Jeep Wrangler: Why Every Jalop Should Experience One

"Matt Kirsch" (makirsch) 01/04/2015 at 11:52 • Filed to: None

52

100

It’s one of the slowest vehicles on the market. It has a ride rough enough to rattle your fillings. And at first, the top leaked worse than my nose after Thai food. Yet there’s not a vehicle I’d rather be driving.

Ever since I can remember, I have wanted a Jeep Wrangler. In my youth, they were simple, rugged, and only made with the correct number of doors (two). In the years leading up to my purchase, my time spent on Jeep forums could be called unhealthy, and my search for my JK (the most recent generation of Wranglers) was in full force. In 2009, after finally finding the perfect Deep Water Blue 2 door Sahara, I purchased it and never looked back.

The past five years have flown by. There’ve been no accidents and no speeding tickets - just a few recalls. First, I had to take it to the dealership so that they could install a light in my dash – a light which will illuminate if my transmission fluid catches !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! . Next, I took it in so that they could trim my fender liners. Apparently, there was a chance that the fender liners could sever my brake lines sending my two-ton brick on wheels on an unforgettable ride. Based on the jagged, “fixed” fender liners that I was returned, the recall seems to have called for trimming the liners with a butter knife.

!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!

Yet in those five years, I learned that the culture surrounding Wrangler ownership is an amazing thing, unrivaled by anything else out there. Here’s a look at Wrangler ownership 101.

First, Wranglers should never be called cars. It’s a Jeep – simple as that. According to the forums, a kitten dies every time you call a Wrangler a car. If it’s on the Internet, it must be true, right?

Next, Wrangler owners wave to each other as they drive by. As tough as you think you are, your first Jeep wave will probably be quite the spectacle. Caught up in the excitement, my first wave looked much how I imagine Richard Simmons waves to his adoring fans, and yet I didn’t care. The incredible feeling you get as your first wave is returned will make it worth it. Over time, you will learn to do a nonchalant flick of the wrist over the steering wheel, but I assure you that the feeling accompanied by a returned wave never leaves.

Wrangler owners are also quite the friendly breed. On multiple occasions, I have pulled up to a red light only to find another Wrangler next to me. In the summer, top down, conversations with complete strangers can last until the light turns green. During cold Michigan winters, a subtle head nod will do.

What else have I learned?

“Wranglers are big toys. They’re like life-size Tonka trucks.” Thinking back to my youth, my dad couldn’t have said it better. Two bolts secure the removable doors. Six latches secure the Freedom Panels (think T-tops). Six bolts secure the rear hardtop. Assorted bracketry, a few zippers, and some Velcro secure the soft top. The word “modular” comes to mind here. Just like the toy cars and trucks of your childhood, you can easily configure your Wrangler as you see fit. Whether you want to go “fully naked” (doorless and roofless) or just want some fresh air on your way home from work, it only takes minutes to reach your desired configuration. It’s no surprise that the modular nature of Wranglers makes them somewhat !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! . However, insurance companies don’t seem to !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! . Plus, exploring the absolutely massive Wrangler aftermarket scene to find products like door locks eliminates a lot of the risk.

!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!

If you were infatuated with The Fast and the Furious series (like adolescent me) and went through a phase where no vehicle could be left stock, you probably learned a great deal about the automotive aftermarket world. I can confidently say that Wranglers (especially JKs) have one of the largest aftermarket scenes out there. Heck, you can’t walk fifty feet without seeing a modified JK at SEMA. Whether you desire an extremely capable trail rig or a pretty, pavement princess, someone somewhere makes the parts you want.

A Wrangler article with no mention of off road prowess? I have by no means wheeled my JK !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! . On the one hand, this is because I keep very busy and like making excuses . On the other hand, it’s hard for me to accessorize my childhood dream car vehicle with pinstripes, artfully painted by Mother Nature’s abundant trees lining Michigan’s infamously narrow trails. In all seriousness, my mild JK build is in the works, and the trips to The Mounds, Silver Lake, and Bundy Hill are coming up fast. Considering how much I love my Wrangler without even doing any serious wheeling, I can’t imagine how much more I’ll enjoy it once I use it for what it was originally intended for.

!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!

Frankly, I adore my Wrangler and think that every Jalop should own one at one point in his or her life. Sure my JK is a 2-ton brick on wheels powered by an anemic v6. And yes, I could write a whole article about all its quirky flaws. But truthfully, none of them matter. Owning a Wrangler affords the opportunity to participate in one of the most unique ownership experiences available. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another vehicle that works well as a daily driver no matter the weather conditions, has one of the most tight-knit owner communities out there, a modular hard and soft top for every season, one of the biggest aftermarket scenes available, and the ability to take you places you never thought possible. Wranglers are such amazingly fun vehicles to own – so much so that I vow to never sell mine. If you’re willing to put up with some quirks in order to experience one of the most unique ownership experiences out there, go find yourself a Wrangler. I couldn’t be happier I did.

Photo Credit: Matt Kirsch

JeepJeremy > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 12:51

19

Great story! Your point about it being a toy; total truth. There are times while driving mine where I smirk and think "this shouldn't even be legal on the road"

Winter of 2010 the Jan/Feb time frame, in Columbus, Ohio it snowed A LOT. I was living in an apartment complex with a buddy. His car, along with most other residents was buried in snow for nearly two weeks. I was giving rides and picking up groceries for lots of folks. My Wrangler WENT EVERYWHERE. I made my own parking spots and roads. It's unstoppable in snow. A rampaging snow beast!!!

And it's full on Jalop. Every piece of the vehicle can be tinkered with. It's slow. It's loud. It's perplexing to most people.

The whole "It's a Jeep thing, you wouldn't understand" is not really a statement I like and I frown when I see it stickered to Jeeps. However: drive one ONCE and you might start to understand.

quite98 > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 13:19

2

This was a good read.

These vehicles are slow and slightly uncomfortable - but they get in your blood. I had a 2010 Islander that I foolishly sold nearly two years ago. I'm itching to find another.

4x4x4x4x4x4 > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 13:32

2

"Wranglers are such amazingly fun vehicles to own – so much so that I may never sell mine"-This.

Jeeps on Jeeps on Jeeps

'08 Sahara unlimited

'03 Sahara

'98 XJ

'78 CJ7 Golden Eagle (not pictured)

toecutter (so grey, I gotta wear shades) > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:32

0

Yes yes yes. I've been looking for a used one of these for summer time. I want to drive around with no top and the doors off.

yamahog > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:33

15

First, Go Blue!

And secondly, *jeep wave* from my crapcan XJ. Just ditch the wheel liners altogether and cover the front door hinges with a halved pool noodle, it's for the best.

jalop1991 > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:37

6

Jalopnik will laugh, but if you poke around you'll find plenty of similar articles written by Prius owners about their rides—up to and including the whole "we wave to each other" part.

Mr Ordinary > JeepJeremy 01/04/2015 at 14:38

3

Fantastic description of why people should have one Jeremy!

It's a shame I never see them here in Blighty.

Iwaswonderofwonders > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:40

0

Had mine. Not a Wrangler. CJ5 with a V6 Buick (yup, with Ford ignition parts - go figure). No nothing in this vehicle. Steel, shifter, two seats and a key. It was horrible and lovely at the same time and I would never want to own another one.

I got it out of my system.

Edit: Mine was doorless too. Fell out of it once while driving, which was quite an experience.

FlyingV > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:41

37

The Wrangler is a fragile piece of shit. In less than 10,000 miles of city driving, balljoints broke on two (2) leased Wranglers (TJs). Thinking the JK was a redesign, that had the balljoint defect designed out of it (as per the salesman) I leased one only to have the same thing happen. I have owned Audis, Chevy Cavaliers, Mazda 3s, and two Lotus (never had a problem with either over 4 years of ownership) that didn't have that happen to them.

Also let's try and forget the minivan engine that converted gas to noise, and the known defect of the gear lever popping violently out of first. Also, the insane rusting and the fact that the 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, and any Land Rover will mop the floor with the Wrangler on an off road course right out of the box.

The Wrangler is a monument to the drunk, high, useless American union mentality that only enjoyed sales success because no other manufacturer bothered to build a convertible jeep. With Fiat propping them up, they're doing OK, but everyone agrees the Wrangler is a fragile piece of shit.

WinrickRacing > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:42

0

I hit my head off one, and the owner laughed.
#JustJeepThings.

sm70- why not Duesenberg? > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:43

1

You make a lot of good points. I test-drove a Wrangler at one point, and while I can't say it'd be the right DD for me, I definitely get the appeal of them.

Casey Callaghan > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:44

6

*shrugs* why no manual???

Have Jeep, will travel. > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:47

11

I agree completely. I always wanted one. So I bought this 2012 brand new. Lots of trail miles, lots of mods, lots of memories. My "car enthusiast" friends said I would hate it and sell it within 6 months. I will be buried in it (i also own an E30 325i and a '14 VW GLI), I can't imagine NOT owning one. The things its done and places its taken me are unreal. Sure, it gets shit mileage, steers and stops like a Bayliner, but its unstoppable in the dirt. No kid is glad their parents minivan has fold and stow seats, or the Prius gets 44mpg.

jmedarts > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:49

1

Great read. The one I rented last summer was a far cry from the early 90's beater I sold ~15yrs ago. That thing was crap in the snow, in fact it had all the driving characteristics of my fathers 1970 C-10 minus the practicality. Glad you love it, but never again for me, I like going fast too much!

sumfoo1 > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:54

0

I have a 2013 unlimited rubicon. It's the best of my 3 jeeps I've owned. Mostly because it's the combination of my wrangler and Cherokee.

Charley V > jalop1991 01/04/2015 at 14:54

1

Jeep folks have been waving before Priusisisus were an itch in Toyota's pants. The author is right, I caught the bug when I was 14, and 23 years later I still love my CJ. It's a Jeep thing, hell I don't even understand. The closet vehicle analogy I can compare it to is Harley-Davidson; slow, not very advanced, owned by a lot of posers, has a loyal following. Even creepier, one was owned by AMF, the other once owned by AMC!

Jordan and the Slowrunner, Boomer Intensifies > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 14:56

6

Have experienced one. Offroad, my friend always had to hop into my Toyota when his YJ broke. if it even made it off the road...

William Getz > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 14:56

0

I love the idea of them (probably so for most of the people who buy them) but as I get entirely too close to 50 (dang...let THAT soak in) I think I would regret the purchase. My spine would not be up to it I fear. I don't have the room for a third vehicle and I just don't see being happy with this as a DD. Glad you enjoy yours. Nice article.

Jonathan > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 15:00

37

Everyone? your delusion has clouded your judgment. The fact you even think modern Landrovers will outwheel a wrangler completely discredits your entire post. nuff said.

ThatAHole123 > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:01

0

something about driving them is very charming. Selling my 2012 challenger r/t, probably get a 90's wrangler to replace it. I LOVE driving my friend's rubicon! First time I rode in it he barely slowed down for a speed bump, and I braced to bottom out and he laughed at me. Not used to that ride height and tough suspension, it would be nice to have a car that could hop a curb.

Jonathan > jmedarts 01/04/2015 at 15:02

0

Older YJs were the lowest point in Jeep history for the Wrangler, least amount of ground clearance, almost no articulation in the stock suspension without making changes, and I haven't come across a YJ yet that doesn't break down on a weekly basis.

The JKs are in another dimension of build quality and performance from the YJs.

RacerX450 > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:05

0

It's a car. The ur-jeep was the Bantam Reconnaissance Car. Bantam couldn't make them fast enough and the design for the BRC was given to Willys and Ford, so that they could make all the Recon Cars needed. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Willys_MB

PeteRR > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:06

8

I enjoyed mine. Most years, I would remove the hardtop in May and not reinstall it until September. I got rained on more than once, but the drain plugs were out, so no long term damage done.

Evergreener > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:07

1

I have respect for Jeep History and Culture (the scene reminds me quite a bit of the Harley scene and its seeming unfettered inclusiveness, both of which whose staying power I find impressive), but I've ridden in enough Wranglers to never want to ride in a Wrangler again (It was cool in HS, but yeah). In the interest of full disclosure, I'm a Land Cruiser guy so you can take my biased opinion with a grain of salt :-)

ThatAHole123 > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 15:08

0

wow, nm about trading my challenger for one... Thanks for the heads up. Won't get an FJ cuz visibility is shit out of the back....., I guess what I really want is a pickup, but they are a bit spendy. I was hoping to pocket some money from selling my challenger....

Conan > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:12

1

I still miss the Rubicon that used to linger in the lot at work until its entertaining owner traded it for a Juke NISMO.

Mike Bonner > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:13

0

Having also owned one in college, I can say it's a fun car to have for an occasional ride but a horrible car to own as a daily driver...particularly when you get older. I get the appeal, but the actual experience of driving a jeep sucks.

special_k_side > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:17

1

Ah the Jeep wave, unless you are in an XJ. :-) Also, Jeepsters, while loving their vehicles, helping everyone out in a Jeep, ignore everyone else (Usually). Many times caught in a tough spot, many times just jack-alled out, with Jeepsters standing by drinking beer..... But, when a Jeep get stuck, another usually gets stuck, and you'll find many other able bodied wheelers in all flavs of 4x4's stopping to help fix, unstick, unglue or flip. Toy, Suzuki and XJ wheelers in BC seem to be the most unstuck up, nicest people you want too meet. The Nice Jeep owners, usually get fed up at the newer models repair costs, and complain "It ain't what it used to be!" Still non of the above stops me from lending a hand, even to the naive first time owner, who prangs one so bad, it will not move. :)

 > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:21

3

The wrangler is a pos. I will never own one after driving and working on my buddie's.

First of all that thing that Chrysler calls rust protection is an absolute joke. A 5 year old vehicle should not have the amount of rust that this thing had.

Secondly I don't think that it's normal for engine mounts to rip themselves out of the block while destroying bolt holes in the process.

Thirdly why does a gutless inline 6 get worse fuel economy than a v8?

Lastly who the hell was in charge of ergonomics? The entire time driving or riding in one as a passenger my arm wanted to go through the door because you are literally jammed up against it.

The only positive thing that I can say about it is ease of repair. You don't even need a jack to get under it.

NastyKnate > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 15:24

9

Balljoints arent a Jeep issue. ASk my 96 Ram or my buddys 07 Charger. Things eat ball joints. Replace them the first time with ones that have a lifetime warranty and its no big deal at all.

Now as for them being unreliable.... I just dont see that. Everyone ive known who has had one has had no issues at all with them. Be it the 4.0 i6, the minivan engine as you call it or the newer pentastars. They all jsut keep going. Even my 03 Liberty is tough as nails. Sure it has a couple issues, but nothing that would stop me from going on a week long 2000km road trip in the winter with it. Even this little baby jeep will drive through any snow, dirt, sand, and rocks without any issues then get me back home in one piece.

and rusting.... clean your damn vehicle and oil spray it before winter, no rust then. its an easy fix. all cars rust, especially where i am

darthd > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 15:24

0

Stock wheels and tires? If you threw 33s on it then you can't complain.

oldirtybootz > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:32

1

I taught myself to drive stick in the various used JKs we've had at work, and while I quite like TJs I don't think I could ever do CJ/Wrangler ownership. I'd much rather have my Bronco back, and I'd love an SJ, but Wranglers to me are more of a toy than something I would ever want to live with on a daily basis.

dogisbadob > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:32

5

Too bad they don't offer the diesel Wrangler over here even though they make them in the same factory as the ones that are sold in the home market :(

At least RHD is available though! :)

Oh man I'd love a RHD diesel manual Wrangler.

Americanitis > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:33

2

This one was mine; I loved it, and no, it wasn't fragile by any means, I offroaded it often, and always fixed it myself. Had over 200k when I finally sold it, never a serious problem that couldn't be fixed in 30 mins on the side of the road or out in the desert with hand tools, wire, and/or tape. Seriously. Mine actually lost a water pump belt 12 miles out in the desert, and I drove it all the way home with no water pump, stopping every so often to let it cool back off in 100+ F heat. Slapped a new belt on it (and threw another one in my offroad bag lol) and had no issues. Great truck. I miss it very much and wish I'd never sold it.

MPA > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:34

6

I've driven 3 JKs, and Jeeps aren't for me.

Slow, Awful handling. Yeah, they are likely fun off-road, but I'd have to live with the normal driving 95% of the time, and I think that would cause me to shoot myself in the face.

TJ996 > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 15:34

33

Dude, you brought this up last time there was an article about the Wrangler. Last time I pointed out there are 7 grease points on a TJ. Tie rod ends need to be greased every 3,000 mi, and ball joints every 6,000 mi. I'm guessing you didn't do this. I'm also guessing you don't even know what a zerk fitting is.

Also, Toyotas and Land Rovers are low to the ground, lack articulation, and most come with street tires. They are not more capable than a Wrangler. Solid axles, SWB, 32" tires, 4:1 low range, and locking diffs are hard to beat. Plus an electronic disconnecting anti-sway bar, and breather lines that are run as high as possible.

ChrisCicc > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:35

0

I love Jeeps, especially Wranglers. But I also love luxury. So I split the difference and got myself a Trail-Rated Grand Cherokee Limited.

Hope that doesn't make me a bad person to the purists...

VintageMetal > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:35

0

I freakin love my JKU, with the pentastar engine it is no longer asthmatic. With over 50,000k miles on it and a lot of those beating the hell out of it I haven't had any dramas. I can put a double air mattress in the back and sleep comfortably, drive it to work every day, take the doors off and be a wang for the afternoon. Nothing else out there like it.

RedlineZ bought an SV (And is getting rid of the z) > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:37

0

my first vehicle was a manual 94 sahara yj that i bought when i was 16 back in 2009. had it for 4 years before i bought my 350z. i miss the hell out of that jeep it was great driving it to and from the beach in jersey buy when i went to college in long island i had to find something with better fuel economy

Jc Coello > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:37

0

Actual Jalops will start bitching for this... so beware of the beast!

AdverseMartyr > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 15:44

6

Correct me if I am wrong, but isn't there a certain someone on here who keeps talking about how unreliable a Land Rover produced vehicle is, and how you should never consider owning one if you don't have a warranty that covers EVERYTHING since EVERYTHING will break on it at least once in a given year?

Oh, and I think they don't make a Wrangler-esque model. At least landroverusa.com didn't show me one.

As for the 4Runner it's also not a Wrangler type vehicle, and the FJ Cruiser is cool, but also a land whale. Now the old Toyota land cruiser is everything a Jeep guy could want. Though an old Jeep is everything a Jeep guy could want as well. People don't necessarily buy them for performance. Though the number of people who use them off-road successfully would seem to indicate that they are capable enough for most situations. (I've noticed it is often more about the driver's ability than the vehicle. I had a friend who could wheel a Corolla out to surf spots that you wouldn't believe.)

Now your points on the ball joints, minivan engine and rust are definitely valid. I have to say that lots of people love lots of vehicles with similar problems. That's an enthuasist for you!

randomadjuster > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:46

0

I DD'ed a 76 CJ-5 for a few years, so I'm contractually obligated to sneer a bit at you kids with your "safety" and "features" and froo-froo lockable doors. My CJ had a stereo that worked when it wanted, pumped about a half watt through a single speaker the size of a cigarette pack, and that was because it was what I could fit in the dash while having a reasonable chance of it not frying in the rain. I had a lockable center console made out of sheet aluminum and pool carpet that inexplicably had an open bottom (as in a hole cut through the floor) with a piece of wood laid across two strips of angle iron to keep your stuff in. Load it wrong or hit a bump right and it puked your goodies onto the dirt. After I NASCAR rolled it one day going to work, my dad and I rebuilt it with a sweet one-piece tilt-forward fiberglass hood that made the already squirrelly steering even more jumpy.

But the 258ci i6 had more torque than god opening a pickle jar and the ludicrously low weight with that glass front end meant I regular ate 5.0 mustangs and Z-28's at stoplights. Sure, if you jammed on the brakes one side would catch first causing me to jump lanes once or twice (a day), and it had been rolled in a spectacular manner which should have killed me. But it didn't, and that matters.

You didn't drive it so much as hang on and give broad statements of intent, but, in a sign that the cartwheeling roll did brain damage, it was still one of the best vehicles I owned.

Kinja'd Again > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:56

1

I drove the V6 model a couple of years ago and the acceleration was more lethargic than the Toyobaru I drove a few days ago (got fucked over and needed a rental car). Wranglers are okay, but they seriously lack in the HP and torque departments.

Monsterajr > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 15:57

5

Jeeps are fun fun fun to drive but the moment you become a passenger is the moment you hate the Jeep. I noted this in my buddies old 78 Jeep, my other friends 90 Wrangler and then again in a coworkers 12' Wrangler 4 door. Great to drive, lousy to be driven in. like being on the back of a horse that is drunk and not really sure where he's going.

Detroit 9000 > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 16:07

0

I always wanted to lease a Wrangler. Then I did ×(#,/;%;=€!,!! in the industry and decided that $*!&=^=:=;! ¥#^# . Based on this ×£=&%:=:×£! £!;, I decided that leasing a Wrangler was ÷¥÷€÷^÷=#€/£=*&=^=4-4#4*=. I'll never ":;#^#&#;!,÷,=,,% a Wrangler. Even for $/*/*%;# #€!_/,/(/*.

LunaticFringe1979 > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 16:08

0

Great article!

I have owned an 04 STi, 06 Evo, a 05 WRX wagon w/ a swapped 07 STi engine and tranny, a modified 03 SVT Cobra, a couple of 03 Lightnings, and a few other fun vehicles. My 2012 Wrangler Rubicon (2 dr), is the slowest, worst handling and gets the worst gas mileage, but I like it more than every other vehicle I have had. I think it is a visceral thing, the vehicle just feels right with how it rides and handles. It feels old school and I love it.

JohnPlayerSpecial > Detroit 9000 01/04/2015 at 16:11

5

U wot m8

Shiftless > Monsterajr 01/04/2015 at 16:17

4

Ha! My wife can tesify to that. We rented one on our honeymoon on the Big Island and she was not so happy when I decided to drive us to a romantic secluded beach on a dirt road choked with boulders. We got there. But she was not happy. Not one bit.

Jack Does Cars > dogisbadob 01/04/2015 at 16:33

3

in the US, we don't get the manual RHD Wrangler. WHY JEEP, WHY?!?!

Dsscats > AdverseMartyr 01/04/2015 at 16:38

0

He's not talking about the type of vehicle, he's talking about the off-road ability.

Dsscats > Jonathan 01/04/2015 at 16:42

2

While that's not the primary concern of most owner's, the Land Rovers and Range Rivers have always been extremely capable off road and continue to be.

the_grouch > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 16:43

3

Over thirty thousand miles on my JK, no balljoint problems. You are doing it wrong.

The Crazy Kanuck; RIP Oppositelock > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 16:43

0

that is why you upgrade all the parts so solve it's problems.

gamer604 > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 16:51

0

I own a 2012 JK Sahara 4 door that I got a few years ago. Absolutely love it!

My daily driver up until a few months ago was a well worn 93 Civic Si rough and noisy isn't an issue for me.

While I find that using the Wrangler as a daily driver is fine, I dislike it when it's in rush hour it's all stop and go and idiots trying to cut in when the lineup to the highway on ramp is extremely long.

Also, I'm use tomaneuvering morr quickly through traffic and the Wrangler can't do that.

The Wrangler is sheer enjoyment doing anything and everything except rush hour traffic.

SGTalon > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 16:54

1

That is weird. I bought my TJ brand new owned it for 6 years and over 200k miles, never had anything break. I loved that thing. If it had AC and a little more room I would have kept it. As it is, I haven't been without a Jeep of some sort since 1997. I am currently on my 3rd Liberty and this one they sold me on the lifetime warranty. Since i plan to keep this one forever it is $1200 well spent.

SGTalon > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 16:58

0

Drive your Jeep down to Kentucky and do the Daniel Boone Jeep Jamboree. I took my bone stock 99 4cyl TJ to one when it was a month old and it was the best thing I have ever done. Completely worth the trip.

The stuff that even a stock Jeep can do is amazing. I have some pretty awesome pics that i need to get scanned it from it (Pre-digital)

YouCanJustifyAnything > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 17:09

0

I sold my '91 YJ about 20 years ago only because I ended up commuting in it. It was really awesome to have a modified Wrangler in my 20's - like you see everywhere today - when almost no one else did. Since then I had several dreams about driving with the top and doors off loaded with friends, dogs and surfboards or mountain bikes like we used to always do - and it leaves me with the best feeling (think Zoolander Jeep scene without explosion). So it's still my "dream car" I plan to own again so my family can enjoy it like I did. I always rent the 4-door on vacation in Hawaii and appreciate the improved solidness but it's funny the design hasn't changed very much...

15MPG On a good day > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 17:13

0

Having driven a friend's recently I can say without a doubt it's a death trap. Shitiest brakes I can remember, wandering steering, no acceleration. Let's not forget top heavy, Leaky, noisy, unreliable...... should I keep on????? The only thing this vehicle offers is an image that it can't deliver.

Andrew Baumea > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 17:14

0

I was never an off road guy or a convertible car guy. Then I decided to buy an old Wrangler. 1988 I loved it. I t had no carpet so I just took the top off and leave it off all summer and just put a bikini top to cover it when it rains. Then I decided to try my hand at off roading and had a complete blast. My mom liked mine so she bought a used 4 door JK and I decided to pick up a TJ to daily drive for a while.

Jeep's are just great they have so much character and even when your having a bad day driving down the road and you see another Jeep coming at ya wave can't help but smile.

TwoToneLoser > Casey Callaghan 01/04/2015 at 17:16

6

It wouldn't make any good difference, like putting Worcestershire sauce on a frosted pop tart.

Xenti > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 17:26

0

When are you leasing your next one?

Hey, y'all, watch this! > yamahog 01/04/2015 at 17:29

9

*XJ wave* My POS XJ, which I either love or have Stockholm Syndrome towards, has recently retired as my DD and no one around me gets why I still keep it.

fullofpaint > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 17:30

0

I just sold my Wrangler I've had for 8 years. Already missing it like crazy. Nothing is as much fun to bomb around in, especially with the doors and top off. Also great proof of how driving a slow car fast can be fun.

Xenti > Casey Callaghan 01/04/2015 at 17:31

0

If you're rock crawling, you actually want the auto.

randomadjuster > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 17:38

0

A significant part of the rust is how they are built and the way the pinch welds are done. It's frightening how quickly modern jeeps rust. I've seen them showing surface rust on painted panels (at spot welds, of course) within three months of purchase, and I do not live in the rust belt.

ihatecartmanbrah > Jonathan 01/04/2015 at 17:41

1

A new Range Rover is more capable off road than a new Wrangler. This is coming from someone currently DD'ing a Wrangler JKU 6 speed.

FatherStorm > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 17:42

0

I've previously only owned big bodies, Bonneville, Continental, &etc. . Back in '09 the wife convinced me that if I wanted to continue to live on a 2 acre lot, I might need something that could actually drive in the back. There was no way I was going to get anything that wasn't a "Big Body". I settled on a Jeep Commander (XK). I'm reasonably happy. The interior plastic door panels are apparently made from some special blend of paper mache, seeing as the plastic around the door handles disintegrates even on the doors no one uses, the thing uses about as much gas as a M1A1 Abrams, the tire drop has rusted solid, so getting to the spare tire will require an acetalyne torch, and the power steering has been flakey for a couple months now, leaving me with 18 inch biceps. But I wouldn't trade it for anything. I do a lot of photography, and this thing has gotten me into and out of situations nothing I've previously owned could have even looked at without the engine cutting out, much less successfully circumnavigating. I've found myself driving trough completely random brush in and out of ravines while lost in Carson National Forest, and while I was never sure I'd find a trail again, I wasn't worried about the Jeep getting stuck. They may not be the prettiest things, but they do what they say they will, and that's good enough for me.

JimmySage > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 17:43

0

Why you mad, bro?

JimmySage > AdverseMartyr 01/04/2015 at 17:47

0

I own a 2005 Jeep Wrangler Sport, very lightly modified. Rust has begun to become an issue. However, last winter I had the frame treated. At the time, it was in excellent shape despite having been bereft of previous treatment and driven daily through nine New England winters. I've wheeled into some tough spots, even without the front locker. 4-Lo will do a lot for you.

Unbearable Pain > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 18:00

0

My only problem with the wrangler is how much of a joke it is where I live. Every spoiled boy and girl form my old high school had one from mommy and daddy. I asked one girl why she got a wrangler, and she said "because it's a Jeep, duh." That b*tch never took it off-road. MOST wrangler owners I knew never took it off-road. I only knew two guys who actually owned wranglers and used them properly. The guys at my school that owned Toyota Tacomas did more off-roading than wrangler owners.

If you aren't using it off-road all the time, it's useless as a vehicle. While Jeeps and Wranglers are super popular where I live, I live in a huge suburban and metropolitan area. There aren't many places or reasons where/why you would need a Wrangler. It also has a lot of problems, like: Gas guzzling (no diesel), uncomfortable, can't handle, slow, lack's protection form the elements, no basic luxuries, unreliable, etc. Would I want one for off-roading? F**k yes! However, I don't see what it offers practically over the now discontinued FJ cruiser or a 4x4 truck.

Matt Kirsch > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 18:24

7

You mad? Honestly, I know that Wranglers aren't for everyone. You had 3 so something kept bringing you back though, right?.

Few points…

"the 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, and any Land Rover will mop the floor with the Wrangler on an off road course right out of the box."
Sorry, that's simply not true. A modern Rubi will outperform any of those you mentioned and do so for half the price of a Land Rover. Also, those cute courses that Land Rover has in front of their biggest dealers to showcase their vehicles abilities to customers make me laugh so hard. I don't even consider modern 4 Runners off road vehicles so yeah; I do consider them great overland vehicles though. FJs were what I'd consider to be the closest competition to Wranglers. If they were so great, why'd they stop building them? No one will ever win this fight, so that's all I'll say.

"With Fiat propping them up, they're doing OK, but everyone agrees the Wrangler is a fragile piece of shit."
Wranglers are what pulled Jeep out of their slump back in 08, 09, 10. Fiat has done literally nothing to improve the JK. Look at the insane sales numbers Wranglers have posted in the last few years and read some of these comments - clearly not "everyone" agrees.

Hope my post doesn't come off harsh. Not even mad - I enjoy a good discussion.

MiCarroEsRojo > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 18:29

0

I rented a wrangler two months ago, it was fun... For the first two days. Its like driving a giant shoe box (I don't know how to describe that feeling)

Matt Kirsch > Jordan and the Slowrunner, Boomer Intensifies 01/04/2015 at 18:29

3

YJs were pretty rough. Just think of it as having... a lot of character.

queefking > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 18:30

0

I'm drunk and high right now and concur wrangler (even all modern "jeeps") are patently shit.

Matt Kirsch > JeepJeremy 01/04/2015 at 18:31

1

Thanks! Couldn't agree more!!

staghounds > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 18:37

0

Word. We even have the same year/model/colour Jeep! Don't see that many blue ones.

Hardwarewars > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 18:42

0

I have a 2012 JK 2 door and have put just north of 50,000 on it. As the second owner, I have had no problems minus a bad cylinder which the dealer fixed under warranty and then issued another 64,000 miles of coverage on.

All told, I hate the gas mileage but have no complaints otherwise. This thing is a little beast.

The only thing that bothers me about my Wrangler are the hoards of people who find it appropriate to approach me in parking lots, gas stations & red lights to talk about my vehicle. Oh well, it could be worse.

Matt Kirsch > yamahog 01/04/2015 at 18:42

2

Go Blue!

I'm not one to initiate a wave to an XJ (rejected too many times to do so anymore) :( I happily wave when other XJs do though. XJ owners are my favorite (besides waving, non soccer mom Wrangler owners)

Hardwarewars > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 18:43

1

(but buy the 6spd)

Matt Kirsch > Hey, y'all, watch this! 01/04/2015 at 18:44

2

They may not understand but plenty of us on here do haha. Enjoy it! I have seriously considered picking up an XJ down the road.

66ChevelleSS > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 18:47

1

Some people just aren't jeep material.

AdverseMartyr > Dsscats 01/04/2015 at 18:47

1

Which is not what the author's main point was. The author was talking about doors/no doors; hard-top/soft -top/no-top which means arguments against the Jeep should probably focus on those reasons to choose something different. Not off-road capability, which unless you leave it stock (also a point the author was making that you would not want it stock since mods are so plentiful). Which leaves the FJ Cruiser as the only alternative to the Wrangler it seems.

The post was about the capabilities of the body to easily transform to the owner's mood and taste. Something the other vehicles don't do as well since (you know) metal roofs permanently attached to the lower body.

Matt Kirsch > MPA 01/04/2015 at 18:53

0

There are many times that I want to shoot myself in the face when dealing with my JK. Fortunately, there are so many more times that more than make of for them.

HammerheadFistpunch > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 18:54

8

The wrangler is a nice toy. When you are ready to move up from toys there are lots of great choices.

/tongueincheck

//butreally

Matt Kirsch > oldirtybootz 01/04/2015 at 18:55

0

Definitely toys and definitely takes a special crowd to dd them. JKs have come a long way in that regards though - so many more creature comforts than TJs even.

Matt Kirsch > quite98 01/04/2015 at 18:56

1

So true. Confident you'll get another. We can never stay away for too long haha

Matt Kirsch > jalop1991 01/04/2015 at 19:00

0

Definitely true. You could make similar arguments for many cars but I'd argue few to none do so as well as Wranglers. Just as an example… by no means does every Wrangler owner wave. However, I can guarantee Wrangler owners wave more than Prius, corvette, etc owners many times over.

Simplify, then add beer > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 19:01

7

I get it. I bought my first one back in 2001, and I've owned one ever since.

Yes they are impractical. Yes they may not have the same reliability as a bloated Japanese 4wd. But holy shitsnacks are they fun. The short wheelbase means you feel everything. People complain that you're getting bumped around, but isn't that the point? I love driving it because even going to the shops to get milk is fun.

It's the middle of summer here, so I've had the doors off for the last two weeks. It's currently sitting in the corporate car park next to an Aston, and it still looks cooler.

As for how hardy they can be - I've had my current one for 11 years and since then it has been jumped, drowned and even ran with a hole in the sump for 15 mins. Still starts every time.

Matt Kirsch > Conan 01/04/2015 at 19:02

0

Not a Juke!!!!!

Matt Kirsch > Monsterajr 01/04/2015 at 19:04

1

So true. You don't notice the ride quality when you're driving but you sure do as a passenger. If I find myself in the backseat of mine, I hang on to the "sport cage" for dear life.

jobler > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 19:07

2

I couldn't agree more, as long as the premise is expanded to include all open-top 4wd motoring. I prefer older rather than newer in this space; CJx, Bronco, International Harvester, FJ-40, etc., they are all worth owning and experiencing. They are a great way to learn how to wrench on a vehicle, are fun, people love them, they're versatile, and if you're not too picky they can be had for cheap. I miss my CJ-7 greatly:

Matt Kirsch > Kinja'd Again 01/04/2015 at 19:07

1

They're not too awful for what they are - a brick on wheels. The new Penistar makes them livable, especially in a lighter 2 door.
Just have to say that if Wranglers had more get up and go than toyotaburus, well that would just be sad

Matt Kirsch > jmedarts 01/04/2015 at 19:08

0

Me too! Hoping to pick up something light, rwd, and manual this summer to satisfy that need

HammerheadFistpunch > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 19:10

1

These are really strong feelings about off road ability for someone who professes to not go offroad. The wrangler rubi is tops for stock crawling, but the tradeoffs are hardly worth it, IMO. Also, the rubicon is only one model, that doesn't rhyme with "saraha". A trail edition 4runner will do anything a stock sahara will and likely more, to say nothing of a lightly modified 4Runner or TRD pro version. granted, I do understand the appeal of the wrangler, but for people who actually know, The Toyota's are just as good a platform for modifying as the JK, and the base virtues of the toyotas for anything but crawling are far and away superior, not to mention durability. The "Toyota experience" is not giving a shit, and just getting on with it.

Evan, Pope Of Jalopnik by Self-Appointment > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 19:14

2

I've been in a couple, and can't say I liked it at all...I will never get it. They're not really good at anything, and terrible at the few things 90% of owners use them for (cruising around suburban shopping centers and driving through parking lots).

CascadeHawk > FlyingV 01/04/2015 at 19:17

2

I've had the same TJ since 2001. I've put over 220k miles on it. It has been, by far, the most reliable and durable hunk of junk I've never had the pleasure of driving. You must be doing something wrong.

KusabiSensei - Captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 19:18

1

My dad has one. I can't stand it. The ride is crap, it's completely uncomfortable, and the only reason I can see to own one is to say "I have a Wrangler".

So I'll be That Guy (tm). I'd rather have a Landie.

Jordan and the Slowrunner, Boomer Intensifies > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 19:24

1

My 4Runner has plenty of character, from the rusted out exhaust to the mud and water stained interior, but it doesn't destroy my spine or break all of the time. I understand the appeal, but I'll take that appeal in an FJ40.

KusabiSensei - Captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs > HammerheadFistpunch 01/04/2015 at 19:24

2

And if you are a masochist:

Gene > Matt Kirsch 01/04/2015 at 19:35

0

Is it too late for Doug DeMuro to get in on this?