When it comes to shopping for a used Jeep Wrangler, there are some extra things to consider versus shopping for just any used vehicle.
The main reason is that a large number of used Jeep Wranglers have been taken off-road. The key to looking at any used off-road vehicle is to make sure that they haven’t been abused.
Let’s take a look at some specific things to keep in mind when shopping for a used Jeep Wrangler.
Undercarriage
One of the first things to check on a used Jeep Wrangler is the undercarriage. There are a few reasons for this. If you’re looking at an older generation such as the TJ or YJ, it’s very important to check thoroughly for frame rust. Both of these Wrangler generations were known for frame rust issues, and this is especially true if they spent time in the Rust Belt portion of the country. The second reason to always check the undercarriage is that you can get an idea of how hard the Jeep has been used by looking at the condition of the skid plates. Skid plates are commonly found on 4×4 vehicles to protect the important underside parts from things like stumps and rocks. If your prospective Jeep’s skid plates look pretty beat up, you might want to look elsewhere.
Modifications
Another major thing to check when looking at a used Jeep Wrangler, or any other off-road vehicle, is what kind of modifications it has and what condition they’re in. Jeep Wranglers, in particular, are favorites for modifications. They have massive aftermarket support and they tend to be easier to work on than some other vehicles. The most common modifications are related to suspension parts, which include ball joints, bushings, control arms, and lifts. Some off-road parts like brush guards and lights don’t matter as much. Poorly installed suspension parts can cause more problems than they’re worth.
Tires
When buying any 4×4 vehicle, including a used Jeep Wrangler, it’s very important to check the tires. Checking the tires is generally important on any used vehicle, but it often gets overlooked, and it’s even more important on a truck or SUV due to how expensive new tires are for these vehicles. Add in the fact that many used Jeep Wranglers have oversized tires, and you could be looking at a pretty hefty price if the tires on your new rig are shot. Another reason to check the tires is that it can give you an idea about the vehicle’s alignment based on uneven wear patterns.
Leaks and Rust
These are both problems that off-road vehicles in particular can encounter. Heavy trail time can take a toll and offers opportunities to damage various parts such as hoses and suspension parts. Rust can be a problem on off-road vehicles if they’re not properly taken care of after encountering mud or water on the trails.
Ultimately, you should check out any used car as thoroughly as possible, but due to the unique opportunities for damage and wear on off-road vehicles, it’s important to be just a little more thorough.
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