In the past, Jeep was known for their excellent engines. Since Fiat has merged with Chrysler, many people are curious how Jeep reliability has been affected. Consumer Reports listed Jeeps as one of the least dependable cars in 2016. Let’s explore the reliability of two different popular Jeep models, based on customer reviews.
KL Cherokee
The KL Cherokee seems to be more reliable than the Wk2 Grand Cherokee, however it does seem to be affected by the same transmission issues. They are usually software related and have been somewhat corrected by software updates. Some users report having to take their KL Cherokee to the shop more than once a month, which does not bode well for KL Cherokee ratings. Besides the reliability, the base engine in the KL Cherokee is fairly underpowered for the type of vehicle it is sustaining. Most owners recommend getting some sort of extended warranty with your KL Cherokee if you do decide to purchase one.
JK Wrangler
Reports on the JK Wrangler show it to be fairly average in compatibility. The transmission issue that has plagued other Jeep models doesn’t seem to be present in this model. A lot of the issues seem to arise when larger tires and an aftermarket lift kit are installed such as the brakes wearing out faster and issues with the suspension. Many people recommend buying the extended warranty. The JK Wrangler, even with questionable reliability, is still in high demand. If you end up buying one and experiencing these issues, you can always sell it for nearly as much as you paid for it.
The Jeep Death Wobble
You may have heard of the Jeep Death Wobble. This occurs when the front axle of your Jeep begins to oscillate, very violently at times. This causes the Jeep to wobble and shake so hard that it is difficult to control the car. While no deaths have been reported from this, it is still something to look out for across all types of Jeeps.
Stay tuned for the next piece in this series, where we will focus on the band new Jeeps slated to come to the market in 2019!