So I've had tons of friends in the jeep family, always wanted to join. So I've been looking. Found a 2010 unlimited Rubicon with 94,099 miles for 23,000. Is that a good deal or not?
Is this a good deal for a JK Rubicon?
- Thread starter Hookandladder128
- Start date
Not a lot of JK input on this TJ forum, but some. That might or might not be a good deal, but I wouldn't buy any JK prior to 2012 with the 3.8L minivan engine. It's too gutless. I've had the 3.8 and the newer 3.6. There's no comparison.
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You could absolutely get a sweet TJR for 23 k though
3.6 is the 2012 and newer engine. Don't bother with the 3.8L. It is notorious for being slow and for burning oil.
Though, considering this is a 1997-2006 specific forum, I think many of us are going to push you in the direction of getting a 97-06 wrangler (AKA a Jeep TJ).
It has nothing to do with the model. They started using the 3.6 in 2012 in every JK, and is still being used in the JL models. And yes, it is the better engine, by far.
I wouldn’t buy a JK unless it was a 2012 or newer... then again, I wouldn’t buy a JK at all 
Almost made that mistake once.
The 3.8 engine that came in the 07-11 models is garbage.
Almost made that mistake once.The 3.8 engine that came in the 07-11 models is garbage.
luk4mud
TJ Enthusiast
I did make the mistake once. 2012 JKUR with the new motor. After it went into limp mode the 3rd time, the dealer's mechanic told me to get rid of it.I wouldn’t buy a JK unless it was a 2012 or newer... then again, I wouldn’t buy a JK at all
The 3.8 engine that came in the 07-11 models is garbage.
You made the right choice. I can't say I hate them entirely, since they're still Wranglers. However, I prefer the ability to wrench on my own Jeep without having to rely on a ton of diagnostic machines, equipment, and other electronic b.s.
A friend of mine was looking at this one . He wound up meeting a guy at the dealership that was going to trade his JK in on a new JL and got that instead. Think he paid 25k for a 13 with 50k miles . He had to have 4 doors to hall kids .
https://atlanta.craigslist.org/atl/cto/d/2012-jeep-wrangler-unlimited/6745404839.html
https://atlanta.craigslist.org/atl/cto/d/2012-jeep-wrangler-unlimited/6745404839.html
TJ2
TJ Expert
It is not a good deal. But again it depends on how you want to use your rig. 3.8 vs. 3.6 engine is very different.
luk4mud
TJ Enthusiast
That's exactly what drew me back to a TJ/LJ. Simplicity, capability, relatively young (compared to Toyota 80 series) combined with some modern safety and convenience features.
luk4mud
TJ Enthusiast
I've owned or extensively driven both and while I dont see as big of a difference as others suggest, there is one. Agreed that the one the OP posted is not a great deal, I would keep looking, but would not rule out a pre-2012.
Just one suggestion based upon personal experience and the dealer's advice- stay away from the 2012, period. It was the transition year from the 3.8 to the 3.6 and can be very buggy.
i think they are trying to tell you to buy a 4.0l jeep TJ. thats what i think.
Agree that the 3.8 is underpowered.. years ago, I test drove one, and decided no way, and kept the TJ. But then I tested a few 2 door 3.6Ls over the years, wow, for a Jeep it's impressive. I had had 3 TJ's as well including a TJR for 12 years. I love my new '18 JK as it's a DD as well. The power and comfort are awesome, when you punch that pedal and the Jeep really moves, has some balls and speed. My family actually likes riding in the Jeep again too. Got to be a major battle every time with the TJ. I still miss my TJR for sentimental reasons, but the JK is just better for me in every way. A ton smoother but still rides like a Jeep.