The 2008 Jeep Wrangler lasts around 200,000 miles with a lot of computer and steering issues. At $12,175 to $15,591, it’s a lot of money for one of the worst years for the Wrangler.
Is the 2008 Jeep Wrangler a Good Used SUV?
- No, 2008 is a bad year for the Wrangler. Owner reviews complain about frequent leaks, widespread mechanical problems, and high running costs.
- Interior quality is poor, with a lot of plastic and cheap cloth throughout the cabin, but the infotainment system is simple to use and has good features given its age.
- Reliability ratings are below average. Avoid models from 2007 and 2008 which have mechanical problems, and we recommend a 2009 or 2010 which are far more reliable.
- Performance is average from the standard V6 engine offered, but it’s really built for off-road performance and isn’t quick on the street.
- The 2008 Wrangler is a safe SUV, getting a perfect 5-star overall rating in government crash tests, but the high suspension gives it only a 3-star rating on the rollover test.
- Fuel economy is worse than average, at up to 18 MPG, which puts it near the bottom for SUVs from 2008. Owners can expect to get about 324 miles on a tank of gas.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Wrangler?
- Consumer Reports says the Wrangler’s on road performance is not competitive, and it has very low owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the 2008 Wrangler a 4.1/5 and praises the off-road capabilities, but Edmunds doesn’t like the noisy cabin.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Wrangler 4.5/5 and enjoy the high suspension, however, owners don’t like the lack of cargo space.
What Common Problems Does the 2008 Jeep Wrangler Have?
Common problems found on the 2008 Jeep Wrangler include computer failures, steering issues, and engine problems. Overall, the issues found on the Wrangler are serious and cost more money to fix than other SUVs from 2008.
Computer failures with the totally integrated power module (TIPM) are extremely widespread, happening at around 100,000 miles. The TIPM is a known weak spot across many Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles. Replacing the parts costs about $1,000, depending on labor rates.
Steering issues, which lead to “death wobble”, or excessive shaking at highway speeds, are also reported by owners at around 65,000 miles. The ball joints and steering stabilizer wear out quickly and cost around $1,200 to replace.
Excessive oil consumption is another frequent issue reported by owners in the first 50,000 miles. There are some issues with the way oil moves throughout the engine. Some owners choose to just top off their oil regularly, while others replace components costing about $3,000.
There are 9 recalls, which is an average for SUVs from 2008, with the most serious one being for the transmission overheating which can lead to a fire.
How Long Will the 2008 Jeep Wrangler Last?
A well-maintained 2008 Jeep Wrangler should last around 200,000 miles, which is about 150,000 miles less than other off-road SUVs like the Toyota FJ Cruiser. Regular annual maintenance costs are much higher than rivals, according to Repair Pal, at $627 per year.
Most 2008 Wrangler models will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace items including the alternator for $600, engine oil pan costing $500, and the brake booster which costs $450.
It is reliable, however I strongly prefer the 4.0 inline 6 versus the 3.8 v6. It has plenty of power and torque, but the 4.0 is much easier to work on yourself.
I haven't had any problems with it and I am the second owner of the vehicle. It is really reliable and gets me where I need to go.
Very reliable. Never has left me stranded. Only issue is a cracked exhaust manifold. Other than that no issues.
My current Jeep I haven't had any problems with. The only problem I have ever had with a Jeep is that the steering axle can easily break.
Very reliable. Just normal maintenance. I just redid the breaks. But other than that I haven't had any problems
Yes it is reliable but yes it can have problems for example my engine broke down and I had to pay almost 6 grand to fix it
How Much Is the 2008 Jeep Wrangler Worth?
Blue book values range from $12,175 to $15,591, making the Wrangler thousands more than a Jeep Grand Cherokee or Toyota 4Runner. When new, the price range was $19,505 to $30,240. Depreciation is better than average, only losing about 6% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Wrangler?
There are three main models of the Jeep Wrangler available for 2008, and they’re offered in 2-door or 4-door variants. Technology was last updated in 2007, with a new infotainment system added in 2010.
X is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Air Conditioning
- AM/FM/CD Stereo System With 6 Speakers
Sahara is a step up adding features including:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Body-Colored Fenders
- Premium Cloth Fabric
- Cruise Control
- Limited-Slip Rear Differential
- Infinity Stereo System With Satellite Radio
Rubicon is the ultimate Wrangler and adds:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- BF Goodrich Off-Road Tires
- Electronic Stabilizer Disconnect
- Upgraded Off-Road Suspension
What Engines Come In the Wrangler?
The only engine available in the 2008 Wrangler is the average 3.8L V6, which makes 202 horsepower and gets up to 18 MPG combined. Performance is average, taking 7.5 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH, and the towing capacity is up to 3,500 pounds.
What Colors Does the Wrangler Come In?
How Big Is the Wrangler?
The 2008 Jeep Wrangler is classified as a midsize SUV, but is smaller than competitors including the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. Passenger room is cramped in the backseats of the Wrangler, even with the larger 4-door model.
Cargo space is lower than rivals as well, with 17.2 cubic feet of room behind the seats in the 2-door and up to 61.2 cubic with the seats folded flat. The 4-door is more generous offering 46.4 cubic feet of room behind the seats, and up to 86.8 with them folded flat. That’s enough space for 3-4 suitcases in the 2-door, and 6-8 suitcases in the 4-door.
How Does the Wrangler Compare to the Competition?
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is the closest rival to the Wrangler, costing about $3,000 less. Interior room and materials are better in the Toyota FJ Cruiser, but the Jeep Wrangler has more ground clearance. We recommend the Toyota FJ Cruiser since they last significantly longer, and are just as good off-road.
The Nissan Xterra is another competitor costing about $6,000 less. Passenger room is better in the Nissan Xterra, but the Jeep Wrangler’s 4WD system is much stronger. We do not recommend either SUV for the 2008 model year since they both have mechanical issues.
Do Owners Recommend the Jeep Wrangler?
Yes, it depends on what you want to use it for, but is very reliable. Handles great in the snow, off road, in the city and on the highways.
Yes! I absolutely love it. It is reliable and is a smooth ride. I like the height as well, it is easy to see the ground and other surrounding vehicles.
Awesome vehicle. Runs great gas mileage is perfect and handles great. Engine has 170k and has no major issues changing oil every 3k.
Awesome vehicle! It’s super fun in the summer to have the top down, doors off and a tank in the snow/winter time!
Yes, I want nothing but jeeps. I love being able to take the top off in the summer. I love how long they last. Easy to drive. Never has any issues
Yes it, I personally like it because it is fun to drive. But it can be costly to repair, well if needed to be