2009 Jeep Wrangler Review: Strong & Dependable Four Wheeler

Aug 12, 2022

The 2009 Jeep Wrangler lasts around 250,000 miles with only some average shaking and gasoline issues. At $14,457 to $18,726 it’s a lot of money, but worth it for a fantastic dedicated off-roader.

The Good

Off-road capabilities are excellent, the navigation system works well for its age and the driving experience is more fun than other SUVs.

The Bad

The performance is below average for an SUV, the cabin is very noisy and the high suspension makes it easy to roll over.

Is the 2009 Jeep Wrangler a Good Used SUV?

Yes, 2009 is a good year for the Wrangler. Owner reviews praise the removable doors, off-road abilities, and torque-heavy engine.
Interior quality is below average with a lot of very durable plastic and cloth, and the technology is basic.
Reliability ratings are average. Avoid models from 2007 and 2008 which have more mechanical issues and go with a 2009–2020 for improved quality.
Performance is below average for an SUV from the standard V6 engine.
The 2009 Wrangler is reasonably safe, getting an overall rating of 4-stars in government crash tests, but the rollover risk is high and only gets 3-stars in that test.
Fuel economy is worse than average, getting around 17 MPG, which gives owners about 316 miles of range out of the 18.6 gallon tank.

Positive Owner Reviews

Serena T

Great warranty. Fuel efficient.

There are no complaints about it. I love my vehicle and am happy that it has held up for almost ten years.

Colleen B

That jeep people are cooler than other people are.

I love everything about it. It's a fun car. I like the way it rides.

Katie P

It is a very fun car to have. The city gas mileage is not the best

Don't always like the gas mileage for city driving, but I love everything about the car. It's great for all weather conditions

Bobby W

It's dependable, fun and goes anywhere!

Like the looks, the handling, 4 wheel drive, the 4 doors, the durability and versatility. It's fun to drive and can be driven anytime, anywhere and in any weather. It could use a little more horsepower, but all in all, I love it!

Robert D

Great on the road and off the road.

My Jeep is great on road and off road, works well in the snow and on the beach, fun to drive. You can do anything with the truck, it is really cool to drive it when it is all striped down, go fishing all the time with my Jeep, I park it on the beach and fish.

Joshua K

It handles great and works well for cross country trips.

Love the removable top. Love the color and handling of the vehicle. Love the look of the jeep. Wish it had better gas mileage.

Cynthia F

Fun going topless in a Jeep Wrangler!

Jeep Wrangler is a fun reliable vehicle with 4 wheel drive and a lot of options whether you want to go topless, or just t- tops off, soft top, or hard top!

Anthony C

Fun, dependable, and always in style. Also, you can so many accessories to the vehicle.

My Jeep has been very dependable. I have enjoyed driving it for short trips. The maintenance has been very inexpensive.

Negative Owner Reviews

Pamela G

Don't buy a Jeep, they are lemons.

It has been a lemon. We had to replaces, engine, clutch, brakes, and 4x4 cable. My Jeep had low miles and never been off-roading in it. I would ever buy a Jeep again. It been a problem since we bought it brand new. Off the lot. Don't waste your money. Don't ever buy a Jeep.

Crystal S

Jeep Wrangler - fun in the sun!

We just had to replace the transmission, only 130, 000 miles on it. But we love it, despite the major repair. It is very easy to customize and really make it what we want/need. So much fun in the warmer months!

Atara P

It is a good car that can get you to the places you need to go.

I have not experienced any of the serious problems. Have not had any quality or reliability issues with it.

Larry M

Jeep is pronounced ( heap ) in Spanish.

This vehicle is pretty reliable considering it has 197000 miles on it. Not paid for yet and frequently putting extra maintenance money in it. The alignment has been done twice in a year which makes the tires wear faster than normal. Oil leaks are popping up more and more the older it gets. Heater core is going out now. Expensive vehicle to buy and own.

Josh S

If picked up early will last you a long time. Certainly get your monies worth.

A ton of space for whatever various needs. Certainly a comfortable vehicle. In the past have had problems with turn signals, alignment. However, most of these problems were few and far between. In most cases this is a reliable vehicle.

Tiffany A

It's great for off-roading.

I like that I can take the top off. I like that it holds its value. I dislike that it's actually kinda small inside, loud when driving (can't hear my kids talking to me from the backseat) and poor mileage for its size.

Leanne R

I have been driving it long distances for 5 years and it never gives me a problem,

Will last a long time. It is fun to drive, especially when I take the roof off. However, it burns gas quickly, and water gets inside when it rains.

Nikki B

I love the look and the ride of the vehicle but don't keep it long.

The Jeep wrangler is a high performance vehicle that can get you out of certain situations. But one of it is biggest downsides to me is a problem called the death wobble. This problem will cause the vehicle to shake uncontrollably while driving a speeds over 45mph. This problem is very expensive to fix could cost thousands and some say that even after they had everything replaced they still had the problem with their car.

What Do Critics Say About the Jeep Wrangler?

Consumer Reports says the Wrangler is impressive off-road, but owner satisfaction scores are lower than average.
Edmunds gives the Wrangler a 4.4/5 praising the fun driving experience, but doesn’t like the excessive road noise.
Kelley Blue Book users rate the Wrangler 4.5/5 and enjoy the strong resale value, but owners don’t like the high repair costs.

What Common Problems Does the 2009 Jeep Wrangler Have?

The most common problems found on the 2009 Jeep Wrangler include shaking while driving, gas overflowing while filling the tank, and excessive oil consumption. Overall, these problems are average for an off-road focused SUV, and repair costs are similar to rivals.

Shaking while driving, commonly known as the “death wobble”, is a common complaint from owners at around 75,000 miles. The problem is caused by the steering damper and front shocks. Replacing them both is a common repair, costing about $900.

Gas overflowing while filling the tank is another issue mentioned by owners at around 60,000 miles. The main source of the problem is the charcoal canister being clogged. When it’s clogged the pressure won’t build up properly to shut off the pump while filling up. Replacing the canister costs about $450, depending on local labor rates.

Excessive oil consumption also shows up on some Wrangler models at around 15,000 miles. Jeep engines tend to use more oil than some rivals just due to the way they are built. Most owners just check the oil regularly and top it off as needed.

There are 7 recalls, average for an SUV from 2009, with the most serious being for the airbag clock spring which can prevent the airbag from deploying. Many of the other recalls cover airbag inflators and are not a big concern once they’ve been replaced.

How Long Will the 2009 Jeep Wrangler Last?

A well-maintained 2009 Jeep Wrangler should last around 250,000 miles, which is around 100,000 miles shorter than its top competitor, the Toyota FJ Cruiser. Regular annual maintenance costs are a bit higher than average, according to Repair Pal, at $658 per year.

Since most 2009 Wrangler models will have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace items including the heater core for $1,000, starter motor for $450, and the camshaft position sensor, which costs $250.

Fred Y

It is still really reliable. The only problem is we have to check the oil level often and the death wobble happens more frequently.

Christine H

Very reliable. It had a minor issue with starting several months ago but was quickly corrected and fixed with a simple adjustment

Kristen R

It is not reliable and has had many problems including water leaks. I replaced the roof and the problem persisted/started.

Jennie D

Very reliable, had a few aftermarket issues. Has over 110,000 miles and just starting to have minor issues

How Much Is the 2009 Jeep Wrangler Worth?

Blue book values range from $14,457 to $18,762, making the Wrangler substantially more expensive than other SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Nissan Pathfinder. When new, the price range was $20,710 to $32,090. Depreciation is better than average due to the large following for Wrangler models, losing only about 5% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Jeep Wrangler?

There are three main models of the 2009 Jeep Wrangler which are offered as 2-door or 4-door versions. The third generation of the wrangler was released in 2006, and then replaced with the fourth generation in 2017.

X is the entry-level model with:

16-inch Alloy Wheels
Cloth Seating
Cruise Control
AM/FM/CD Stereo With 3.5mm AUX Jack

Sahara is a step up, adding:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Body-Colored Fenders
Keyless Entry
Premium Cloth Seating
Optional Navigation System

Rubicon is the ultimate off-road version and adds:

Locking Rear Differential
BF Goodrich Off-Road Tires
Electronic Sway Barr Disconnect
Raised Off-Road Suspension

202 HP 17 MPG

View Details

Sahara

202 HP 16-17 MPG

View Details

Rubicon

202 HP 16-17 MPG

View Details

What Engines Come In the Jeep Wrangler?

The engine found in the 2009 Jeep Wrangler is an average 3.8L V6 which makes 202 horsepower and gets up to 17 MPG combined. Performance is average, taking around 7.5 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Jeep Wrangler Come In?

How Big Is the Jeep Wrangler?

The 2009 Jeep Wrangler is available as a 2-door or 4-door SUV, and is smaller than other midsize SUVs including the Chevrolet Trailblazer and Honda Pilot. Passenger room is cramped in the backseats of the 2-door model, but the 4-door has good leg room for its size.

Cargo space is worse than average, only fitting 2-3 suitcases behind the seats in the 2-door model and 5-6 in the back of the 4-door version.

How Does the Jeep Wrangler Compare to the Competition?

The Jeep Wrangler scores well compared to other SUVs, but is hyper-focused on off-road performance and doesn’t offer a lot of the comfort and luxury found on rivals.

The Toyota 4Runner is a popular competitor costing about $1,000 less. Passenger room and interior materials are both better in the Toyota 4Runner, but the Jeep Wrangler is stronger off-road. We recommend the Toyota 4Runner since they last longer, but if you only want to hit the trails then the Wrangler is better.

The Toyota FJ Cruiser is another off-roader which costs about $3,000 less. Reliability ratings are better on the Toyota FJ Cruiser, but the 4-door version of the Jeep Wrangler has more passenger room. We recommend the FJ Cruiser since it lasts longer, but both offer outstanding off-road performance.

Ranks #9 Midsize SUV by Owners

2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser

2009 Toyota 4Runner

4.69

2009 Jeep Wrangler

4.41

Do Owners Recommend the Jeep Wrangler?

Savannah R

Yes it is a good vehicle. Great for off roading and just driving around town. I love the jeep feel and look.

Dina G

Yes! It is a tough off road capable vehicle with awesome safety and highly customizable. I love the capability of my jeep

Hannah M

No, it keeps breaking down. It has had a water leak, engine coolant problems, tire problems, and rim problems.

Shannon C

Yes. Fun to drive, roomy, safe. Can go anywhere in any weather. Room for kids, dogs and equipment, very versatile

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Jessie M on June 19, 2021

It is not good for long trips. It gets uncomfortable after a while.

I like the 4 wheel drive. I also like that I can take the top off in the summer. The appearance of the vehicle is also ok. I don't like the gas mileage or suspension.

Valerie B on March 9, 2021

It's a Jeep Thing! Make sure you give the wave to other Wranglers!

I consider my Jeep Wrangler very reliable. I have never been stuck in the snow or mud and the four-wheel drive has never failed me. Wranglers hold their value for a long time. It is the perfect vehicle for recreational activities. I used a Kayak carrier and have no issues. I love the freedom top, it gives the 4-door Wrangler a true Wrangler feeling. The only problem I've had is that it is burning oil. I have to add a quart of oil every thousand miles.

Ken T on February 23, 2021

It's reliable dependable and fun to drive seats four comfortably while still giving you storage room

Easy to tow behind RV seats 4 with storage room fun to drive

Janet H on February 21, 2021

Fun enjoyable and amazing recreational ride.

Jeep is extremely reliable. It's good on gas and comfort. It's a fun and dependable. The only downfall of the jeep is they don't end to have some suspension problems. But nothing that cannot be fixed. But overall a great and reliable vehicles. I do recommend a jeep to buy weather it's the jeep wrangler or the Cherokee both in my opinion are awesome cars.

Ryan O on February 6, 2021

Great off road vehicle, less than great commuter.

The Wrangler is the premiere of reading vehicle, with unrivaled off highway performance. While the Wrangler comes with a long history of performance, the JK models have at times struggled to live up to the quality standards typically associated with Jeep.

Jessica J on January 17, 2021

Safe and reliable in snow and winter weather Great family car and fits car seats well

Great for Wisconsin winters Hard to get into if your on the shorter side but since it sits high up you have great visibility while driving Not the most comfortable seats in back but does fit comfortably two car seats If you own a jeep you are kind of in a club People throw up a peace sign if they see you driving and they are in a jeep as well Family friendly car and feel safe while in and driving

Greg Y on January 7, 2021

I have never taken it off-road but the Wrangler is still absolutely FUN to drive.

I love the Jeep Wrangler. I like the ability to have the top down and get through bad weather. I don't like the lousy gas mileage quite so much.

Cynthia F on December 21, 2020

Fun going topless in a Jeep Wrangler!

Jeep Wrangler is a fun reliable vehicle with 4 wheel drive and a lot of options whether you want to go topless, or just t- tops off, soft top, or hard top!

Nikki B on December 11, 2020

I love the look and the ride of the vehicle but don't keep it long.

Josh S on December 8, 2020

If picked up early will last you a long time. Certainly get your monies worth.

Crystal S on December 5, 2020

Jeep Wrangler. It is a Jeep thing.

Love our Wrangler! It is so much fun in the summer when we remove the soft top and let the sun warm us. The Jeep community is very welcoming. . . It really is a Jeep thing.

Anthony C on November 12, 2020

Fun, dependable, and always in style. Also, you can so many accessories to the vehicle.

My Jeep has been very dependable. I have enjoyed driving it for short trips. The maintenance has been very inexpensive.

Rocco S on October 21, 2020

Always having people look at your car because the Jeep is so eye catching.

In the Jeep the oil light always comes on when the car gets turned on, but the car never needs oil. You can easily turn it off but it is very annoying. Another problem I have is the car is to slow and needs a better quality engine than a v6. But overall the Jeep is so beautiful and smooth with riding.

MaryAnn M on October 13, 2020

My fun time ride!!!!!!!!!

I have not had any problems with it except normal wear and tear. But I can say it is not a family car.

Becky G on October 9, 2020

I love my car! Wouldn't trade it for anything!

I do not have many problems with my car. The only issue I had with it was a problem the people before me caused. They put a aftermarket system in it. That interfered with the starter. So it didn't start sometimes. I love my car. It is very dependable. Great everyday car.

Deneea C on October 5, 2020

Jeeps are awesome and I recommend them to everyone.

It's awesome, it has a 2 in a half lift, 35 inch tires and 12x22 wheels. It's the best vehicle I own

Jonquavious N on September 12, 2020

Jeeps Wranglers can be driven by nearly everyone!!

Have never had any problems with my Jeep. Runs real good, burns lots of gas and will drive over nearly anything! You gotta love four wheel drive!!

Tina T on August 11, 2020

No top in the summertime.

I live my Jeep. I can go almost anywhere. The best is in summer when top is off. Overall no serious mechanical issues. Minor things, but really a solid vehicle. Plus I live on a dirt road that gets to be like 4 wheel drive road in winter so having a 4 wheel drive is great.

Serena T on August 4, 2020

Great warranty. Fuel efficient.

There are no complaints about it. I love my vehicle and am happy that it has held up for almost ten years.

Pat F on July 31, 2020

Has useful safety features.

I like everything but the gas mileage I do not like the Chrysler is making it I like the four-wheel drive setting high and you can take the top off it is easy to work on myself.

Jae C on July 30, 2020

Is lifted. Bigger tires. Great condition. Looks great

Gas mileage is poor.. Runs well. Does not have any mechanical issues. Lift kit. 37' tires. Added accessories

Samantha H on July 20, 2020

Jeep wrangler - worth it!

My jeep requires routine maintenance due to the age of the vehicle and mileage, however it is worth it! There is truly nothing like having a jeep and being able to take it off-roading. I have a hard top which is easy to take on and off, and plan to buy a soft top for even more convenience.

Natalie G on July 11, 2020

It's a good vehicle. It will not lose it is value, ever!

I love my Jeep. It gets me to work and around town. I love the visibility with the top. I do not care for the gas mileage. I spend a lot of money on gas each week.

Chancey S on July 5, 2020

High Terrain Road Vehicle : Yellow Jeep Wrangler

The miles per gallon is average but always reliable. Sometimes, the vehicle doesn't start but if you pull the start plug and then replace it, it works. Its an older model so there aren't many technological advances in the jeep but it is my favorite car. There are bumps and dings from random things but its normal for a wrangler

Mark K on June 28, 2020

Outdoor fun exploring god's green earth!

My Jeep gets me everywhere I want to go. We spend a lot of time in the mountains and it is perfect for hitting those off the pavement trails and roads. My only real complaint is it is not a quiet ride. It rattles non stop.

Sarah Trovini on June 16, 2020

Great vehicle until about the 5 year mark

Let me start off my saying that I absolutely love my jeep. I have a 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited X 4-door automatic. I bought it brand new off the lot with only 7 miles on it. At about the 5 year mark, (kept up will all maintenance) the problems started. First the spring in my gear shift broke...no biggie...cheap to fix. Then I had to drop $1500 to repair the death wobble that developed. It was so bad I almost wrecked several times (4 years after that it came back). The heater core went out and was spewing antifreeze on my passenger side floor. The radiator took a dump, and I’ve had several blinker issues. The most current issue is that the passenger side front and back blinker do not work and the passenger side front running light doesn’t work. Also my hardtop seals have gone to c**p .....sooo water leaks when it’s raining. Sigh...again I absolutely love my jeep but the issues are overwhelming.

Atara P on June 3, 2020

It is a good car that can get you to the places you need to go.

I have not experienced any of the serious problems. Have not had any quality or reliability issues with it.

vicki T on May 10, 2020

Her name is Missy and she has been great for traveling

I love my jeep it has started to have the "death wobble" and i don't know how to fix it

Nathan H on April 23, 2020

The value of the Jeep does not go down that much on them.

2009 Jeep wrangler pros good for recreational and to have fun in perfect for summer they are a very customized vehicle cons motor is very liable but would of been better if it had the 4. 0 liter in it gas mileage is not the best.

Bobby G on March 31, 2020

YOU CAN GO ANYWHERE, ANYTIME, IN ANY WEATHER! It's FUN TO DRIVE!

Love the style, the 4 doors that are removable, durability, dependability, warranty, versatility and much more!

Alex G on March 9, 2020

The roll over rate is higher than most cars, and it's kinda cold in the winter

I love my Jeep. It's red and has two doors on each side. Jeeps have a higher rollover rate than most cars but I really don't mind

Beverly F on February 22, 2020

"Love to ride with the top down in summer"!

I really love my Jeep wrangler. Best little SUV I have ever had. It handles great and is rarely in the shop for any repairs. Of course I take good care of her. I have regular maintenance and oil changes. I is fabulous and a joy to drive. I love letting the top down and enjoying my day. The ease of top removal is great. I rarely need any help and do it myself.

William Hill on February 20, 2020

Looks Great Rides good

Brake line leak .

Nicole C on February 17, 2020

Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2009

I love my Jeep Wrangler. It's a car I've always wanted and finally was blessed with. I have had no problems other than of course getting a nail in my tire or wreck. The air kicks in right away and so does the heat depending on where you live I have a t top which is easy to take on and off when you want.

Jennifer W on January 31, 2020

It is a great vehicle all the way around.

The only issue I have with my Jeep Wrangler is its not great on gas. I've never had any mechanical problems with my Jeep Wrangler. It runs great. It runs very smooth. It is very comfortable to take on road trips. It is very reliable on the road. You will not be disappointed with a Jeep Wrangler.

Pat L on January 21, 2020

It has a very great way of taking the beating the road can throw at it.

It is a Jeep Wrangler, they ride rough you will have to do maintenance on them. It is easy to get to work on though. Many of its areas of concerns are when it is on really rough roads but it is a 4 wheel drive so it rides nice over the bumps and potholes in the city.

Sahara H on January 7, 2020

My favorite part is the idea of it looking like a beast.

By far, the 2009 Jeep Wrangler X is the best vehicle I have ever owned. I've always wanted one and when I finally got one the wrangler was everything I expected! If you have any doubts, I hope this cleared them all. Once again, the Jeep wrangler is awesome and a very good looking.

Will L on December 9, 2019

It's a very durable vehicle to own, it withstands a lot.

Like that it's very easily fixable and customizable. Works great in the snow. Has some minor issues with age.

nick L on December 8, 2019

I love it. I never realized I was going to be a jeep person

Death wobble. I love the space in my vehicle, but would like more options for modification to a 2 door jeep as opposed to a four door which has way more mods. I really enjoy the height of the stock version, I have never really needed to lift it and I feel like those who do only do it for cosmetics.

rebecca p on November 30, 2019

Exceptionally reliable and fun to drive. I love that there is a part of the top that goes on and off very easily. I do have a problem with my emergency brake and a dent on the front drivers side

This is my favorite vehicle i've ever owned. It's fun to drive and reliable.

Joshua K on November 2, 2019

It handles great and works well for cross country trips.

Love the removable top. Love the color and handling of the vehicle. Love the look of the jeep. Wish it had better gas mileage.

Robert D on October 16, 2019

Great on the road and off the road.

Kyle A on October 10, 2019

They are reliable. The version with the manual transmission is very doggy in first gear so it can take a little bit to get up to cruising speed. It's fun to drive, but the ride is not always really comfortable.

I love the look of the Jeep Wrangler. I like the image it presents for myself. It is reliable and easy to maintain and I love that i am able to get around in bad weather. The only complaint I have is that I wish I would've bought a 4 door. But, that is my own fault!

Crystal S on October 5, 2019

Jeep Wrangler - fun in the sun!

Tonja H on September 25, 2019

It was Hubby's choice of vehicle. He's always wanted one.

I love the ability to go places most rigs can't, however, it's a pretty rough ride getting there.

Alexa A on September 10, 2019

Love the car, but can get a little noisy.

Love the car and all of the little perks that come along with it like the Jeep wave and all of the looks and comments people give you for driving a Jeep. I do not like how expensive soft tops are and I wish they were a little cheaper. I also do not really like how loud the car can get when you drive, for example when riding around in a soft top the noise can get very loud in the car and it gets pretty annoying sometimes.

Lucy B on August 15, 2019

That a jeep is good for off roading.

I like the high clearance, way it looks, off roading it can do. I hate how often parts go bad, death wobble, gas hog.

Pamela G on August 14, 2019

Don't buy a Jeep, they are lemons.

Mark B on July 16, 2019

The versatility of the vehicle. Go anywhere

Love the versatility top off or on doors off or on sitting up higher wish it had more storage space

Laura N on July 14, 2019

Their is insanely high maintenance on wranglers

I like that it's a manual transmission which saves on gas. I love that it's a lot smaller than my truck was so I can park anywhere. I dislike that I don't have any haul space anymore and the maintenance is high.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.