What are the Negatives of a Jeep Gladiator? Top 5 Common Complaints Explained

Are you considering purchasing a Jeep Gladiator?

Before you take the plunge, it’s essential to be aware of potential drawbacks.

From high maintenance costs to common issues like the infamous death wobble, the negatives of the Jeep Gladiator may surprise you.

Read on to uncover the factors that make it less reliable than its competitors.

what are the negatives of a jeep gladiator

The negatives of a Jeep Gladiator include being tricky in certain areas, being a pricey vehicle to care for, and breaking down often.

Some common issues with the Gladiator are electronic sway bar disconnect, death wobble, and wandering at highway speeds.

It is less reliable compared to other vehicles, with higher maintenance costs and a 35% chance of serious repairs within the first ten years.

The average maintenance cost for a decade is around $11,803, above the industry average.

New Gladiator models start at about $37,000, while used ones vary around $20,000 depending on the condition and year.

It is recommended to avoid the 2020 and 2021 models due to poor reviews and opt for the 2022 and 2023 versions for improved performance and fewer complaints.

Key Points:

• Tricky to maneuver in certain areas
• High cost for maintenance and repairs
• Common issues include electronic sway bar disconnect, death wobble, and wandering at high speeds
• Less reliable compared to other vehicles, with a 35% chance of serious repairs within the first ten years
• Above-average maintenance costs, averaging around $11,803 for a decade
• New models start at $37,000, while used ones vary around $20,000; recommended to avoid 2020 and 2021 versions due to poor reviews

Check this out:

Tricky Handling And Maneuvering

• The Jeep Gladiator, known for its off-road capabilities, can be challenging to handle and maneuver in certain areas.
• Its longer wheelbase compared to traditional Jeeps can make tight turns and parking in urban environments difficult.
• The vehicle’s size and weight can also pose challenges when navigating narrow trails or crowded streets.
• Drivers may need to exercise caution and practice precision driving techniques to avoid scrapes, bumps, or accidents.

• Additionally, the Gladiator’s steering can feel loose or imprecise, affecting overall control and responsiveness while driving.

• In off-road situations, the Gladiator’s longer body length may limit its agility, making it less suitable for tight, technical terrain compared to shorter wheelbase Jeeps.

• This can be a significant drawback for drivers seeking a vehicle primarily for off-roading adventures that require nimble maneuverability.
• Overall, the tricky handling and maneuvering characteristics of the Jeep Gladiator can be a downside for those accustomed to more agile and compact off-road vehicles.

High Maintenance Costs

One of the significant drawbacks of owning a Jeep Gladiator is the high maintenance costs associated with the vehicle. Due to its rugged design and specialized components, maintaining a Gladiator can be more expensive compared to standard SUVs or trucks. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, can add up over time, especially when performed at dealership service centers.

In addition to regular maintenance, the Gladiator’s off-road capabilities can lead to increased wear and tear on components like suspension systems, drivetrain elements, and underbody protection. Repairs and replacement parts for these specialized components can be costly, further contributing to the overall maintenance expenses. Owners should carefully budget for ongoing maintenance costs to ensure the longevity and performance of their Jeep Gladiator.

• High maintenance costs associated with the vehicle
• Routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections can add up over time
• Off-road capabilities lead to increased wear and tear on specialized components
• Repairs and replacement parts for these components are costly

“Owners should carefully budget for ongoing maintenance costs to ensure the longevity and performance of their Jeep Gladiator.”

Frequent Breakdowns

Despite its reputation as a rugged off-road vehicle, the Jeep Gladiator is prone to frequent breakdowns and mechanical issues.
Owners have reported a range of problems, including:

• engine malfunctions,
• transmission issues,
• electrical failures,
• suspension problems.

These issues can lead to unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs. The complexity of the Gladiator’s systems and components often necessitates the expertise of skilled technicians and specialized tools for diagnosis and repairs.

The frequency of breakdowns and reliability concerns can be a source of frustration and inconvenience for owners who depend on their vehicles for daily transportation or off-road excursions.
Regular maintenance and vigilant monitoring for potential issues are crucial steps to minimize breakdown risks and uphold the continued reliability of the Jeep Gladiator.

Electronic Sway Bar Disconnect

One common complaint among Jeep Gladiator owners is the electronic sway bar disconnect system, designed to enhance off-road performance by allowing greater wheel articulation and suspension travel. However, this system has been known to malfunction or fail, resulting in issues with the vehicle’s stability and handling. Owners may experience abnormal noises, vibrations, or warning lights related to the sway bar disconnect system, indicating the need for inspection and potential repairs.

The electronic sway bar disconnect problem can be frustrating for off-road enthusiasts who rely on this feature for improved traction and articulation in challenging terrain. Malfunctions in the sway bar disconnect system can compromise the Gladiator’s off-road capabilities and safety, requiring prompt attention from qualified technicians to diagnose and rectify the issue. Regular maintenance and proactive monitoring of the electronic sway bar disconnect system can help prevent potential problems and ensure optimal performance during off-road excursions.

• Regular maintenance and proactive monitoring are essential for the electronic sway bar disconnect system.
• Prompt attention from qualified technicians is necessary to diagnose and rectify any issues.
• Malfunctions in the system can compromise off-road capabilities and safety.

Owners should be attentive to any abnormal noises, vibrations, or warning lights related to the sway bar disconnect system to avoid potential risks.

Death Wobble Issue

Another common complaint associated with the Jeep Gladiator is the phenomenon known as “death wobble,” a severe oscillation in the front suspension that can occur at highway speeds. The death wobble typically manifests as a violent shaking or vibration in the steering wheel and chassis, leading to an unnerving and potentially dangerous driving experience.

While the exact causes of death wobble can vary, factors such as worn suspension components, improper alignment, or tire imbalance are often implicated in its occurrence.

Experiencing the death wobble can be alarming for Gladiator owners, as it can compromise vehicle control and safety on the road. Addressing the underlying issues causing the death wobble requires thorough inspection and potential replacement of worn or damaged components. Regular maintenance, including suspension checks and wheel alignments, can help prevent the occurrence of death wobble and maintain the stability of the Jeep Gladiator during highway driving.

Overall, the death wobble issue represents a significant concern for owners of the Jeep Gladiator, highlighting the importance of proactive maintenance and prompt resolution of suspension-related problems.

• Thorough inspection and potential replacement of worn or damaged components
• Regular maintenance including suspension checks and wheel alignments

Highway Wandering Problems

Jeep Gladiator owners have reported issues with highway wandering, characterized by unpredictable steering behavior and side-to-side drifting at higher speeds. This phenomenon may stem from factors such as improper alignment, tire wear, suspension issues, or aerodynamic characteristics inherent in the Gladiator’s design. Symptoms include frequent steering corrections, reduced stability, and heightened driver fatigue on long highway trips.

To tackle highway wandering in the Jeep Gladiator, alignment adjustments, tire replacements, suspension repairs, or aerodynamic modifications might be necessary to enhance stability and steering control. Owners facing persistent highway wandering should seek assistance from professional technicians to identify and address the root causes of this handling concern. Routine maintenance and thorough inspections can detect potential issues early on, safeguarding against highway wandering and maintaining an optimal driving experience with the Gladiator.

• Ensure alignment is accurate
• Replace worn tires promptly
• Address suspension issues
• Consider aerodynamic modifications

“Owners experiencing persistent highway wandering should consult with professional technicians to diagnose and resolve the underlying causes contributing to this handling issue.”

Reliability Concerns

• When considering the Jeep Gladiator, potential buyers should be aware of reliability concerns associated with the vehicle. While the Gladiator offers solid off-road performance and rugged capabilities, it has been rated as less reliable compared to other trucks and SUVs in its class. Common issues such as electronic system failures, engine problems, transmission malfunctions, and suspension issues have been reported by owners, impacting the overall dependability of the Gladiator.

• The reliability concerns surrounding the Jeep Gladiator underscore the importance of regular maintenance, timely repairs, and proactive monitoring of potential issues to ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle. Owners should be prepared for unexpected breakdowns, repairs, and maintenance costs associated with the Gladiator’s reliability challenges, budgeting accordingly to address these concerns. While the Gladiator excels in off-road adventures, its reliability issues may pose a drawback for drivers seeking a dependable daily driver or long-term investment in a truck.

Costly Repairs

• The Jeep Gladiator is known for its high maintenance costs and is susceptible to costly repairs due to specialized components and rugged design.
• Owners may encounter expensive repair bills for components like the suspension system, drivetrain elements, electronic systems, and bodywork.
• Repairing these components necessitates specialized knowledge, tools, and replacement parts, leading to increased repair expenses for Gladiator owners.
• The complexity of the Gladiator’s systems and components can make repairs challenging and time-consuming, ultimately raising labor costs and causing downtime.
• Promptly addressing mechanical issues and seeking experienced technicians familiar with the Gladiator’s unique characteristics can help minimize repair costs and ensure quality workmanship.
• Owners should consider the potential for costly repairs when budgeting for maintenance and unexpected breakdowns with their Jeep Gladiator.

Expensive Maintenance

The overall cost of maintaining a Jeep Gladiator can be higher compared to other trucks and SUVs on the market, due to the vehicle’s specialized components, off-road capabilities, and rugged design. Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, brake inspections, and fluid checks can be more expensive for the Gladiator, especially when performed at dealership service centers. Owners should be prepared for higher maintenance costs and budget accordingly to ensure the vehicle’s optimal performance.

Aside from routine maintenance, the Gladiator’s off-road adventures can contribute to increased wear and tear on components like suspension systems, drivetrain elements, and underbody protection. Specialized repairs and replacement parts for these components can further add to the maintenance expenses over time. Owners should factor in the costs of preventive maintenance, repairs, and replacements when determining the overall ownership costs of a Jeep Gladiator.

• Higher maintenance costs are associated with specialized components and off-road capabilities of the Jeep Gladiator
• Routine maintenance tasks like oil changes, filter replacements, brake inspections, and fluid checks can be more expensive
• Off-road adventures can lead to increased wear and tear on suspension systems, drivetrain elements, and underbody protection

Owners of a Jeep Gladiator should be aware of the potential maintenance expenses and plan accordingly to maintain the vehicle’s performance.

Model Year Recommendations

When considering purchasing a Jeep Gladiator, it is essential to take into account the model year recommendations to avoid potential issues and drawbacks. The 2020 and 2021 model years have received poor reviews and experienced history on the road, with reported reliability concerns, mechanical issues, and performance drawbacks. Buyers should exercise caution when considering these model years and thoroughly inspect any used vehicles for signs of wear, damage, or maintenance issues.

Instead, the 2022 and 2023 model years of the Jeep Gladiator are recommended for updated versions with improvements, fewer complaints, and enhanced features. These newer model years may address common complaints, reliability concerns, and performance issues identified in previous iterations of the Gladiator, providing a more refined and dependable off-road experience for owners. By selecting the 2022 or 2023 model years, buyers can enjoy the benefits of a refreshed design and updated technology features while minimizing the potential negatives associated with earlier versions of the Jeep Gladiator.

In conclusion, the Jeep Gladiator, while offering impressive off-road capabilities and rugged design, presents several negatives that potential buyers should consider before making a purchase. From tricky handling and high maintenance costs to frequent breakdowns and reliability concerns, the Gladiator may not be the ideal choice for all drivers seeking a dependable and cost-effective vehicle. By understanding the common complaints and issues associated with the Jeep Gladiator, buyers can make informed decisions and select the model year that best suits their needs and priorities.

FAQ

What problems do Jeep Gladiators have?

One common issue with Jeep Gladiators is related to the electrical accessories, which can sometimes malfunction or fail, causing inconvenience for the drivers. Another problem that owners may encounter is with the steering and suspension components, leading to potential safety concerns and the need for repairs. Additionally, transmission problems, both major and minor, have been reported, impacting the overall performance and reliability of the vehicle. Other issues such as paint and trim defects, body hardware malfunctions, engine cooling problems, as well as noises and leaks, are also among the challenges that Jeep Gladiator owners may face, requiring attention and maintenance to keep the vehicle in optimal condition.

Which Jeep Gladiator to avoid?

When considering which Jeep Gladiator to avoid, it is advisable to steer clear of the 2020 and 2021 year models. These particular models have garnered negative reviews and a subpar track record on the road. It may be beneficial to explore other model years or alternative pickup truck options to ensure a more satisfactory driving experience.

How reliable is a Jeep Gladiator?

The Jeep Gladiator has proven to be a highly reliable vehicle, with the 2022 model earning stellar reliability ratings from US News. With proper maintenance, owners can expect their Jeep Gladiator to last a long time, with an average estimated lifespan of around 200,000 miles. This durability speaks to the solid engineering and construction of the Gladiator, making it a dependable choice for those looking for a long-lasting truck.

Do Jeep Gladiators ride rough?

The Jeep Gladiator, similar to many pickup trucks, tends to ride on the firmer side when the bed is empty compared to SUVs. The Wrangler JL, on the other hand, provides a smoother ride experience. However, when carrying cargo in the bed or towing a heavy trailer, the rear suspension of the Gladiator noticeably compresses to accommodate the load, impacting the ride quality. This dynamic nature of the Gladiator’s suspension can lead to a rougher ride under specific conditions.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4