Jeep is not a manufacturer you would generally link with reliability. One thing that is undeniable, is that their vehicles provide almost unrivaled off-road ability. Jeeps are capable of navigating some of the most challenging environments on earth, often with ease. However, when it comes to reliability, their record is slightly harder to praise. Many of the models produced by Jeep over the years, have been plagued with frustrating mechanical and electrical issues.
Despite this, the brand has a die-hard fan base who worship Jeep and the cars it produces. Many people would never consider driving anything else, and accept the potential issues as part of the ownership experience. There are many forums and owners clubs, where like-minded owners can get together and work through any difficulties. There is a genuine social aspect, and while most would wish for a trouble free vehicle, an engaging hobby can develop.
For those less mechanically minded, it makes sense to stick to those models which fare more favorably where reliability is concerned. This is especially true for those buying used, without the backup of a manufacturer’s warranty. Here are 10 of the most reliable Jeeps on the used market.
10 2011 Grand Cherokee
The fourth generation Grand Cherokee was released in 2011. One big improvement the model brought over its predecessors was the use of a four-wheel independent suspension system. Driving dynamics were much improved, with good levels of grip and enhanced on-road handling.
J.D. Power says owners were especially impressed with the quality of interior materials, and smooth ride. The Grand Cherokee was awarded a reliability score of 74/100.
9 2017 Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is not a model to pick if you are concerned about reliability. The car was never designed to be used as a daily driver, and as a consequence issues can occur. From electrical gremlins, to self-destructing soft tops and even a “death wobble,” there are many potential pitfalls.
That said, the 2017 model is one of the best years of Jeep Wrangler to buy used. Experts at Kelley Blue Book have awarded it 3.8/5, while consumers have been more generous, giving it 4.5/5.
8 2017 Compass
The compact Jeep Compass was introduced in 2007, and was one of the brand’s first crossover SUVs. The car’s styling was fairly divisive, and the model was heavily facelifted in 2011. The updated design was far more desirable, and the second generation builds on this even further.
One of the most attractive aspects of the 2017 Compass, was its affordable $20,995 starting price. Powering the car was a 180 hp 2.4 liter four-cylinder. On paper, these seem like promising credentials, but this didn’t translate to on-road performance. 0-60 mph was achievable in a fairly sluggish 9.4 seconds. Users of Kelley Blue Book have awarded the 2017 compass with an above average reliability rating of 4/5.
7 2020 Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler 2020 is one of the best variants of the model to own. This fourth generation off-roader has a lot to offer. The interior has been revised, and a modern touch screen infotainment screen comes as standard fitment. Undeniably, the model can perform off the beaten track, and an impressive 11 inches of ground clearance ensures very little stands in its way.
J.D. Power have awarded the model a desirable “Great” rating, with 81/100 for quality and reliability. Users have been most impressed by the interior styling, and power levels from the engine.
6 2000 Cherokee
The practical and capable Cherokee was first introduced back in 1974. A thoroughly updated second generation model came to market in 1984, with production continuing to 2001. The car was not only a big seller for Jeep, it also arguably paved the way for modern SUVs as we know them. No longer were such vehicles seen as utilitarian trucks, but desirable road cars.
The 2000 model gained a refined 4.0 liter PowerTech inline six. The unit generated 190 hp, and marked a big improvement over the car’s previous engine. Not only was it smoother, but emissions were reduced and unwanted noise decreased. 95% of Kelley Blue Book consumers would recommend the model. Reliability is suitably impressive with the vehicle achieving 4.8/5.
5 2019 Grand Cherokee
For those looking for a Jeep which should prove relatively hassle-free, the 2019 Grand Cherokee is worth checking out. The Grand Cherokee has to be one of the best all-rounders within the Jeep line-up. The car sports a mid-size SUV body form, providing plenty of space for family buyers, and great levels of everyday practicality.
The Grand Cherokee comes well-equipped, with modern essentials such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided as standard fitment. Kelley Blue Book users have given the car an impressive reliability rating of 4.4/5.
4 2014 Wrangler Willys Wheeler Edition
The heritage inspired Wrangler Willys Wheeler Edition, gave buyers the opportunity to own a modern Wrangler with a connection to the past. Under the hood, a powerful 3.6 liter V6 could be found, generating a decent 285 hp. The two-door model attracted a $26,790 list price, making the car over $3000 more than the regular Wrangler Sport it was based on.
Being a special edition model, a large proportion of examples would have been purchased by enthusiasts. As a result of this, they are likely to have been cared for better than a standard Wrangler, so should make a safer bet as a used buy. Kelley Blue Book experts scored the 2014 model at 3.3/5 for reliability, while consumers gave it 4.6/5.
3 2020 Jeep Gladiator
The large and imposing Jeep Gladiator was released for the 2020 model year. The truck is something of a revival, with the original model having been produced from 1962 to 1988. The vehicle is heavily related to the Wrangler, something that is only too evident when viewed from the front. Under the hood, the Gladiator was kitted out with a 3.6 liter V6. Generating 285 hp, the truck could haul itself from 0-60 mph in a fairly decent 7.2 seconds.
The 2020 model has been rated an impressive 4.6/5.0 for reliability based on Kelley Blue Book consumer reviews. Similarly, it receives 79/100 for “Quality and Reliability” in J.D. Power ratings. These enviable scores indicate the Gladiator could be a great option for those looking for a dependable Jeep
2 2003 Wrangler X
The 2003 model year of Jeep Wrangler has proved to be one of the best. Consumer reviews of the car have resulted in it being awarded an impressive rating of 4.6/5 on Edmunds.com. Numerous reviews praise the 2003 Wrangler’s quality and reliability.
The special edition Wrangler X boasted a large displacement 4.0 liter engine, which generated 190 hp from its inline six configuration. Compared to more basic trim levels, the car was well-equipped. Carpeting featured throughout, there was an AM/FM cassette stereo and air conditioning was also available.
1 1986 Comanche
Jeep produced the supremely practical Comanche between 1986 and 1992. The vehicle was essentially a reworked Cherokee, and sported a pickup truck form. A number of engines were available, ranging from a 2.1-liter Renault derived diesel four cylinder, all the way up to a 4.0-liter AMC 242 inline-six.
The truck earned an enviable reputation for reliability. Unlike many of its competitors, the Comanche utilized a monocoque or unibody chassis. This construction gave the truck a good level of rigidity, and impressive driving performance credentials. Owner reviews on edmunds.com suggest the Comanche has proved reliable for many.
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