Uncertain about purchasing

[rabies]

Hello all,

Someone I know is selling a 2003 Jeep Wrangler 2D in my price range, and it seems like the perfect vehicle for me to buy since I'm currently searching for a car. I am just a little unsure if this is the right choice, since I have heard about the Jeep death wobble, which sounds terrifying and expensive to fix. I also have heard that they aren't all that great at going at fast speeds(?) I also do not know a whole ton about the car yet since I just recently found out they were planning to sell.

I adore the car and would love to buy it, but these things concern me and make me think I might want to wait and find a different car.

I'm sure you all know more than I do! So, please help me out here!!

 

[JPNinPA]

Every car out there has its flaws. The jeep wrangler has many flaws and a network of people with knowledge and experience.
DW experience is scary and due to worn parts. And no, the jeeps are as aerodynamic as a brick, so, they are not built for speed.
They can be fun and worth the price. But it is your call.


Never look down on anyone unless you are helping them up - Jesse Jackson

 

[superj]

If you have to pay someone to work on it for you, dont buy it. It will make you broke till everything is fixed.


I have an 03 also. It was great for a lobg time but its to the point where things are needing to be replaced so its always breaking down.
Its not a primary vehicle so its not a prdlem but if it was, i would get rid of it.


Jeep doesnt mean greatest vehicle ever. It just means there is lots of people arouns who can help you

 

[mark sr]

Jeep doesnt mean greatest vehicle ever.

I agree! but I do believe they make the best stock 4x4

 

[TerryMason]

I've got an 05, and there are a couple months a year where I throw $300 - $500 in parts at it, doing all my own work. Death wobble is a good example - every three years or so, I have to replace all my tie rod ends (I offroad a couple times a year), as well as my trackbar bushing, then get it aligned - usually costs me under $400. The good news is that the Jeep TJ is about the easiest vehicle to work on, so a great place to learn.

Parts are super cheap. If you're willing to spend 4 hours the first time learning, you can do a full brake job for $300

https://www.amazon.com/Power-Front-KOE15073DK-Autospecialty-Driver/dp/B074RLKYHH/

You don't have to be good with cars to work on a TJ, just willing to learn. As superj mentioned though, if you plan on paying for work on any 23 year old vehicle, you may be in for some pain.