Jeep Wrangler Buying Guide

If there’s one vehicle in the world that is quintessentially American, it has to be the Jeep. For more than 80 years, the Jeep has captured the imagination as the embodiment of Yankee ingenuity and versatility. Let’s recap a bit of Jeep history:

In the years leading up to WWII, the US Army needed a utility vehicle that was simple, cheap to produce, versatile and tough. War planners knew that the Army was in need of modernization all the way around, and that included their fleet of vehicles. Dodge had already introduced a ½-ton “command car” that was in compliance with military specs, but that vehicle was deemed too bulky and the Pentagon needed something smaller and lighter. Tiny automaker American Bantam presented a prototype that was close to what the Army needed; it was fast, maneuverable, had plenty of power, was equipped with 4WD and met most of the specs that the Army asked for, but Bantam didn’t have the manufacturing capacity to turn out the numbers that were needed.

The competition for bidding then fell to Ford and Willys. Ford’s “Pygmy” was pretty close to spec, but was powered by a primitive flathead four-cylinder tractor engine that couldn’t deliver enough horsepower and torque. In the end, the job fell to Willys and their “Quad” design; it was cheap to produce with a number of stamped-metal body parts, it was simple to maintain and repair and had a full 60 horsepower, compared to about 40 for the Ford version.

Ironically, though, much of the production of Jeeps was also done under license at Ford. By the war’s end, nearly 650,000 Jeeps had been produced and General Eisenhower called it “one of the five pieces of equipment most vital to success in Africa and Europe,” and General George Marshall regarded it as “America’s greatest contribution to modern warfare”. One of the most lauded aspects of the Jeep was its versatility; despite its small size and technical rating as a ¼ ton truck, they were put into use in combat and support roles as radio cars, weapons carriers, ambulances, staff cars and much more.

Jeeps were refitted with gun mounts, rocket racks, armor kits, winterization kits for Arctic use, and were even developed in 6x6 and half-track iterations. They were outfitted with watertight hulls to serve as amphibious Jeeps, some Jeeps were rigged with snorkels to ford deep water, and some Jeeps had steel cabins taking the place of their canvas tops. They saw service with the militaries of Russia, New Zealand, Canada, France, Britain and every other allied country as well as the American military, and were rightly beloved by troops and officers for their speed, maneuverability, dependability and near-indestructible build quality.

After the war, Willys introduced the CJ, or Civilian Jeep, model and it became an instant hit. There were a few changes, like vacuum-powered windshield wipers, slightly upgraded trim, more comfortable seats and a more powerful engine. Some Jeeps were equipped with a power takeoff shaft for running accessories, and variants like a Jeep pickup truck, Jeep station wagons and the proto-SUV Jeepster appeared, but Jeeps were already cemented into American culture and were one of the most popular vehicles around for farmers, hunters, ranchers, oilfield hands, outdoorsmen, and companies that needed a robust little vehicle to make their way around to remote areas.

What makes a Jeep Wrangler different?

That brings us up to today’s version of the iconic Jeep, the Jeep Wrangler. Introduced in the 80s, the Wrangler took the place of the CJ-7; by that time, Willys was long gone as an automaker and had been absorbed into American Motors, which in turn was bought out by Chrysler.

Before we start talking about what makes the Wrangler different, we should mention what it still has in common with its WWII ancestors:

• Leaf spring front suspension
• Live rigid axles in front and rear
• Door-less design and soft top
• Fold-flat windshield
• Separate body-on-frame construction
• Grille with seven vertical bars (a styling touch that every Jeep model has had since WWII)

Other than that, though, the Wrangler is designed with more creature comforts, a longer wheelbase, a wider track and less ground clearance, all of which makes it a little less of a handful as a daily driver. What really makes Jeeps (Wranglers in particular) stand out, though, is the culture that surrounds them; it’s a phenomenon that drivers of Ford Broncos or Chevy Trailblazers just aren’t part of. Jeep Wrangler drivers almost invariably wave to each other when they pass (either a high wave above the windshield or a low wave with the left hand out the door opening), a habit that supposedly dates back to WWII. With the Jeep Wave, older and dirtier Jeeps get the first nod, while new shiny Wranglers are a little farther down in the pecking order. Jeep Wrangler owners also have been known to carry a stash of rubber ducks and leave a yellow ducky wedged into the door handle or under the wiper of other Wranglers they encounter in a parking lot or on the street.

One thing’s for sure: Jeep Wrangler owners are a different breed. They’re willing to put up with the more rough and primitive aspects of driving a Wrangler, they’re passionate about their vehicles, they love to modify them for performance and adventure, and they have built a whole de facto culture around Wrangler ownership, with the Jeep Wave being almost like a secret handshake that’s exclusive to a select club. There are Jeep-only events that celebrate the Jeep lifestyle, such as the Moab Easter Jeep Safari in Utah, Jeep Beach in Florida and Jeep Jamboree USA on the Rubicon Trail in California. If you’re a Jeep Wrangler owner, you’re part of Jeep society even if you don’t know it yet.

Best Jeep Wrangler tires

Jeeps, known for their off-road capabilities and versatility, typically utilize various tire types to match their adventurous spirit and diverse driving conditions. All-terrain tires are a popular choice for Jeep owners, offering a balanced performance on both paved roads and rough terrains with their versatile tread patterns. Mud-terrain tires, characterized by their aggressive tread design, excel in muddy, rocky, and challenging off-road environments, providing superior traction and durability.

All-season tires are a practical option for drivers seeking a smoother ride on highways while still retaining off-road capability, delivering consistent performance across wet, dry, and mild snowy conditions. Rugged terrain tires, bridging the gap between all-terrain and mud-terrain tires, offer enhanced off-road traction while maintaining better on-road manners than mud terrain tires. Winter tires, specifically designed for harsh winter conditions, feature specialized rubber compounds and tread designs to maximize grip on snow and ice, ensuring Jeep owners can confidently tackle winter's worst with ease.

Best Jeep Wrangler All-Terrain tires

All-terrain tires are designed to deliver the best of both worlds – great off-road performance and civilized on-road manners. While their versatile performance is impressive, their smooth operations on paved roads, superb handling, and reinforced construction ensure you have a capable contender to match the sophistication and capability of the Jeep Wrangler. Here are some excellent all-terrain tire options for your Jeep:

Falken Wildpeak A/T4W

A perfect tire for your Jeep Wrangler, the Falken Wildpeak A/T4W features a 3-ply DuraSpec sidewall technology and staggered shoulder design for superior grip, traction, durability, and aggressive looks that go in sync with the Jeep’s sophistication and performance. While the rigid tread pattern and Heavy Duty (HD) design (select sizes) boost its cut and chip resistance for longer service life, the strong backing of an up to 65,000 mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty and Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification assure peace of mind and solid winter performance. Whether you drive a Wrangler Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, or the High Altitude, this tough Falken tire will take you through smooth and rough roads with equal aplomb.

Yokohama Geolandar A/T4 G018

For Jeep Wrangler drivers who look for a dependable all-terrain tire with go-anywhere ability, the Yokohama Geolandar A/T4 G018 is a great choice. Offering the best of both worlds, it enhances on-road comfort and provides much-needed off-road performance during occasional adventures. Yokohama has utilized its patented Geo-Shield Technology that provides the much-needed off-road durability to match the off-roading standards of the Wrangler. It also features dual-sidewall protectors and an Enduro compound that resists cuts, chips, and wear for a long-lasting tread life.

The Geolandar A/T4 G018 is also optimized for on- and off-road and comes with features like aggressive center blocks, mud and stone ejectors, and Edgetec grooves that create additional biting edges for improved snow and off-road traction. Most importantly, the Geolandar A/T4 is Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified for use in moderate to severe snow conditions and backed by an up to 65,000 mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty. The drawback to point out here is the higher tread noise level, especially while driving on paved roads.

Toyo Open Country A/T III

Toyo Open Country A/T III is another great all-terrain tire for Jeep Wrangler that brings the convenience of driving both on the roads and trails. Toyo has designed and engineered this tire to deliver gripping off-road performance and responsive on-road handling. The tire is strong when it comes to durability, wet performance, and longevity, and its new-gen tread pattern, solid construction, and innovative compound result in many great benefits.

The advanced tread compound and design offer confident wet braking, responsive handling, cut-and-chip resistance, commendable off-road grip, and quieter and comfy drives. Similarly, the staggered shoulder lugs and stone-ejecting blocks boost off-road traction and eject stones from the grooves for improved biting ability and sure-footedness. There are 3D multi-wave sipes on the tread that boost wet and snow traction and the presence of lateral grooves improves traction on varied surfaces, including snow.

For a better performance in wintry conditions, the Open Country A/T III is Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified. Additionally, the tire is also covered by an up to 65,000 mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty. It, however, might fall behind in the race with its peers in the tread noise and fuel efficiency areas; but these are the areas most Wrangler drivers are least bothered about!

Continental TerrainContact A/T

Continental’s TerrainContact A/T is a great example of what a modern all-terrain tire is all about. The TerrainContact A/T is designed with Continental’s TRACTIONPlus technology, which includes aggressive tread blocks with deep, wide grooves and a dense network of strategically-placed sipes that multiply the tread’s surface area and traction. The TerrainContact A/T’s advanced +Silane tread compound is designed for long tread life, resistance to cuts, punctures and chips, and helps enhance traction on wet roads.

Additionally, Shoulder Noise Blockers help to ensure a quiet and refined ride, canceling out certain frequencies and overtones, and the ComfortRide design package helps isolate vibrations and harshness before they make it to the driver and passengers. Internal design details of the TerrainContact A/T include a 2-ply polyester casing reinforced by two high-tensile steel belts and a spiral-wound polyamide cap layer for excellent durability and highway-speed stability. Select sizes of the TerrainContact A/T are available with a great-looking outlined white letter sidewall. The TerrainContact A/T is covered by Continental with a 60,000 mile limited manufacturer’s tread life warranty.

Kenda Klever A/T2 KR628

With the Kenda Klever A/T2 KR628, you can count on versatile performance year-round and unbeatable durability along with composed road manners and civilized ride, handling and behavior on the pavement. The Klever A/T2 KR628 has the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake rating for severe winter service, thanks to its high sipe density and interlocking tread block design for tenacious grip in snow, slush, mud, sand, gravel or loose dirt.

The Klever A/T2’s aggressive all-terrain tread features a tread depth of 13.35/32” and a high void ratio with wide grooves that easily shed mud and debris so there’s always a clear section of tread to dig in as the wheel turns. Interlocking tread blocks and a large quantity of sipes deliver dependable traction in off-road situations as well as for winter driving. A computer optimized footprint helps to ensure even wear along with great braking, handling and traction, and the A-B tread design is tuned to cancel certain frequencies and harmonics to keep road noise low. Kenda covers the Klever A/T2 KR628 with a 50,000 mile limited manufacturer’s tread life warranty (60,0000 miles for P-metric sizes).

Best Jeep Wrangler Mud tires

Mud-Terrain tires are versatile tires that can conquer the toughest of terrains. Mud, snow, gravel, rock, sand, or any other off-road terrains, mud-terrain tires can offer responsive handling and reliable traction and are built with durable materials. A perfect pairing, mud-terrain tires compliment the powerful and versatile nature of a Jeep Wrangler, making it a great choice. Here are a few of the top mud-terrain tires for your Jeep Wrangler.

Mickey Thompson Baja Boss M/T

The Mickey Thompson Baja Boss M/T is a premium mud-terrain tire designed for use on SUVs, Jeeps, and light trucks and offers drivers excellent traction, and handling with improved control, wet performance, and durability. Built using PowerPly XD that aids the 3-ply construction, the Baja Boss M/T is engineered to lend superb traction. Additionally, the T4 silica-reinforced rubber compound protects the tire from accidental cuts, chips, and abrasions.

The tire received an average SimpleScore of 8.4 with scores of 8.7 in longevity, 8.2 in durability, and 8.3 in traction. While the Baja Boss M/T is an excellent pairing for your Jeep Wrangler, it does not come with any limited manufacturer tread life warranty or a Three Peak Mountain Snowflake Certification.

Nitto Trail Grappler M/T

The Nitto Trail Grappler M/T is designed for SUVs and light trucks that are predominantly driven in off-road conditions. This mud-terrain tire is resistant to punctures due to its 3-ply sidewall structure and provides strong performance on beaten paths. Its adjusted void ratio ensures constant grip on off-roads and its dual sidewall design looks highly attractive. On the other hand, sipes that are most helpful in enhancing wet traction are missing here, and the lack of a limited manufacturer warranty may discourage certain buyers.

General Grabber X3

A mud-terrain tire is predominantly meant to provide extreme off-road traction and feature aggressive styling, and the General Grabber X3 does not disappoint. Long tread life here is a result of high durability and strength, made possible by General’s Duragen Technology. However, it’s not the best tire when it comes to dry pavements and does not feature a limited manufacturer tread life warranty. For a vehicle like the Jeep Wrangler that’s built for off-road adventures, the Grabber X3 is a great choice!

Hankook Dynapro MT2 (RT05)

Mud-terrain tires have aggressive tread patterns and reinforced constructions that allow for rock crawling, mudding, trail driving, and beyond. The Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 is designed to offer drivers a confident grip on the toughest terrains, its aggressive tread ensures off-road traction with on-road comfort. With notable features like a puncture-resistant rubber formulation, and a high-tensile steel belt, the Dynapro MT2 (RT05) ensures utmost durability and solid reliability. Massive reinforced shoulder lugs provide superior grip, while 3D engineering technology enhances on-road comfort, and delivers strong performance on the toughest terrains. This tire boasts an average SimpleScore of 8.2. This tire excels in durability and traction, specifically, off-road, and received scores of 8.5 and 8.2 in those fields, respectively and the longevity score averaged 8.1.

Other Jeep Wrangler tires to know

When it comes to equipping a Jeep Wrangler, selecting the right tires is crucial for maximizing performance, and stability across various terrains, and weather conditions. You can not go wrong if you select any of the following tire categories, all-season, rugged terrain, winter, and all-weather for your Jeep Wrangler.

All-season tires are designed to provide balanced performance across a wide range of weather conditions, including dry, wet, and light winter conditions. They offer a comfortable ride, and good tread life, making them a popular choice for year-round use.

Contrary to an all-season tire, rugged terrain tires are engineered for off-road adventures, featuring aggressive tread patterns, and reinforced sidewalls to tackle challenging landscapes such as rocks, mud, and sand.

None of the above-mentioned tire types will deliver great performance when it comes to extreme winter conditions, you will need winter tires that are specifically designed to perform in severe cold weather conditions. They feature specialized rubber compounds that remain flexible in low temperatures, along with unique tread patterns to enhance grip on snow and ice.

Lastly, all-weather tires are a blend of the characteristics of all-season and winter tires, offering a compromise that can handle both mild winter conditions and summer heat. They are marked with the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, indicating their suitability for winter use.

To sum it all up, what you prioritize matters the most for your Jeep Wrangler, you can select all-season tires for versatility and comfort, rugged terrain tires for off-road prowess, winter tires for performance in cold weather, and all-weather tires for year-round convenience.

Bridgestone Dueler H/T 685

A perfect commercial vehicle, Jeep Wrangler requires a dependable year-round tire and the Dueler H/T 685 is an ideal choice. The Bridgestone Dueler H/T 685 is a commercial-grade highway-terrain tire that is designed to offer excellent traction and handling throughout the year. While wide grooves on the Dueler H/T 685 tire drive water away from the contact patch, preventing hydroplaning, its steel belt package and two polyester reinforcing plies make it a sturdy tire for heavy loads. It comes with a 50,000 mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty and has a resigned contact patch that contributes to longevity and traction. However, it is not Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified and should not be used in harsh winter weather conditions.

RBP Repulsor X/T RX

The Repulsor X/T RX is ready for the most demanding situations involving mud, dirt, rain, sleet, sand, and everything in between. The Repulsor X/T RX is an extreme-terrain tire that’s designed with large staggered tread elements and an open shoulder design for grip in loose, soft, or slippery terrain. Its deep 19/32” tread grooves and wide void ratio enable great self-cleaning of mud and debris, and the heavy-duty tread compound and reinforced sidewall give you the confidence you need to handle the roughest rock-crawling and obstacles with ease. Despite the aggressive looks and tread design, the Repulsor X/T RX is surprisingly quiet and composed on the highway, thanks to its randomized tread pitch that helps cancel road noise. The Repulsor X/T RX is available in sizes as large as 33” to 35”, making it a great pick for Jeep Wranglers with lift kits for extra ground clearance.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT3 Studded

Drivers of Jeep Wranglers must ensure that their winter tires have the necessary strength and durability to handle heavier loads. Designed with these drivers in mind, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT 3 Studded has the first-ever stainless steel studs in the world, which lessen corrosion from salty roads and extend tire life. While the Hakkapeliitta LT 3 Studded's aggressive tread design effectively removes snow and slush, it also improves stability and steering response, providing drivers with exceptional traction and grip throughout turns. However, before buying studded tires, please check your local rules as it isn’t legal in some regions. The Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified, the Hakkapeliitta LT 3 Studded is designed to perform in severe winter conditions however, it is not recommended to use it in temperatures higher than 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Nexen Roadian HTX2

The Roadian HTX2 from Nexen is designed as an all-weather tire, a new-ish tire category that splits the difference between winter tires and all-season tires; in other words, they’re designed for the versatility of an all-season tire but with a bit more emphasis on winter traction. The Roadian HTX2 features four wide grooves and an open shoulder for wet-weather grip and resistance to hydroplaning, efficiently routing water behind the tire’s contact patch for wet-weather traction. The groove system and a dense network of 3D sipes enhance grip in winter weather, earning the Roadian HTX2 the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification for severe winter service. Innovative “cooling pins” at the shoulder help to disperse heat and protect the tire’s internal structure; Nexen covers the Roadian HTX2 with a 70,000 mile limited manufacturer’s tread life warranty for P-metric sizes (50,000 miles for LT sizes).

SimpleTire’s view on the Jeep Wrangler tire market

The Jeep Wrangler market has long been a cornerstone of the off-road and adventure vehicle segment. It is renowned for its rugged capabilities and iconic design. Over the years, the Wrangler has evolved from a purely practical to a versatile and increasingly sophisticated offering that appeals to a broader audience. Changes in consumer preferences, technological advancements, and growing environmental consciousness drive this evolution. As a result, the market now sees a blend of traditional gasoline-powered Wranglers alongside new hybrid and electric versions, reflecting the broader automotive industry's shift towards greener technologies.

Tire manufacturers are playing a crucial role in supporting the evolving Jeep Wrangler market by developing specialized tires that meet the unique demands of these new hybrid and electric models. For instance, all-terrain and rugged terrain tires are being designed with advanced materials and tread patterns to enhance the efficiency and range of hybrid and electric Wranglers. These tires offer reduced rolling resistance, which is essential for maximizing the electric driving range while maintaining the off-road capabilities that Wrangler owners expect.

In addition, tire manufacturers also focus on durability and performance in extreme conditions, ensuring that even hybrid and electric Wranglers can handle the most challenging trails. Innovations in tire technology, such as self-sealing tires and advanced traction compounds, provide added reliability for drivers venturing off the beaten path. As the Jeep Wrangler market continues to grow and diversify, tire manufacturers will remain integral to its development, creating products that cater to the needs of both traditional and next-generation Jeep enthusiasts.

Most common Jeep Wrangler tire sizes

The most common Jeep Wrangler tire sizes typically range from 31 to 35 inches in diameter, depending on the model and intended use. For stock Wranglers, sizes like 245/75R17 and 255/70R18 are popular, offering a balanced mix of on-road comfort and off-road capability. Enthusiasts who frequently tackle rugged terrains often opt for larger sizes, such as 33x12.50R15 or 35x12.50R17, which provide enhanced ground clearance and improved traction on challenging surfaces. Additionally, tire sizes like 285/70R17 are a favored upgrade for many Jeep owners, offering a robust look and increased performance without requiring significant modifications. These tire sizes reflect the Wrangler's versatility, allowing drivers to tailor their vehicle's performance to their specific driving needs.

Jeep Wrangler trim levels

The Jeep Wrangler offers a variety of trim levels, each catering to different driving preferences and lifestyles. The Wrangler Sport is the base model, providing essential features and the iconic Jeep ruggedness at an accessible price point. The Sahara trim adds a touch of luxury and comfort, with upgraded interior materials and advanced technology features. The Rubicon, known for its off-road capability, comes equipped with heavy-duty axles, locking differentials, and specialized off-road tires, making it the go-to choice for serious adventurers. The Willys trim combines classic Jeep styling with enhanced off-road capabilities, featuring unique design elements and performance upgrades. The Freedom edition pays tribute to military service members, with patriotic accents and a rugged build. The High Altitude trim focuses on high-end luxury, offering premium features and refined aesthetics for those who desire sophistication on and off the road. For those seeking extended capability, the Wrangler Unlimited provides a four-door configuration, offering additional space and versatility. Each trim level of the Wrangler ensures a perfect match for every Jeep enthusiast, from daily commuters to off-road explorers.

##FAQs:

How much is a Jeep Wrangler?

The price of a Jeep Wrangler can vary widely based on the model, trim level, and additional features or customizations. As of 2024, the base model Jeep Wrangler Sport starts at approximately $31,000. Mid-range trims like the Sahara and Willys typically range from $38,000 to $45,000, offering comfort, technology, and off-road capability. The high-end Rubicon, known for its advanced off-road features, starts around $45,000 but can exceed $60,000 with added options and packages. The luxurious High Altitude trim can also reach prices over $60,000. The Wrangler 4xe, a plug-in hybrid variant, also begins at around $51,000. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, we recommend visiting the official Jeep website or contacting a local Jeep dealership.

How much does a Jeep Wrangler weigh?

The weight of a Jeep Wrangler can vary depending on the model, trim level, and specific configuration. Generally, the weight ranges from approximately 3,948 pounds for the two-door base model to about 5,222 pounds for the four-door models with more extensive features and equipment. The two-door Jeep Wrangler Sport, for instance, typically weighs around 3,948 pounds, and the four-door Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon can weigh closer to 5,222 pounds. Hybrid models, such as the Wrangler 4xe, also fall within this range, with slightly higher weights due to the additional battery components. For precise weight details of a specific model and trim, it is best to refer to the manufacturer's specifications or consult with a local Jeep dealership.

How much can a Jeep Wrangler tow?

The towing capacity of a Jeep Wrangler depends on the model and configuration. Generally, a two-door Jeep Wrangler can tow up to 2,000 pounds. In contrast, the four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited models can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. It's essential to check the specific towing capacity for your Wrangler's trim and model year, as factors like engine type, axle ratio, and additional towing packages can influence the maximum towing capacity. For precise towing specifications, consult the owner's manual or contact a local Jeep dealership.

How many miles can a Jeep Wrangler last?

A well-maintained Jeep Wrangler can last a substantial number of miles, often reaching 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. The longevity of a Jeep Wrangler depends on various factors, including regular maintenance, driving habits, and the road conditions in which it is driven. Routine services such as oil changes, tire rotations, and timely repairs are crucial to extending the vehicle's lifespan. Wranglers are known for their robust construction and durability, and they are capable of enduring rigorous off-road adventures and daily driving. With proper care and attention, many Jeep Wranglers have been known to surpass the 300,000-mile mark, proving their reliability and long-term value. For the best results, always follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues promptly.