Modern Day Jeep Rust
What Top Selling Jeep doesn’t have a Jeep Badge?
Stellantis has posted its Q2 and H1 sales for 2024, with overall group sales plummeting by 21% and 16%, respectively, in the USA. All brands, except for Alfa Romeo and Fiat, saw a decline in sales. Among the Jeep, Dodge, Ram, and Chrysler brands, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are the only individual models that enjoyed soaring sales, making them Jeep’s best-selling vehicles even though they don’t wear Jeep badges (although that will soon change).
An impressive 16,734 Wagoneers were sold in Q2 2024, an increase of 107% compared to the same period last year. That’s remarkable when considering the full-size SUV’s base MSRP of $62,945. Grand Wagoneer sales have also increased, with 4,005 examples leaving showroom floors in the second quarter. This represents a 24% uptick in sales. While this is a positive start, the rest of the lineup has dismal sales in comparison.
The worst offender by far is the Cherokee, which saw an 89% decline in sales. Of course, the Cherokee was killed off earlier this year, which explains the lower figures, but that hit alone has severely affected Jeep. The Renegade (also discontinued) saw a 69% reduction in sales, with just 1,583 units sold in Q2. Even the popular Wrangler and Grand Cherokee suffered reduced sales; the Wrangler managed 38,896 sales (-17%), while the Grand Cherokee came in at 52,296 (-26%).
Have you been hit with JL or JT Corrosion?
The modern Wrangler (and Gladiator in turn) picked up a number of aluminum components in the latest generation. The aim was to cut weight and improve efficiency in turn. The JL model hit the market with an aluminum hood, tailgate, and doors, while the main chassis still relied on steel.
By eliminating the use of steel in these components, there’s no risk of rust, but that doesn’t mean there’s no risk of corrosion. Typically, it naturally forms a hardy aluminum oxide barrier on its surface. Unlike iron oxide, this layer is tough and remains bonded to the base material. However, under the right conditions, aluminum can still suffer deleterious corrosion. Still, if properly painted and prepared, an aluminum panel should hold up to regular environmental conditions with little to no corrosion for many years.
In the case of the Wrangler, though, corrosion is popping up in vehicles just a few years, or even months, after delivery. This corrosion is most typically seen as bubbling on the 2door hinges, or on the door panel in the surrounding area. Other common areas include the lower part of the door panel itself. In mild cases, small bubbles under the paint aren’t particularly noticeable, but the problem can easily progress to the point where large chunks of paint are flaking off entirely.
One of the prime ways that aluminum can corrode is when it comes into contact with a different type of metal. This is referred to as “galvanic corrosion” or “dissimilar metal corrosion.” This has led to a widespread belief in the Jeep community that the hinges themselves are the problem. Endless videos and forum posts claim that Jeep’s combination of steel hinges with aluminum doors is the root cause of the corrosion issue.
Newbie Nuggets with Wendy
Critters on the trail
What kind of animals/critters are on the trails where you wheel?
Here in So. Calif. Big Bear Mountains have several large animals Black Bear/Mountain Lion/Bobcats (although rarely seen and protected). But you can see tracks in some areas if you pay attention. Most animals already know you are there before YOU will ever know they are present.
Other critters, lots of coyotes/deer/lizards/Jack-a-lopes – deer you have to be aware of as they can dart out in front of you, especially at dawn and dusk.
We also have squirrels, chipmunks and Rabbits and Donkeys ( not native and not good for the environment – no natural hunters)
We have snakes: Rattlesnakes (black in color up here in the mountains), Gopher, Garter and King Snakes
Please do not disturb the wildlife
Do not leave food or try to feed them – no matter what the squirrels say
So what do you pack in your jeep to protect you from animal bites? Snake kit? Other?
(https://www.youtube.com/user/backcountrydriver)
Fabrication Freezy with Larry – JeepingMo
Some Tools You Need for the Trail
We all carry a bunch of wrenches sockets and screwdrivers for that unwanted breakdown on the trail.
Depending on how new or how “seasoned” your rig is, there are some tools that cross over the years to help you diagnose what your issue is.
Or fix those things you did not expect.
One thing that plagues all models of Jeeps is electrical issues sometimes. Some more than others.
A multimeter
Used test voltages and continuity for those broken wires, or checking for voltages.
For the older jeeps, you are looking for 12 volts, but for the newer Jeeps, you could be looking for single volts to see why systems are not working.
Wiring diagram
This is a good companion to the meter. It does you no good to check wires if you don’t know where they go.
Spark checker.
You can unplug your coil or plug wire, and this goes in line and lights up every time a spark should happen.
Basic wiring connectors.
You never know when you might need to splice a wire or repair that wire that was pulled out. You will also need the crimpers and wire strippers for them.
Wire Jumpers
A set of wires with alligator clips on them to jump circuits to check connections.
Scanner
A simple scanner to check inputs and outputs on the newer jeeps. they can help you see if components are getting the single or sending the single you’re looking for.
Sometimes it’s to confirm that your system and your meter agree.
Never underestimate how electrical issues can get you, they can be hard to find and can cause a lot of problems on the trail.
Must-Have Stuff for Your Jeep!
TopLift PROS LIFTnGo Hard Top Removal and Storage System Compatible with Jeep Wrangler 2 & 4 Door YJ, TJ, JK, JL & 4XE and Compatible with Ford Bronco 4 Door & 6 Gen+ Hardtop Jack Roll System $629.99
The LiftnGo is a leading HardTop Removing Tool and Storage System that is compatible with Jeep and also compatible with Ford Bronco Hard Tops. It is a Removing Tool and Storage System that was designed for ease of use and affordability to give you a great open-air experience.