Lecture Notes: Buying a Used Jeep Gladiator

Presenter

• Name: Brad
• Channel: Prodigal Overland

Overview

• Tips for buying a used Jeep, particularly focusing on a 2021 Jeep Gladiator.
• Discusses how to evaluate if a used Jeep has been off-road and its potential damages.

Finding the Jeep

• Market Platforms Used:
  • CarGurus
  • Carvana
  • CarMax (where the Jeep was found)
• CarMax and Carvana typically price vehicles based on mileage and trim level, not aftermarket parts.

Features of the Jeep Purchased

• Cost: Bought for under $40,000 (originally $65,000) with aftermarket extras.
• Extras:
  • Warren Winch
  • Off-road lights and pod lights
  • Rigid ditch lights
  • Steel bumper and aftermarket bullbar
  • Powered rock rails (not fully functional)
• Value of Extras: Estimated at $3,000-$4,000.

Evaluation Process

Online Evaluation

• VIN and Window Sticker:
  • Check for original options by pulling the VIN and viewing the window sticker online.
  • Confirmed it was a Rubicon model, but badging was removed.

Physical Evaluation

• Wheels and Tires:
  • Look for stock wheels and tires.
  • Check for scuffs and cuts on sidewalls and tread.
  • Original wheels and clean tires indicate limited off-road use.
• Under the Vehicle:
  • Check front/rear differentials, lower control arms, and mounts for scrapes/scuffs.
  • Inspect rear rock rails for damage.
  • No significant wear indicated minimal off-road use.

Under the Hood

• Cleanliness:
  • Check for dirt or mud stains.
  • Inspect radiator and air intake for debris.
• Wiring and Switch Installations:
  • Evaluate the cleanliness of aftermarket installation.

Interior Inspection

• General Condition:
  • Check seats and general interior for wear.
  • Inspect under-seat storage for off-road gear residue.
  • Look at mesh door pockets for sagging indicating heavy use.

Mechanical Checks

• Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Shifting:
  • Check how easily it shifts in and out of 4 low gear.
  • Stiff shifting indicates less off-road use.

Vehicle History

• Ownership:
  • First owner likely traded in due to impracticality.
  • Second owner added aftermarket parts but didn’t off-road much.

Conclusion

• Likely a 'mall crawler' with good condition and aftermarket upgrades.
• Encouraged viewer feedback on additional inspection tips.

Wrap Up

• Audience Interaction:
  • Request for viewers to comment on additional things to check.
  • Thanked viewers for watching and teased future content.