Why Are Jeep Wranglers So Expensive?

The Jeep Wrangler is not known for having outstanding fuel economy, precise steering, or luxurious features. They have poor on-road characteristics, less cargo room than standard SUVs, and aren’t very speedy. Their lack of reliability and high safety ratings make their popularity even harder to fathom. What makes them so pricey, and why are jeep wranglers so expensive?

Jeep Wranglers are pricey because they are customized, practical, and affordable to maintain. They are also one of the least expensive SUVs to insure.

The Jeep Wrangler brand has established a reputation for being tough, off-road adept, and creating a spirit of adventure. The wrangler is a natural choice if you love the outdoors and adventure because it’s also an extension of your personality.

Even if you don’t like to be adventurous, the Jeep Wrangler still has much to offer to anyone who wants to enjoy the brand and its strong sense of community both online and offline.

A closer look at each category will help us understand the worth of the Wrangler and what makes it so outrageously pricey.

10 Reasons Why Are Jeep Wranglers So Expensive

1. Jeep Wranglers have a huge following

Jeep Wranglers cost a lot because buyers are willing to spend a lot of money on them. However, they are well-liked by various consumers, and numerous communities exist for owners and fans. Every year, Jeep-related festivals and activities are also held. These rugged off-road vehicles appeal to both men and women.[1]

The law of demand and supply and demand is also in effect. The manufacturing of the hugely popular Jeep Wrangler is kept low, thus maintaining costs high despite, or perhaps because of, the tremendous demand for this vehicle.

Customers preferred the Jeep Wrangler’s off-road ability, toughness, and vast customization possibilities, according to Edmunds.com. However, they highlighted a lack of useable cargo room as one of the key drawbacks, along with delayed steering and invasive on-road noise within the cabin at highway speeds [2].

2. Jeep Wranglers have a long history

Jeeps are iconic because they were crucial in the Allies’ victory over the Axis during World War II. The Willys MB was first manufactured for the American military by the Ohio-based Willys-Overland Motor Company in 1941. It’s unclear how the car got the nickname “Jeep.” Some people argue that the name is derived from the military abbreviation “G.P.,”—which stands for “general purpose.” [3]

Nearly any terrain was manageable for the Jeep. It was sufficiently light for the soldiers to lift and free when it became stuck or enmeshed. The car did more than carrying passengers and cargo. It pulled anti-tank weaponry, making their deployment more effective. It also functioned as an ambulance for the wounded and a platform for a machine gun [4].

Even today, the Jeep is still the most popular off-road vehicle. As a result, the Jeep Wranglers’ branding and perceived value, which affect their pricing, are influenced by their iconic status.

3. Jeep Wranglers do not have direct competitors

Jeep Wranglers are specialty automobiles. They were designed primarily for off-road use. Nothing else compares to it in terms of dependable, practical performance.

The Wrangler has faced up against numerous conventional body-on-frame cars, but none of them have been able to unseat it as the king of off-road automobiles.

Even General Motors is reluctant to take on the Jeep Wrangler in the off-road market. Duncan Aldred, vice president of sales for GMC, once said to Automotive News, “I don’t think it’s worth attempting to take on Wrangler.” It makes sense that the Wrangler would attract premium costs, given that it is the best in its class [5].

4. The manufacturer spends a lot on R&D

The Jeep Wranglers company, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, constantly strives to improve its most recent vehicle iterations. The software and parts that give the vehicles their characteristics and capabilities are updated regularly by engineers. As a result, between model years, they change a lot.

Engineers have simplified the process of mounting LED lights on the Wrangler, such as the YITAMOTOR 52′′ LED light bar. This light bar is simple to install and excellent for off-road use. Nearly all Jeeps and other off-road vehicles are compatible with it.

5. Jeep Wranglers have numerous outstanding features

Most people wonder why Jeeps are so expensive when they seem so sparse. But when you spend a lot of money on a Jeep, you’re paying for the capabilities and features, not the luxury or the appearance.

The Jeep Wrangler comes standard with a solid front axle, locking front and rear differentials, and optional electronic sway bar disconnects. Dana 44 axles, high ground clearance, anti-roll and roll mitigation software, a small turning radius, and integrated roll bars are additional features [7].

Unfortunately, these all have a high price tag. The fact that a car with so many features can command a hefty price shouldn’t come as a surprise.

You may also take the roof, doors, and windshield off the car. The HARKEN Jeep Hardtop Garage Storage Hoist makes removing and storing the hardtop from your Jeep simple and safe. The accidental release is prevented with an anti-drop system. The hoist comes with six extra thumb screws/tee knobs for simple hardtop removal and fits all Jeep Wrangler models.

6. Jeep Wrangler insurance cost

The Jeep Wrangler comes in at number five on Insure.com’s list of the least costly automobiles to insure. The top insurance firms’ average rates are used to determine the ranking. Insure.com senior analyst Jennifer Shelton lists a few explanations for why the car’s insurance costs are low:

• First, the entry-level models are reasonably priced.
• The repairs are inexpensive;
• Over the past ten years, rollover prevention has significantly improved, making vehicles safer. And although Jeep components are costly, they are long-lasting, and you save money over time.
• It is on the list of cars with the lowest overall crash losses from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The most affordable full coverage auto insurance quotes for a Jeep Wrangler are provided by Geico. The average yearly premium the insurer charges for the four model years we looked at is $1,526, or $127 per month. This is $296 a year, less than the average rate charged by all insurance companies [10].

With the Nilight Rear Bumper installed, your Jeep Wrangler will be even safer. It gives your vehicle’s lower rear end excellent protection, and your Jeep’s exceptional towing capabilities are made possible by its heavy-duty D-rings. It is ideal for any nighttime activity thanks to its two-piece 18W Nilight Flush Mount LED Pods.

It is simple to install and utilize this bumper. Additionally, it provides your car with a hip, fashionable appeal. It has a 2-year warranty and is compatible with the Jeep Wrangler JK models from 2007 to 2018.

7. Good Resale Value

The vehicle’s resale value is likely one of the most important considerations when making a purchase. Jeep Wranglers are well regarded for having exceptional strength in this area. What about the Wranglers specifically enables it to hold its value so well?

The 2017 Wrangler appears to be underpriced compared to other similar SUVs in its segment when all things are considered. Even yet, the Wrangler may seem like a simple, unadorned car, but closer inspection reveals that it is quite over-engineered. One of the main advantages is its outstanding off-road capability, which is better than practically anything else in its segment. Few things can match quitting the highway.

You get a car with the greatest Dana axles, sturdy gear and chain-driven transfer cases, class-leading ground clearance, integrated roll bars, safety monitoring software, a fully configurable body, and a convertible roof.

8.   Customization Options

If you go to any mall, there’s a good chance you’ll see one, two, or three fully equipped, customized Jeep Wranglers. These cars have a huge following and have taken on cult-like characteristics. Since most owners almost ever travel on dirt roads, they have become more prominent.

Jeep produces vehicles in 2WD (Non-4WD) configuration for individuals who never intend to use them for their primary purpose, going off-road. Such users just want to buy into the Wrangler image economically, which is another factor contributing to their popularity.

Specialized Jeep custom shops can outfit your vehicle with every accessory you can think of. The Wrangler’s straightforward style and square shape provide virtually limitless customizability [12].

The only limitation is your imagination. Additionally, you can buy Jeep Wrangler accessories online at reasonable costs from businesses specialized in selling them.

Jeep even lets you buy a new Wrangler with all the factory equipment you want right off the shelf in the exact customized configuration you want.

9.   Affordability

While Jeep profits handsomely from the Wranglers, their purchasing cost continues to rise yearly. Once you get your hands on one, you may find several options for accessories and replacement parts across the U.S., making them relatively economical to run.

The older T.J. models have a fairly straightforward construction and are simple to maintain with inexpensive tools. The TJ Wrangler is the only off-road capable vehicle that is economical and requires little maintenance.

Parts for more recent models like the J.K. and J.L. are more pricey. However, they are also more comfortable, complex, and technologically advanced, necessitating an OBDII Diagnostic & Fault Code Reader for correct troubleshooting.

10. Factory Standard Equipment

The factory standard package is a strong choice if you plan to utilize your Jeep Wrangler off-road. For most automobiles to perform as well as a Jeep can right out of the box, extensive modifications costing thousands of dollars are necessary. However, with a few factory upgrades, you can practically buy a standard Wrangler and drive it off-road without making any significant changes.

In addition, the Jeeps are a highly attractive package because of their usual features and abilities. The Jeep Wrangler is off-road ready, unlike other brands that need expensive tire suspension and protection improvements before customers can even consider taking them off-road.

Jeep Wrangler maintenance cost

A Jeep Wrangler’s average maintenance cost is $694, only $100 more than other SUVs in the same class [14]. And, although the average cost is higher, the likelihood that you will need to visit a mechanic is often low.

Despite this, Jeep Wrangler repairs tend to be more extensive because there are more potential problems than, say, with a regular, front-wheel-drive hatchback.

It will cost you at least $2000 to go to the closest gas station if you require someone to tow you out of a tight place. So, if you want to continue with that interest, you’ll need to spend more than $694 a year.

Additionally, if you plan to own a Jeep, you should be aware that it won’t stay in stock for very long! So get the large 35″ tires, the gold rims, the King Shocks, and don’t forget the swiveling light bars!

Otherwise, why even get a Jeep? In this circumstance, if you want to enjoy the benefits of owning an off-road vehicle the Jeep Wrangler, you have to be willing to pay a premium price for it

Should You Buy a Jeep Wrangler?

Depending on your circumstances and priorities, you can decide to purchase the Jeep Wrangler or forego it altogether. The Jeep Wrangler is not the best option if you want a comfortable family vehicle. The climb into the car might be quite challenging. The journey will be somewhat bumpy because the suspension is not meant for that purpose. Some individuals also criticize the noise. In other words, the Jeep Wrangler was not designed with luxury and comfort in mind [15].

But the Jeep Wrangler is the best car available if you want a tough, long-lasting off-roader. It is the perfect option for those who enjoy the outdoors and like adventure.

You want to be sure that your headlights provide you with the correct brightness level in any lighting circumstances if you have a sense of adventure and frequently drive off-road at night. High Beam, Low Beam, Daytime Running Light, and Amber Turn Signal Light are the four lighting settings available on the Xprite 7′′ Inch LED Halo Headlights [16].

They let you safely drive through the night without being concerned about how bright the headlights are or how dark the area is. In addition, it is plug-and-play, making installation simple. It fits the Jeep Wrangler JK, T.J., and L.J. (1997-2018) models and is DOT approved.

Are Jeep Wranglers Reliable?

If you’re buying used, the Jeep’s dependability hinges on how the previous owner treated it. It all depends on how frequently it was serviced. Was it significantly altered? Which model year are you thinking of? Do you reside close to the ocean? All of these variables can affect your Jeep’s the level of reliability you might anticipate.

Due to their simplicity, the T.J. models or versions made before 2007 are typically more dependable. The 1997 – 2006 models became the most sought-after ones for various reasons until the J.K. came around since they had lost some of that reliability [17].

The TJ Wrangler has the disadvantage of only being available in 2-Door form, making them relatively small compared to the 4-Door J.K. and J.L. models and, now, the even larger Gladiator. This is because they are older spec cars.

Consider buying an older model Jeep Wrangler

You might wonder why we recommend buying an old Jeep Wrangler when you can get a new one. There are a few good reasons—some of which may surprise you—to purchase a secondhand Jeep.

The first option is to purchase a modified Jeep Wrangler. It’s possible that the Jeep’s former owner made modifications to enhance its performance. You could save thousands of dollars if you’re fortunate enough to acquire a vehicle that has been appropriately adapted [18].

Additionally, Jeep’s inventory includes limited-edition vehicles, and Wrangler models have undergone numerous revisions throughout the years. You’ll overpay for a brand-new, limited-edition Jeep when you purchase one. Used Jeep Wranglers are still expensive, although they are less expensive than new ones. You can buy a Jeep at a lower price by purchasing a used car.

Jeep Wranglers last a long time. Jeeps depreciate slowly, so a secondhand car might be just as excellent as a brand-new one. Better buy a used Jeep Wrangler if you intend to drive it on rugged trails. If you do it that way, you won’t feel hesitant or guilty about immediately riding off-road and across every type of terrain.

Final Word

So, why are Jeep Wranglers so expensive? There are at several good reasons, including the Jeep Wrangler’s high price tag, popularity, legendary status, market dominance, R&D costs, and unrivaled capability.

Nevertheless, due to its increased safety, robustness, and affordable repair costs, it is one of the cars with the lowest insurance rates. Due to their strong value retention, used Wranglers are pricey.

Jeep lovers are willing to pay more for earlier models’ perceived relevance and worth. So occasionally, buying a secondhand Jeep might be a smart move.

To help you decide whether to purchase a Jeep Wrangler, consider the features you are looking for in a car. You can then consider if it’s worth your hard-earned money. Think about the buying advice outlined above before you make a purchase.