In 2010, my 1999 Jeep Wrangler was purchased for $11,500. Eleven years later and my Jeep was still worth a decent amount. More than most other vehicles, Jeeps tend to always avoid severe depreciation.
Why do Jeeps hold their value? Jeep has spent decades building a reputation for a vehicle that can handle anything and stand the test of time. That reputation in turn has built a barrier against depreciation. The Jeep brand has long been used and abused over earths toughest terrain and managed to still keep ticking. Along with this reputation, Jeeps have be a fan favorite and therefore retains value through popularity.
Its easy to just say a car is valuable because it is popular. But how has the Jeep brand managed to reach this point of popularity and maintain a standard for reliability?
Why Do Jeeps Have A High Reputation?
Jeep rose quickly to the top branding itself as a “jack of all trades” vehicle. Originally developed as a general purpose (GP) (yes, if you put those two letters together you get the “Jeep” sound) for the military, the Willy’s became a favorite for getting anywhere at anytime rain or shine.
To this day, the famous Jeep grill contains seven grill slots across the front. This famous logo stems from the fact that Jeep became the first vehicle to have been on all seven continents. No other brand or vehicle had come close.
With this new found reputation, Jeep was able to develop their flagship vehicle into something that defied what it meant to simply drive from point A to point B. Why not enjoy the trip instead of just being a means to an end.
And with that mentality, the Jeep Wrangler and its ancestors marked the beginning of a lifestyle. A lifestyle that has grown exponentially and has exploded the realm of aftermarket customization companies.
Throughout history we have seen vehicles keep the same name but drastically change design. But the “Wrangler” has been a timeless design that for the most part has remained the same. People like to have comfort in knowing something familiar and steady.
However, while Jeep keeps their designs pretty familiar, another reason the brand is popular is because no other vehicle is quite as matched at personal customization. Jeep owners have for decades taken to their shops to form their Wranglers and Jeep vehicles into something that matches what they want.
In that, it’s fair to say that no two Jeeps are the same. And no matter what the safety ratings are of whatever backlash Jeep gets, it is because of these enthusiasts that the brand has developed into something that can’t die.
While Jeep has a primary focus towards the off-road community, that isn’t to say it is not an on road vehicle. In fact it is the seamless marriage of the two extremes that probably plays the most significant part in it’s fame.
Having a vehicle that can safely take you to the store or around town but then at the flip of a switch or lever pull can carry you through a mountain pass or unmarked trails is like being able to drive a tank. But much more comfortable.
Some hard core enthusiasts bock at the new Wranglers and how nice they are with all the bells and whistles. But Jeep has continued to expand because it has continued to develop an automobile that can wash up and drive up to the red carpet with out getting laughed at and then on the way home take you mudding.
Despite personal preferences, the fact is that Jeep fans are fans because of the Wrangler. And because of that, the brand is set for a future of booming sells. Whether you are old school or new school, you are part of the Jeep family.
How Long Can Jeeps Last?
Like any vehicle, how long a Jeep continues to run is very much dependent on how well the owner takes care of it and is faithful with routine maintenance.
With that in mind, there are a few things to discuss regarding Jeeps lifespan and well known robustness.
Jeep really established rapport with the fandom when they perfected their 4.0 liter straight six engine. This work horse engine set many standards for the future of Jeep and many consider it be the climax of reliability.
The 4.0 was a simply engine but was built to last forever with minimum maintenance. As long as you changed the oil routinely, most people don’t report many issues.
In fact there have been numerous owners who claim 500,000 miles on their original 4.0 straight sixes. I myself can attest to at least 180,000 miles and still running great.
While engine swaps are popular for more torque or power, many enthusiast who have the straight six engine will opt to keep it for its fantastic low end torque and robust attitude.
To this day, Jeep owners can buy brand new 4.0’s for less than a supercharger.
While engines aren’t everything, they play a big part in how long a car will last. Many hope that upcoming diesel engines will only make things last longer.
Aside from the engine, Jeeps are know to last so long due to their simplicity. You don’t have excessive parts that aid in vehicle break down.
Owners in northern or coastal climates have more trouble keeping things for as long and that is due to salt causing corrosion on the frame. With a little time and preventive care, this can be avoided.
One last thing to take into account to Jeeps lifespan is once again the massive aftermarket care. Not only do owners upgrade to higher quality parts for looks and performance but anytime a piece is old or failing, it is quite easy to replace with something better.
Therefore, it is almost possible to keep a Jeep running as long as you want or have the desire to do so.
Are Jeeps Expensive to Maintain?
Yet another aspect to the Jeep brand (especially Wrangler) popularity is it’s ease and affordability to maintain.
Certain models, like the Jeep Grand Cherokee might cost more. However, the Grand Cherokee has obviously become Jeeps luxury line and this can be expected.
When it comes to the Wrangler, most owners find pride in doing their own work and maintenance. And fortunately, it is not something you have to go to mechanic school to do. With YouTube, there is a video on almost anything.
Because of this, the cost to maintain and own a Jeep Wrangler can be very minimal because you cut out the middle man.
As Jeep is made in the United States, another aspect which aids in keeping maintenance price down, is that parts are made here and don’t need to be imported. From factory replacements to any aftermarket part you want or need, you’ll find no trouble getting it in the U.S.
Not everything with Jeep is low cost however. Ask any enthusiasts out there and they will quickly tell you how expensive a Jeep can be and how much that hobby costs.
This is primarily due to the extensive upgrades found in the off-road community. It is like a fire that spreads. Once you get a taste for what Jeeps can do, you just want to make yours better and better to conquer more and more.
With axle swaps, engine swaps, custom fabrications, and more…you can find yourself with an empty wallet quite quickly. But that is entirely on you.
When it comes to owning and maintaining a Jeep off the lot, costs can be quite low if you don’t mind getting your hands dirty. Even if you don’t want to do the work yourself, you won’t find yourself spending an arm and a leg to keep your baby running.
Related Questions
Why Do Jeep Owners Wave? Like I said above, Jeep defined a new lifestyle for people around the world. This lifestyle has developed into a family. So the Jeep wave is, in short terms, an acknowledgment of family.
Is Jeep a Mopar Vehicle? Yes, Jeep belongs to Fiat Chrysler (FCA) and as such is privy to Chrysler’s brand Mopar which specializes in aftermarket accessories and genuine parts for all Chrysler branded vehicles.
What is Jeep Wave Equipped? Just like the Jeep wave is an acknowledgement of family, FCA has decided to develop the Jeep Wave program. This package offers certain owners special 24/7 assistance and incentives in order to thank Jeep owners for their continued support.
