2012 Jeep Wrangler Problems [Top 12]
If you are going to buy the 2012 Jeep Wrangler, we will suggest that you not do so. The 2012 Jeep Wrangler is considered one of the worst model years.
It was full of issues. In this article, we are going to discuss some of the 2012 Jeep Wrangler problems. That will make you think again about the decision to buy it.
2012 Jeep Wrangler Problems
As we know, there is always hype around the Jeep wrangler. It is one of the most rugged and reliable vehicles and also a companion for your long journeys. But not same goes for the 2012 jeep wrangler, due to its long list of issues and problems.
The 2012 Jeep Wrangler has received the most complaints overall, despite being newer than the 2007 and 2008 versions. It shares the record for the most recalls, including one of the biggest of its kind.
Similar to the prior versions, the airbags were the primary problem. However, a fresh problem with the airbags in the 2012 Jeep Wrangler also led to a new recall that impacted millions of cars.
Also, there were some newer problems in addition to the previous ones. All of these problems and their solutions are given below.
1. Airbag Problem
On the 2012 Jeep Wrangler, airbag problems are rather typical. Though, early faults were thought to be caused by manufacturing flaws in the steering clockspring. But later reports claimed the airbag module itself had intrinsic flaws and was subject to a larger Takata recall.
The NHTSA has counted instances of reported airbag deployment failure that have resulted in minor or serious occupant injuries. Thus, owners of the 2012 Jeep Wrangler are strongly encouraged to get the vehicle fixed under the recalls to prevent harm.
2. Engine Start Problem
Many consumers of jeep wrangler faced an issue in which, the car and engine automatically start. Even when the key is off. Sometimes the vehicle factory alarm will go on and off automatically. Even the windows will go up and down uncontrolled.
This issue seems very complicated and has no direct solution. But all in all, was never very common and happened very rarely.
3. Steering Problem
Owners of Jeep Wranglers frequently complain about excessive front-end wobbling. During the ownership of this SUV, every single individual has experienced this. And once this problem arises, it is impossible to fully resolve it.
Even after trying every method in the book, owners cannot eliminate mild steering vibrations, especially while driving at highway speeds. It has been deemed a waste of money to replace steering components following dealer advice. For the hope of a successful outcome rather than identifying the true problem.
4. Intermittently Stalling Problems
Your automobile may occasionally experience intermittent stalling due to electrical breakdown. In particular, the engine is turned off, and the power brakes and steering are turned off. It should go without saying that this is an extremely dangerous situation, especially if you are with family and children.
When traveling at 50 mph or greater on the highway, this issue typically arises. And it frequently occurs in connection with the failure of other systems, such as the power steering and braking systems. There have also been instances of similar issues happening when moving upward.
5. Ticking Noise Problem
Some owners of jeep wrangler also faced an issue, in which, while driving the engine starts to make a tickling noise. These noises won’t go away until you turn off and restart the engine.
Most of the time, the faulty engine head and the valve are the main culprits. Whenever this issue happens, take your car to the nearest automobile specialist.
6. Water Leakage
This issue was a result of a design defect and only affected the 2012 Jeep Wranglers. Simply put, the water from the windshield drained down. And it fell onto the side doors unchecked and unfiltered.
When Jeep modified the A-pillar design in 2013 to add channels that transport the water down to the bottom of the door, a solution was found. But previous models didn’t have this issue fixed.
As a result, you could discover that this manufacturing flaw has significantly damaged the doors of your 2012 Jeep Wrangler.
7. Heater Problems
A heater issue in a 2012 Jeep Wrangler might indicate several different problems. The heater could not be producing any heat at all, or it might just be that there isn’t enough heat being produced.
In any case, the heater blower motor is the primary cause of this issue most of the time in the 2012 Jeep Wrangler.
8. Car Dying Problem
While it is not the most common issue. But it is a dangerous thing to happen. Sometimes, if your Jeep Wrangler is idle for even a few hours, it will die completely.
Sometimes lights and switches start firing. When this happens, try to disconnect the terminals from the battery and reconnect them.
9. Computer Problems
The 2012 Jeep Wrangler’s fully integrated power module (TIPM) is known to malfunction. Wipers, headlights, radio, and even the window control losing its power are some signs that the module has failed.
The engine intermittently stalls with an engine warning light, according to several owners. This problem may be attributed to TIPM since it interrupts the electrical signal to the fuel lift pump, which causes the engine to starve and stall rather than being an engine failure.
10. Cylinder Head Problem
The 2012 Jeep Wrangler regularly has cylinder head misfiring issues. This indicates that there is a cylinder in the engine that isn’t working properly to drive the car. Consequently, if the issue is not fixed, it will lead to lower performance and more damage.
Due to an excessive accumulation of heat in the combustion chamber, the cylinder head gasket is frequently to blame for this problem. The majority of Wrangler owners who experience this issue purchased their vehicles secondhand.
11. Oil Leakage Problems
Owners of Jeep Wrangler vehicles reported several oil leaks between 2012 and 2013, which is never a good thing. According to estimates, the issue probably affects one in twenty Wranglers from those years.
The valve cover gasket was the source of several of these leaks, which occasionally caused oil to drop onto the engine and onto the ground. The 2012 Jeep Wrangler commonly has to replenish oil more regularly than other cars due to leaks, which if ignored might result in long-term engine damage.
12 Other Problems
The Upper described are not the only problems in the 2012 jeep wrangler. Although the engine misfiring and issues that are described above are the most common ones. The owners also faced several other problems, like the foul odor of something burning, defects with cooling systems, and engine lights turning on and off.
Also, many owners have complaints about customer service. According to the consumer, the car was not thoroughly diagnosed and checked when they sent it for repair.
Read More:
Frequently Asked Questions
A 2012 Jeep Wrangler Can Go How Many Miles?
Even though the Jeep Wrangler may not have the greatest dependability rating in the compact or midsize SUV sector. But it should be able to travel up to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. The 3.6L V6 Pentastar engine, which has been included as standard equipment on the Jeep Wrangler from 2012 through 2021, is a major factor in its durability.
Which Jeep Wrangler Model Year Is The Best And Most Reliable?
The 2015 model year of the Jeep Wrangler is consistently the most trustworthy. Its four-wheel drivetrain gives it remarkable off-road capability, especially when compared to other vehicles in its class.
Has A 2012 Jeep Wrangler Had A Timing Chain?
No, for robustness and extended life, most recent models employ timing belts consisting of polyurethane and Kevlar. Although they may last up to 100,000 miles, it’s always a good idea to change them before that. The engine’s valves, pistons, and other internal components may suffer severe damage as a result of belt failure.
How Much Does A Jeep Wrangler Timing Belt Replacement Cost?
Since several pieces must be removed in order to reach the belt, labor is where the true expense lies. Your best chance is to shop around and compare prices, but be prepared to pay anything from $409 to $919.
Is It A Smart Idea To Purchase A Used Jeep Wrangler?
The Jeep Wrangler is also highly renowned for its dependability and affordable upkeep. Overall, there is an agreement that the high sale costs associated with these vehicles are well worth it in the long term. It’s because they were designed to withstand abuse and stay running.
