Jeep models we see most
| Model | US model years | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|
| Cherokee (XJ) | 1984-2001 | 1996-1999 Cherokees in Illinois and other salt states were recalled for front brake rotors that rust through at the hub (00V136000). |
| Grand Cherokee | 1993-present | 1993-1998 models are in rear fuel tank recall 13V252000, which added a tow hitch where the rear structure allowed. |
| Liberty | 2002-2012 | 2002-2007 Libertys share the fuel tank recall and several salt-corrosion suspension recalls. |
| Wrangler | 1987-present | A body-on-frame Jeep with a removable top; the hardtop and doors add value if they come with it. |
| Commander | 2006-2010 | A boxy three-row SUV built on Grand Cherokee underpinnings for five model years. |
| Patriot | 2007-2017 | A compact crossover offered with a continuously variable automatic transmission. |
Known Jeep problems that end up at the scrapyard
Rear fuel tank recall on 1993-1998 Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Liberty
Recall 13V252000 covers 1.56 million Jeeps whose rear-mounted fuel tanks could fail and leak in certain rear impacts. Dealers inspect the rear structure and fit a Chrysler-designed tow hitch, but only if the vehicle's condition can support proper installation. On a Chicago Jeep with a rotted rear crossmember, that condition can decide whether the repair is even possible. source
Suspension corrosion on the Jeep Liberty
The Liberty has two salt-related suspension recalls. 2002-2003 models in salt states, Illinois named, were recalled because the front upper ball joint could lose lubrication, corrode and separate (09V119000). Then 2004-2007 Libertys were recalled because the rear lower control arms can fracture from excessive corrosion, causing loss of control (18V278000). A Liberty that clunks or wanders shouldn't be driven. source
Rusted brake rotors on 1990s Cherokee and Grand Cherokee
Recall 00V136000 covers 1996-1999 Cherokees and 1996-1998 Grand Cherokees sold or registered in salt-belt states including Illinois. Years of road salt can corrode the stamped steel center hub of the front rotors until the cast iron braking surface separates from it, reducing braking. Earlier campaigns (98V005000, 99V340000) covered older model years of both. source
The rust recalls every Chicago Jeep owner should know
On an older Jeep, the weak spots in this region are mostly underneath. Chrysler’s own recall list tells the story. Front brake rotors on 1990s Cherokees and Grand Cherokees could rust away at the hub in salt-belt states. The 2002-2003 Liberty’s front upper ball joints were recalled in salt states, Illinois among them, and later the 2004-2007 Liberty’s rear lower control arms were recalled because corrosion can snap them.
Then there’s the rear fuel tank recall for 1993-1998 Grand Cherokees and 2002-2007 Libertys. Chrysler’s fix was a tow hitch to protect the tank, installed only where the rear structure was solid enough to take it. On a Jeep that has spent twenty winters on salted Chicago streets, that’s a real question. Our guide to Chicago road salt and rust explains how to judge frame and suspension rust before you pay for repairs.
Newer Grand Cherokees fail in other ways. The 2011-2013 models were recalled for a fuel pump relay inside the TIPM power module that can cause a stall or a no-start, and 2014-2015 models with the monostable shifter needed a software fix so they warn a driver who opens the door while the SUV is still in gear.
What adds to a junk Jeep offer
Four-wheel-drive hardware, a running engine and a complete body all help. Axles, transfer cases, doors, tops and wheels all have resale value when they’re intact. A Wrangler with its hardtop and doors is worth more than one without. Missing catalytic converters, heavy fire damage or a cut-up frame bring the number down.
Before the tow truck arrives
On Jeeps with a Uconnect screen, open the Reset menu and choose Clear Personal Data to remove paired phones and presets. Pull the toll transponder, empty the cargo area and under-floor bins, and find every key. If your Jeep has aftermarket parts you want to keep, such as a winch or light bar, remove them before pickup. More makes are on our brand list.
Selling a junk Jeep: questions
Will you buy a Wrangler with a rusted-through frame?
Yes. A rotten frame doesn't stop us from buying an old Wrangler. If you have the hardtop, soft top or doors stored separately, mention them; complete Jeeps are worth more than bare ones.
My Liberty's rear control arm broke. Can it still be towed?
Yes. Don't drive it. Tell us which corner is down and whether the wheel still turns freely, and we'll send a truck that can load it safely from your driveway, alley or street spot at no charge.