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2019 Jeep Wrangler

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL, organized by category and powertrain configuration.

The 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL is a popular off-road vehicle known for its iconic design, removable doors and roof, and impressive capability. It offers a range of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 3.6L Pentastar V6 producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. There’s also a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine available, which generates 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. A 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 joined the lineup later in the model year. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual (available only with the 3.6L V6) and an 8-speed automatic. People love the Wrangler for its off-road prowess, customization options, and open-air experience. Common complaints include ride quality, wind noise, and fuel economy.

Category Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This is indicated by low oil level warnings or visually checking the dipstick.
    • Solution: Some dealers perform an oil consumption test. If excessive consumption is confirmed, potential fixes may include replacing valve stem seals or piston rings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the repair.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Faulty Rocker Arms/Lifters
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise coming from the engine, particularly at idle or low speeds. Can eventually lead to misfires and reduced engine performance.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rocker arms, lifters, and possibly the camshaft.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbo Inline-4

  • Turbocharger Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, whistling or whining noises from the engine, and potential engine misfires. Can be caused by a failing turbocharger bearing or wastegate actuator.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the turbocharger components. Replacement of the turbocharger assembly may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cracked Cylinder Head
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil. Can be caused by manufacturing defects.
    • Solution: Replacing the cylinder head.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Category

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts, delayed engagement, or hesitation when accelerating. Can be caused by valve body issues or software glitches.
    • Solution: Software update/reflash of the transmission control module (TCM). In some cases, valve body replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for software updates; $800 - $2,000+ for valve body replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine RPMs increase without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. This indicates the transmission is not properly engaging the gears.
    • Solution: This could be due to low transmission fluid, damaged clutch packs, or a faulty torque converter. Requires a full transmission inspection.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual (3.6L V6 Only)

  • Clutch Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, unusual noises when pressing the clutch pedal.
    • Solution: Clutch replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Category

Suspension

  • “Death Wobble”
    • Description/Symptoms: Violent shaking of the front end at highway speeds, often triggered by bumps or uneven road surfaces.
    • Solution: The fix can vary. Common solutions include replacing the steering stabilizer, ball joints, track bar, tie rod ends, or adjusting the alignment.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the components needing replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Category

Electrical

  • ESS (Engine Start Stop) Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The ESS system may fail to activate or deactivate properly, leading to the engine not shutting off at stop lights or failing to restart automatically. Error messages may appear on the dashboard.
    • Solution: Check the auxiliary battery condition/replace the auxiliary battery, diagnose sensors/wiring related to the ESS system, and software updates.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Uconnect System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response times, and Bluetooth connectivity problems.
    • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the Uconnect module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software updates) - $1,000+ for module replacement.
    • Recalls:
      • Recall Number: 22V-922 (Affects Uconnect radio software)
      • Recall Number: 23V-058 (Affects Uconnect radio software)
  • Blind Spot Monitoring Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Blind Spot Monitoring system displays an error message and will not function properly.
    • Solution: Check wiring and sensors. Replace the sensor that is malfunctioning.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Category

Exterior

  • Leaking Freedom Top Roof Panels
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin during rain, particularly around the seams of the removable roof panels.
    • Solution: Re-sealing the panels, replacing the seals, or adjusting the panel alignment.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Hinge Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The hinges can seize up or make noise, preventing the doors from opening and closing easily.
    • Solution: Lubrication or replacement of the hinges.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Category

Interior

  • Rattling/Squeaking Noises
    • Description/Symptoms: Various rattles and squeaks coming from the dashboard, doors, or hardtop. These are common due to the removable nature of the vehicle’s components.
    • Solution: Locating and insulating the source of the noise with felt pads or foam.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (DIY) - $200+ (professional repair).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Poorly Stitched Seats
    • Description/Symptoms: Stitching coming undone on the seats.
    • Solution: Restitching the seats.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL, while a highly capable and desirable vehicle, does have some common issues to be aware of. The engine issues, such as excessive oil consumption in the 3.6L V6 and turbocharger problems in the 2.0L turbo, can be costly to repair. The “Death Wobble” in the suspension is a safety concern that needs prompt attention. Electrical problems, particularly with the Uconnect system and ESS, can be frustrating. Leaks from the Freedom Top are also common. Overall, while some issues are relatively minor, others can be significant and expensive to address. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and consider getting a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic.

Jeep, Wrangler
Jeep Wrangler 2019
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