Looking at My 1st Jeep

[mudder]

I've been lurking on the forum long time and have finally made the plunge to buy a JKU. At first, I began looking at 2007-10s trying to find a deal. As I found out, and everyone knows Jeeps hold their value... even with higher mileage. Looking to find something with lower mileage and fewer repairs down the road and maybe some warranty left I searched 2011-14 to see the damage. I found quite a few local '13s and 14s still on the lots with below 10K miles, demos?, and at nicely discounted prices. I'm guessing this must be an anomaly based on location, NYC/NJ, Jersey City dealership. NJ http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-...d=65097481&searchRadius=0&listingId=382902747. A similar JKU bare bones with steel wheels @ 24K. Anything to watch out for?

An additional question. Is 62 years old too late to buy your 1st Jeep?

 

[HRPINDC]

First off you are never too old for a Jeep. Especially a JK, since they're so much more comfortable than previous models. So long as you can hop up in 'em, you're golden. As far as things to look for, I prefer the Pentastar 3.6 over the previous 3.8. I think it's a better engine all the way around, but I'm sure some will disagree. So that means no earlier than 2012. If you look at a 2012, make certain that the heads have been replaced, as that was a big issue in 2012. Aside from that, I can't think of any obvious things to look for. If it's been modified, I would evaluate the parts and installation. If it's been off-road, check the axles, u-joints, steering knuckles, oil pan and gas tank for obvious damage. Look under the carpets for mold or evidence of extreme leaks. That aside, you should be all set. Good luck in your search and enjoy your Jeep! Don't forget to wave.

 

[Pinelogcreek]

First of all buy one, but make sure to get what you really want. I will wait for the beating but most don't need a rubicon and I would take a lower miles sport any day over a high mileage rubicon to meet my price. If you are going to travel alone the two door is fine, if you are going to travel with someone or with much gear get the JKU. I went through the same process when I bought my first one in 2013. It took me a long time to get to the place in life where I could afford it and I love it. I really wanted a two door, or so I thought until I gave the JKU an honest look. I have driven it 12 hours at the time and love it. Go and look at both side by side and be honest with yourself about what you need. Look for one with 3.73 gears the are just right to me. Ps learn to wave, it's a jeep thing.

 

[Bobs boot camping]

the 2012 + has some issues with the exhaust routing and drive shafts. If you find one that is all ready lifted check the driver side exhaust and drive shaft. The Hemi engine swap is nice, improves longevity but not performance much.

 

[mudder]

First of all buy one, but make sure to get what you really want. I will wait for the beating but most don't need a rubicon and I would take a lower miles sport any day over a high mileage rubicon to meet my price. If you are going to travel alone the two door is fine, if you are going to travel with someone or with much gear get the JKU. I went through the same process when I bought my first one in 2013. It took me a long time to get to the place in life where I could afford it and I love it. I really wanted a two door, or so I thought until I gave the JKU an honest look. I have driven it 12 hours at the time and love it. Go and look at both side by side and be honest with yourself about what you need. Look for one with 3.73 gears the are just right to me. Ps learn to wave, it's a jeep thing.

Thanks Pinelogcreek, 2 maybe in the future for JKU, but I agree 3.73s and not many in the area. Step up to Rubi? Options? Wave

 

[Idahoan]

I've had them all... I'm a huge fan of the 12+ JKs with he 3.6.

 

[nnnnnate]

I have trouble getting my camping gear in the back of a 2 door with my dog. I have a real big dog but regardless wish I had the 4 door for space. The other thing I have realized since buying my '13 last November is that I didn't need to get rid of my truck to go out and explore. 95% of the miles I have done in my JK (18k) I could have done in my crew cab long bed diesel. Some days I wish I would have kept the truck just for towing and size, a lot of days I'm super happy I have a tiny Jeep to putt around in. Point is, you don't need a Jeep to explore, you just need some gas and some time.

Enjoy what ever you end up with.

 

[mudder]

Thanks nnnnnate, the Unlimmeted does fit better for me with space, carry capacity; bikes,camping and supplies at events. As a purist tho, I still like the original 2 door. Happy trails with yours.

 

[Pinelogcreek]

The only options important to me were the 3.73 lsd and premium soft top. Being a sinus sufferer the top was sold for a hard top . I will say the premium soft top is every bit as quiet as the hard top and was a pleasure to use. Everything you want including upgraded wheels and tires can be had cheap on Craigslist if you are patient. It is so easy to work on yourself with basic tools. I used 1 inch synergy coil springs and wheel spacers and run 285/75/17 tires. I have wanted one since I was a kid and could not be happier. Towing capacity is much higher on the JKU.

 

[xkid]

2012 and up jkur are pretty nice. The used one's get snapped up Imo. Good luck .

 

[BigTom73]

If you feel like you'll ever need lockers go rubi


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[NMRubicon]

I owned a 2010 JK Rubicon, loved it, the 3.8 was a little lacking on the highway, but offroad, with the 4:1 transfer case, never had an issue. I recently traded it in, and ate some "I'll never own a 4dr Jeep crow" for a 2015 JK Unlimited Rubicon, I love the space! I want to start doing some exploring in the state I live, and this thing fits the bill! Even with 4 people, it easily has twice the cargo space of my 2dr. The 3.6 definitely has more power, and I'm getting 1-3 mpg better than with the 3.8, and this in a heavier vehicle, it cruises very nice at highway speeds, and I still have the 4:1 transfer case coupled with the increased HP and torque. I will say that 99% of my offroad experiences never required lockers, but that 1%, I was sure glad I had them.