Looking for a used Jeep. What should I look out for?

[crusader1988]

Hi everyone. I'm looking to pick up a used Jeep in the next couple of weeks and I could use some advice. I have my eye on two different JKU Rubicon's and seeking some advice on what to look for when viewing them.

The first one is a very stock (no mods at all) 2016 with 54k miles and the second one is a 2017 Recon with a small lift (not sure if factory), 77k miles, and $3k more.

Both are automatic.

When I go to look at them, what should I check for to avoid getting ripped off?

Thanks!

 

[GP NOIR]

They are at dealerships, so I'm not sure if they'll let me have it inspected unless I buy. Are burnt valves common on the 3.6?

It’s not common to have problems at 50-75k miles yet it’s also not unknown. Most problems happen after 125k. Mine happened after 165k. If I’d done a leak down check before changing cam thingies, rockers, lifters and other miscellaneous parts, I could have saved a couple of grand before changing the engine. Now, I have a knee jerk reaction when folks start asking “What should I be on the look out for when buying a used Jeep?” and err on the side of caution.

After giving your question serious thought, I have to say, chances of anything disastrous happening at the mileage your looking at are slim to none.

I would advise keeping an eye on engine codes. Repair any O2 sensors, vacuum leaks, exhaust leaks upstream from the cats, lean/rock conditions, or damaged cats as soon as practical. The cats sit close to the heads and if damaged, they give off particles that get caught in the exhaust valves creating a hot spot leading to valve erosion. Keep your cats healthy, change the oil frequently, maintain the cooling system and the 3.6 should give you a long service life.

 

[crusader1988]

It’s not common to have problems at 50-75k miles yet it’s also not unknown. Most problems happen after 125k. Mine happened after 165k. If I’d done a leak down check before changing cam thingies, rockers, lifters and other miscellaneous parts, I could have saved a couple of grand before changing the engine. Now, I have a knee jerk reaction when folks start asking “What should I be on the look out for when buying a used Jeep?” and err on the side of caution.

After giving your question serious thought, I have to say, chances of anything disastrous happening at the mileage your looking at are slim to none.

I would advise keeping an eye on engine codes. Repair any O2 sensors, vacuum leaks, exhaust leaks upstream from the cats, lean/rock conditions, or damaged cats as soon as practical. The cats sit close to the heads and if damaged, they give off particles that get caught in the exhaust valves creating a hot spot leading to valve erosion. Keep your cats healthy, change the oil frequently, maintain the cooling system and the 3.6 should give you a long service life.

Thanks for explanation. I'll keep that in mind.

 

[NPC 6060⁸42]

They are at dealerships, so I'm not sure if they'll let me have it inspected unless I buy. Are burnt valves common on the 3.6?

Any dealership I’ve ever dealt with or worked for allow any vehicle to be taken to a trusted mechanic as long as it’s close by. Most times the salesman will drop it off for you. Really if it’s a dealership and they say no keep shopping there’s a problem they don’t want you to find.

 

[crusader1988]

Any dealership I’ve ever dealt with or worked for allow any vehicle to be taken to a trusted mechanic as long as it’s close by. Most times the salesman will drop it off for you. Really if it’s a dealership and they say no keep shopping there’s a problem they don’t want you to find.

Good to know. The last vehicle I bought at a dealership was new, so this is a different experience.