Looking to get some guidance here. I have always owned jeeps that have been pre 2000 with the inline 6. Well the little one isn't so little anymore and she's been complaining about climbing into the back of the TJs. That being said the debate has begun to sell one of the jeeps and get a 4door however I know nothing about them. I know everything has its own quirks and issues so what years are good ones to stay away from or which ones to lean towards. It will be a 3rd vehicle for taking out on the beach and for winter driving when needed. Majority of the time the doors will be off. Dont want anything to hi-tech because it will get stuck in rain storms and not trying to have a payment. Any help would be great. Obviously I've read numerous pros and cons online but looking for real life experience from here. Thanks in advance.
4 Door Advice
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If you get a JK, I'd get a 2012+ for the 3.6 engine.
And then get this sticker.
Hate people decal4x4 high end vinyl *color shifts can be unpredictable with climate change. Please take that into consideration when power washing or if parking in direct…fakewrenching.com -
I would counter that sticker with, "like a two seater"
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Agree. 2012+ The 3.6 is a superior engine . 3.8 (pre 2012) were prone to oil burning. Early 2012 3.6 had a casting issue on the head so keep an eye out for that.
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If you’re looking to move into a 4-door Jeep, the JK (2007-2018) models are a solid choice. The earlier JKs (2007-2011) had the 3.8L V6, which some say lacked power and had oil consumption issues. From 2012 onward, they upgraded to the 3.6L Pentastar, which is more reliable and provides better power, so I’d lean toward a 2012+ model if possible.
Since you're looking to avoid too much tech and don’t mind exposure to the elements, you might want to avoid models with the more complex electronics and screens that appeared in later years. Also, check for rust in the frame and undercarriage, as it’s common in older models. With the doors off and plenty of beach driving, you’ll have a lot of fun in the 4-door while keeping your Jeep lifestyle intact! Keep an eye out for the Sport or Rubicon trims, depending on how much off-road capability you want.
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