Thinking about upgrading to a Gladiator... but how reliable is it compared to my YJ?

Models Gladiator (2020+)
1

I own a '94 Sahara I6 4.0L right now, but I’m considering adding a new Gladiator to the mix.

My YJ is in mint condition and has only about 90k miles. It’s not my daily driver – I’ve only put 30k miles on it in the past 10 years, so it’s been really well taken care of.

Here’s my question: what can I expect in terms of reliability from a newer Jeep if I use it as a daily driver, compared to my YJ which has been nearly flawless? I’m not planning on babying the Gladiator too much, and I want to actually use it as a suburban utility vehicle (yes, I know… shocking) as well as a commuter.

I don’t live on a farm, so it won’t be heavy-duty use, but I might tow a trailer occasionally or help people move things. Little stuff like that. I’m thinking about adding a winch as well.

I really love how the Gladiator looks and I want to get one. I wouldn’t be getting a luxury package, just a base model with as few extras as possible, but maybe still CarPlay if they offer that.

Would love to hear your thoughts!

Thanks!

2

Instead of comparing the Gladiator to your YJ, you might want to think about how it stacks up against other new mid-size trucks. Newer vehicles are different than older ones.

One thing you can be sure of – it’s going to cost you.

3

@Zephyr
I don’t really have experience with other mid-size trucks, so I’m asking for a comparison with something I know. That’s why I’m reaching out here, because there are probably some people with experience with both YJs and Gladiators who can help me out.

Asking how a Gladiator compares to a Frontier or F150 doesn’t do me much good because I’ve never driven either of those.

4

@Jony
I’ve got a weekend YJ, and while the F150 is a full-size truck with a larger bed, it’s better for towing and overall street use. If I were looking for a truck, I’d go with a Tacoma.

A good friend had a Gladiator, but after dealing with the monthly payments and high gas prices, he sold it.

5

@Zephyr
Yeah, I get that… If I wanted a truck, a Tacoma would probably be the way to go. But I don’t want just any truck, I want a Jeep truck.

But of course, if the Gladiator turns out to be a total disappointment, I might reconsider and maybe look for an older model.

6

You mentioned adding a wench… I have to ask, where can I get one for my Jeep? Does Quadratec sell them? The thought of it cracked me up so much my wife asked what I was laughing about.

7

Short answer: NO. Just check out the Jeep forums – Stellantis seems to be making some pretty poor-quality stuff lately. Buyer beware has never been more true, even for these newer models.

8

I’ve considered the new Jeep truck but I’m probably going to pass. I’ve got an XJ, ZJ, and TJ, all with the 4.0 engine. From what I’ve seen about newer ‘Jeeps’ and all the major issues people are having, it’s not a good look for the brand. When I want a Jeep truck, I’ll probably restore an old FC150/170, a J-series truck, or a Comanche.