The 2018 Jeep Wrangler lasts around 250,000 miles with only some electrical and water leak issues reported. At $23,275 to $37,700, it’s expensive, but really is the only option if you want an extreme off-roader with a factory warranty.
Is the 2018 Jeep Wrangler a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2018 is a good year for the Wrangler, yet it still isn’t a great daily driver since it focuses heavily on off-road driving, giving it average overall score. Owner reviews praise the new electronics, high ground clearance, as well as the great four-wheel-drive system.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are improved from earlier years, the seats are comfortable, although cargo space is lower than other SUVs.
- Reliability 7/10 – There are no major problems found on the 2018 Jeep Wrangler, however, it’s still not as reliable as some other SUVs in the same price range. Models from 2013–2021 are all decent choices.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from either the V6 or the turbocharged 4-cylinder, but it’s not going to be winning many races.
- Safety 6/10 – The 2018 Wrangler is not very safe, earning only 3 stars overall in government crash tests. There’s a standard rearview camera, while parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, along with rear cross traffic alert systems are all optional.
- Gas Mileage 6/10 – Fuel economy is poor at 24 MPG, giving 516 miles of range from the 21.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $40 higher than average, at $266 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The Jeep Wrangler depreciates slower than other SUVs, making it a great value since you can own one without losing a lot of money.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Jeep Wrangler?
- Consumer Reports says the 2018 Jeep Wrangler offers great improvements over the older models, with average owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the Wrangler at 3.3/5, praising the up-to-date technology, but doesn’t like the small cargo area.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Wrangler a 4.5/5, enjoying the excellent off-road capabilities, but owners don’t like the low fuel economy.
What Common Problems Does the 2018 Jeep Wrangler Have?
Common problems found on the 2018 Jeep Wrangler include failures to start, water leaking into the cabin, as well as some suspension issues. Overall, these problems are a bit worse than other SUVs, yet normal for an off-roader. Repair bills are also higher than other SUVs as they age.
Failure to start is the most widespread complaint from 2018 Jeep Wrangler owners at around 20,000 miles. The most common reason is an electrical issue such as a dead battery or worn-out alternator. If you have low voltage, then usually it’s a sign of a damaged EGR valve which costs $450 to replace.
Water leaking into the cabin also shows up on some Wrangler models in the first 10,000 miles. Many of the panels on the Jeep Wrangler are designed to be removed, which leads to them fitting loosely on the roof and doors. If these are not installed properly, water may leak into the cabin. Fixing the issues at a dealership usually costs under $100 since they may replace some seals if they were damaged while reinstalling the panels.
Suspension issues, commonly called the “death wobble” are relatively rare, yet still show up on some 2018 Wrangler models at around 30,000 miles. The front steering and suspension components come loose after hard off-roading adventures, leading to wobbling. Checking the parts and tightening them up costs around $250, while replacing any damaged parts can cost $500 to $1,800 depending on the source.
There are 11 recalls on the 2018 Jeep Wrangler, which is worse than other midsize SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall covers the steering shaft which can split, leading to a loss of control. Jeep will replace the parts on affected models. Many other recalls cover seat belts and latches, which are much easier to change out.
How Long Will the 2018 Jeep Wrangler Last?
A well-maintained 2018 Jeep Wrangler can 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 SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $662 per year.
As a used Jeep Wrangler reaches 100,000 miles owners should be prepared to replace the A/C expansion valve for $400, fuel injectors costing $365, as well as the window switches which cost $180.
Currently my jeep is extremely reliable. My car has never broken down on me and runs smoothly. I could not ask for a better car.
The jeep wrangler is mostly reliable. It can tend to have some problems in the rain with slipping. Other than that I have had no problems.
I wish the hard top wasn't as heavy. It drives rough, but understandable because it is a jeep. Otherwise, no problems.
No, I have not had any issues with my jeep wrangler sport. It gets me where I am going and back home on a daily basis.
My wrangler has been very reliable. I drive it as my primary vehicle and have not had any issues with it.
It is very reliable. Since I have had the vehicle I haven't had any issues with it the jeep. Took it riding out in dirt roads and it did a great job.
Yes, it is a very reliable vehicle. Only had a few minor problems and they were always covered by warranty. Always feel safe with the kiddos in the car!
This jeep is extremely reliable; I have had no mechanical problems with it whatsoever. The tire air pressure system is a little sensitive during changes of weather however.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is good with a standard 5-inch touchscreen found on entry-level models. The Sahara has a 7-inch touchscreen, while there’s also an optional 8.4-inch Uconnect system.
Safety technology is worse than many other midsize SUVs offering a standard rearview camera. Optional upgrades include rear parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, as well as rear cross traffic alert.
Is the 2018 Jeep Wrangler a Good Value?
Yes, the 2018 Jeep Wrangler is a good value if you’re looking for an off-road capable SUV. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $23,375 to $37,800, making it more expensive than a Honda Pilot or Subaru Outback. When new, the price range was $23,995 to $41,445. Depreciation is much better than average, only losing about 4% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Jeep Wrangler?
There are four main models of the Jeep Wrangler offered in 2018, from the base Sport all the way up to the capable Rubicon. The 2018 Wrangler also comes as either a regular two-door Wrangler or a four-door Unlimited model.
Sport is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Upholstery
- Skid Plates
- Fog Lights
- Keyless Entry
- Power Door Locks
- Removable Doors
- Manual Windows
- Fold-Down Window
- Cruise Control
- 5-Inch Uconnect Touchscreen
- Bluetooth
- Rearview Camera
- Eight-Speaker Sound System
Sport S is a step up, adding:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Automatic Headlights
- Power Windows
- Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
- Sun Visors With Vanity Mirror
Sahara is next in the lineup, which adds:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Painted Exterior Trim
- Automatic Headlights
- 115-volt Outlet
- USB Port
- 7-Inch Touchscreen
- Satellite Radio
- Eight-Speaker Audio System
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
Rubicon is the flagship model and has:
- Unique 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Off-Road Tires
- Rock Rails
- Dana M210 Front Axle
- Dana M220 Rear Axle
- 20 Axle Gearing
- Rear Locking Differentials
- Leather Seating
- 4-Inch Uconnect System
- Heated Seats
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Heated Steering Wheel
What Engines Come In the Jeep Wrangler?
- The standard found in the 2018 Jeep Wrangler is a reasonably strong 3.6L V6 which makes 285 horsepower while getting up to 20 MPG. It comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission while an eight-speed automatic transmission is optional. Performance is good, taking 6.8 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
- There’s a more efficient 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder which generates 270 horsepower at up to 24 MPG. This engine comes standard with the eight-speed automatic transmission.
What Colors Does the Jeep Wrangler Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Jeep Wrangler?
The 2081 Jeep Wrangler is not the most comfortable midsize SUV on the market with seating for up to five passengers. Seats are reasonably comfortable, yet they’re not as supportive as in other vehicles. It’s also offered in either a two or four-door configuration.
Passenger room is cramped in the rear seats of the two-door model, while the four-door version has enough legroom for taller adults.
How Much Storage Space Does the Jeep Wrangler Have?
There’s less cargo space than many competitors, offering only enough room for 2-3 suitcases behind the seat in the two-door model. The four-door Wrangler Unlimited model is more practical with enough space for 5-6 suitcases behind the seats, and around 12 with the seats folded flat.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fourth generation of the Jeep Wrangler, known as the JL was introduced in 2018, and is still being made as of 2022.
2015: Standard stereo system upgraded, tool kit includes tools needed to remove the doors.
2016: New exterior colors and special edition models added.
2017: Remote start, heated seats, and LED headlights all added as optional upgrades.
2018: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation with new engines, styling, and technology.
2019: Forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control systems added.
2020: New diesel V6 engine offered, Moab model discontinued.
2021: Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid and Rubicon 392 editions both introduced.
How Does the Jeep Wrangler Compare to the Competition?
The Jeep Wrangler is an SUV which is completely focused on off-road performance, which makes it skip some of the on-road comforts you expect from a modern SUV. It’s a great choice if you plan on hitting trails, yet may not be the best daily driver.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is another SUV offered by Jeep which is available in the same price range. Passenger space and technology are both better in the Jeep Grand Cherokee, while the Jeep Wrangler has a stronger 4WD system. We recommend the Jeep Grand Cherokee for most shoppers, unless you know you want the Wrangler.
The Toyota 4Runner is a competitor which costs around $4,000 more. Technology and reliability are both better in the Toyota 4Runner, while the Jeep Wrangler has more ground clearance for taller obstacles. We recommend the Toyota 4Runner since they last longer, and are nearly as good off road.
Do Owners Recommend the Jeep Wrangler?
Yes. It is safe, reliable, and a great looking car. Anyone can purchase a jeep and is a great car for anyone at any age.
Yes. I absolutely love it. The style is nice and comfortable. I love the height as it provides easy visibility.
Yes, my best vehicle thus car. I like that it is versatile. I like that I can use it for work, and have fun with it on the weekends.
Yes, I love my jeep wrangler sport. It gets where I need to go, when I need to go. It will be fun to go off roading too.
Yes, I absolutely love driving my wrangler. It is a comfortable ride and has all the features I need and want.
Yes, and it rides really good. I compared it with just the regular wrangler and the Sahara rode smoother. Bumps in the road wasn't as bad. It is very easy to drive and handle.
Yes! Love to drive the kiddos around in my wrangler:) lots of room and great for family trips. I recommend for families!
Yes! It drives well, is a comfortable ride, and much quieter than the other jeeps I have owned. And driven.