Used 2003 Jeep Wrangler Consumer Reviews
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Old Reliable
I bought this vehicle used, from a friend. It needed all of its basic service done for the mileage as it had been neglected in a salt water environment for four years. After new tires, brakes, tune up and fluid change, I used it for a daily driver. First the bad: It is a soft top and is very noisy at anything above 50mph. It has a harsh ride and has very little storage room inside of the interior. It also gets terrible fuel mileage. Next, the good: The vehicle has had rock solid reliability with very few unscheduled repairs, all of which were minor. The vehicle is also pretty much unstoppable in harsh weather and I have had the opportunity to use it in deep snow, flooding, and hurricane conditions during the time I have owned it. It is also very good in a crash as I was hit hard on the side at highway speeds and walked away with only a bruised shoulder. The vehicle was still operable after the crash and I drove it to the body shop for repairs. It is a niche vehicle and you will either love them or hate them. If you buy one for comfort or mileage, you will be sorely disappointed, If you buy them for tough as nails off roading or for the ultimate in bad weather mobility, you will love it. Update... I installed a factory hard top which has improved the comfort of the vehicle substantially as the highway noise level has been significantly reduced and the climate control now has no issue keeping up in extreme weather. I also installed the stock sized tires and rims which improved drivability and slightly increased fuel mileage. Repairs are starting to. Evonne more frequent, but the old girl now has 120,000 hard miles on the clock.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Not for the faint of heart.
If you plan on driving on the road all the time and you are very young, maybe this vehicl will do, but it has average gas mileage to be expected from an american SUV and its a rough ride in town. That said if you have time to actually use your jeep for offroading and trail running the jeep wrangler is excellent. I cant imagine trying to take a scion up some of the places I have gone in this jeep, and the soft top and removeable doors are always off. Great to drive at night in the summer here and the improved coilspring suspension is a step up from the older leafspring. Still stiff though, so like I say, its not for the faint of heart.
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- Sahara Convertible SUVMSRP: $12,99531 mi away
Incredibly Fun
I have had several Jeeps, and this is by far the best one ever. Traded my Avalanche that I loved in on this, and don't regreat it for a minute. I have both hard and soft tops, but bought it for no tops. Absolutely fun to drive anytime anywhere, and it can go anywhere. Live at the beach, and I couldn't have a more appropriate vehicle. Thanks Jeep...
Most fun I've ever had!
I never thought I'd own a Wrangler. I was actually looking for a Cherokee when I stumbled across this perfect 2003 X model. I've never had a vehicle more fun than this. I drive with a smile everyday. It actually rides quite well, the seats are fantastic, and the CD player with the factory subwoofer sounds great. I added stainless bumpers front and rear, a Magnaflow exhaust, and the K&N intake kit. It sounds excellent, and has better pick up. Driving it last summer, on a clear warm night, with the top off, I looked up to see the stars going by, and all seemed right in the world, if only for a few minutes. This vehicle is amazing... especially off road.
Great Year for a Wrangler!
If you are looking for a used Wrangler to use as both a daily driver and a weekend trail runner, the 2003 year is a very good choice. This year saw the intro of the new 4 speed automatic transmission, making freeway driving easier. It had already seen a engine upgrade in 2001, and also now has the option for rear disk brakes (faster stopping, better feel and much easier to repair). Aside from the later Unlimited body extension option and the Rubicon off road package that became available in 2004 (and together in 2005), there is no better Wrangler to consider than a 2003 (Unless you want a fat/wide 2007+, which can't get though some desert canyons I wheel in!)
Its a Jeep.
Purchased the car new, and have used it primarily as a toy. It has been very reliable and has not required anything but normal maintenance. This is a great car for weekends and vacations, but I would not recommend it for everyday use. It is also great in poor weather conditions. The ride is not super comfortable, but that is expected for the type of vehicle. The hard-top is difficult to negotiate, and it becomes an ordeal to remove each season. The exterior metal is thin and dents easily, and the car burns gas at an alarming rate. I replaced the air filter with K and N, and that improved mileage about 2 MPG. All that said, I still love my Jeep.
Gently Used
Purchased it gently used with 31x10.5 tires already installed. Rides a lot better than the '97 I had previously driven. 2.4L has better horsepower than older models. Transmission and clutch operate very smoothly. Can hear some clunking into gear, and very stiff in the single digit temps of Iowa winter. High back seats are comfortable for long drives, but don't expect to get much above 65mph with the 4 cyl. Looking forward to spring off-roading.
Just For Fun
After several months with my Jeep, I am very happy with my purchase. I only wish the weather would cooperate so I could leave my top off more often. For 2003, the seats were re- designed and they are much more comfortable than prior years. Total Fun in the Sun!
Best Jeep yet
I had a '83 CJ7 that was bulletproof, and was great to drive. My '03 Jeep, is just as reliable and great to drive, with more comforts of my '83. The fuel economy isn't great, but if I wanted that, I would've bought a Toyota.
Time tested
Simply put, there is no vehicle as capable in stock form as the Jeep Wrangler. I've ridden them all (Hummers, Rovers, Cruisers) but nothing off roads as capable as a Jeep.
Rubicon
I bought the Jeep back in January of 2007. It was not to a few little dings and soft top. I got it in Georgia and I dorve it to North Carolina and latter to Colorado. The thing gets about 18 to 20 mpg on the highway and 15 in town. Right now it has about 90,000 miles on it. The only problem I have had is the trakbar on the front axle. I have had to replace it twice but it happened within 5000 miles of each time it went out and the dealer replaced it free of charge the second time. The stock front bumper is a piece of junk also. I got a tube bumper that looks great and I am going to drive it back to North Carolina when I get back from my deployment.
LOVIN IT!
There is nothing like driving a Jeep! The Sport is amazing! There are countless clubs and everyone in a Jeep is part of the family. I will never be without a Wrangler in my driveway for the rest of my life, for those of you who don't have one yet, it's a Jeep thing, you wouldn't understand! ;)
You cant go wrong with a jeep
This is my second Jeep wrangler I had a 2001 sport and I loved it. Just when I thought Jeep couldn't get any better I bought the Jeep I've always wanted (well since 03) the Rubicon and I'm very impressed with its performance and capability.
Jeep 2003 is an awesome 4x4 convertible
I'm living in Alaska. Life is good in a Jeep. This vehicle has a soft top which makes it the perfect Alaskan convertible. I have had it for about 4 years now and have great experiences. Never stuck in the snow, never miss the sun, and it even tows my little trailer.
What the Doctor Ordered
My week old Wrangler is the best move this over-worked man has ever made. 2.4L is adequate, better than other 4 cyl I have owned, 5 speed is easy to shift, the hyd clutch is a piece of cake to work, good for beginners. Wish I had the full doors with window, it would make cool mornings better. It is truly relaxing to drive. Soft top is not that bad, 10 mins tops to do it right. I will always own a Wrangler from this point on. It's a Jeep Thing!!
Jeep Rubicon: 3 Years Later & Loving It!
After 3 years of ownership and more than 35,000 miles of driving in every type of weather, terrain, on-and off-road condition, I have to say that the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon has impressed me as the best built and most capable Jeep that I've owned to date--this one makes Jeep #6. For a Jeep, the ride is comfortable and the seats allow greater adjustment over past models. The suspension is firm and well matched for both on road handling and off-road articulation. The hard top and soft top are both made well and equally quiet when driving at highway speeds. The sailcloth soft top is holding up much better than my previous soft tops from earlier TJ models. This one's a keeper!
Best Wrangler Yet!
This is my 4th Wrangler and it is a major improvement, in comfort and performance, without compromising the classic design.
I'm in Love! <3
Just bought a used 2003 Jeep, one-owner. Bought it with 36,000 miles on it. LOVE THIS SUV! Everywhere I go, it's great to drive in. Great ground clearance, great handling. Fuel economy is a problem (15mpg mixed). But wouldn't drive anything else! Love it! Really easy to work on!
Nothing better to drive!
There truly is nothing better to drive than a Jeep Wrangler. I have a '02 Wrangler Sport 4.0L with 5-speed manual and you cannot beat the power and ability of this vehicle for its class. Interior / Exterior and everything about it sells me on the fact that I won't drive anything else. In fact my wife have one too if she wouldn't have already bought a Durango (Another Chrysler product of greatness)The only people that care that much about interior changes don't truly DRIVE a Jeep Wrangler. They just sit in it while it's rolling.
Can't wait!
Posting this comment to those who might be shopping for a jeep also. Have wanted one since I was 16 and now I am 41--been driving and paying for a Honda Accord for the last 5 yrs and can't wait to trade for a loud, bumpy, "wind in my face" jeep! Might have to work a 2nd job to pay for the jeep's drinking problem, but you won't here me complaining when my husband, Aussie, and I go to N Ga camping and hiking. We are going to get dirty,have dog hair everywhere and a smile on our faces! Thanks for all the consumer reviews-helps a lot in my decision to trade the Honda to a whining jeep owner.
Wanted one for a long time
For years I've wanted to own a Jeep Wrangler, before it became a Wrangler. When the CJ's were around I thought about purchasing one, but with a wife and growing family it was impossible. Once the kids were out of the house I worked very hard at finding the ideal Wrangler. I like the four wheel drive, the style of the body, the simple things about it. The Wrangler changes on occasion, but you'll alway remember a JEEP before the companies who want to be like them. JEEP Wrangler one of Americans best, and will be around for many years to come. Will the wannabes, probably not. Funny how a WWII JEEP turned into one of America's favorite recreation vehicle. Take that wannabes.
All you need in a Jeep
Bought the Wrangler brand new in '03 and have never, ever changed anything on it. Seriously, since driving it off the lot, it has not been back to the dealer. Even still has original brakes. I did change out the tires for 38" last year. Great reliability!
From road racer to trail blazer.
OK, to be fair, I have to mention that I just got the Jeep yesterday. I have yet to drive with the top down, but I plan on doing so tonight after work. I gave up my '93 F-250 with a 460 and my '99 Mustang GT for this. I had this urge to get a Wrangler and I don't know why. After acquiring one, I'm glad I did! I'm anxious to try it out around my work in the dirt. (Our buildings are surrounded by dirt and up against the side of a hill.) I'm so glad that Jeep made the "X" trim for folks like me who want the bigger motor without gouging the wallet.
A. Banana's veiw of a jeep
I think that this car is high quality and high perofrmance endurant. I would change however some of the interior designs, like the seats. My freinds who have Jeeps that are different colors and different years, have the same seat design as i do. I find that annoying cause now i think if i ever sell my old jeep, then I'm not going to buy another one cause it'll be exactly the same as my old one. you should change the seating in different cars. For example, if you make a red Jeep, make the interior black not brown. Thank You very much for your time. A. Banana
Nice so far
Had this for several months - no problems, much smoother ride than my old '91 Jeep Wrangler!
Only a Jeep
The best vehicle I have ever owned!
The best vehicle ever!
Obviously, you buy a Jeep because there is no alternative. No other SUV can match the fun factor that comes with the Jeep Wrangler. Removing the top, part time 4WD, the cool headlights... Not to mention that it can go anywhere. AND, you get to wave at every other person on earth that knows what you know when you drive by them in their Jeep.
2003 Rubicon
1st Wrangler. As expected, the ride is truck like and corners and winding roads need to be taken slowly. However in snow and on poor roads, it is excellent. The fit and finish so far are very good. There are a few drill holes on the windshield and and roll bars that do not perfectly align, but work. The manual is sketchy in places. The dealer is very helpful here. The Cruise Control and Airbag Kill Switch are still on order. I replaced a 1988 Range Rover with it, and for what I have for the money I paid, I am thrilled.
Drivers would be surprised!
The new 2003 Jeep X is a great value and will surprise many people how smooth and comfortable the ride is. The X has excellent power and smooth shifting from the Automatic transmission. I have taken it across Baja and down the Pacific coast and have encountered more than a few 4- wheel drive opportunities; the X shines in the sand and dirt as well as driving the LA freeways! The interior layout is very functional and, so far, everything is working fine (air, lights, stereo, etc...) Get one!
Jeep Lover
Growing up around Jeeps I have always loved them. I didn't care for the first models of Jeep Wranglers (square headlights) but the newer ones are awsome. Mine isn't for offroading so I can't say how well it does off road but every review says the do really well. I read one review where it hung with a Hummer. I probably will own a jeep for the rest of my life.
Love my Jeep
I have had my 2002 Jeep Wrangler now for almost two years. I absolutely love it! I wish the fuel economy was better due to the fact that I commute about 70 mile round trip every day. But, it has been a blast and great bonding tool for my whole family. We love to camp and go four wheeling off-road. My Wrangler has taken me everywhere I had had the guts and lack of common sense to go. A party on wheels...
Careful buying a Jeep they need to Fix!
I have wanted a Jeep Wrangler for a long time. Finally bought a used 2003 and after driving for approximately 20,000 miles I am now experiencing the "Death Wobble" If you haven't had this happen with your Jeep you will!!! No real cure from what I am reading. Have to say I would not recommend buying a Jeep to anyone. Trying to fix the Death Wobble in my Jeep so I can sale the rig.
It's a Jeep Thing!!
In 1979 I purchased a '78 CJ5. I also purchased a 1944 willy that same year. I wish I still had both. My latest is a n '03 sport 4wd. I am still a jeepie at heart. I wish more of the jeepies' knew about the "jeep wave". Happy Jeeping!!
I owned my Jeep for 1 hour
I bought a white Sport Model, with a hard top. I was in heaven as I drove it home. I parked it on the driveway and got out. I then noticed a black rubber hose hanging from the back of the car, which God knows for how long I had been dragging. As I inspected the bottom of the Wrangler I noticed a loose piece of plastic, on the back of the passengers side back fender. This piece had flapped out because of a missing screw. In addition, what I believed to be the differential axle was completely covered in rust. I called the dealership and told them to have the car I had just traded in ready because I wanted it back. One hour later I was back in my old car.
Dangerous on wet roads!!
I had my jeep for two months but had to trade it in because after SEVERAL close calls, I finally had an accident when it slid into the back of another car on wet roads. I have no doubt that had I'd been driving a car, it would have stopped - there was plenty of room. It's also very difficult to see what other vehicles are doing when you are trying to change lanes and merge into traffic. On the good side though, it was a fun car and the a/c was excellent and got cold very fast.
Get One..you'll love it
Just bought a 2003 Inca Gold pearl coat X, I love it. Looks good, drives good. You'll overlook all of it's shortcomings when it puts a smile on your face!
Jeep #4
Bought this jeep for my wife, she really wanted this color, trim, etc. I could not talk her into a Rubicon, for the same price, although I really love my dad's new one. She is more about sound systems, fun, and comfort than capability. Hendrick was easy to deal with and she loves her new jeep!
Rough it with confort Jeep Wrangler
This jeep wrangler is an upgrade from your son's california college vehicle that he bought to drive the girls around in. It has improved ride, easier top, and all the safety features of a "regular" sedan. It still goes through flooded roads, across fields with the ease of the bigger "monsters" we hear so much about. Fuel economy is decent. I love the fact that the back seat folds forward to make the mini truck I wanted when I removed the seat from my old wrangler. Now I have the best of both worlds as I approach my 60 birthday. Signed the Blonde Supercharged Outdoors Woman
This Vehicle is a Lot of Fun
This vehicle is really fun to drive and has a supringly great amount of comfort for a vehicle that is based on the premise that it will be used off road. The factory installed enhancements, normally installed after market, are engineered as a system, so this car doesn't misbehave, even at speeds up to 75 mph.
Rubicon Squishes the Competition
My fiance and I decided to spend the extra cash and go all out with our new Wrangler and get a Rubicon. I have always driven a Wrangler and when it was time for a new vehicle I wouldnt have chosen anything else. The Rubicon has everything I would want in off road capabilities and when it comes to traveling, it handles like a dream. Smooth riding and a turn radius that cant be beat is just the beginning of the Rubicons awesome features. Worry free off roading in any conditions keeps the fun in driving this Wrangler beast. Looking forward to some great snow storms this winter!
Fun, reliable and jugs down gas
The Jeep is definetly a fun filled vehicle. It says "I have no boundaries and nothing to tie me down". If you want a fun car to drive this is it. But keep in mind that this is a brute that will go through some gas quick. With all the technology today you think they could make it a little more gas efficient. Have no doubts, this vehicle isnt made for paved roads, but for the outback. Its only true use isnt in a concrete jungle but four wheeling out in the countryside. As a fun vehicle it has no match, as a city vehicle it could use some modifications.
Jeepin!!!!
Not yo momma's station wagon. As an owner of a 2003 X and former owner of a 74 CJ 5, I love the better ride quality. Until you find a bump. Stock off-road ability is good. Good crisp, tight steering. All around fun to drive.
Me and my Jeep
I LOVE my Jeep. No other vehichle I've owned has given me such a good feeling to drive. The Jeep just feels so right in so many ways. I took her out "wheelin" right after break-in period. I only took her on what wheelers call "the doe run", (easy trails), after all, it is a brand new vehicle. Only modification is bigger tires. (I really don't understand why they even put small tires on at the factory, it just isn't right on a jeep.) I was absolutely amazed at the obstacles I went over easily. After the 2nd worst winter in NY's history with it, and now a hot summer, I can truly say this is a vehicle for all seasons.
3rd Car
Ever since I can remember I have always wanted a jeep. I had planned on selling my truck but at the last minute I changed my mind. That makes it hard for me to tell if I would like it as well if it were my only vehicle. As for a 3rd car we love to zipp around town on the weekends.
Eyago's Review
Great Vehicle...Gotta punch it on the highway for passing or else your not getting much of a response, engine is weakest between 1200 and 1900 RPM's ...
Samis review
I love this car!!!!!!!!!!
new jeep
ive always wanted a wrangler, but never purchased one because i didn't feel it was appropriate for a long work commute every day. now that i have a company car, i went and bought one. love it!
For off road the best!!!
For on road fun to drive, for off road I have not found a better 4x4!!!
'03 Wrangler X
I got rid of my SE because it didn't have enough power and purchased an X. As expected, the 6 has much more kick than the 4. The fuel economy sucks, but it's a Wrangler not a Civic. The rebates were great at this time of year and my dealer had a lot in stock. Black with a khaki soft top, sharp!
Be able to go where you shouldn't
After owning a 2000 Wrangler I thought I knew what a Jeep could do. Boy was I wrong My Rubi preformed better straight off the lot than my modified 2000 ever could. If you have a go anywhere, stop at nothing attitiude this is the vehicle for you. Now, good luck finding one.