The 2013 Jeep Wrangler lasts around 250,000 miles with some average engine stalling and suspension issues. At $20,886 to $30,208, it’s expensive, yet is a great choice if you’re in the market for an off-road focused SUV.
Is the 2013 Jeep Wrangler a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2013 is a good year for the Wrangler. It’s off-road focused while missing comfort & technology features found on other SUVs. Owner reviews praise the fun driving experience, high ground clearance, and 4WD system.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 6/10 – Interior materials are durable, the seats are not as comfortable as competitors in the same price range, and cargo space is limited.
- Reliability 7/10 – The 2013 Wrangler has average reliability, offering improvements from the 2012 model which had more issues. We recommend models from 2013-2020, which are all good choices.
- Performance 7/10 – The V6 engine offers great power for a midsize SUV. Since the Wrangler is lighter than other SUVs, it’s relatively quick.
- Safety 4/10 – The 2013 Wrangler gets an overall safety rating of 3 stars in government crash tests which is one of the worst safety scores. There’s no optional advanced safety technology features available.
- Gas Mileage 6/10 – Fuel economy is poor at up to 21 MPG, giving 470 miles of range from the 22.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $37 higher than average at $273 per month.
- Value 9/10 – Used Jeep Wranglers depreciate slower than nearly every other SUVs on the market, making them a great value.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Jeep Wrangler?
- Consumer Reports says the Wrangler’s updated powertrain makes it the best version yet, and it has good owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Wrangler a 4.0/5 and enjoy the strong V6 engine, but doesn’t like the noisy cabin.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Wrangler 4.5/5, praising the outstanding off-road capabilities, but owners don’t like the small back seats.
What Common Problems Does the 2013 Jeep Wrangler Have?
The common complaints found on the 2013 Jeep Wrangler include the engine stalling while driving, computer failures, and suspension issues. Overall, these problems are more severe than average midsize SUVs, yet common for an off-roader. Repair costs are also higher than average.
The engine stalling while driving is a widespread common complaint from Wrangler owners at around 60,000 miles. There are many reasons the engine can stall. Many owners have found a broken crank position sensor. Replacing the crank position sensor costs around $90.
Computer failures are another serious problem mentioned by owners at around 50,000 miles. The totally integrated power module (TIPM) is a known weak spot across many Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge models from 2013. Replacing the TIPM is a costly project, which is about $1,300.
Suspension and steering issues, called the “death wobble” are also mentioned at around 30,000 miles. A worn-out steering stabilizer is the most common source of the problem. Changing out the steering stabilizer along with the bushings costs around $650.
There are 7 recalls which are average compared to other midsize SUVs from 2013. The most serious recall is for a transmission fluid leak, which can lead to the transmission failing. Jeep will replace a transmission cooler line for free on affected models. Most of the other recalls are for airbags, which are common across all SUVs.
How Long Will the 2013 Jeep Wrangler Last?
A well-maintained 2013 Jeep Wrangler should last around 250,000 miles, which is about 100,000 miles less than the top-rated Toyota 4Runner. Regular annual maintenance costs are more expensive than other midsize SUVs, according to data from Repair Pal, at $685 per year.
Since most used 2013 Wrangler models have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace items including the neutral safety switch for $175, steering knuckle costing $800, and the mass airflow sensor, which costs around $150.
Yes I have had a few problems with the heat that I have put money into it to have it fix and a year later the same things happens all over again. I have been told that this is an ongoing problem.
No it does not have any issues, I have low mileage on this jeep so time will tell if it is reliable or not.
I have occasional leaks. I have changed the battery and the battery still dies from time to time. Although I think it might be the wires are too old. The top off road bar lights make a lot of noise while driving.
It has never left me stranded. But there is always a sensor that needs to be replaced every few months.
Knock on wood but so far, so good. I love that this car is very customizable so you can find lots of aftermarket parts. The gas mileage is predictable, the 4x4 works well and is a lot easier to shift into than the new jl wranglers. I have had no issues yet and bought it used with only 27k miles on it.
The Sahara is very reliable. Very few problems but yes it does have them just like any other vehicle. I have had 2 minor problems so far and I have owned it for 1 year.
Only normal maintenance like breaks, oil and filter and so on. No major problems in the past 3 years
No, it has been to the dealership at least 7 times this past year for issues with overheating and the radiator.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is basic compared to other midsize SUVs from 2013. There’s an optional touchscreen navigation system available. Safety technology worse than other SUVs, with no advanced features offered.
Is the 2013 Jeep Wrangler a Good Value?
Yes, the 2013 Jeep Wrangler is a good value even though it’s expensive since it depreciates slowly. Blue book prices range from $20,886 to $30,208, making it more expensive than a Nissan Xterra or Jeep Grand Cherokee. When new, the price range was $22,295 to $34,295. Depreciation is better than average, losing under 5% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Jeep Wrangler?
There are three models of the Jeep Wrangler offered in 2013, from the base Sport model up to the very capable Rubicon. The Wrangler is available with either 2 or 4-doors.
Sport is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Soft Top
- Cloth Seating
- Manual Windows & Locks
- 6-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With 3.5mm AUX
Sahara is a step up, adding:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Upgraded Suspension
- Body-Colored Fender Flares
- 6-Speaker Alpine Stereo System
- Power Locks
Rubicon is the top-of-the-line version with:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- 32-Inch Tires
- Upgraded Front & Rear Axles
- Locking Differentials
- Leather Steering Wheel
- Optional Navigation System With Bluetooth & USB
What Engines Come In the Jeep Wrangler?
The engine found in the 2013 Wrangler is a strong 3.6L V6 which makes 285 horsepower while getting up to 21 MPG. Performance is good, taking about 7.1 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Jeep Wrangler Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Jeep Wrangler?
The 2013 Jeep Wrangler is not as comfortable as other midsize SUVs, yet still has enough space for 5 people. Jeep sacrifices on comfort with basic seats while focusing heavily on durability.
Passenger space is terrible in the backseats of the 2-door model, but the 4-door version has an average amount of legroom compared to other SUVs.
How Much Storage Space Does the Jeep Wrangler Have?
Cargo space is worse than other midsize SUVs with enough space for 2-3 suitcases in the 2-door model. The 4-door model is better and there’s room for 5-6 suitcases behind the back seats.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The third generation of the Jeep Wrangler, named the JK, was released in 2007. The updated fourth generation, JL, was released in 2018.
2011: New interior with higher-quality materials, automatic climate control, and upgraded stereo.
2012: More powerful V6 engine and new transmission added.
2013: Better seats, tire pressure monitoring system, premium Alpine stereo available.
2014: No major changes.
2015: Upgraded 8-speaker stereo system, as well as a standard tool kit to remove doors.
2016: New exterior paint colors available.
How Does the Jeep Wrangler Compare to the Competition?
The Jeep Wrangler is a great choice if you are looking for an off-road focused midsize SUV, but it exists in a class of its own. A Wrangler is harder to live with as a daily driver, yet is a leader if you plan on hitting the trails.
The Toyota 4Runner is another midsize SUV which costs around $2,000 more. Passenger room and technology are both better in the Toyota 4Runner, however, the Jeep Wrangler comes standard with a stronger suspension. We recommend the Toyota 4Runner for a daily driver, but the Jeep Wrangler is more capable on off-road adventures.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is another off-road focused SUV which costs around $10,000 more. Reliability ratings are better on the FJ Cruiser, however, the Jeep Wrangler has more passenger and cargo space in the 4-door model. We recommend the Jeep Wrangler for most people since the FJ Cruiser is significantly more expensive to buy due to its large enthusiast community.
Do Owners Recommend the Jeep Wrangler?
Yes. I love how sporty it is and it handles snow really well. I love my jeep I have two kids and it holds up great with little kids. Plus you can take the top off in summer.
Yes, this vehicle changed my view on cars/trucks. I was very much only into cars before this jeep. Me and my wife love it, there are so many events and possibilities with this vehicle.
Yes, I like that it is roomy. I have enough space for 5 people comfortably. I enjoy the 4x4 and the option to take off roof and sidings of vehicle.
Love the vehicle, love the capability to go off road. Some sensors are a pain and keep giving me a check engine light.
I really like my wrangler! I was worried about how it would handle on the road since it is so top heavy but it is good both on and off road. I drove a 2014 grand Cherokee prior to this (the engine died this summer) and the wrangler gets worse gas mileage. It is still decent at 19-20 mpg as a daily driver. I feel very safe and it is a fun toy to take off-roading too.
I love my 2013 white jeep wrangler. I have had few problems with it. I will say gas mileage is not great on it, but to add I do have big tires which make it have less. But overall, this is a great vehicle and I love it!
Yes it suits me and meets my needs as performance and use for outdoors and camping. Also fuel consumption is average
Yes it is in great condition with only 50k miles. However it has had a lot of problems with the brakes and calipers.