Jeep Wrangler Problems

The 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine fitted to the Jeep Wrangler (and some Cherokee models) in the earlier part of this century seems to be a decent proposition in terms of reliability and ability to go the distance. The engine is made in Italy by VM Motori, a diesel engine specialist that was owned by Jeep’s parent company, Fiat Chrysler (as it was then).

A large capacity four-cylinder engine, the basics seem well engineered and inherent problems are uncommon. As such, Jeep Wrangler 2.8 diesel problems are more likely to come from the engine’s ancillaries including the turbocharger unit, intercooler and some of the emissions-control equipment.

Turbochargers have a shelf life in pretty much any vehicle and, depending on how hard a life the vehicle has had, these can require replacement when the bearings begin to wear or the internal components become damaged by carbon deposits.

Intercoolers can fail over time, and the car’s emission controls, which see it consume a proportion of its own exhaust gases as well as its own crankcase fumes, can lead to black, sticky deposits in the intake system which can require manual cleaning.

The engine is also a common-rail design, so injector and fuel-pump life can be shorter than for older, conventional diesel-engine designs.

The key to any engine’s longevity, of course, is its service history. Even the best design will be a source of ongoing grief if a previous owner has not followed the correct servicing regime. A complete service history is an absolute must when buying any second-hand turbo-diesel.

Without more information like the variant, year etc its hard to say. Often a cheap automotive locksmith will save you money, but sometimes a trip to the dealer will be necessary. You can read more about how to replace your car keys here.

A Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is rated to tow up to 750kg of unbraked trailer or a theoretical maximum of 2300kg if the trailer has brakes.

Firstly, you need to consult an engineering signatory in your state to make sure it is legal to lift the suspension on your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, as some states do not allow this modification and you can be fined and have your car defected off the road if caught by police. Lifting Jeeps often happens by installing taller springs, and placing taller blocks between the chassis and body. The legal heights of the suspension and lift blocks differ from state-to-state.

The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is 4751mm long.

If you look after it and get it serviced regularly there is no reason a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited shouldn't last several hundred thousand kilometres, though you will need to replace parts like shock absorbers, clutches and other wear items.

Jeep's Wrangler models are an unabashed throwback to their history making simple, rough and ready off-road vehicles. While they've become somewhat chic urban runabouts their fairly simple construction means they're fairly reliable when serviced regularly and looked after. However they're not the last word in refinement or could even be considered all that nice to drive around city environments with poor noise control, heavy steering, poor ride quality and turning circle.

While the various Jeep Wrangler Unlimited models suit individual tastes, the Sport, Rubicon, Freedom, Overland and Golden Eagle are so similar the best model comes down to which one you can afford and what features you can personally live with or without. Personally, I'd go for the Golden Eagle just for the name alone. 'Murica!

Your choices are limited if you want a four-wheel drive for serious off-roading. You could look at a Mitsubishi Pajero, Nissan Pathfinder, or maybe one of the popular 4WD utes. A ute will do everything you need, and they are quite comfortable on the road.