1st Nov 2008, 08:51
Another option for off-roaders is rock-rails. Some of them would work like running boards, in that you can step up on them and they would protect your hinges while being stronger for off-road use.
16th Dec 2008, 17:27
I have the running boards on my 4 door 2007 Wrangler and still get rock chips. My hinges are rusting but from the inside out... I am told that Chrysler is aware, but it is up to us as jeep owners to pull the screws out and treat or clean them. I think it's a joke, and will be pursuing further...I'll keep you posted.
17th Jan 2009, 20:11
A friend has an 05 Rubicon Unlimited (LJ). It also kicks up rocks because it has the diamondplate sides rather than that plastic thing that extends back from the front fender. It's also longer than a TJ, so there's more to be exposed before the rear fender. Of course it doesn't have the rear hinges there to catch rocks, but it's still an issue for him.
10th Oct 2009, 18:45
I can't believe someone would comment that a Jeep kicks up rocks! Put on some mud flaps and enjoy this unrivaled vehicle!
11th Oct 2009, 01:50
I purchased the 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited X with the hard top, 6-speed standard transmission and 4-wheel-drive fresh off the train.
Mine does not have the side step rails or mud flaps. I've never had a problem with it kicking up rocks, and my paint is as pristine now (Oct 2009) as when I bought it.
Only issue I've had is the hood sustained damage from a hail storm that didn't damage any other car in the neighborhood. Hood should probably be a little thicker to prevent this.
Only other complaint is the stock stereo system is tinny and sounds cheap.
In all other aspects, I love my Jeep and plan to keep it for many years. Doesn't need babying or high-octane fuel, it's fun and reliable, and I average 20 MPG. This is a LOT of sturdy, reliable fun for the money!
11th Oct 2009, 08:17
01:50
Congrats on your Wrangler!
My Wrangler was built 15 years ago this month. It has 141,000 miles on it and still look & runs like new.
Other than the basic wear & tear items - it has been ultra-reliable too.
3rd Nov 2009, 16:15
I have a 2007 unlimited Jeep Wrangler. After two years I had to have the engine replaced. A year later I have a knocking noise every time I turn the car on. I take it to a Jeep dealership/service, they agree that it's something with the engine. On closer inspection they say it's now a transmission problem. I have an automatic. No slipping no nothing. I got very little help from the Jeep company. 25/75 split on the cost with me paying the 75%.I don't go off roading, no trails. I should not have had engine and transmission problems in 3 years on a new car. Any thoughts?
10th Nov 2009, 14:12
11:28 - It is called a Chrysler transmission. Many have been prematurely failing for the last 2 decades at least.
It is a shame that Chrysler Corp. is ruining Jeep.
22nd Jan 2010, 19:37
I have a 2007 Jeep Wrangler that has spun rod bearings. I have my oil changed often. It's at 45,000 miles. Jeep will not help at all, and I have owned 7 jeeps. Something is wrong; maybe should be a recall.
13th Feb 2010, 16:01
You're complaining about a vehicle designed for offroad use kicking up rocks... facepalm from Hades...
10th Jul 2010, 13:33
My 07 Wrangler X lost power last week at a stop light. Couldn't re-start. Once it turned over, it sounded like a set of keys in a dryer. Spun a bearing. Same as the above comment. Jeep will not help. 60k miles. I'll never buy another.
28th Oct 2008, 16:10
Just purchased a 2008 Rubicon 4 door... first time off road and we noticed chips in the paint on the door hinges... off to buy mud flaps and running boards... hopefully this protects and we can continue to enjoy our new vehicle.