Does Anyone Regret Buying the Jeep Gladiator?
You’ll notice that 2020 Jeep Gladiator and newer models are starting to hit used truck lots. Also, the 2023 model is currently out too, but is it worth buying? With the 2023 Jeep Gladiator being such a niche truck, it could be a gamble. So, let’s see what the owners thought.
Is the Jeep Gladiator worth buying?
Yes, but it’s important to remember that the Jeep Gladiator isn’t for everyone. It’s built for off-roading and adventuring. Therefore it may have a lightly bumpier ride on pavement compared to other options. However, it’s also a very capable work truck.
Reportedly, the ride quality can feel jiggly at times with the 2021 Jeep Gladiator. But this is due to the solid-axle front suspension. Plus, the boxy shape of the truck generates noticeable wind noise. However, the Gladiator has a longer wheelbase than the Jeep Wrangler. As a result, it has a smoother performance.
Aside from that, the seats are very supportive, the climate control system is strong, it has one of the largest back seats in its segment, and more. It’s pretty comfortable, and it’s the only convertible truck. It has an advantage for families with the most back seat space.
Is the Gladiator reliable?
Yes, the Jeep Gladiator is proving the be a reliable truck. The 2023 Gladiator received a score of 85 out of 100 from J.D.Power. This puts it in the above-average category. Scores between 81 and 90 are above average, while anything between 70 and 80 is just average.
The reliability rating is based on issues reported by actual owners of previous models. Also, the Gladiator has been improving. It’s no secret that the first model year of any vehicle may have its fair share of problems. The 2020 Gladiator has a reliability score of 79, which isn’t great.
But it’s still average! Plus, the 2021 model has a score of 85. This indicates that issues with the first model year may have been corrected.
Also, the Jeep Gladiator is expected to make it between 200,000 to 250,000 miles. It may provide between 15 to 17 years of service on the road if you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year.
Potential Gladiator problems to consider
If you look at Car Complaints, you’ll see where some owners struggled with 2020 Gladiator problems. This forum allows owners to post what exactly went wrong with their vehicles. Complaints are also added from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
While the 2020 Jeep Gladiator has ranked up about 128 complaints, the most common issue includes steering problems. Drivers reported that the vehicle wanders on the highway, and the steering is unresponsive or loose. At speeds as low as 30 mph, drivers had trouble driving straight.
However, there was a service bulletin released to acknowledge the issue. If your Gladiator feels like it’s wandering, then schedule a maintenance appointment. Replacing the steering gear or updating the Electric Hydraulic Power Steering software should correct the problem. It may also be covered under your warranty.
So far, not enough complaints have been added to other categories, such as engine or transmission issues, to cause any concern. So, maybe a few people regret buying the Jeep Gladiator, but overall, it’s been making people happy.
Positives for the Jeep Gladiator include its off-roading prowess, a robust towing capacity that maxes out at 7,650 lb when properly equipped, tech that’s easy to use, abundant cargo space, and for being fun. Stay tuned because the 2024 Gladiator is on the way with substantial updates.
