1 Year Anniversary - review 3.0 Rubicon - Did I make a mistake?

[VladtheGlad]

I purchased my 2023 Jeep Rubicon diesel 1 year ago today OTD for $62,965 (Dlr. $77,950). It's mostly loaded. It is a dependable, comfortable (relatively) and efficient mid-sized truck. The 3.0 Ecodiesel has performed flawlessly with excellent performance and impressive fuel economy. The diesel gives the truck a stouter, solid feel. I enjoy how easy it is to change the engine oil/filter and fuel filter. Even the high stance makes rotating the tires easy. I have had only 1 issue of concern - I have noticed (here in Fl) during the recent cold weather, the smell of diesel is really strong inside and outside of the cab. I'll have the dealer look at this. Maintenance costs $$$ for this diesel engine is not for the faint of heart, especially if you use Jeep! Even though I do it all maintenance in my shop, the oil is super expensive (uses 9 qts) and the oil filters are proprietary and expensive. Both oil, oil filter and diesel fuel filters should all be replaced every 5,000 miles in this VM Motori Gen III (this engine thrives on being over-serviced). At the end of the day, I could not be more pleased with my Gladiator. In 2003 I ordered the 1st model year of the Rubicon Wrangler - a 2-door only model. 20 years later, this 2023 Gladiator is light years better than my original - I traded that one quickly. I really do like this Gladiator and plan on keeping it for many years. I actually hope nothing happens to this one because I would not replace it with the aging gas models available today. Cheers

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[Ward]

You are obviously happy as a clam with your purchase so definitely no mistake.

 

[RoamingGladiator]

Diesels do not burn as efficiently when cold, normally a little bit more fuel vapor hence the smell. As a Canadian who deals with cold weather 8 months out of the year, this is common in my Ecodiesel when it's warming up.

Otherwise, absolutely love my EcoDiesel. Thing is crazy fuel effecient even with 37s and upgrading entire steering / suspension with beefier parts.

 

[VladtheGlad]

Thanks.

 

[Splenda]

At 6 months, I am just as happy with my Jeep as it sounds like you are with yours.

 

[Bananaman]

I don't get any diesel smell from mine, even when standing next to the tailpipe. Maybe you have a slight leak? (Sorry, didn't know if you meant raw diesel or exhaust.)
It is more expensive to maintain a diesel, but I went in knowing that. (I also own a F250 with the mighty 7.3 Powerstroke) LOL. The little 3.0 Eco runs circles around that 7.3
If you search the forum there are guys who have used aftermarket filters that seem to work and cost less than OEM. I recently got some fuel filters off of Amazon for a pretty reasonable price. Still a little leery to use an aftermarket oil filter though.
I've had your same thoughts, but when I read about some of the issues the gas motor has, and I merge onto the interstate effortlessly at 1/2 throttle, I'm pretty happy with my decision.

 

[Rusty PW]

I'm loving my '22 JTRD with 55,000+ miles. Zero issues with it.

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