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Reliability is incredibly important to consumers. It can be the difference between getting a vehicle and passing on it. One small SUV is more reliable than its rivals, based on a study. Surprisingly, this SUV’s reliability has been questioned by several automotive publications and drivers. Is this Jeep SUV really one of the most reliable models in its segment?

The Jeep Wrangler is incredibly durable

A red 2023 Jeep Wrangler small SUV is driving on the road.
The 2023 Jeep Wrangler | Jeep

ISeeCars.com is an automotive research websites that conducts large studies. The site conducted a reliability study to determining which small SUVs were most durable over a long period of time. ISeeCars found the Jeep Wrangler to be the most reliable small SUV after analyzing millions of SUVs. The Wrangler scored an 8.5 or 85% for reliability. On the other hand, RepairPal gave the small SUV a reliability score that was just above average.

Consumer Reports gave the 2023 Jeep Wrangler a low predicted reliability score. So, what gives? Why do so many different sites and publications disagree on the small SUV’s reliability?

Is the Wrangler actually reliable?

A blue Jeep Wrangler small SUV is driving on the road.
The 2023 Jeep Wrangler | Jeep

According to CarComplaints.com, the Wrangler isn’t without its issues. One of its most-reported problems is the ‘death wobble’ on the 2007 model year. A ‘death wobble’ is when a steering wheel shakes uncontrollably from side to side (an extremely dangerous issue).

The Jeep Wrangler isn’t the most reliable small SUV in its segment in the eyes of most consumers and experts. That being said, the off-road vehicle does have exceptional longevity. Off-road vehicles tend to be more durable than other models. The Jeep Wrangler is built to outlast many competitors, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t costly to maintain.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler is built for adventure

A red 2023 Jeep Wrangler small SUV is driving through the water.
The 2023 Jeep Wrangler | Jeep

The Jeep Wrangler starts at $31,195. It uses a 3.6-liter V6 engine to make 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Wrangler gets 22 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway.

The small off-road SUV is praised for its off-roading capability, customizability, and powertrain options. Kelley Blue Book compliments its tech and styling.

Jeep’s small SUV is best suited for drivers that enjoy taking the road less traveled. The Wrangler is made for adventurers but isn’t the ideal daily driver for most consumers.

Should you get a Jeep Wrangler?

Ultimately, the Jeep Wrangler isn’t every driver’s first choice. It’s made specifically for drivers that plan on regularly going off-road. The Toyota RAV4 is currently the most popular SUV in the world. It’s so ubiquitous because it’s affordable, practical, and efficient. The Wrangler caters to a different demographic than more popular models like the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V.

Jeep’s small SUV may be long-lasting, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for every driver. The jury is still out on whether or not the Wrangler is truly reliable or not, but it certainly holds value for folks that want to hit the trails. Is the Jeep Wrangler the most controversial small SUV model in its segment?

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