Used 2002 Jeep Wrangler SUV Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Jeep Country
It's a Jeep things, either you love it or you hate it. Where I'm from, the mountains are everything. My 2002 Wrangler X took me everywhere through the mountains. Going along with 10 - 20 other Jeeps through the mountains & the mud made my weekend full of excitement. The short wheel base making it easier to get over hills & through mud. Although taking it through woods & mud & sand & water has tore some things up on my Wrangler, everything was simpley fixed by me! [& "me" being a girl!] Some people may choose not to use their Wrangler as an everyday vehicle, but it was my "everyday vehicle". Sure, gas mileage wasn't the best, but having my Wrangler was worth every penny.
Fun in the sun
For the most part, this is a fun vehicle to own. Keep in mind, however, that for some, a vehicle is a long term investment and you have to think about where you will be at 5 or even 10 years down the road of life. If you don't plan on taking many long trips, needing space for cargo, or many passengers, and if you can afford the gas, go for it. It is exceptionally fun to take the top down, go off road, and also handles great in the snow. If you have a family, take a lot of long trips, or feel the need for a smooth ride going to and from work, you may want to consider something a little bigger. I have had a Jeep Cherokee in the past which has many of the same capabilities as the wrangler.
- X Convertible SUVMSRP: $17,89031 mi away
- Sport Convertible SUVMSRP: $9,49588 mi away
- X Convertible SUVMSRP: $14,874102 mi away
50 - 50
Here is the real truth about Jeep Wranglers. Either you love them the second you sit in it and you never want to get out, or you hate it. This vehicle isn't made for everyone, and that is why I love mine so. Don't listen to all the stories about Wranglers flipping. The only reason Wranglers flip is because of irresponsible drivers. This is not a sports car or sedan, so don't drive them that way and you will be fine! Give a wrangler a try, I LOVE MY WRANGLER!
Fun, thy name is Jeep!
This is my first Jeep and I love it! Got a good deal on a used Wrangler Sport with only 54,000 miles on it and it's everything I expected. Yep, the ride is stiff, gas mileage around 16 mpg and there's a good bit of wind noise but that's what you get with a Jeep! You wouldn't buy a horse and then complain about no air conditioning, would you? Enjoy it for what it is, a fun, go anywhere vehicle that you can modify as much or little as you want. You can get it muddy, run over bumps, drive through ice and water and if you take care of it, it will get you where you want to go. Fill the thing with gas and go find an adventure!
Just plain fun
First let me say that I am 58 years old and always wanted a jeep, but life got in the way. I am a pilot and marine captain. I own a beemer 5 series, an F150, and 2 Ford Focus. So if I want to haul, I take the f150, if I am going on road trip, it's the beemer, if I want to conserve fuel, it's one of the focuses. But if I want to have fun, it's the jeep. Bought it used and I had to replace the starter, the battery, and a few bulbs, but it's 6 years old. The ride is not as bad as I thought it would be. But, folks this thing is too much fun, you will find excuses to go somewhere. I can be heard saying, honey we need something from the store? Get one, the fun factor is worth it all.
Perfect Description
Yes the exterior mirrors' paint comes off, yes the plastic windows scratch, yes the gas mileage is crummy, yes the interior is cheap, yes the sound system is inferior, yes the ride is bumpy, yes the tires clamshell, yes the softop is a pain, yes you need two people to change back the hardtop, yes the cargo room is small, and yes, I have bought two Jeeps in a row, because the driving experience is something to look forward to every time you get into it, from the day you buy it to your last day with it. Open air driving is incredible. Not worrying about every tiny imperfection, getting a little dog hair in it - priceless. It's stress free driving. Every time.
(Jeep TJ, Auto, under 100,000km on engine). Mixed Thoughts
I have this Jeep for almost 3 years. Here is what I have to say about these certain topics: Fuel Economy: It has the same fuel economy of a Honda Civic that has several holes in the fuel line. I average around 16 mpg during the winter and 19 mpg in the summer (All Stock Setup, Automatic Transmission). Do not buy this car if your concision about fuel. Do not drive over 110km/h..you wont make it to your destination. Driving: Interior is stone age compared to 2007+ models. Sound system sucks, speakers are made out of paper..literally. Off road is very fun, you wont get stuck. Getting into 4wL is tricky (high chance of grinding your gears) Reliability: Great, gas cap problem is common.
I came back to the Jeep
In 2004 I bought an 2002 Wrangler Sport. I loved it, but in Jan 06 sold it for a 2003 Land Rover Discovery w/ 20K miles. In over a year the Land Rover blew an engine and tried to kill me when the brakes failed. The 15 other annoying trips for service were only minor issues. Now it's 2007 and I am back in another 02 Wrangler Sport. Same color, miles and option as the old one. It's simple, fun and always works. Any problems can be fixed by me and internet Wrangler forums can show you how. It goes anywhere, looks classic and is cheap to purchase. Winter or Summer always bring a smile to my face in the Wrangler. Dump your heap and buy a Jeep.
It's a Jeep Thing. . .
Before I bought my '02 Wrangler Sport, I used to see the slogan "It's a Jeep thing, you wouldn't understand." Since owning it I do understand. Nothing compares to going off-road, climbing over hills and rocks, plowing through water or mud that is fender high, just to commune with Mother Nature. One thing I will say, the more you want to play, the more you pay. The acronym fits JEEP - Just Empty Every Pocket, but it's been worth every penny.
Very reliable and fun vehicle
A soft top is inherently loud, especially at 65mph or higher. Don't plan on using your cell phone to talk unless it's on bluetooth, otherwise you will not be able to hear past the wind noise as you roll down the road. I love the responsiveness of the steering but, at the same time, realize that this vehicle turns on a dime and might not be the right type of ride for an inexperienced driver, particularly at highway speeds. The Jeep Wrangler SE has a small 4-cylinder engine that runs well and is very reliable. However, if you live around hilly or mountainous areas go for the larger 6 or 8 cylinder Jeep models, especially in the summertime when you need both power and A/C. I've found that to keep my A/C output, a lot of the power is tapped and gearing down is a virtual certainty on steeper highways. Other than these issues, the Jeep enthusiast will love a mild spring or fall day when a drive in the countryside with the top down is about as close to nirvana as it gets.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
Wrangler Wreck
Our Wrangler was crashed into the back of a van at 35mph, the airbags did not deploy, the seat belt did not retract and our daughter broke her nose on the windshiel, $9500 damage. We have found other related airbag incidents in similar Jeeps, Chrysler investigated for 3 months and determined "the impact, which did not involve the frame, did not create the longitudinal deceleration to deploy the airbags." This care will not protect you.
what a joke
This is the worst vehicle i've ever driven. I have 6 cylinder, wish i had 4 because they put 3.07 gears in mine which makes it suck. I have not used 5th gear yet. can't climb hills in 4th. Gas mileage is about 14 (probably cause i can't use the high gears). Water comes in through floor when i go through puddles or it rains (about an inch, easy). Brakes warped when i got it, warped again at 12000 miles, again at 20,000 miles. Shakes like hell at 60+ mph. They said nothing was wrong. I've had two CJ's, 3 YJ's, and this TJ. Worst wrangler I ever bought. Never buy one again, unless it's an old CJ or a YJ. Plus it cost me almost twice as much as those ever did.
Jeeps ugly dog.
Wrangler is like an ugly dog...you laugh at them until you live with one for a while. After a while you just love to spend time with them.
Remember Why & What You're Buying
I have envied the Jeep for off road abilities while my wife envied driving to the beach sans top. We both had a crush on this vehicle since our early driving days. This 2002 Sahara will be a third "car" for around town open air driving. Regarding performance, this is not a high performance engine. The automatic is very slow out of the gates and the engine is very thirsty. Be prepared to spend money on gas. The front seats are surprisingly comfortable while the second row bench is still best suited for pre-teens. This vehicle is a blast to drive. Cruising in the sunshine listening to Jimmy Buffet is exactly what we envisioned it to be.
Great 3rd Vehicle
This vehicle is a lot of fun to drive. Pull the doors and roof off and enjoy the sun and beach. This is a well built and very reliable vehicle. Keep in mind, this vehicle has a very short wheel base and will wear you out on a long drive. The original Jeep has limited storage space and but is great for just enjoying a day of sun and fun. Words to the wise, opt. for the larger "Unlimited" or 4DR if this will be your daily driver.
Love this thing
My first jeep. Bought it used but you'd never know it to look at it or drive it. I love this thing. Flame red is about as attractive a color as I've seen. Far more comfortable to drive then my "non jeep" friends warned me it would be. For the first time in my life I am anxiously awaiting a huge snow storm.
BUYER BEWARE!
My second and LAST Jeep (also bought a 1997 Sport new). I've had nothing but trouble with Jeep Wranglers. Can't believe I was stupid enough to buy another after all the problems with the first. The 2002 Sahara wouldn't start the other day -- had to have it towed. I'm a little more than 3000 miles outside warranty, so the fuel pump module was a nice $600 treat! Mechanic said much is prematurely wrong with this vehicle after his inspection. Total bill $1195! BUYER BEWARE!
Looks good, runs like crap
If you want to look good at the beach or driving thru your neighborhood, get a Wrangler Sport! Oh, and get one if you want a plastic and cheap interior, awful gas mileage, a hit or miss transmission, absolutely no cargo room, windows that scratch when you breathe, ventilation that turns on and off without turning it on or off, a cd player that skips at every bump, painful shocks, check engine light that is always on, POOR Dealer SERVICE, parts that RUST (screws, attachments on vehicle exterior, windows) and if you like replacing your windshield every three months, GET A WRANGLER. I cannot wait to get rid of this piece of garbage.
16 years... and counting!
My wife bought this new and, aside from the top needing to be replaced every few years, it's a great vehicle. 112,000+ miles and it is as strong as it can be for a 4 cylender engine. Highway mileage stinks but, it's a Jeep, never meant to be an economy commuter car. You will not get stuck under anything less than a 3' deep snowfall. And, even then we were only detained for about 5 minutes until we rocked back out the way we came. We've taken it through some gnarly situations and, she's breezed through easily. I've driven Jeeps since 1966 and nothing else. If you want a full out, barebone 4x4, the SE is it. We added a few things to ease our aging bones but, nothing more than custom padded seats. Want reliability: buy a Jeep. As the commercials used to say: they wrote the book on 4-wheel drive.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
American Classic
I'm in Colorado. Guess what, the 3 speed auto on my 2002 Sahara does a better job than I can on our inclined "roads." I'm very tall and though the comfort level is far better for me than I thought it would be, it's no car. Gas mileage is actually good for hauling around that heavy transfer case all the time. Excellent seat comfort and support. Impressive fit, finish, build quality. Bad: lousy soft-top, but I run around in a safari or bikini and don't use it; hardtop when it's on is DELUXE. Outstanding air/heat (no wonder Mercedes uses the same). There are years of off-road features and refinement in the design of this outstanding vehicle. You should buy one before the 4.0L is gone.
Not Bad
If you are looking for something fun to drive with high versatility this is the vehicle. If you want a quiet reliable ride buy a foreign car. My previous '99 Wrangler had 20K miles, the electrical system had a short, the hard top was cracking. I traded that in for a Toyota Tacoma truck. The truck was built extremely well, but it's still a truck. I traded the truck for a '01 Wrangler (currently with 19K miles). I just received my second recall notice, the main seal has failed (replaced after three trips to the dealer), the throwout bearings are making noise, and it shakes at 70 mph. Despite all this its very fun to drive and can go anywhere.
First Jeep
It is reliable and fun. Think of this 4 wheeler as a Harley with more aftermarket accessories. Drawbacks, small cargo space, plastic dash, and you will have to downshift to 2nd gear to climb even the mildest of hill inclines at highway speeds. I have driven long distances twice (1200 miles and 1600 miles) and it is compariable as a standard cab small pickup. Mine is an 02 Sport but came with half doors, Khaki paint, and low gears not listed for 02. I think Jeep was experimenting with my '02 and a half Sport for the later Rubicon.
Jeep Wrangler owner
This is 2nd wrangler that I ahve owned. I never should have sold my old 92 wrangler. This is a great car with could ride and handling characteristics. provided you are not expecting sports car handling or luxury car ride. It is bumpy and loud. You get good mileage if you stay around 72 mph. Faster and gas gauge drops much faster. There is no possibility of using a cellular phone at any speed above 20mph with top down. Top up increases that speed to about 40.
2002 2.5L 4CYL Wranger SE
This Jeep was driven at Camp Jeep 2003 in the Blue Ridge mountains. It's been through all kinds of trails and weather. This was even good in the snow for a lightweight. I recommend to everyone the following: Get rid of the Goodyear tires! Since I got 215/75/15 BFG AT KO tires, the Jeep has handled even better and it doesn't slip in the rain. Also get a tow hitch and replace the bumpers. I hope to travel south to the Ynes Mountains for Camp Jeep 2005 in California. I did purchase the sliding glass half upper doors from Quadratec.
Looking for fun? This is it!
With a smoother suspension and amenities such as air conditioning and cruise control, this Jeep is at home on the streets AND the trails. The 4.0L inline six provides adequate power for most situations. Coupled with the 5-speed, you can expect a smooth power curve and decent acceleration. Inside, you'll find a tight but comfortable cockpit. Headroom is certainly not a problem and the steering wheel is in a comfortable position. The exterior is where this Jeep maintains the closest relationship to its elders. Unique styling that has not changed in decades allows functionality and gives personality.
I'm a new believer in Jeep!
I have wanted a Jeep Wrangler for years as a second car. I found myself looking for a new vehicle after my overseas assignment and went ahead and purchased a Jeep Wrangler Sport to stay in tune with my new "back to basics" kind of mode I was in. All I have to say is "wow". This is an incredibly fun car/SUV to own and drive. It makes you feel like you can go anywhere...safely. Looking to go to the upcoming Jeep Jamboree this summer to try it out. I'm a proud Jeep owner now.
Sahara4x4
Excellent performance. The soft top is the weak link, as the Florida sun bakes the stitching and the roof falls apart. The engine is solid V 6 and only needed the head gasket replaced at 100,000 miles. Other maintainence was within normal limits.
Not bad but could much better
This is one of my Play toys, and does what needs to do. But my first new Jeep (CJ-5) I bought in 79 was better because of the 304 V-8 power. I get the same MPG it did, at about 15- 17 mpg
Wrangler---It IS What It Is
After looking at Jeeps for years...I finally purchased a 2002 X six cyl with auto transmission. It is a fun car to drive and rides very well. I have 27,000 on the car without a problem. Two areas to be aware of: 1. The part time four wheel drive can not be used on dry or wet pavement. It is not an all wheel drive vehicle. Goiod for off road or in snow only. 2. Wranglers depreciate more quickly than anything I have owned. Paid about $21K and Edmunds says it is now worth about $12K. Ugh!!
Excellent Choice
A Jeep is a Jeep -- you must know that going in. It won't get good mileage, it has a rough ride, and it is "plain Jane" on the inside. But, IT'S A JEEP and I love it. This is my second one and it is just as much fun as the first. I highly recommend a Jeep to anyone who wants to have a true original off-road vehicle.
Unreliable
Flips, and scares me, so I got rid of it.
My Wrangler is so much Fun!
I've had this car for a few weeks now and I am having a blast! It took about 3 or 4 days to get used to taking the soft top on and off, but I'm getting much better at it and it takes considerably less time now. It rides better than you would expect. it's no luxury sedan or anything, but it's not a kidney buster either.
I LOVE my Jeep!!!
I could not be happier with my Jeep. I've taken it offroad several times and it does awesome!!!
New sport
Only two weeks of heavy driving so far, but it all I expected....FUN. Pleanty of low end and mid range torque. Accelerates decently. Getting 17 mpg with mixed, but mostly city driving with the A/C on. Would not be my choice for a family car; but, since my wife has the minivan, the family part is covered. This is for fun and commuting. I cant imagine anything more versatile. Just buy it.
Great ride
I have had my jeep for two years and love it. It's best for around town and especially with the bikini top on in summer. Always a fun, reliable ride. I've taken it on a couple of all day trips and don't recommend it. Lots of wind noise; I drive my corvette on any long trips now. 13,000 miles and everything is perfect.
fun
Like a four wheel drive Miata
The Best Car Ever
The Jeep brand is already the best type of car available, but the new TJ takes the cake. It is perfect in every catagory exept fuel economy, but hey, it is an SUV right? I hate all that Honda and Toyota SUV crap because its not real. That goes for pretty much every other SUV on the market as well. It is freeing to drive with the top down and music from the soundbar, almost like a religious experiance exept better. This thing cannot be beat. It is the best offroad vehicle in the world. Dont be fooled any imitations, get a Jeep.
Wranglers Rock
If a great car should give you a feeling of excitement and happiness when you get in and turn the key, Wranglers have got to be near the top of the list. You don't have to drive a Lexus, BMW or other fussy sled to have a car that actually transports you while adding a kick to your daily life. Wranglers don't go 0-60 in a nano second. They don't fly through a line of cones in record time. Actually they don't climb boulders. At least not in my daily grind. But then, most commuters don't get to drive our country's beltway roads at rush hour going 150 mph. So, for fantasy, why not have a funmobile that is not afraid to pick up the mulch at Home Depot for a fraction of the cost?
It's a Jeeper's Review
I read another review - a lady said it "flips" so I got rid of it. Uh, perhaps drivers ed. would be in order, ma'am. My Jeep is a superior performer - remember what Jeeps are built to do. Off-road. My TJ is unmatched in off- road performance and has been totally reliable.
My Red Jeep
To me, It,s important to have a vehicle that will preform in all types of weather...My jeep does this. To have a body style thats old fashion but not old, practicle with strong features.I can hardly identify all the new cars on the road today...but you know a jeep when you see one. I will buy another unless they radically change.[I,m 62 yrs old and I love my jeep]
Back to basics....
I have found my Jeep to be a fun vehicle. My other vehicle is a Mazda Miata, so these two complement each other well. The Jeep is a suprisingly comfortable cruiser. One of the qualities I like most about my Jeep is the ease with which you can customize your Jeep. The aftermarket is full of options. All in all I can safely say that I am very pleased with my Jeep and that I would reccomend the Wrangler without hesitation.
Kicks ass, no questions
Reliable, goes anywhere, 19mpg with a 4.0l engine... what else do you want? Did I mention babe magnet?
FANTASTIC
I own a 2003 Wrangler X. I've added 35" tires, 3inch body and 2inch suspension lift. This is the most fun I have even had driving. I'm barely getting 13.7mpg though. I wish I had gotten one sooner, this is the coolest ride ever!
will always have one
The Wrangler has been everything I expected and more. It's one of the funnest vehicles I have ever driven. It will take you just about anywhere you want to go. Jeep has been around since the 1940's so you know they are doing something right. You have to get a Jeep Wrangler.
old faithful
very satisfied with this vehicle for the price fairly solid and well made tested this vehicle to the max on and off road and was happy to say it held its own the outside body could have a little more strength, sides could be reinforced
TOO MUCH FUN
Purchased a 2002 black Jeep Wrangler X in 2005. After 10,000 miles of pure fun, no problems at all. Take the top off in the summer and cruise down by the beach. In the winter go and rescue other drivers including over confident TRUCK drivers. No complaints.
Soccer moms need not apply
I have had my jeep for over 2 years now, and I love it. It truly is a legendary vehicle. It is a fun to drive vehicle, and with the top and doors off, it's open driving rivaling a motorcycle. Although there are an infinite amount of aftermarket mods available, I encourage any owner to try the stock vehicle's off road ability. I have, and it is an amazing off road vehicle.
X-Factor: Why I love my Jeep!
Had my X for 1.5 yrs now, and still love the bugger! It is fast, nimble, goes over any obstacle, and parks like a Geo! A Tonka Toy that I drive every day, it is most high on the grin factor. Must haves: full steel doors, with real windows, premium sound, good sunglasses for top-down enjoyment! I have the 3.73 gearing option, and it launches like a jackrabbit. Only thing I wish I'd gotten was ABS. This is the best convertible/truck/toy/go- anywhere vehicle ever! I've owned musclecars, foreign sports cars, trucks, and various other vehicles, but nothing has turned my crank like this Jeep. I fall in love all over again every single day!
So good, So far
This has been my first new vehicle purchased that did not have a warranty issue within the first 30 days. I have actually had none after 35000 miles. I wish I got the power of the gas the gas used but this thing is supposed to be off road. Even with the stock "tires" I was not scared to take it off road. Now that I put bigger tires on I can better a lot of dirt bikes when it comes to hills. This is the best vehicle I have owned and would reccomend it to anyone who wants to go off road.
Best vehicle so far!
After the first test drive I was hooked. I had always liked the Wrangler but in the past I always needed a more practical vehicle. The Wrangler is not all that practical but it is fun. There is nothing like driving the Jeep with the top down on warm sunny days. Other Wrangler owners wave and everybody else is envious. The soft top takes some practice but mastering it comes quickly. The upgraded stereo is powerful enough to use on the highway with the top down. The short wheelbase and tight steering radus makes manuvering in tight spots a breeze. The gas milage could be better but that dosen't seem to matter so much when the top is down.