1989 Jeep Wrangler consumer reviews

I bought my 1989 Jeep Wrangler YJ in 1989 brand new and I still drive it today in the year 2024. This is my 3rd engine and my 2nd transmission. I have kept it traditional except for the dash and gauges which I replaced with a custom all steel dash and phantom 2 gauges. The dash I had made by Double D Dashes LLC, to my liking. I do not 4 wheel on trails etc and have driven this Jeep across the States at least four times. I drive my Jeep as my Go To vehicle. It sustained me for 28 years in my career, and I still enjoy driving it daily. I can not say that it hasn’t had its problems. The longer I’ve had it, the more work I’ve had to put into it to keep it running. Some repairs have been costly but I have owned this Jeep since I bought it back in 89 so it is bought and paid for. It’s cheaper to repair it than it is to go out and buy a new one that will break down even more so. I find it suited for comfortable riding for two, as the back seat area can be uncomfortable to say the least. I drive it with a hard top on, and half doors however; I do own the full size doors. I had my entire Jeep Rhino Coated and find that the best to do in the South. I still drive it with the original Aluminum Wheels that came on it in 1989. I love this Jeep and will drive it until I die. I always wanted a Jeep when I was a kid but I waited until I was 29 to get one while in the Army. 35 years later and I’m still driving it. The I6 engine is a great one and the 2 barrel carb gives me minor problems. So here’s to Jeep!

The 1989 Jeep Wrangler is prone to mechanical problems. I am a novice mechanic myself and I shouldn't have had to do this much maintenance on it. The alternator has gone out 6 times. There have been other electrical issues. The engine is extremely dirty and leaks. MPG is about as bad as a V8 although it is an I-6. The vehicle is underpowerd. But I will say that this inline 6 motor is extremely torquey and I have towed and rescued vehicles as large as a Ford Expedition from the worst off-road stucks imaginable. This vehicle is perfect for the person who wishes to build it up into an off-road rig, however if you have no intentions of doing so, please stay away from 1987-1995 era Jeep Wranglers because they are not reliable enough for regular use.

NOT a 4 wheel drive, so you loose the GREAT off road capabilities of a CJ!! Should be an easy addition of a front driveshaft if the original front axle is OK!

Come on, what car do you know can go 65 on the highway then go up rocks 3 feet high. In the winter you just click on the 4 wheel and you'll never get stuck. From mud puddles to snow and ice, its the best car ever. Not the best for highway driving or the average commuter, but if you need to haul, or go off road it's great. Take the top down int he summer and get all the girls to ;)