Sofia Martinez
Jeep is an iconic car brand that has been widely imitated around the world. The utilitarian design of the original Jeep has been hailed by industrial designers and museum curators alike. However, Jeeps are not known for their comfort or fuel efficiency, and they have been criticized for various performance issues. They have also been criticized for their excessive use of plastic. Some Jeep owners have expressed disappointment with the amount of plastic in newer models, particularly in the interior trim. The Jeep Wrangler, for example, has been described as having so much damn plastic by one owner. Another owner expressed a preference for the 'nakedness of the older models. While plastic trim may give the interior a more finished look, some owners prefer the simplicity and ruggedness of earlier Jeep designs.
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What You'll Learn
The Jeep Wrangler TJ has less plastic than other models
The Jeep Wrangler TJ is the second generation of the Jeep Wrangler off-road and sport utility vehicle (SUV). It was introduced in 1996 as a 1997 model and featured an 80% redesign, including powerful fuel injection and an innovative quadralink suspension setup. The Wrangler TJ is a popular choice for dedicated wheelers, especially in Rubicon trimmings. It is the first Wrangler model to feature a coil-sprung, 4-link suspension setup, providing impressive road manners and excellent handling in off-road conditions.
The Wrangler TJ has less plastic than other Jeep models, particularly when compared to the JL and JLU Rubicon. Owners of the Wrangler TJ have expressed their preference for the vehicle's rugged, simple design, which has less plastic trim and fewer overall trim pieces. The interior of the Wrangler TJ is described as basic and relatively unfinished, with carpeting in the rear instead of plastic panels. In contrast, the newer Wrangler models like the JL and JLU Rubicon have been criticised for their excessive use of plastic trim, including on the hood, cowl, kick panels, and trunk.
One notable difference between the Wrangler TJ and newer models like the JK Wrangler is the front bumper material. The Wrangler TJ features a metal front bumper with a Jeep stamp in the centre, while the JK Wrangler has a plastic bumper, although some models offer a steel upgrade. The Wrangler TJ's metal bumper contributes to its rugged aesthetic and functionality, as it is winch-capable from the factory, which the plastic bumper of the JK Wrangler is not.
The Wrangler TJ also stands out for being the last production vehicle to use AMC-related parts, including the AMC Straight-4 and Straight-6 engines, as well as the AMC passenger car door handles. The TJ utilised other powerplants during its 9-year production run, including the AMC 2.5L inline 4-cylinder and MOPAR's 2.4L PowerTech engine. The Wrangler TJ's simplistic design and reliable engine options contributed to its solid reliability and longevity.
While the Wrangler TJ has less plastic than some newer Jeep models, it is important to note that it still incorporates some plastic components, particularly in the interior. However, the overall reduction in plastic trim and the use of metal bumpers contribute to the Wrangler TJ's appeal for those seeking a more rugged and simple aesthetic, as well as its reputation as a capable off-road vehicle.
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The JL model is criticised for its excessive plastic
The Jeep JL model has been criticised for its excessive use of plastic. Owners and enthusiasts of the Jeep Wrangler have expressed disappointment in the JL model, believing it to be just an SUV with a removable top. They argue that the abundance of plastic trim in the interior detracts from the rugged, simple, and utilitarian nature that has traditionally defined Jeep vehicles.
One owner, who owns a TJ model, notes that the JL has plastic on the hood, cowl, and kick panels, and even the trunk has plastic trim. They contrast this with their TJ model, which has a more basic and unfinished-looking interior, featuring carpeting instead of plastic panels. Another TJ owner shares a similar sentiment, praising the style of the JL's interior but feeling that it lacks the ruggedness associated with Jeep. They also highlight the extensive plastic trim, including on the kick panels that run from the front to the back seats.
The JL model's shift towards a more SUV-like interior is likely a strategic decision by Jeep and FCA to appeal to a broader demographic and increase profits. While this approach may be financially successful, it has clearly disappointed some loyal Jeep enthusiasts who value the simplicity and workability of the older models.
The criticism of the JL model's plastic-laden interior highlights a tension between the traditional Jeep aesthetic and the evolving design choices made to appeal to a wider market. While some owners appreciate the more finished look of the newer models, others feel that Jeep has strayed too far from the spartan and functional characteristics that defined their earlier vehicles. This criticism of the JL's excessive plastic is a reflection of this discord between Jeep's heritage and its modern design choices.
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The JLU Rubicon has plastic trim throughout the interior
The JLU Rubicon is a Jeep Wrangler model that has plastic trim throughout its interior. While the style of the interior looks good, it is a far cry from the rugged, simple, and easy-to-work-on Jeep interiors of the past. The TJ, for instance, has a much more basic interior with far fewer trim pieces and no plastic panels.
The JLU Rubicon's interior plastic trim can be found on the kick panels that run from the front seat to the back, as well as in the trunk. The hood, cowl, and kick panels of the newer JL model are also covered in plastic. This abundance of plastic is likely due to the broader demographic that Jeep now caters to, appealing to the masses to make more money.
Some owners of the older TJ model express disappointment in the new Jeep Wrangler's plastic-laden interior. They believe that the SUV-style interior, though aesthetically pleasing, does not align with the rugged image of a Jeep. Despite this, the plastic trim gives the interior a more finished look, which may be preferable to some consumers.
For those who prefer a more basic interior, aftermarket options are available to replace the plastic trim. These options include OEM or aftermarket ABS raw plastic that can be custom-painted and clear-coated for durability. Additionally, some Jeep owners opt for a more basic interior, such as that of the CJ model, which does not feature the same extent of plastic trim as the newer models.
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The Jeep Wrangler has plastic trim and plastic windows
The Jeep Wrangler is a popular vehicle, with many owners discussing their experiences with the car's plastic trim and windows. Some Wrangler owners have expressed disappointment with the amount of plastic used in the interior of the car, particularly in the trim. Owners have noted that plastic trim is present on the kick panels, the cowl, and the hood. The trunk of the Wrangler also features plastic trim.
In contrast, some Wrangler owners prefer the simplicity and ruggedness of older Wrangler models, which had less plastic. One owner mentions that their 2006 Wrangler has plastic trim around the A-pillars and above the windshield, which they are unhappy about. Another owner compares their Wrangler to a newer model, the JL, and notes that their Wrangler has far less plastic trim overall.
Despite the mixed reactions to the plastic trim, the Wrangler's plastic windows and trim are built to last. Owners have shared their experiences with replacing the plastic trim on the rear window, which can become cracked or broken over time. The process involves carefully removing the old trim by cutting through the adhesive between the trim and the glass, cleaning the glass with acetone or alcohol, and then gluing a new trim piece in place.
The Jeep Wrangler's plastic trim and windows are a common topic among owners, with some appreciating the finished look it provides, while others prefer the simplicity of older models with less plastic. Overall, the Wrangler's plastic components are durable, but they may require replacement over time.
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Owners can restore and protect their Jeep's plastic trim
Owners of Jeep Wranglers have expressed disappointment in the amount of plastic trim in the interiors of their vehicles. Some owners have noted that while the style of the interior looks good, it does not feel like a rugged Jeep interior.
The black plastic trim on the fenders, bumpers, and body cladding of most Jeep SUVs is made from polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). These materials slowly break down when exposed to the sun's ultraviolet rays, rain, snow, wind, and other atmospheric pollutants. To prevent the fading of plastic surfaces, owners can protect their Jeeps from the elements, moisture, dirt, and other harmful contaminants.
One way to restore faded black plastic trim is to use a plastic restorer. This method is easy and cost-effective, but it is a short-term solution as the plastic will eventually turn grey and dull again. Repeated applications can further damage the plastic, requiring a replacement.
Another way to restore and protect plastic trim is to use a sealant like Torque Detail's Plastic Restore. This product acts as a UV protectant that prevents long-term fading. It is recommended to start using a sealant when the plastic trim is still in good condition to prevent fading and save on costs in the long run.
- Prior to application, use IPA 70-90% (Isopropyl Alcohol) to remove any cleaners, oils, or silicones from the plastic.
- Shake the bottle well and apply a small amount to an applicator pad or microfiber sponge.
- Spread a thin coat over the area in an even motion, covering the area completely.
- Allow the solution to penetrate for 3-4 minutes.
- Use a clean microfiber towel to buff off the excess and wipe off glass and paint.
- For best results, do not wash the treated area for 4 to 6 hours.
It is important to note that some products, like Solution Finish, can stain clothing and skin, so it is recommended to wear gloves and eye protection during the application process.
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Frequently asked questions
The Jeep Wrangler JL and JLU models have a lot of plastic trim. The JLU Rubicon also has plastic trim all over the interior, including the kick panels and the trunk.
The Jeep Wrangler TJ has far less plastic than the JL model. The rear interior of the TJ, for example, only has carpet and no plastic panels.
Yes, some Jeep models offer both a soft top with plastic windows and a hard top with glass windows.
There are several ways to maintain the plastic trim on your Jeep, including parking in the shade to prevent sun damage, using a car cover to block UV rays, and cleaning and restoring the trim with products like Plasti Dip.
Based on the information provided, it does not appear that there are any modern Jeep models that completely avoid the use of plastic. However, the Wrangler TJ model is noted for having significantly less plastic than other models.
