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2017 Jeep Wrangler

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By Research the Car 4 min read

Here’s a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints for the 2017 Jeep Wrangler JK, broken down by category and configuration, adhering to your specified format. The 2017 Jeep Wrangler JK, the last of its generation, is a popular off-road vehicle known for its ruggedness and customization options. It came standard with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. A less common 2.8L turbo-diesel engine was also available. Transmission choices included a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Owners generally love the Wrangler’s off-road capabilities, open-air driving experience, and iconic styling. Common dislikes include the subpar fuel economy, road noise, and somewhat dated interior.

Body

  • Water Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks, primarily through the Freedom Top (removable hardtop panels) or around door/window seals. This can lead to wet carpets and potential mold growth.
    • Solution: Replacing or resealing the Freedom Top seals, adjusting door strikers, and/or applying sealant around window frames.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the severity and source of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Clock Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The clock spring, located in the steering column, can fail, causing loss of steering wheel controls (horn, radio, cruise control), and potentially illuminating the airbag warning light.
    • Solution: Replacing the clock spring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The TIPM, which controls various electrical functions, can experience failures leading to a wide range of issues, including stalling, no-start conditions, fuel pump relay failure, and erratic behavior of accessories (wipers, lights).
    • Solution: Replacing the TIPM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may randomly stop working, get stuck, or operate intermittently. This is often due to issues with the window motor or regulator.
    • Solution: Replacing the window motor and/or regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window.
    • Recalls: None Found

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

  • Oil Cooler Housing Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: The plastic oil cooler housing, located on top of the engine, is prone to cracking and leaking oil. Symptoms include oil leaks, low oil pressure, and potential overheating.
    • Solution: Replacing the oil cooler housing with a new unit (consider an aluminum aftermarket option for increased durability).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Camshaft/Rocker Arm Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive wear on camshafts and rocker arms. Symptoms include ticking noises, misfires, and reduced performance.
    • Solution: Replacing worn camshafts and rocker arms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
    • Recalls: None Found

2.8L Turbo Diesel

No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

  • Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts between gears, particularly during acceleration or deceleration.
    • Solution: Replacing the solenoids in the valve body or replacing the valve body, or transmission replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+. Transmission replacement $3000 - $6000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

No Issues Found

Suspension

  • “Death Wobble”
    • Description/Symptoms: A violent shaking of the front end, particularly at highway speeds after hitting a bump. This is a complex issue involving multiple suspension components.
    • Solution: Inspect and replace worn steering and suspension components, including ball joints, tie rod ends, track bar, steering stabilizer, and shocks. Ensuring proper wheel alignment and tire balance is also crucial.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the number of components needing replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The blend door actuator controls the temperature of the air coming from the vents. Failure results in only hot or cold air blowing, regardless of the temperature setting. Clicking noises may also be present.
    • Solution: Replacing the blend door actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Seatbelt Retractor Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Seatbelts may retract slowly or not at all.
    • Solution: Replacing the seatbelt retractor assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per seatbelt.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2017 Jeep Wrangler JK, while beloved for its off-road prowess and iconic design, does have some common issues. The oil cooler leaks and potential for camshaft/rocker arm wear in the 3.6L engine are significant concerns. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the TIPM and clock spring, can also be costly to address. The “death wobble” remains a persistent and potentially dangerous issue that requires careful diagnosis and repair. The water leaks can lead to mold issues, and can be costly depending on if the top or seals need to be replaced. Overall, while these issues aren’t present in every Wrangler, potential buyers should be aware of them and factor in potential repair costs. The severity ranges from minor annoyances to safety-related concerns, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the issue and the shop performing the work.

Jeep, Wrangler
Jeep Wrangler 2017
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