{"id":2257,"date":"2021-12-24T02:08:06","date_gmt":"2021-12-24T02:08:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dealerindepth.com\/?p=2257"},"modified":"2022-07-21T16:25:13","modified_gmt":"2022-07-21T16:25:13","slug":"things-to-look-for-when-shopping-for-a-used-off-roader","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dealerindepth.com\/index.php\/2021\/12\/24\/things-to-look-for-when-shopping-for-a-used-off-roader\/","title":{"rendered":"Things To Look for When Shopping for a Used Off-Roader"},"content":{"rendered":"

When it comes to shopping for a used Jeep Wrangler, there are some extra things to consider versus shopping for just any used vehicle. <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

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\u2019t been abused.<\/p>\n

Let\u2019s take a look at some specific things to keep in mind when shopping for a used Jeep Wrangler<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Undercarriage<\/h2>\n

One of the first things to check on a used Jeep Wrangler is the undercarriage. There are a few reasons for this. If you\u2019re looking at an older generation such as the TJ or YJ, it\u2019s 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<\/a><\/strong> 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\u2019s skid plates look pretty beat up, you might want to look elsewhere.<\/p>\n

Modifications<\/h2>\n

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\u2019re 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\u2019t matter as much. Poorly installed suspension parts can cause more problems than they\u2019re worth.<\/p>\n

Tires<\/h2>\n

When buying any 4×4 vehicle, including a used Jeep Wrangler, it\u2019s very important to check the tires. Checking the tires is generally important<\/a><\/strong> on any used vehicle, but it often gets overlooked, and it\u2019s 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\u2019s alignment based on uneven wear patterns.<\/p>\n

Leaks and Rust<\/h2>\n

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\u2019re not properly taken care of after encountering mud or water on the trails.<\/p>\n

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\u2019s important to be just a little more thorough.<\/p>\n

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