IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2015–2018 Jeep Wrangler (JK)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2015–2018 Jeep Wrangler (JK). 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
2
Serious
0
Moderate
1
Minor

The 2015–2018 period has 2 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

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 2015 Jeep Wrangler (JK)

  • ✓Inspect the chassis frame and door hinges for rust; Jeep used poor quality paint on the hinges, which frequently bubble and corrode.
  • ✓Check the underneath for severe off-road damage to the diff covers, exhaust, and suspension control arms.
  • ✓Test for "Death Wobble" (severe steering wheel shaking after hitting a bump at speed); this indicates worn track bars, ball joints, or steering dampers.
  • ✓Verify the operation of the manual 4WD transfer case lever; it should engage 4H and 4L positively, though it requires a firm pull.
  • ✓Check the removable hardtop panels ("Freedom Top") for leaks around the seals, which frequently drip onto the front seats.
  • ✓Look for electrical faults in the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), which can cause random issues with lights, horn, and wipers.
2012–2014 Jeep Wrangler (JK)

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Other Jeep Wrangler (JK) Year Periods

2007–20112012–20142015–2018

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