This blog post provides a comprehensive two-year review of the 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys, detailing its performance, charging issues, tire replacements, corrosion problems, and overall driving experience. It highlights the vehicle's strengths and weaknesses, offering insights for potential buyers and current owners.
Hello and welcome to another episode of DoubleJ's List. Today, I’m sharing a two-year update on my 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys. This review will cover various aspects of the vehicle, including performance, issues encountered, and recommendations for potential buyers.
First, let’s clarify the name. The correct pronunciation is "Willys," a nod to the original Willys Overland company that manufactured Jeeps during World War II. This historical reference is important for understanding the vehicle's legacy.
In my previous video, I discussed some issues with the charging system, particularly a recall related to battery fires. Initially, I faced problems with my Chargeify EV charging station, which displayed a red light indicating an error. After multiple attempts to charge the Jeep with this faulty station, it resulted in the vehicle being unable to charge, effectively bricking it.
I took the Jeep to the dealer, where they confirmed the issue and informed me about the recall. Fortunately, before bringing it in, I managed to charge it using a different charger, which reset the error. The dealer ran diagnostics, confirmed that the battery was fine, and updated the software. Since then, the charging system has been functioning without any problems.
Another significant update involves the tires. The stock mud terrain tires that came with the Willys trim were inadequate for most driving conditions, particularly in snow. They were noisy, uncomfortable, and not suitable for dry weather. I replaced them with Bridgestone Dueler ATS RHS tires, which I found to be much better in snow and quieter on the road. These tires also improved the vehicle's range, making them a worthwhile investment.
It’s worth noting that the original mud terrain tires may appeal to off-road enthusiasts, but for the average driver, they are not practical. The newer models of the Wrangler have switched to better all-terrain tires, which I believe should have been the standard from the start.
A concerning issue I encountered is corrosion on the doors and hood, a common problem with Jeep JL models due to their aluminum construction. I noticed small bubbles forming on the hood and corrosion on the seams. After a thorough assessment at the dealer, it was confirmed that I would need to replace the hood and two doors due to corrosion. Thankfully, there is a corrosion warranty that covers this issue for five years, which should help expedite the repair process before my lease ends in March.
Another common issue with Jeep Wranglers is broken windshields. I experienced a chip in mine shortly after purchase. Since it’s not in the wiper path and is smaller than four inches, I haven’t replaced it yet, opting to wait until closer to the end of my lease. If you’re considering a Wrangler, ensure your insurance includes zero deductible glass coverage, as windshield replacements are likely.
While the Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys excels in off-road capabilities, it does have some quality issues. For instance, I found inconsistencies in the gaps between interior plastics, which can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, the lack of a dead pedal for resting the left foot and the absence of a seat tilt adjustment are minor annoyances that could be improved.
The vehicle’s ride quality is better than previous Wrangler models, but it still feels rough compared to most modern cars. The steering system, which uses recirculating ball steering instead of rack and pinion, can feel loose and lacks feedback, which may take some getting used to.
The battery range is another aspect worth discussing. The 4xe offers about 20 to 27 miles of electric range, which is sufficient for short commutes in warmer climates. However, in colder weather, the range decreases significantly due to the battery's use for heating. This can be frustrating, especially when the gas engine kicks in during colder temperatures.
In comparison, other plug-in hybrids, like the Toyota RAV4 Prime, offer a more substantial electric range, making them more practical for daily use.
Many owners have reported reliability issues with the Wrangler 4xe, including battery failures and charging system problems. Fortunately, my experience has been relatively smooth, aside from the initial charging hiccup. I would recommend leasing this vehicle or ensuring it comes with a robust extended warranty if you decide to purchase.
Before buying, I suggest taking the Wrangler for a long test drive to assess comfort and handling. While it has improved significantly over previous models, it may not be the most comfortable vehicle for everyone.
In summary, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys has its strengths and weaknesses. It excels in off-road performance and has improved ride quality, but it also faces issues with charging, corrosion, and overall comfort. If you’re considering this vehicle, weigh these factors carefully and ensure it meets your needs. If you have any questions or experiences to share about your 4xe, feel free to leave them in the comments below. Thank you for reading!
