55, I really feel the short wheel base and manual steering. My favorite: CJ. Best to drive: JK. I also, think the JK seats are amazing. I liked them better than my current 4Runner.
Im weird, i want the square headlight one from the 80s still. Fell in love with it durring your Buy or Bust episode. I like the square headlights for some reason. I can't explain it.
My wife has a 2017 JK Rubicon with 96k miles and we have had it from the Atlantic Ocean at Ocean City, Md to the Pacific Ocean at Crescent City, Ca. An absolutely amazing Jeep. We lived in Canon City, Co for a year and enjoyed many roads/trails in the area. We had a blast at The Adventure Lodge in Boulder but were concerned about the flash flood warning signs on Big Thompson Canyon. Only complaint we have are the seats being uncomfortable. We did mistakenly tow a 3000 lbs camper that was packed to a total of 4500 lbs from Pennsylvania to Colorado. It did it but it’s not advised and you will not reach highway speeds.
I bought my first wrangler a couple of months ago and this video really helped me out a lot when I was searching for the right one for me. I found a one owner, 2015 JK two door, 75K miles. I have never loved driving more than I do in my Jeep. Thank you for all the great content. Wado
I have a 2016 JKU SPORT with a factory 3" PRO-COMP lift on 35s with 80k miles. It's a hardtop and has some really nice accessories. I freaking love, my Jeep. You have to drive it. It keeps you aware and smiling all day. It gets all the looks and comments everywhere. I think it's one of the best Wranglers ever made. It is a sweet spot. I added a really nice Alpine stereo system and Viper smart start alarm. It's my baby. Black with a black hardtop with black wheels and a dark tint. Thanks for the video Tommy.
I had 2door Jk as daily driver for 8 years, work and “soccer dad” weekends, until my kid started driving it. It is my fav ride, ended up being very useful and practical despite small trunk space. After kid took it to college I switched to 4 door JL. However I think wrangler is only vehicle that makes sense to buy new rather than slightly used. everything up to 6 year old is waaay overpriced for used vehicle.
When I ordered my JLU, it was late 2021 and anything off road related was going for crazy high prices. I consider myself lucky to have gotten it for less than MSRP at a time when even 2-3 year old used Sports were going for barely less than the new MSRP.
I'm a JLU Sport owner. Most fun I've ever had in a car with my pants on. I have it lifted on 35s and many other mods, and being able to do everything capably is great. I can go on the trail and the grocery store in the same day. And the ability to take the top off and doors off is tons of fun as well. Nothing like a drive through the country on a warm summer night with the top and doors off.
The key for me is not having to daily drive my wrangler if I don't want to. I bought a new 2004 TJ Rubicon and love it for its off road capabilities. Specifically compared to the 4 doors, my jeep has superior maneuverability and breakover, which is essential in wheeling wooded areas like we have in the Southeast. I also love the TJ simplicity and reliability. It really just comes down to your mission profile, my TJ is certainly no substitute for a minivan.
I also think the JKU is the perfect Jeep for the most use cases... Another point I'd make in favor of JK's for stick shifters is that the JK shifter is directly linked to the 6 speed transmission instead of the cable linkage in the JL's
I got a used 2015 JKU in 2017 with 38,000 miles on it. Fast forward today and I have 140,000 plus miles and love it. Stock Suspension but did go with 33inch tires. Add my own touches here and there, really happy plan on driving it as long as possible. Great video
I have to agree with you. JK was the perfect balance between simple and technical. It does it's job on the trail and it drives decently well on the road.
Thorough, practical and communicated info for newbies and diehards - very well done. Thank you! Hope the dog got lots of treats for being such a good co-host.
I love my 2015 JKU, but I did have the head issue which Jeep corrected under warranty. Not much else except a minor water pump leak and I’m at 122K! It’s been very reliable to me! BTW, I have the same phone/drink holder connected to the passenger grab handle…love it!
Great video! I had a 2012 with the Pentastar and the 6 speed manual. My only complaints were the seats were really uncomfortable, and when it snowed I had to turn off traction control on off because the computer would cut fuel when the tires would start slipping, causing me to stall the engine. It was embarrassing.
The great thing about these is that, no matter what kind of weird quirk they come from the factory with - people can, have, and will, find a way to bypass it.
I totally agree with you, I have owned 5 Jeeps all 2 doors, 2 CJ's, then a TJ, then a 2020 Rubicon and I went back to a TJ, too much BS on the LJ's But a JK is the best bang for the buck and better suited for most. GREAT VIDEO.
Just picked up a ‘16 2-door Willys manual and it’s just a joy. I’ve owned multiple YJs, a TJ, an LJ. The LJ is still probably my favorite, but I love my JK.
I just purchased a 2015 Wrangler Sahara. I love her but I also unknowingly inherited some of the previous owners issues that were not disclosed to the dealership when traded in. She has been in the shop more since purchasing than at home or on the road. But I still love her and she is a long term purchase.
i bought new, a Jk 4 door in 2007. Soft top was replaced once, still holding up at 148,000 miles. Absoluty love it, my daily driver. A little rust has shown up. i replaced the rad and an alternator, that's it
As a long-term owner of both a Tj and a JK, Tommy is pretty well spot on. The JK is totally livable as a daily driver. The tight turns or larger potholes can throw you about a bit, but highway and typical city driving is perfectly fine. I highly recommend the manual trans with the 3.8V6. I have towed a couple of ATVs with my JK quite a bit, and as Tommy says, it's not the best tow rig...but it can do the job. Again, the manual trans is your friend. I can't tell you how many adventure trips we've had with the JK; it's been all over the country - on road, off road, sand dunes, beach, mud, rocks, snow, etc. And it's been reliable. Very few problems over the last 15 years, and all have been very minor, mostly addressed myself (only 1 trip to the dealer for a leaky axle seal). Never left me stuck or stranded, and it can do things off road that an IFS vehicle just can't do. The JL's and just about every other new vehicle have become very complicated to a degree that would make me very nervous in a remote camping area, etc. But the best feature of my '08 JK is the included LIFETIME powertrain warranty Jeep was offering during part of '07 and '08. 🙂
owned 3 jeeps. TJ, JK, JL, and each had the same problems with the front ends because I offroaded them. basically the front end wore out and ended up with death wobble. went to a bronco and haven't looked back. road manners are waaaaaaay better and offroading comfort is also way better.
Yea Justin, the reality here is everything wears out faster when you off-road it... Bronco, Jeep, Yota. Give it time, and I'm sure you will have some issues because of off-roading it or because Ford. You just lifted it, and you're already running into things that need to be looked after.
@@JustinKingOffroadI follow your channel, you do a lot of pretty hard stuff as well, so a weekend warrior who just wants to do some forest service roads on the weekends is certainly different than your type of off roading. Regardless, I'm happy to hear you're enjoying your Bronco. I heavily considered one myself but didn't want to wait 2 years for it to come in lol.
Is it not premature to assume the bronco wont have such issues from hard wheeling? Not going to pretend I even do the level of off-roading as you guys do but isn’t bronco platform only 2-3 years old?
Excellent video! Just got a 2016 Rubicon JKU Hard Rock at 38k miles 2 months ago and I'm loving it. I ditch the UConnect and got a Stinger system. I just can not stand the radio, the bluetooth in my experience is terrible. I've also replace my rear view with a rear camera. It came with 37 inch and I can barely see the back. Other minor upgrades for comfort are Wild Boar grab bars, Recline seat mod, Rear XG Cargo, side door pockets etc.
10 months into a really nice well taken care of 2015 JKU Sahara. Had a CJ 7 in the past. Love the JKU just enough features for me without going overboard.
Got my 3rd wrangler, after waiting 18 years for kids to grow up. It’s a 2015 2dr rubicon with 21k miles. Can’t believe how much I missed driving a Jeep ❤️
i have a red 2011 4 door sahara with matching hard top and fenders, and i love it. i saw it for years, as some of the regulars where i worked owned it, and when i over heard one of them say they were going to sell it i bought it.
Bro i owned a 1996 and a 2011 wranglers and you are spot on on everything you said ! I love how you are so informative and knowledgeable like your great Dad ! Great job you guys 👏🏻
I bought my 2015 JKUR brand new and am at 60k now, with 3x Jeep Jamborees (including. Rubicon) under her belt. Metalcloak everything w/ 35” KO2s. It’s my favorite car ever.
JKU owner here, owned a YJ and TJ previously. My YJ had been my favorite until recently. Now having a family, dog, and different needs I must say I love my JKU. I see JL’s and have shopped a few but I honestly will be sticking with my JKU long term. A 392 would be nice but I don’t have that kind of money to throw away. 👍
I think my 2015 JK is the "newest" Jeep I'm ever going to own again. I was so happy to get rid of all the electronic/computer touchscreen controlled stuff in my previous Cherokee Trailhawk, and just have a (mostly) mechanical true 4WD, that I cannot see myself ever being happy with a JL (or anything that comes after that).
Had the old 3.8 JKU & THE 3.6 JKU and both were where a chore to drive long distances. Now own 2JLRS,2dr & 4dr a d they are so easy and enjoyable to drive long distances (4k mile trips) the seats are better the tech is better the handling is better, the engines are better... the JL is the sweet spot. 💯
The best thing for me about the Wrangler is the looks. I appreciate the heritage look. It is Iconic. Similar to what Porsche has done with the 911, although even more so. My biggest problem with it is who makes it. Bought a Chrysler product years ago and it was the single worst vehicle from a quality/reliability standpoint I have ever owned. About 20 years later I decided to get a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Well, let's just say it wasn't the worst. Chrysler, Daimler/Chrysler, Fiat Chrysler, Stellantis. Call it what you like, I am not assuming the third time will be the charm. Good video though.
same. sucks that ford is the only other mfr with a vehicle you can take the roof off. I imagine toyota might be able to mop the floor with Ford/Jeep if they made a 4runner with a modular configuration like the wrangler/bronco
I agree with you, the JK is a great offroader. Mine was an 08 Rubicon 4 door. With the mods I had done, it went places I never thought possible. My modded TJ was also quite capable. Thanks for the video and the information.
Still love my 2013 JK Rubicon. She’s spent some time off-road and did well. Now that we are in the Keys, she doesn’t get much of a workout and is more of a 3 days a week driver. I’ve kept her stock, except for a few cosmetic upgrades. Having had lifted Jeeps with U-joint issues in the past, I just wasn’t going there (1985 CJ-5). It was magic the first time I test drive a Wrangler with quadra-coil springs. Lordy, the difference over my ‘91’s leaf springs! No, the storage room in her is not spectacular, but I didn’t buy her for storage. I bought her for fun. She’s still fun and up for adventure.
Great vid, Tommy! Priduction quality is through the roof. For me buying any used jeep is like buying a sack if problems. The only unknown variable is how big that sack of problems is!!! problems is
As an owner for an early JK (2007) with the 4 speed trans and a mid-gen JK (2014) with the 5-speed, they are truly two different animals. But for some reason, I always try the 07 more. Something about the basic and raw feeling of the old 3.8
I miss my 2010 with the mini van motor and manual transmission and manual windows etc. So simple and reliable, until I lifted it and got horrible death wobble - big mistake.
I know the TJ, JK, and the JL are all out there and they all look good, but my 1991 YJ looks just as good and is still running good with 236,000 miles on her. The only parts that have been replaced on it are an alternator, starter, battery, radiator, plugs and wires, clutch and pressure plate. Everything else is all factory. Let’s see one of those three perform this. I am looking for a used 4 door as I am about to turn 70 and need to transition to an automatic.
One nice thing about the JK is the front control arms are a mid-length control arm. Which means they can be suspension lifted more with better offroad characteristics with the stock control arm length. Also, you can remove the fenders and yield more wheel clearance than the TJ. With the TJ, there is a lot more surgery involved. I do like the smaller size of the TJ vs. the JK though.
So agree the best bang for the buck is the JKULR and getting an AEV upgraded one is definintely a keeper. I bite the bullet and got its modern day big brother (the AEVJL370 with the 392), plan on keeping it forever and using it as it was intended to. Will it hold it's value, um...no way these are not investments, but you can't get smiles from units sitting in your bank account.
My 2015 JK Freedom has just the right amount of technology. My son had a 2019 JL that literally spent more time at the dealers being repaired, mostly electrical issues, than it did in his garage. He was so dissatisfied with it that he sold it and bought a Toyota Tundra. I’ve had to replace a thermostat and gas cap in my JK. Additionally, my JK has the 3.6L engine which I prefer over the 4 cylinder turbo. My grandson is a mechanic and has a lot of horror stories about turbo problems and maintenance issues when he worked for Mercedes.
Bought a 2014 JK new. No issues yet and only one dealer visit for an aurbag recall. High resale value is the result of decent quality and reliability. What breaks is fixable at a reasonable cost.
I have a '96 Jeep ZJ project vehicle. But I have a 4wheel popup camper that I put on my wife's '18 Ram 2500 6.7L. I considered towing the ZJ behind my wife's truck to enhance our camping adventures. But I bought a '23 JLU Sport S Altitude to do that job. Friends and relatives have every vintage Jeep ever made. An the JLU is such an enhanced vehicle for comfortable trips. While the new Bronco is nice. It is very weak compared to the Jeep. And not as reliable as my old '03 Explorer that I am restoring to give to my grandson. The ZF 8-speed works so well. I was concerned the 3.45 ratio was too tall a ratio. But the 255/70-18 tires gave 27-28mpg on a road trip from Lancaster, CA to Mono Lake, then over Tioga Pass down into the Yosemite Valley and home to Lancaster over the Tejon Pass. The ZF transmission makes the drive pleasant and efficient.
Jeep sold 2WD Wranglers from 2007 to 2010, and only in the 4-door Wrangler Unlimited body style. Initially, skipping 4WD shaved $2,000 off the list price, but only the X and Sahara trims could be had with rear-wheel drive. A base 2007 Wrangler Unlimited X with RWD listed for just $19,750 before destination when it was new. That money didn’t buy many amenities, though air conditioning and a CD player were standard fare.
My wife has a 2012 JK Sahara 4dr, and I have a 2018 JL Sahara 4dr. We bought both new. Her's feels a bit more truck like and mine is a a bit more refined. Biggest difference is the 8 speed transmission on my 2018JL. Big improvement in feeling peppy. Love both. The JK feels more 'solid' on the road, my JL has rattles and squeaks that here's doesn't.
" A Sport JK will outperform a standard TJ any day of the week". LOL. Shots fired. Nice knowing you Tommy....... Kidding aside, I'm on my 3 Wrangler, a JKUR. It is my favorite of the three BUT the TJ will always have a special place in my heart. Loved the ones I had. I love the styling of the JL/JLUs but I hate all the nanny tech on it. The TJ is the last true Jeep imo because of the lack of all that tech.
I have a 2017 JK Smokey Edition with a manual on 35 tires. This is my daily driver and its a blast to drive. I took out the Uconnect system and replaced it with a pioneer 9 inch screen. I also have two 12 inch Skar evl subs on a 5K sundown amp.
Just bought my first Jeep! 2017 3.6, 1 previous owner, 6 speed standard, gobi, 4 door, soft top. Manual windows. Love it!! Paid 20k, 72k miles. Good deal in this economy? What do you guys think?
If you stick to highways, as opposed to freeways, and speeds between 50 and 55, maybe a bit more, then mileage can run somewhere between 22 and 23 mpg. I've done that many times in my JKU. A JK is not a vehicle to be in a hurry with. But, in the city, mileage sucks. The manual doesn't lie. On the freeway, they're noisy, or at least my JKU is, enough that the radio is hard to listen to. One thing that the Rubi does in the city, is it protects you from side impacts. I was t-boned, and the sliders stopped the pickup-trailer rig that hit in the driver's door dead. The impact tweaked the frame about 5 cm out of straight, and ripped the left rear tire. The pickup was totaled.
Totally agree, I’ve had everything from CJ to JT, and currently have a ‘22 JTR and a ‘95 YJ. Have had many JK and JKU’s and the JKU is by far my favorite in terms of cost, aftermarket support and ease of use/maintenance.
Bought my 2016 JKU Sahara brand new, hydro blue, painted hard top. Great vehicle, lots of fun in summer and winter. 85,000 on it, I have the lifetime warranty. I am keeping it! Drives like new! Long live the Jeep!
I too bought the lifetime warranty on my JKU. Haven't used it much but I've done my homework most of the normal JKU fixes are covered. Most importantly the inter oil cooler is on the list.
@@jkusrbetter9519the oil cooler just went. It was under the extended warranty, cost me $106. I’ve had a brake caliper seize, a heated seat go out. They did a front axle seal also and a radiator. I think I got my money’s worth already. I don’t use it as a daily driver either.
love my JK Sport S. I use it for hunting, no real mods is my daily driver. Must agree though when driving to south eastern BC that 10 hr gets hard on the body.
Hey Tommy! Would love to hear a comparison of the JL and JK to hear your thoughts on why you think the JK is better. I had a 2D JL sport and the manual transmission was very underwhelming. Also the dual battery setup was annoying.
After owning a lifted 07JKU with 33's and now a 2021 JLU Sahara with the 2.0 Turbo, 2 1/2" lift and 35's, there's no going back to the JK. The JL is so much more refined in all aspects. The on-road manners are considerably better. It's like two totally different driving experiences. The JL handles better on the road and the new interior provides you with a modern feel that was lacking in the early JK's. I actually enjoy driving my JL daily as opposed to when I had my JK. I also had a lifted 2 door JL with an inline 6, come on fellas, you cannot tell me you prefer that thing over a new JL, you would have to be bonkers. Driving a JL on the freeway was like getting bounced around in a tin can. All in all, you can't go wrong with a Wrangler, they stand the test of time.
I like my JL over the JK i traded in. Its a 2020 willys with 77k miles so far. Always valvoline full synthetic, The 8 speed really brings the 3.6 to life and the crawl ratio is awesome. Mpg on highway is 24-28 depending in level changes.
I guess our heads were in the same space, just released some content similar to this, finding and restoring/building a used JK is definitely the best bang for your buck! Great video guys!
Looking at buying my first JKU this week so this video is a great find. Currently looking at an 08 JKU, manual, with 90k on the Jeep. It also has not been modified
Thx for the great video. I'm buying my friend's 2018 JK with only 20k miles on it. Although it's in the garage a lot. Great weekend fun. I have an 04 TJ with only 75k miles. It also sits in the garage a lot but it's a fun 4 banger jeep. My daily commuter is an Ebike. Haha
JK is the best. Period. Modern enough, but not so BRUTALLY complicated as the JLs, which indicates the JKs will be more reliable as they age (a huge deal when you're out in the middle of nowhere), and cheaper to maintain. Also any shop can fix anything on a JK, whereas there are some things only a dealer can fix on a JL. I'm keeping my JK until the wheels fall off. Then I'm buying new wheels...
@@bartwaggoner2000 Death wobble isn't that hard to fix, and you can ensure it won't happen if you add hydro assist. If you build it right, a JK can be rock solid and even ride nicely.
@@VideosOffRoad LOL 2 dealers and a few thousand in new parts over the course of a year never resolved it - I GUARANTEE I did everything and more that you can come up with
@@bartwaggoner2000 I GUARANTEE you didn't, because my 9 year old JKUR with 140K miles on it rides like a dream. But yes, it does take significant money in aftermarket parts, especially if you lift it and put bigger tires on it. Next time don't have a dealership work on it 🙄, but instead have a custom 4x4 shop build it. Get things like rebuildable ball joints and aftermarket knuckles, drag link, tie rod, etc. and **especially** a PSC hydro assist steering system.
The JL is literally just an all-improved JK. It's the same idea but with everything upgraded to be more solid and reliable. The notion that something gets more reliable as it ages is... pretty deluded.
I had 2015 2 door manual soft top. Then AEV automatic 2015 hard top (just like yours but w/ more extra) Then I bought 2023 hard top manual w/ factory 4:88 gear . I love my 2015AEV Jku the most by miles
True. My 2014 Unlimited Rubicon Hard Rock Edition came stock with 3.73. I have been running 35s on it for 5 years now and it has been fine. I would have preferred 4.10 or 4.56 and have thought about regearing but so far it hasn't been worth it to me.
I've been around lots of Jeeps, delivered pizzas in a Wrangler. I dont know the J's but this was in the eighties and nineties. Back then I drove Volkswagens and camped everywhere in my Rabbit and Golf. In them days, I would have given a kidney for something like a Subaru Crosstrek or an Outback. Today, I drive a Jeep Gladiator Willys, my first Jeep, and its an amazing truck or is it a Jeep? I dont even know what J it is lol but I love it! Clearly, I'm not caught up in the Jeep thing. I just do me and now its in a Jeep.
Story Time - 2 years ago I got my first Jeep Wrangler as a 2016 6-speed Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited "Hard Rock addition." My 05' Prius was failing badly, even though I would turn it off - it would not turn off at times and stay running no matter what I did. Eventually it would turn off by itself. Also, the digital dash would not light up at times and the doors would not unlock. I moved to a very rural area with high changing elevations. I knew I would need a new vehicle that could handle deep snow and rough terrain, so I made an appointment to see my current Jeep at a dealer 2 hours away from me. On my way there... 4 miles from the dealer, my Prius brakes shut down on the freeway... It was terrifying! You know what the brakes feel like when the car is off and you push down on the pedal? Hard. The car was still on and yes, the brakes were off. I switched the "shifter" to "B" or the engine braking mode and coasted behind the slow 18 wheelers. I very slowly made my way to the dealership and luckily there was a spot I could coast into and park. I was in a real bind and 2 hours from home with a car that was not safe to drive at this point. Needless to say, I felt like I HAD TO get something. In retrospect, maybe I should NOT have gotten the Jeep. I financed 42k for a 2016 with 72k miles. (It was depressing hearing you paid 36k for yours) I don't know what leveling lift kit it has, 2.5 or 3.5 no name brand but it came with 35" tires on 18" wheels. Which makes my tire selections difficult. It rubs a lot on the stock fenders in the front and in the rear it rubs on the body part in front of the rear wheels. Since "purchased", it has given me a lot of problems. At 90k miles I had to do the dreaded Ticking Cam roller and lifter engine fix. Set me back 2.5k. Now at 102k miles it has a lil wobble in the steering when I brake, turns out all my ball joints are bad. Knuckle ball joints, tie rod, drag link are gone as well as my thermostat. AND ~ my tires have worn out unevenly so it also needs an alignment after the new suspension parts. Oh yeah! And my red Rubicon shocks are badly corroded, rust everywhere on the shock bodies. I chalk it up to normal wear and tear for a lifted vehicle on large aftermarket tires. As for the engine... sigh. I just got a bad engine I guess. I don't think I will trade it in as I owe more that it is worth. LOL. All in all, I do like the jeep a lot. However if I knew I would have all these problems, I definitely would have thought twice, but at the time I did what I had to, due to time and unforeseen events. Moving forward I know I will need a new clutch, brakes, new shocks, tires, as well as U Joint and axle maintenance. DO I regret it? Yes because of the problems and 600 Mo payment. And No because I don't know what else can replace it for my needs. I love the vehicle and really hope to get it off-road worthy in the future. Besides, it is the only vehicle that has made it up my 18 degree uphill driveway with about 5 inches of snow.
I bought a 2017 JKU for my wife in 2019. She always wanted a Wrangler, who doesn't? The first year I actually hated it. The ride seemed horrible but we had never done any "jeep things" with it. Fast forward to 2024 and I wouldn't be happy without one. Do some local beach off roading and you'll find all the Wranglers zipping around the other suvs stuck in the sand. Have yet to see any Wranglers stuck. It's a fun, great seemingly durable truck if you maintain it properly. Once you use it like intended you'll never want to part with it.
Great info
When I was shopping for a used JK, my one absolute deal breaker was “no angry face mods”.
I hate the angry face but wouldn't let it detract me from buying one. You can swap out the grill in about 20 minutes.
More chances it wasn't used offroad 😅
Lol that mod is so terrible idk why so many ppl like it. Doesn't go with the style of the vehicle, a lot of ppl get it in unpainted black plastic and swapped out a color matched grill to put it in....I really can't understand it! 😂
@@backwoodstherapy True, if the owner had kept the original grill I would swap it back. Unfortunately, most of the ones I was seeing were at used car lots, so no chance of that.
@@-Jethro-I’ve got 4 or 5 hanging up in my garage, stock grills are easy to find since so many people swap them out.
As a TJ, JK, and JL owner… I’m not sure where I stand yet on the best generation. I get pretty much the same thing, 2 doors, rubicons, stock, and usually yellow. If the JL holds up, I think it’d be my favorite modern wrangler (as fancy as they are, they can take abuse). The TJ is probably my favorite classic wrangler, but let’s be real, the TJ is a lot more modern than people give it credit for.
As a JL owner, who loves their jeep very much, it's been a fantastic vehicle for our family, I will say I think if you just want to do jeep stuff, the TJ is the sweet spot. It's modern enough to be sorted out, but old school enough to be simple. No leaf springs, 4.0 inline 6, no complicated electronics and small. sign me up.
For every day use and wheeling, the JL is a great package. We do everything with our JLUR. Great audio, and some small niceties like heated seats and steering wheel, car seats fit better than in my 08 extended cab f150, room for the dogs and a stroller, and can pull our small hybrid camper. Then it can wheel on some serious trails and not break.
Just bought a 2015 2dr JK Sport, 112k miles. Love it! Previous owner took GREAT care of it, documented EVERYTHING!
2017 JKU Sport from zero to 145k miles and still rolling. My only regret is not getting the Rubicon model. Great review.
Selling jeep to stellantis was mistake #1. However, it being built in usa was success #1. Questionable quality mistake #2. Offering the 2 doof softtop roll down windows, success #2. Prices too high.
No one has ever regretting getting a Rubi. ;)
I bought my jku winter edition new in 2017 while living in CO. Fast track to present day and my family and i are back in denver vsisting from TN and the jeep has 83k miles. The first 5 years were problem free for the jeep, taking my wife and I from Colorado to california to Canada and more. Always been trusty and never left us stranded. Finally put an AEV 2.5 dual sport and 33s on it in 2022 and it drives way better than it did stock. Im looking forward to another 80k miles of driving it!
I have owned a TJ for 23 years and love it,but it was not a great daily driver and completely impractical for a family of 4. It turned into a trail rig many years ago, but i always wanted it to be more. I dreamed of an LJ, but 2 doors with kids was not ideal. Back in 2017 i bought my 2014 JKUR and it had been great. It is big enough to haul my family on long trips, and do trails. It has been to Moab, Co, Wy and more, all much more comfortably than the TJ. The factory lockers are a game changer, electronic sway bar disconnect is awesome, plenty of room for my crap, plus it has some modern conveniences like cruise, ac, power windows, etc. I have done an oil cooler, lifters and rockers, plus all the suspension mods including steering, axle truss, hd ball joints, lots of skids, etc, but at 150k with lots of off roading, all these things were part of the experience. I do all my own work, and i think Jeeps are in general a higher maintenance vehicle that do require some knwedge to own and use as intended. If you aren't an offroader or aren't handy, this is not the right vehicle.
My wife and I just bought a 2012 Jk sport for 18.5k with 76k miles. Very clean.
Just bought my 1st JK. 2014 Sahara...2 door, auto, soft-top, 85k mi from a single owner in Texas. Well maintained, unmolested, and not a speck of rust!
hows this jeep holding up, looking for a 2 door jeep around the same year
I own and love the TJ, it's small and powerful enough to go anywhere. Also it's 4.0L straight six is nearly indestructible(my 1999 has had an Avenger supercharger for 24 years with no issues). The newer JK and JL when lifted with 35s is as big as a military Hummer, and it's Penstar V6 isn't as stout and tends to self destruct if supercharged or turbocharged.
I had a 2015 2 door JK with a manual. That went to some pretty wild places, with 34” tires. I sold it because it had electrical gremlins that I got sick of chasing. The engine and transmission were solid.
I currently have an 81 CJ-5 with a 4.2 and T-176 manual transmission . It is blast to drive provided you’re going 55 and will climb up anything. Above 55, I really feel the short wheel base and manual steering.
My favorite: CJ. Best to drive: JK. I also, think the JK seats are amazing. I liked them better than my current 4Runner.
Im weird, i want the square headlight one from the 80s still. Fell in love with it durring your Buy or Bust episode. I like the square headlights for some reason. I can't explain it.
YJ Wranglers went all the way to 1996 as the TJ started in 1997.
My wife has a 2017 JK Rubicon with 96k miles and we have had it from the Atlantic Ocean at Ocean City, Md to the Pacific Ocean at Crescent City, Ca. An absolutely amazing Jeep. We lived in Canon City, Co for a year and enjoyed many roads/trails in the area. We had a blast at The Adventure Lodge in Boulder but were concerned about the flash flood warning signs on Big Thompson Canyon. Only complaint we have are the seats being uncomfortable. We did mistakenly tow a 3000 lbs camper that was packed to a total of 4500 lbs from Pennsylvania to Colorado. It did it but it’s not advised and you will not reach highway speeds.
I bought my first wrangler a couple of months ago and this video really helped me out a lot when I was searching for the right one for me. I found a one owner, 2015 JK two door, 75K miles. I have never loved driving more than I do in my Jeep. Thank you for all the great content. Wado
I have a 2016 JKU SPORT with a factory 3" PRO-COMP lift on 35s with 80k miles. It's a hardtop and has some really nice accessories. I freaking love, my Jeep. You have to drive it. It keeps you aware and smiling all day. It gets all the looks and comments everywhere. I think it's one of the best Wranglers ever made. It is a sweet spot. I added a really nice Alpine stereo system and Viper smart start alarm. It's my baby. Black with a black hardtop with black wheels and a dark tint. Thanks for the video Tommy.
I had 2door Jk as daily driver for 8 years, work and “soccer dad” weekends, until my kid started driving it. It is my fav ride, ended up being very useful and practical despite small trunk space. After kid took it to college I switched to 4 door JL. However I think wrangler is only vehicle that makes sense to buy new rather than slightly used. everything up to 6 year old is waaay overpriced for used vehicle.
When I ordered my JLU, it was late 2021 and anything off road related was going for crazy high prices. I consider myself lucky to have gotten it for less than MSRP at a time when even 2-3 year old used Sports were going for barely less than the new MSRP.
I'm a JLU Sport owner. Most fun I've ever had in a car with my pants on. I have it lifted on 35s and many other mods, and being able to do everything capably is great. I can go on the trail and the grocery store in the same day. And the ability to take the top off and doors off is tons of fun as well. Nothing like a drive through the country on a warm summer night with the top and doors off.
The key for me is not having to daily drive my wrangler if I don't want to. I bought a new 2004 TJ Rubicon and love it for its off road capabilities. Specifically compared to the 4 doors, my jeep has superior maneuverability and breakover, which is essential in wheeling wooded areas like we have in the Southeast. I also love the TJ simplicity and reliability. It really just comes down to your mission profile, my TJ is certainly no substitute for a minivan.
Have 14 wrangler 6 speed and love it. I’m with you for the price and options is the best!! Greetings from Puerto Rico 🇵🇷
I also think the JKU is the perfect Jeep for the most use cases... Another point I'd make in favor of JK's for stick shifters is that the JK shifter is directly linked to the 6 speed transmission instead of the cable linkage in the JL's
I got a used 2015 JKU in 2017 with 38,000 miles on it. Fast forward today and I have 140,000 plus miles and love it. Stock Suspension but did go with 33inch tires. Add my own touches here and there, really happy plan on driving it as long as possible. Great video
Great video, Tommy. That said, I'll keep my TJ as my Wrangler. I just much prefer the look and the inline 6 engine.
I have to agree with you. JK was the perfect balance between simple and technical. It does it's job on the trail and it drives decently well on the road.
From 1 ton trucks to high performance sports cars to motorbikes and snowmobiles Jeep Wranglers hands down my most favorite vehicle I've ever owned 👍👍
Thorough, practical and communicated info for newbies and diehards - very well done. Thank you! Hope the dog got lots of treats for being such a good co-host.
I love my 2015 JKU, but I did have the head issue which Jeep corrected under warranty. Not much else except a minor water pump leak and I’m at 122K! It’s been very reliable to me! BTW, I have the same phone/drink holder connected to the passenger grab handle…love it!
I would have to agree Tommy, where the JL is awesome, and the TJ is iconic, the JK is the sweet spot in the middle. Great video!
Great video! I had a 2012 with the Pentastar and the 6 speed manual. My only complaints were the seats were really uncomfortable, and when it snowed I had to turn off traction control on off because the computer would cut fuel when the tires would start slipping, causing me to stall the engine. It was embarrassing.
The great thing about these is that, no matter what kind of weird quirk they come from the factory with - people can, have, and will, find a way to bypass it.
I totally agree with you, I have owned 5 Jeeps all 2 doors, 2 CJ's, then a TJ, then a 2020 Rubicon and I went back to a TJ, too much BS on the LJ's But a JK is the best bang for the buck and better suited for most. GREAT VIDEO.
Just picked up a ‘16 2-door Willys manual and it’s just a joy. I’ve owned multiple YJs, a TJ, an LJ. The LJ is still probably my favorite, but I love my JK.
I just purchased a 2015 Wrangler Sahara. I love her but I also unknowingly inherited some of the previous owners issues that were not disclosed to the dealership when traded in. She has been in the shop more since purchasing than at home or on the road. But I still love her and she is a long term purchase.
What all have you had to fix? About to have my oil cooler done same circumstance
i bought new, a Jk 4 door in 2007. Soft top was replaced once, still holding up at 148,000 miles. Absoluty love it, my daily driver. A little rust has shown up. i replaced the rad and an alternator, that's it
This was not only the best buyers guide I have seen but all the comments on why, when and how are very interesting and true ! Great job 😊
My first Jeep is a JK, a 2013 Rubicon 2dr, and I love it, came with some mods and plenty of stuff to fix, it's in a happy place now. 😁
As a long-term owner of both a Tj and a JK, Tommy is pretty well spot on. The JK is totally livable as a daily driver. The tight turns or larger potholes can throw you about a bit, but highway and typical city driving is perfectly fine. I highly recommend the manual trans with the 3.8V6.
I have towed a couple of ATVs with my JK quite a bit, and as Tommy says, it's not the best tow rig...but it can do the job. Again, the manual trans is your friend.
I can't tell you how many adventure trips we've had with the JK; it's been all over the country - on road, off road, sand dunes, beach, mud, rocks, snow, etc. And it's been reliable. Very few problems over the last 15 years, and all have been very minor, mostly addressed myself (only 1 trip to the dealer for a leaky axle seal). Never left me stuck or stranded, and it can do things off road that an IFS vehicle just can't do.
The JL's and just about every other new vehicle have become very complicated to a degree that would make me very nervous in a remote camping area, etc.
But the best feature of my '08 JK is the included LIFETIME powertrain warranty Jeep was offering during part of '07 and '08. 🙂
owned 3 jeeps. TJ, JK, JL, and each had the same problems with the front ends because I offroaded them. basically the front end wore out and ended up with death wobble. went to a bronco and haven't looked back. road manners are waaaaaaay better and offroading comfort is also way better.
Yea Justin, the reality here is everything wears out faster when you off-road it... Bronco, Jeep, Yota. Give it time, and I'm sure you will have some issues because of off-roading it or because Ford. You just lifted it, and you're already running into things that need to be looked after.
@@krashnpa Yes but in regards to my lift kit I'm still in the break-in period. So until I get my 500 miles on it you can't fault anything on that.
@@JustinKingOffroadI follow your channel, you do a lot of pretty hard stuff as well, so a weekend warrior who just wants to do some forest service roads on the weekends is certainly different than your type of off roading. Regardless, I'm happy to hear you're enjoying your Bronco. I heavily considered one myself but didn't want to wait 2 years for it to come in lol.
Is it not premature to assume the bronco wont have such issues from hard wheeling? Not going to pretend I even do the level of off-roading as you guys do but isn’t bronco platform only 2-3 years old?
DW (death wobble) is why I will not get another solid front axle vehicle. I burned up so much money and time chasing the DW gremlin in my JK.
Just sold my TJ and still own two JKs love both of them,2dr and 4 door,very few problems so far and both have the 3.6 motor
I test drove a 2018 JLU yesterday and really liked it. Pretty nice to have a few more modern features
Excellent video! Just got a 2016 Rubicon JKU Hard Rock at 38k miles 2 months ago and I'm loving it. I ditch the UConnect and got a Stinger system. I just can not stand the radio, the bluetooth in my experience is terrible. I've also replace my rear view with a rear camera. It came with 37 inch and I can barely see the back. Other minor upgrades for comfort are Wild Boar grab bars, Recline seat mod, Rear XG Cargo, side door pockets etc.
Thinking about buying the stinger system after having it awhile do you like it? Has it been reliable?
10 months into a really nice well taken care of 2015 JKU Sahara. Had a CJ 7 in the past. Love the JKU just enough features for me without going overboard.
Got my 3rd wrangler, after waiting 18 years for kids to grow up. It’s a 2015 2dr rubicon with 21k miles. Can’t believe how much I missed driving a Jeep ❤️
i have a red 2011 4 door sahara with matching hard top and fenders, and i love it. i saw it for years, as some of the regulars where i worked owned it, and when i over heard one of them say they were going to sell it i bought it.
Bro i owned a 1996 and a 2011 wranglers and you are spot on on everything you said ! I love how you are so informative and knowledgeable like your great Dad ! Great job you guys 👏🏻
I bought my 2015 JKUR brand new and am at 60k now, with 3x Jeep Jamborees (including. Rubicon) under her belt. Metalcloak everything w/ 35” KO2s. It’s my favorite car ever.
JKU owner here, owned a YJ and TJ previously. My YJ had been my favorite until recently. Now having a family, dog, and different needs I must say I love my JKU. I see JL’s and have shopped a few but I honestly will be sticking with my JKU long term. A 392 would be nice but I don’t have that kind of money to throw away. 👍
For price of new 392 you can get a beautifully restored older Jeep or Bronco with a V8 and it will hold its value for far longer
I think my 2015 JK is the "newest" Jeep I'm ever going to own again. I was so happy to get rid of all the electronic/computer touchscreen controlled stuff in my previous Cherokee Trailhawk, and just have a (mostly) mechanical true 4WD, that I cannot see myself ever being happy with a JL (or anything that comes after that).
Had the old 3.8 JKU & THE 3.6 JKU and both were where a chore to drive long distances. Now own 2JLRS,2dr & 4dr a d they are so easy and enjoyable to drive long distances (4k mile trips) the seats are better the tech is better the handling is better, the engines are better... the JL is the sweet spot. 💯
The best thing for me about the Wrangler is the looks. I appreciate the heritage look. It is Iconic. Similar to what Porsche has done with the 911, although even more so. My biggest problem with it is who makes it. Bought a Chrysler product years ago and it was the single worst vehicle from a quality/reliability standpoint I have ever owned. About 20 years later I decided to get a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Well, let's just say it wasn't the worst. Chrysler, Daimler/Chrysler, Fiat Chrysler, Stellantis. Call it what you like, I am not assuming the third time will be the charm. Good video though.
same. sucks that ford is the only other mfr with a vehicle you can take the roof off. I imagine toyota might be able to mop the floor with Ford/Jeep if they made a 4runner with a modular configuration like the wrangler/bronco
Looks are the least important - it derives its looks from functionality
@@MarkTrades__I wish Toyota would bring back the FJ or make something similar to that with a removable roof.
@@Wezi427 an FJ with removable roof would sell so insanely well I would think. That would be amazing
@@MarkTrades__I'd get in line for one
I agree with you, the JK is a great offroader. Mine was an 08 Rubicon 4 door. With the mods I had done, it went places I never thought possible. My modded TJ was also quite capable.
Thanks for the video and the information.
Still love my 2013 JK Rubicon. She’s spent some time off-road and did well. Now that we are in the Keys, she doesn’t get much of a workout and is more of a 3 days a week driver. I’ve kept her stock, except for a few cosmetic upgrades. Having had lifted Jeeps with U-joint issues in the past, I just wasn’t going there (1985 CJ-5). It was magic the first time I test drive a Wrangler with quadra-coil springs. Lordy, the difference over my ‘91’s leaf springs! No, the storage room in her is not spectacular, but I didn’t buy her for storage. I bought her for fun. She’s still fun and up for adventure.
just bought a 2016 rubicon with 50000 miles, love it, and it was all stock, so now the Mods begin.
Tommy do you still own your Willys? Can’t remember seeing it in a while.
Great vid, Tommy! Priduction quality is through the roof. For me buying any used jeep is like buying a sack if problems. The only unknown variable is how big that sack of problems is!!! problems is
As an owner for an early JK (2007) with the 4 speed trans and a mid-gen JK (2014) with the 5-speed, they are truly two different animals. But for some reason, I always try the 07 more. Something about the basic and raw feeling of the old 3.8
I miss my 2010 with the mini van motor and manual transmission and manual windows etc. So simple and reliable, until I lifted it and got horrible death wobble - big mistake.
@@bartwaggoner2000People say "minivan motor" while driving their 3.6 wranglers, which shares engines with the grand caravan. I dont get people...🤔
I know the TJ, JK, and the JL are all out there and they all look good, but my 1991 YJ looks just as good and is still running good with 236,000 miles on her. The only parts that have been replaced on it are an alternator, starter, battery, radiator, plugs and wires, clutch and pressure plate. Everything else is all factory. Let’s see one of those three perform this. I am looking for a used 4 door as I am about to turn 70 and need to transition to an automatic.
One nice thing about the JK is the front control arms are a mid-length control arm. Which means they can be suspension lifted more with better offroad characteristics with the stock control arm length. Also, you can remove the fenders and yield more wheel clearance than the TJ. With the TJ, there is a lot more surgery involved. I do like the smaller size of the TJ vs. the JK though.
So agree the best bang for the buck is the JKULR and getting an AEV upgraded one is definintely a keeper. I bite the bullet and got its modern day big brother (the AEVJL370 with the 392), plan on keeping it forever and using it as it was intended to. Will it hold it's value, um...no way these are not investments, but you can't get smiles from units sitting in your bank account.
My 2015 JK Freedom has just the right amount of technology. My son had a 2019 JL that literally spent more time at the dealers being repaired, mostly electrical issues, than it did in his garage. He was so dissatisfied with it that he sold it and bought a Toyota Tundra.
I’ve had to replace a thermostat and gas cap in my JK. Additionally, my JK has the 3.6L engine which I prefer over the 4 cylinder turbo. My grandson is a mechanic and has a lot of horror stories about turbo problems and maintenance issues when he worked for Mercedes.
I have a cj7, tj, and two jkur wranglers. The jkur is by far the best on road and off of the three but that classic look of the CJ can’t be beat!
Bought a 2014 JK new. No issues yet and only one dealer visit for an aurbag recall. High resale value is the result of decent quality and reliability. What breaks is fixable at a reasonable cost.
I have a '96 Jeep ZJ project vehicle. But I have a 4wheel popup camper that I put on my wife's '18 Ram 2500 6.7L. I considered towing the ZJ behind my wife's truck to enhance our camping adventures. But I bought a '23 JLU Sport S Altitude to do that job. Friends and relatives have every vintage Jeep ever made. An the JLU is such an enhanced vehicle for comfortable trips.
While the new Bronco is nice. It is very weak compared to the Jeep. And not as reliable as my old '03 Explorer that I am restoring to give to my grandson.
The ZF 8-speed works so well. I was concerned the 3.45 ratio was too tall a ratio. But the 255/70-18 tires gave 27-28mpg on a road trip from Lancaster, CA to Mono Lake, then over Tioga Pass down into the Yosemite Valley and home to Lancaster over the Tejon Pass. The ZF transmission makes the drive pleasant and efficient.
I really like these (pretty much the only American car i can say that about) but i just can’t pull the trigger on it over a 4Runner.
Jeep sold 2WD Wranglers from 2007 to 2010, and only in the 4-door Wrangler Unlimited body style. Initially, skipping 4WD shaved $2,000 off the list price, but only the X and Sahara trims could be had with rear-wheel drive. A base 2007 Wrangler Unlimited X with RWD listed for just $19,750 before destination when it was new. That money didn’t buy many amenities, though air conditioning and a CD player were standard fare.
My wife has a 2012 JK Sahara 4dr, and I have a 2018 JL Sahara 4dr. We bought both new. Her's feels a bit more truck like and mine is a a bit more refined. Biggest difference is the 8 speed transmission on my 2018JL. Big improvement in feeling peppy. Love both. The JK feels more 'solid' on the road, my JL has rattles and squeaks that here's doesn't.
" A Sport JK will outperform a standard TJ any day of the week".
LOL. Shots fired. Nice knowing you Tommy.......
Kidding aside, I'm on my 3 Wrangler, a JKUR. It is my favorite of the three BUT the TJ will always have a special place in my heart. Loved the ones I had. I love the styling of the JL/JLUs but I hate all the nanny tech on it. The TJ is the last true Jeep imo because of the lack of all that tech.
I have a 2017 JK Smokey Edition with a manual on 35 tires. This is my daily driver and its a blast to drive. I took out the Uconnect system and replaced it with a pioneer 9 inch screen. I also have two 12 inch Skar evl subs on a 5K sundown amp.
Just bought my first Jeep! 2017 3.6, 1 previous owner, 6 speed standard, gobi, 4 door, soft top. Manual windows. Love it!!
Paid 20k, 72k miles. Good deal in this economy? What do you guys think?
If you stick to highways, as opposed to freeways, and speeds between 50 and 55, maybe a bit more, then mileage can run somewhere between 22 and 23 mpg. I've done that many times in my JKU. A JK is not a vehicle to be in a hurry with. But, in the city, mileage sucks. The manual doesn't lie. On the freeway, they're noisy, or at least my JKU is, enough that the radio is hard to listen to. One thing that the Rubi does in the city, is it protects you from side impacts. I was t-boned, and the sliders stopped the pickup-trailer rig that hit in the driver's door dead. The impact tweaked the frame about 5 cm out of straight, and ripped the left rear tire. The pickup was totaled.
Totally agree, I’ve had everything from CJ to JT, and currently have a ‘22 JTR and a ‘95 YJ. Have had many JK and JKU’s and the JKU is by far my favorite in terms of cost, aftermarket support and ease of use/maintenance.
For a daily driver, definitely get a JK. For simplicity and offroading, TJ is the way to go...
Jeep JL is the best generation of Jeep. Shots fired!
Bought my 2016 JKU Sahara brand new, hydro blue, painted hard top. Great vehicle, lots of fun in summer and winter. 85,000 on it, I have the lifetime warranty. I am keeping it! Drives like new! Long live the Jeep!
I too bought the lifetime warranty on my JKU. Haven't used it much but I've done my homework most of the normal JKU fixes are covered. Most importantly the inter oil cooler is on the list.
Newbie here, as in never had a Jeep. I take it they don’t offer that anymore?
@@djcarlitosatlnot a lifetime but they have others.
@@jkusrbetter9519the oil cooler just went. It was under the extended warranty, cost me $106. I’ve had a brake caliper seize, a heated seat go out. They did a front axle seal also and a radiator. I think I got my money’s worth already. I don’t use it as a daily driver either.
love my JK Sport S. I use it for hunting, no real mods is my daily driver. Must agree though when driving to south eastern BC that 10 hr gets hard on the body.
Hey Tommy! Would love to hear a comparison of the JL and JK to hear your thoughts on why you think the JK is better. I had a 2D JL sport and the manual transmission was very underwhelming. Also the dual battery setup was annoying.
2008 jk 2 door manual rubicon. 250,000 miles going strong. Keeping the 2 door alive.
After owning a lifted 07JKU with 33's and now a 2021 JLU Sahara with the 2.0 Turbo, 2 1/2" lift and 35's, there's no going back to the JK. The JL is so much more refined in all aspects. The on-road manners are considerably better. It's like two totally different driving experiences. The JL handles better on the road and the new interior provides you with a modern feel that was lacking in the early JK's. I actually enjoy driving my JL daily as opposed to when I had my JK. I also had a lifted 2 door JL with an inline 6, come on fellas, you cannot tell me you prefer that thing over a new JL, you would have to be bonkers. Driving a JL on the freeway was like getting bounced around in a tin can. All in all, you can't go wrong with a Wrangler, they stand the test of time.
Only time will tell, just bought my first JK.
I like my JL over the JK i traded in. Its a 2020 willys with 77k miles so far. Always valvoline full synthetic, The 8 speed really brings the 3.6 to life and the crawl ratio is awesome. Mpg on highway is 24-28 depending in level changes.
I guess our heads were in the same space, just released some content similar to this, finding and restoring/building a used JK is definitely the best bang for your buck! Great video guys!
I'm sticking with the 2 door.
Great video 👍🏾 I bought a 2015 JK and I just love it ❤
Looking at buying my first JKU this week so this video is a great find. Currently looking at an 08 JKU, manual, with 90k on the Jeep. It also has not been modified
First mod I did was putting inserts in the grill, it will save you a rad and your ac.
The attributes of our liftedJeep Liberty match most of what you discuss.
Thanks for the breakdown of the various features, very well organized.
Thx for the great video. I'm buying my friend's 2018 JK with only 20k miles on it. Although it's in the garage a lot. Great weekend fun. I have an 04 TJ with only 75k miles. It also sits in the garage a lot but it's a fun 4 banger jeep. My daily commuter is an Ebike. Haha
JK is the best. Period. Modern enough, but not so BRUTALLY complicated as the JLs, which indicates the JKs will be more reliable as they age (a huge deal when you're out in the middle of nowhere), and cheaper to maintain. Also any shop can fix anything on a JK, whereas there are some things only a dealer can fix on a JL. I'm keeping my JK until the wheels fall off. Then I'm buying new wheels...
Just don’t lift it or you will get Death Wobble (at least I did, with the measly Mopar 2” lift - never was able to resolve it)
@@bartwaggoner2000 Death wobble isn't that hard to fix, and you can ensure it won't happen if you add hydro assist. If you build it right, a JK can be rock solid and even ride nicely.
@@VideosOffRoad LOL 2 dealers and a few thousand in new parts over the course of a year never resolved it - I GUARANTEE I did everything and more that you can come up with
@@bartwaggoner2000 I GUARANTEE you didn't, because my 9 year old JKUR with 140K miles on it rides like a dream. But yes, it does take significant money in aftermarket parts, especially if you lift it and put bigger tires on it. Next time don't have a dealership work on it 🙄, but instead have a custom 4x4 shop build it. Get things like rebuildable ball joints and aftermarket knuckles, drag link, tie rod, etc. and **especially** a PSC hydro assist steering system.
The JL is literally just an all-improved JK. It's the same idea but with everything upgraded to be more solid and reliable. The notion that something gets more reliable as it ages is... pretty deluded.
Excellent video Tommy! I’ve had my 2017 for 6 years and agree with your assessment.
I had 2015 2 door manual soft top. Then AEV automatic 2015 hard top (just like yours but w/ more extra)
Then I bought 2023 hard top manual w/ factory 4:88 gear .
I love my 2015AEV Jku the most by miles
I genuinely clicked on the video because of the Berne but damn, it was an amazing and informative video! Thank you for the advices
Owned MANY Jeeps from XJ Cherokees to Wranglers. They were all very reliable! My newest is a 2024 Rubicon Extreme Recon and it’s AWESOME!!!
My '15 JK is same color as yours. I love it !
JK 2015 Unlimited
MOD
Just love it!
Beautiful dog Tommy.
I LOVED my 07 rubicon 2dr 5sp, that had 3" of lift on 35's also had 5;13 gears.
Outstanding TFL, impressive, well done youtube Jeep video...100% respected guidance and info, much appreciated
FYI 4.10 gears were not standard on Rubicon. 3.73s were standard with the 4.10 gears as an option. JL is when it became standard.
True. My 2014 Unlimited Rubicon Hard Rock Edition came stock with 3.73. I have been running 35s on it for 5 years now and it has been fine. I would have preferred 4.10 or 4.56 and have thought about regearing but so far it hasn't been worth it to me.
I've been around lots of Jeeps, delivered pizzas in a Wrangler. I dont know the J's but this was in the eighties and nineties. Back then I drove Volkswagens and camped everywhere in my Rabbit and Golf. In them days, I would have given a kidney for something like a Subaru Crosstrek or an Outback. Today, I drive a Jeep Gladiator Willys, my first Jeep, and its an amazing truck or is it a Jeep? I dont even know what J it is lol but I love it!
Clearly, I'm not caught up in the Jeep thing. I just do me and now its in a Jeep.
Story Time - 2 years ago I got my first Jeep Wrangler as a 2016 6-speed Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited "Hard Rock addition." My 05' Prius was failing badly, even though I would turn it off - it would not turn off at times and stay running no matter what I did. Eventually it would turn off by itself. Also, the digital dash would not light up at times and the doors would not unlock. I moved to a very rural area with high changing elevations. I knew I would need a new vehicle that could handle deep snow and rough terrain, so I made an appointment to see my current Jeep at a dealer 2 hours away from me. On my way there... 4 miles from the dealer, my Prius brakes shut down on the freeway... It was terrifying! You know what the brakes feel like when the car is off and you push down on the pedal? Hard. The car was still on and yes, the brakes were off. I switched the "shifter" to "B" or the engine braking mode and coasted behind the slow 18 wheelers. I very slowly made my way to the dealership and luckily there was a spot I could coast into and park. I was in a real bind and 2 hours from home with a car that was not safe to drive at this point. Needless to say, I felt like I HAD TO get something. In retrospect, maybe I should NOT have gotten the Jeep. I financed 42k for a 2016 with 72k miles. (It was depressing hearing you paid 36k for yours) I don't know what leveling lift kit it has, 2.5 or 3.5 no name brand but it came with 35" tires on 18" wheels. Which makes my tire selections difficult. It rubs a lot on the stock fenders in the front and in the rear it rubs on the body part in front of the rear wheels. Since "purchased", it has given me a lot of problems. At 90k miles I had to do the dreaded Ticking Cam roller and lifter engine fix. Set me back 2.5k. Now at 102k miles it has a lil wobble in the steering when I brake, turns out all my ball joints are bad. Knuckle ball joints, tie rod, drag link are gone as well as my thermostat. AND ~ my tires have worn out unevenly so it also needs an alignment after the new suspension parts. Oh yeah! And my red Rubicon shocks are badly corroded, rust everywhere on the shock bodies. I chalk it up to normal wear and tear for a lifted vehicle on large aftermarket tires. As for the engine... sigh. I just got a bad engine I guess. I don't think I will trade it in as I owe more that it is worth. LOL. All in all, I do like the jeep a lot. However if I knew I would have all these problems, I definitely would have thought twice, but at the time I did what I had to, due to time and unforeseen events. Moving forward I know I will need a new clutch, brakes, new shocks, tires, as well as U Joint and axle maintenance. DO I regret it? Yes because of the problems and 600 Mo payment. And No because I don't know what else can replace it for my needs. I love the vehicle and really hope to get it off-road worthy in the future. Besides, it is the only vehicle that has made it up my 18 degree uphill driveway with about 5 inches of snow.
Having had a 2012 JKU, 2015 JKUR, and currently a 2021 JLUR. The JL is the better vehicle but the JK’s were much more fun to modify and individualise.
I bought a 2017 JKU for my wife in 2019. She always wanted a Wrangler, who doesn't? The first year I actually hated it. The ride seemed horrible but we had never done any "jeep things" with it. Fast forward to 2024 and I wouldn't be happy without one. Do some local beach off roading and you'll find all the Wranglers zipping around the other suvs stuck in the sand. Have yet to see any Wranglers stuck. It's a fun, great seemingly durable truck if you maintain it properly. Once you use it like intended you'll never want to part with it.