IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2012–2014 Jeep Wrangler (JK)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2012–2014 Jeep Wrangler (JK). 3 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
3
Serious
0
Moderate
1
Minor

The 2012–2014 period has 3 more issues than the Jeep Wrangler (JK) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

The "Death Wobble"

SeriousSteering

A violent, uncontrollable shaking of the front end, usually triggered by a bump at speed. Caused by worn track bar bushings, ball joints, or steering dampers.

Estimated cost: £150–£1,200Affects: 2007–2018Often appears around: 40,000–100,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Violent shaking of the steering wheel
  • •Car feels like it's "shaking apart"
  • •Loose steering feel

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for play in the track bar and drag link
  • ✓Look for leaking steering dampers
  • ✓Verify if a poor lift kit has been installed

TIPM (Electrical Brain) Failure

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) can fail, leading to bizarre electrical behavior where the car seems "possessed."

Estimated cost: £600–£1,200Affects: 2007–2014

Typical symptoms

  • •Horn honking randomly
  • •Wipers won't turn off
  • •Engine stalling while driving
  • •Fuel pump staying on after car is off

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Ensure all electrical functions work correctly
  • ✓Check for signs of "bypass" wires in the fuse box

Oil Cooler Leak (3.6 Pentastar)

SeriousEngine

The plastic oil cooler housing cracks, leaking oil into the "V" of the engine.

Estimated cost: £400–£700Affects: 2012–2018

Typical symptoms

  • •Smell of burning oil
  • •Oil pooling on top of engine
  • •Low oil level

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Shine a light into the valley between the cylinder banks

Door Hinge Corrosion

MinorBodywork & Rust

Galvanic corrosion between the aluminum hinges and the steel door panels causes paint to bubble.

Estimated cost: £300–£1,000Affects: 2007–2018

Typical symptoms

  • •Bubbling paint around hinges
  • •White powder under paint

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Look closely at every hinge point for paint defects

Buying Tips for the 2012 Jeep Wrangler (JK)

  • ✓Check the floor mats for dampness; the "Freedom Top" hard panels are notorious for leaking.
  • ✓Inspect the chassis for mud/salt buildup, which leads to rapid corrosion in the UK climate.
  • ✓Ensure the 4WD lever moves through all positions smoothly.
  • ✓Test drive at 50mph; if the steering wheel shakes violently, walk away or budget for a full front-end rebuild.
2007–2011 Jeep Wrangler (JK)2015–2018 Jeep Wrangler (JK)

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Other Jeep Wrangler (JK) Year Periods

2007–20112012–20142015–2018

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