Jeep Wrangler Problems: 11 Common Issues (Explained)

There are very few off-road substitutes for the Jeep Wrangler, which is also an excellent vehicle for everyday driving in the city.

The Jeep Wrangler can tackle everything from your routine commutes to an outdoor adventure, but like any other vehicle, it has some common issues.

If you want to learn about common issues with the Jeep Wrangler, you have come to the right place. Here are the common issues with the Jeep Wrangler:

1. Jeep Enters A Death Wobble

Your main priority when driving through rocky tracts would be not to feel like there’s a vicious earthquake happening every two minutes.

But the death wobble is an issue in some Jeep Wranglers as a result of steering system parts being worn out.

You are likely to feel it at high speeds or after hitting bumps due to the steering and suspension being loose. Eventually, the wobble goes away when you slow down.

But what causes it?

The solid axle or steel tube connecting both front tires can cause a death wobble.

When one tire wobbles, the trembling is transferred to the other tire simultaneously. The transfer of motion from one tire to another creates a vibration loop; the death wobble in the Jeep Wrangler.

Precautions and solutions to tackle this issue:

• Before an off-road drive, check tie-end rods and wheel hubs to ensure the steering parts are not worn out.
• Ensure the tires are inflated to the right pressure, not more or less. Uneven tire inflation can trigger a wobble in the Jeep.
• Inspect the Jeep ball joints for any torn boots.
• Any worn-out suspension parts can cause a wobble.
• Check the track bar for loose ends around the bolts by moving them back and forth with your hands. Tighten the track bar bolts if necessary.
• If the Jeep still wobbles after checking all the steering parts, get the alignment checked.
• Before you install a lift kit, you should know that stock Jeeps are less likely to be affected by the wobble than lifted Jeeps due to a shift in steering parts placement after the lift.

2. Clogged Fuel Injectors

The clogged fuel injectors aren’t a big problem. Debris is one of the biggest reasons fuel injectors get clogged or damaged.

Other times when you don’t run the engine for long, no cooled air passes through the ports, and the fuel doesn’t reach the injectors to wash away the olefins.

Thus, the heat turns them into hard varnish deposits, which build up over time and clog the fuel injectors.

After the fuel injectors are jammed, the flow of fuel is disrupted, which causes several problems such as

• Misfires
• It makes the engine stumble.
• Rough idling; the Jeep doesn’t drive as smoothly as before.

You can try a couple of fuel additives to get rid of the debris in the injectors. If that doesn’t work, it may be time to replace your fuel injectors.

3. The Jeep Engine Develops An Exhaust Leak

It doesn’t happen very often, but some Jeep engines develop exhaust leaks over time.

The leak occurs because the exhaust manifold develops cracks after repeated cycles of the engine heating up and cooling down.

Soon the cracks in the exhaust are wide enough to foster leaks.

There are a couple of indicators while driving the Jeep when your exhaust needs fixing. For instance,

• A ticking sound is observed from the engine bay.
• Suddenly reduced fuel mileage.
• A small amount of exhaust is found in the engine bay.

It is reported by many drivers that the spare manifolds that serve as a replacement withstand the cracking better.

If your exhaust starts leaking, replace it at once to avoid further problems.

Make sure to check our list of the best and worst years for the Jeep Wrangler.

4. An Ineffective Throttle Position Sensor

This problem usually arises when the throttle is clogged with a residue buildup. The debris prevents the position sensor from working properly.

It can trigger numerous problems within the Jeep, including,

• The fuel-to-air ratio
• Disrupts the engine functions
• Makes it more difficult to start the Jeep
• The Jeep keeps stalling when it’s stopped.

Fortunately, the problem is easy to fix and doesn’t require much of your time. You can take off your throttle and clean it with some throttle body cleaners and a rag.

Ensure that you don’t get any of the additives directly on the sensor. It could disrupt the sensor’s functioning.

Clean the throttle body every time you replace your air filter to minimize the chances of it being clogged.

If cleaning the throttle body doesn’t seem to help or it was not clogged in the first place, then you should replace your position sensor.

5. Water Leaks In The Jeep’s Cabin

Water leaks and wind noises while driving have been reported in the Jeep Wrangler because both originate from problems with the Jeep doors or window seals.

Sometimes, the window seals either wear out or shift a bit and can cause water leaks, and sometimes piercing wind noises to enter the cabin. Now, a leaky seal has no solution but a replacement service.

Sometimes problems can arise from worn-out fasteners that leave small gaps for the wind and water to get in.

Wranglers generally have a hard top that’s a bit technical to remove. Thus, keeping the panels lined up when you put them on is best. But, if you’re dealing with a soft top, it requires more attention, effort, and maintenance.

Here are a couple of things you must look out for when replacing a soft top.

• Wear Velcro
• Worn out zippers
• Frayed seams
• Worn seals

A soft top is best to be replaced every few years when you’ve had the Jeep for long enough.

6. The Transfer Case Fails

The transfer case is filled with grease to keep the gears working smoothly.

Over time, the grease can start running out of the seals, which makes it difficult for you to shift the Jeep between four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive.

Eventually, the grease catches up with the gears, and that’s when you know you have to replace the transfer case.

But, sometimes the issue does not lie in the worn-out seals but rather in the adjustment rod of the transfer case.

When the shifter rod is out of order, the Jeep gets stuck in four-wheel drive. Here’s how you can fix that.

• Locate the nut that connects the road to the shift lever.
• Loosen the nut
• Adjust the rod by hand and tighten the nut back in place.

7. The TIPM Malfunction

TIPM stands for the totally integrated power module.

It’s usually found in newer models and sends power to windows, door locks, horns, and similar other electronic functions within the Jeep Wrangler.

If there’s an electronic malfunction, the TIPM can,

• Start honking the horn at random times.
• Roll the windows up and down
• Lock or unlock the doors at random times during driving.

If the electronic malfunctions become more regular, get the TIPM replacement at the nearest dealer’s shop to fix the issue.

8. The Fuel Overflows In Filling The Tank

If you see some faded paint under the fuel door, it’s evident that the Jeep either has this problem or is about to. Few Jeepers report that the pump doesn’t turn off until the tank overflows from the filler neck.

Sometimes, changing the filler neck covers the issue.

Either that or getting a professional to evaluate your gas tank helps to sort out the issue.

Mostly, if you observe the pump and fill the gas carefully, it doesn’t seem like much of a problem.

9. Tail Light Circuit Boards Suffer A Corrosion

Sometimes, water seeps into the Jeep Wrangler through the tail light circuit boards and causes corrosion to take place. You could replace the bulb, but it still won’t turn ON.

Either replacing the circuit board solves the issue, or you have to change the entire tail light. Sometimes, it happens after you replace a fused bulb.

You should ensure that the tail light is accurately adjusted in place so there is no crack left open for leaks.

Seal the gaskets properly to avoid corrosion. If you’re replacing a circuit board, use the new gaskets that come with the kit.

10. The Ignition Switch Malfunctions

In newer models, sometimes the engine stops during the drive.

The problem appears as if it’s coming from the engine but it could be an ignition switch failure.

You can get your ignition switch checked and replaced by the nearest shop if you suffer a similar situation.

General Pros And Cons Of The Jeep Wrangler

Pros:

• The Jeep Wrangler is unmatched for long drives in the wilderness.
• It’s one of those few no-compromise vehicles that just make your life easier on vacations.
• It has removable doors and a top to enjoy the view and weather.
• Apart from being a powerful vehicle overall, it allows a diesel engine for Jeepers who want to keep a budget above all else.
• Although it already has a classic look, the customization options are extensive.
• The Jeep Wrangler is excessively modern in terms of tech; infotainment and smartphone integration are one of its most impressive features.

Cons:

• Clogged injectors
• Exhaust leaks
• Water leaks
• TIPM malfunctions
• Tail light corrosion

What Do The Reviews Say?

Many reviews have highlighted that the Jeep Wrangler has a rigid structure. Some may even say it’s built like a truck but drives like a car.

The price is expensive, but the classy and modern interior makes it worth it.

“It is simple, rugged, and adventurous. My Jeep has an amazing, bomb-proof 4.0 straight six-cylinder engine that provides adequate power. My Jeep has a 2-inch lift with 35 in bf Goodrich to tires that seem to do well on all terrain, whether it’s mud, sand, or the highway.”

Source: (Jeepreviews.com)

The Wrangler has a narrow body which is a great feature of off-road terrain.

The decent amount of cargo space and the option to fold the rear seats onto the floor if extensive space is required.

“Whether you’re in the desert or mountains riding across gravel, dirt, and tight logging roads, you won’t regret owning one. I run my stock with 30″ wheels and can hit very aggressive trails with no problem. The best turn radius is on this thing. I can turn around on a dime in any tight situation and squeeze into tight parking spots.”

Source: (Jeepreviews.com)

If you want to take the Jeep Wrangler for rock crawling or in areas with deep mud, you can get it lifted a little. It suits the locations better and helps you drive more smoothly.