IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2019–2020 Jeep Wrangler (JL)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2019–2020 Jeep Wrangler (JL). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2019–2020 period has 2 more issues than the Jeep Wrangler (JL) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Steering Shimmy & "Death Wobble" (Recall 19V708)

SeriousSteering

The JL Wrangler is prone to a violent steering vibration known as the "Death Wobble." A major recall (19V708 / V41) was issued to replace the steering damper with a more robust unit, though many owners find that further suspension upgrades are needed for a permanent fix.

Most affected: All JL models

Estimated cost: £150–£1,000 (Free if under recall)Affects: 2018–2024Often appears around: 10,000–50,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Violent shaking of the steering wheel after hitting a bump at speed
  • •Shimmy through the wheel at 50-60mph
  • •Loose or "vague" straight-ahead feel

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Confirm if steering damper recall (19V708 / V41) has been performed
  • ✓Inspect for play in the track bar and ball joints
  • ✓Check for steering stabilizers or aftermarket dampers

Aluminum Body Panel Corrosion

ModerateBodywork & Rust

Galvanic corrosion at the hinges and panel edges of the aluminum hood, doors, and tailgate can cause paint to bubble and flake.

Most affected: All JL models

Estimated cost: £500–£2,000Affects: 2018–2024

Typical symptoms

  • •Bubbling paint on hood, door, or tailgate edges
  • •White oxidation powder under paint

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Carefully inspect all panel seams and hinge mounting points

Roof & Door-Seal Water Leaks

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The removable roof and doors are part of the Wrangler's charm, but seal alignment and drain issues mean damp carpets and wind noise are common complaints in the UK.

Most affected: All JL models

Estimated cost: £80–£500Affects: 2018–2024

Typical symptoms

  • •Wet carpets
  • •Water marks around roof joints
  • •Wind noise from doors or roof panels

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect the front footwells and roof joins
  • ✓Check for perished or misaligned seals

Buying Tips for the 2019 Jeep Wrangler (JL)

  • ✓Check the aluminium door panels and hinges for galvanic corrosion (bubbling paint), a known issue where the aluminium meets the steel frame.
  • ✓Test the 8-speed automatic gearbox; it should be vastly smoother than the old JK transmission.
  • ✓Inspect the Uconnect touchscreen for delamination (bubbles appearing under the glass), which requires a full screen replacement.
  • ✓Verify the operation of the electronic sway bar disconnect and front/rear lockers (on Rubicon models) to ensure they engage quickly.
  • ✓Check the soft top or removable hard top for wind noise and leaks; they are improved but still prone to slight dripping in heavy rain.
  • ✓Ensure the steering feels reasonably direct; while still a recirculating ball setup, it shouldn't wander excessively on the motorway.
2018 Jeep Wrangler (JL)2021 Jeep Wrangler (JL)

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Other Jeep Wrangler (JL) Year Periods

20182019–202020212022–2024

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