Buying a Jeep is one of the best decisions you will ever make. However deciding on which Jeep Wrangler to buy can be tough. Our goal is to breakdown the pros and cons of each Jeep Wrangler from the CJ all the way up to the JL (Current Jeep) and help you decide which one is right for you. We will not be breaking down the different model trims. If you are set on picking up a newer Jeep but not sure which model to go with checkout our article breaking down each model here. Also if you are not sure what to look for when buying a used Jeep we have the ultimate used Jeep buyers guide which can be a huge help.
We are going to break down Jeep Wranglers from the CJ to the current LJ. While the Jeep has been around since 1941 diving into older models than the CJ is where you really start getting into the collectors realm which is not what we are going to focus on here.
Jeep CJ 1976 to 1986:
AMC made the first major changes to the Jeep after close to 20 years when introducing the CJ and it went very well! The vehicle was well received at the time and is still a favorite among Jeep enthusiasts. Who is the Jeep CJ for? At this point even the newest CJs are over 33 years old which means depending on how you plan to use a CJ it might not be right for you. It’s perfect for enthusiasts who are looking for a Jeep that is very affordable on the used market, it’s a great candidate for a complete restoration or looking for that ideal vintage off-roader. Whether you are looking for a hard core off-road rig or want a capable run around Jeep for the farm, cabin or lake house this is the perfect Jeep for you.
Having said that there are downsides to the CJ. They are pretty old, finding one that doesn’t have significant rust or body damage can be a challenge. It’s not uncommon for used models to come without hard tops or full soft tops. Unless significant upgrades have been made the carbureted engine has troubles off-road on steep inclines, and declines.
Jeep YJ 1987 to 1995
AMC designed the Jeep YJ to be more comfortable on the road in hopes that it would attract a larger audience. The YJ is arguably the most controversial Jeep Wrangler ever produced because the designers moved away from the iconic round lights to a square lights. Purists were outraged and to an extent that outrage has impacted the used marketplace. Used YJs are a bargain compared to other models and an excellent choice for anyone looking to pick up a used Jeep.
So who is the YJ for? Ideally Jeepers looking for a solid platform to build on will be very happy with a YJ. The YJ is also one of our top choices for first time Jeepers looking for a fun run around rig. It’s also one of our top choices if you are looking to get one of your kids a Jeep. If you are looking for a clean Jeep for under 5k you cannot beat a YJ.
Jeep TJ 1997 to 2006
The TJ was released in 1997 and truly won the hearts of all Jeep lovers. The iconic round lights were back and the TJ’s suspension was completely revamped going from a leaf spring setup to coil springs which drastically improved the on road performance. The TJ also reintroduced the longer wheel base unlimited version which quickly became popular for Jeep enthusiasts looking for a little more cargo space. Additionally in the summer of 2002 Jeep introduced the Rubicon lineup, adding the most capable Jeep ever to their factory offering. The inline 6 4.0L motor has reached legendary status due to great torque on the low end incredible longevity with many owners reaching well over the 250k mile mark.
The TJ is for ALL Jeep enthusiasts. We truly believe that every Jeep lover should have one of these in their garages. They are the ideal platform to build an off-road rig or for a daily commuter. Because of their long production run there are so many aftermarket parts and accessories that will make your TJ the perfect rig for whatever type of wheeling you are looking for. The only con we have for the TJ is that like the other previous models you do not have a 4 door option which is a must have for some Jeepers.
Jeep JK 2007 to 2018
The JK was a truly revolutionary Jeep. For the first time ever Jeep under the ownership of DaimlerChrysler was completely resigned from the ground up. Key changes came to the interior with power locks and windows as well offering navigation systems in some models. Additionally Jeep introduced a V6 3.8L engine into the Wrangler lineup for the first time. However the biggest changes came in 2008 when Jeep introduced the JKU 4 door model. This addition to their lineup opened the door literally to thousands of new buyers. This new model not only attracted existing Jeep owners but it also brought thousands of new people to the Jeep family. Now the incredible capabilities of the Wrangler were available to people who needed a family sized rig. In 2012 Jeep swapped out the V6 3.8L engine with the the well tested pentastar 3.6L engine that had a much better track record, making it an even better choice.
Now that the JL is released used JKs are starting to become a real bargain on the used market. They are the perfect fit for anyone looking to pick up a solid low mile used rig for any type of adventure. Whether you want to turn it into a hardcore rock crawler or an overlanding rig the JK is the perfect fit. We recommend picking up a 2012 or newer so that you avoid the pesky 3.8l v6 engine.
Jeep JL 2019 to Present
The JL was released in 2018 and might just be the best Jeep Wrangler yet. Designed with a host of creature comforts and completely redesigned inside and out it is hard to image a brand new one taking on any off-road trail because they are just so beautiful. Wranglers have come a long way over the past 30 years. The JL was designed to meet all Jeepers needs. From the die hard rock crawler to the mall crawler it is nibble and comfortable on the road and unmatched off-road. Do not let the new design, LED lights and flashy color ways fool you. The JL is ALL Jeep at the core and the most capable Wrangler yet.
The JL is for anyone who can afford one. Finding one used isn’t easy but over the next few years you will get your chance. If you are planning on picking one up brand new it is going to cost you but the price is well worth it in our opinion. The downsides? They are brand new and all new vehicles have kinks that need worked out. It often takes a year or two for new model releases to workout all of the bugs. Some JL owners have reported issues with faulty welds, and certainly as more hit the market and climb in age and miles new issues will start to manifest themselves. Having said that Jeep has truly embraced the goal of increasing reliability and so far they are doing their part.
So Which Jeep Wrangler Do We Recommend?
ALL of them! If that isn’t an option and you are looking for a fun weekend warrior rig, start searching your local classifieds for a CJ, YJ and TJ. If you are looking for a reliable family vehicle that is more capable than any other vehicle on the planet look no further than the JK. Or if you have the budget and must have the cream of the crop pick up the all new JL and drive till you can’t no more!
Do you own a Jeep? Let us know in the comments which Wrangler you have and what made you choose it?