Buying a used Jeep

Buying a used Jeep 

If you’re looking for a used SUV or 4x4 with plenty of character, then Jeep trucks will no doubt be on your list. With an all-American history and reputation for toughness, they’re a great option if you’re looking for practicality and fun on or off-road. Plus, with plenty of used Jeep car models available on the market, you’re sure to find one to suit your needs with SPOTiCAR. 

Why buy a used Jeep?  

With their origins in the battlefield 4x4 trucks of Allied soldiers in World War II, Jeep vehicles have reliability, toughness and individuality in their DNA. Built as a recreational vehicle since the 1950s, Jeep has built a strong reputation for unique and innovative vehicles that have made it a household name in the SUV and 4x4 market.  

Although Jeep’s fame was made by its ability off-road, its size, reliability and style have also made these vehicles a popular on-road choice, particularly in the recent growing demand for SUVs. So whether you’re looking for a 4x4 that can get you anywhere or an SUV that can get the kids and their kit everywhere, you should consider a used Jeep.  

Which used Jeep model should you buy?  

Since the 1970s, Jeep has been producing SUVs and 4x4 models that meet a range of needs. From compact crossovers to all-terrain vehicles, these are the options available on the SPOTiCAR network.  

Jeep Cherokee  

The model with the greatest heritage and longest history, Jeep Cherokees were first produced in 1974. Widely considered to be the original full-sized SUV (it’s rumoured that the term ‘sports utility vehicle’ first appeared in a Cherokee sales brochure), Cherokees have since evolved to become smaller and meet the demands of modern drivers.  

With five generations of production, fourth and fifth-gen vehicles are more likely to be found on today’s used marketplace. Produced since 2008, these models are compact and compact crossover vehicles. The fourth generation is available with 2.8L diesel and 3.7L petrol engines, four and five-speed automatic and six-speed gearboxes. In contrast, the fifth-generation Cherokee (2013 onwards, has a slightly longer wheelbase and a range of engine options. These include 2L and 2.2L diesel and 2L, 2.4L and 3.2L petrol models with the choice of six-speed manual and nine-speed automatic gearboxes.  

Alongside the Cherokee is the Grand Cherokee, which was developed from the original vehicle and has also had five generations of vehicles produced since 1993. With unibody chassis and larger engines, this range of midsize SUVs offers drivers more power and space.  

Jeep Compass 

The first generation of crossover SUVs to be produced by Jeep, the Compass came to market in 2007. Originally presented as a concept vehicle in 2022, the first models were available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive options.  

Indeed, the electronic four-wheel-drive system options give the Jeep Compass plenty of capabilities that are ideal for any off-road user. A variety of engine and gearbox options also make this model suitable for a range of needs, with 2L and 2.4L petrol, 2L and 2.2L diesel, five and six-speed manual and six-speed automatic gearboxes available.  

Plus, the Sport, Latitude and Limited models offer drivers greater technological features and exterior or interior trim options.  

Jeep Renegade 

The smallest SUV in the Jeep range, the Jeep Renegade has been produced since 2015. With the standard model only available in four-wheel drive, its optional electronic systems give drivers extra confidence off-road.  

It also offers one of the largest range of engine and gearbox options, with petrol engines ranging from 1L to 2.4L, a 1.3L plug-in hybrid, 1.6L and 2.0L diesel models available. This is alongside five and six-speed manuals, six and seven-speed dual-clutch automatics and nine-speed full automatics. Plus, despite its size, the Renegade offers plenty of space, with a boxy, striking look that stands out anywhere.  

Similarly to the Compass, the Renegade’s Sport, Latitude and Limited models come with extra trim and technology options, with the Sport also available with 1.4L or 2.4L MultiAir engines, six-speed manual and nine-speed automatic gearboxes.   

Jeep Wrangler 

A direct descendent of the original World War II model, the Wrangler has all the hallmarks of the Jeep identity. From its military looks to its 4x4 capabilities, the DNA of the Wrangler’s design is based on providing reliability and performance on and off-road.  

Constructed using a separate body and frame, all models are also built with optional four-wheel-drive systems, two and four-door options and bodies with removable hard or soft-tops.  

The JK generation, which has been produced since 2007, appears most often on the used market and is available with 2.8L diesel or 3.6L and 3.8L petrol engines. Plus, there are four, five or six-speed automatics and six-speed manual gearboxes in these standard Wrangler models.  

What should you look out for in a used Jeep? 

Though all Jeep models are built to be robust (which is partly why they retain their value), used vehicles are likely to have undergone a lot of wear and tear, particularly if they’ve been used off-road. Looking out for some key features will ensure you’re getting the best quality Jeep available: 

• Rust: trucking through harsh weather and tough environment takes its toll on bodywork and exterior structures after a while. Checking thoroughly for rust on the inside and outside of the vehicle, particularly around the hinges, hood and under any floors or carpets will make sure this isn’t threatening the structural integrity of the vehicle.  

• Undercarriage condition: many Jeep models have skid plates that protect the underside of the vehicle, checking this for any damage, as well as the undercarriage as a whole, for any rust or damage will reassure you that the vehicle structure is sound.  

• Vehicle history: as well as a test drive, a look at the service history will let you know if there are, or have ever been major repairs on the vehicle. Be suspicious of any gaps in the servicing or modifications that have been made.  

• Tyres: although these can be replaced, checking the tyres and alloys can be an indicator of how the Jeep has been treated and whether its been subject to more wear and tear than the rest of the vehicle suggests. Tread and alignment are key elements to check before you buy.  

• Leaks: taking a backlight and checking the undercarriage and hood will reassure you that nothing is leaking from the vehicle before you buy.  

As well as making sure the Jeep you’re buying is as high quality as possible, it’s important that you choose the right model for your needs. If you want a fun 4x4, then a Renegade might be the best option. Alternatively, a Compass will make a spacious and cool family vehicle. For advice on which available vehicles will perfectly suit your needs, get in touch with the SPOTiCAR team.