6 Month Review - Jeep Wrangler Diesel

[@cowelk]

Brad, I know you don't have your diesel anymore but thought I would post my experiences for the others. I have a 2021 Wrangler JL Sport with the EcoDiesel engine with 32,600 miles on it. Mine is completely stock except I have Goodyear Wrangler Ultraterrain AT 265 70R17 tires. The are the same size as the original but beefier. I do have a roof rack which creates drag. I averaged 23.5 mpg for 2022 up to December 19th. That is for city, highway and off road driving of 18,969 miles. That includes 5,154 miles of pulling a 5X8 UHaul trailer that was pretty well loaded from Arizona to Virginia and back. I added 6 DEF 2.5 gallon containers this year. I have had ZERO problems with it except for the time I tried to POWER WASH a woodrat out from under the hood after camping in the White Mountains of Arizona. DON"T DO THAT!!!! (Power wash under the hood I mean). I had 17 codes that caused the engine to run rough at first and then barely run the next day as I was driving to the dealer for service. The dealer diagnosed the problem as a sensor in the DEF tank. That meant the DEF tank had to be replaced because the sensor was not separate from the tank. The dealer had the Wrangler for two weeks before coming up with that diagnosis. I asked if I could take it home while I waited for parts. They said yes but expect to have warning codes. I didn't have a single code during the several days I waited for parts but I had the tank replaced anyway. I haven't had any problems since. I love this Jeep. It sounds cool. It runs strong. I never slow down on hills. It keeps on trucking. I can put it in 4Low and 1st gear (Automatic Transmission but manual mode) and it climbs steep hills with hardly any throttle and virtually no tire spinning. I have had no D rating even though I live in Arizona and have been to Death Valley and Moab in the summer. I am not pulling a trailer(except that one trip) but many times have a fairly full roof rack because of too much gear in the Jeep when I go camping. I hope this information is helpful to your 515,000 subscribers and the others who surf your channel.

[@shift_click_vroom9562]

DEF: Saving the environment one plastic container at a time.

[@moparmaga]

Yep, you see these boxes littering the side of the roads everywhere in west Tex oil fields. Boxes are too big to fit in a trash can so they get left beside the can or in the back of the truck to fly out. Nasty. At this point diesel is not worth it with all the emissions junk, many are switching to hd gas

[@mattbarrett41]

DEF has been shown to be directly related to bee hive decimation. The bees can’t follow the scent trail back to the hive because the exhaust eradicates the trail

[@shift_click_vroom9562]

@@moparmaga Give me that new 7.3 gasser over a 6.7 any day!

[@The-t3z]

@@mattbarrett41 no way! I’m gonna have to look that up. The whole def and dpf regulations are moronic.

[@ultrajazz5335]

What I hate about DEF is that if there is a little overspill it leaves a white residue. Only new gas stations seem to have def at the pump.

[@gaetanofattorusso5863]

You don’t buy a Diesel to save money. You buy it for what it can do. I have the eco-diesel in my 2020 Willys and I love it. On the DEF i always just let it get past half and I add 2.5gal. At that point it will not spill over. I have been getting about 3,000 miles to 2.5gal. Great video, keep the videos and adventures coming…..

[@austini2067]

The noise of the diesel is the most intoxicating, addicting, and enjoyable engine note that I have ever experienced. I crave to drive my wrangler everyday because of it

[@eno2870]

Noise? I swear mine is a good deal more quiet than my old 2012.

[@justinfannon8159]

it sounds like a tractor, and i love it for that.

[@FernandoLopez-tc1yn]

I live in Hurricane country. There is one thing that I have always noticed, there was never a long line for fuel at the diesel pump. I remember people yelling at me that the end of the gas line is way back there to which I replied as I drove by “that’s why I drive a diesel!” Definitely a BIG PRO vs con.

[@cowlumbus]

Yes for that once in a life time need...

[@chrisE815]

Fuel storage is another pro. It's a lot more practical to store a large quantity of diesel vs gasoline

[@motoristx]

This is a great and informative video about the EcoDiesel. Thanks for this video. I absolutely love my 2020 Wrangler EcoDiesel. So I got mine March 14th of 2020, and I currently have 30,500 miles on it. It takes me to and from work daily. I've taken it to Moab UT, the San Juan mountains in Colorado, and even the Holy Cross trail. Most of these miles where on 38 Patagonia's, and those stock 3.73 gears handled wonderfully. I was nervous about going to 40's with those stock gears, and I decided to run 39 inch KM3's. Well, I'm here to tell you, after about 3k miles on the KM3's I'm no longer concerned about regearing. That torque handles the 39's just as well as the 38's! I think 40's will be the same. BTW I'm at 20.5 mpg average on my 39's.

[@Colonel1Bravo]

Excellent information

[@UberUser1977]

I know this video is a year old now but I just recently ran across your channel and have been pretty much binge watching your videos. First off, thank you for not saying "DEEZUL" like so many other people do... I don't know why but it drives me nuts. Second, thank you for all your well put together videos with excellent commentary, tips, and opinions on all aspects of overlannding, including this DIESEL review.

[@SiskiyouMountainman]

I have been lurking for years now and I just want to thank you for your vid’s. You are welcome in our camp any time You review of diesels hits my go button. All diesels for that matter. I really dislike them for all the reasons and some you don’t mention. The benefits by no means outweigh the liability. I am currently running a 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT w/5.3. I had the cash for a HD and the sales staff said “Oh you need all that torque” . I have been off roading for my entire adult life. (45 years). Jeeps, Tacomas, Work trucks, quads, equipment, etc. I run what I run because it works. You have me excited about Jeeping again with your 392 projects keep up the good work

[@overlandwithdaveyngoliath3610]

I am running a diesel JL as well & Love Love Love it... It is like a bulldozer... It crawls up anything with little or no effort. At the same time, that is my biggest complaint.... It is so crazy easy to crawl anything, it almost takes the fun out of wheelin, Rock, Trail makes no difference, It is effortless. Best Jeep I have ever owned...

[@TheOldJarhead]

Hey Brad, here's a tip for you! When you need DEF go to a TRUCK STOP! It's pretty much ALWAYS cheaper and just like a gas pump. You just fill the tank off the pump and move on. Great vid too!

[@geraldmcclintock2567]

Totally agree. I have had multiple diesels and have never purchased a box of def. I fill up at truck stops and the def is probably fresher than what’s in the box.

[@jhr2112]

Great review! I considered the diesel but ended up with the 4XE and I have no regrets. That 470-ft pounds of torque definitely outperforms my 2013 Wrangler. Just got back from Colorado and went over my usual backcountry passes and it performed better than I was expecting. Back home in Austin Texas, with the daily commute and driving around I rarely use gasoline so I'm going about a month per tank unless I'm going on a trip. So far so good and I would buy it again.

[@douglasrykerd6266]

Regarding DEF, on my Ram I add a jug when it gets below 1/2 tank. Never anxiety about running out and never overflow. Also I never buy the DEF at the pump - it’s often contaminated and that will cause way more issues than the little bit of inconvenience. I buy the Super Tech DEF at Walmart - it’s about 1/2 the price and have never had an issue with it. All that said, I wish the pumps were more reliable. The containers are single use and that’s a lot of extra trash in the landfill.

[@RHop.]

this is the way

[@futurecollector]

Why do you say its contaminated at the pump?

[@bounceebounce9657]

It’s because the def crystallizes at the pump is exposed to air, that’s why the jugs have to be thrown away or sealed if not all used. Just imagine what hard crystals do in the engine

[@douglasrykerd6266]

@@troyheffernan1261 mines a manual, so no.

[@douglasrykerd6266]

@@futurecollector PD Diesel on KZbin has a couple videos talking about his hot shot drivers having issues with it. I believe it because it’s not as controlled environment so water and stuff gets into the tanks. I’m sure it’s not all stations, but these DEF systems are so sensitive I’m not willing to risk it. I had my sensor go off once when I dumped a 5 gallon container in that had some crystals on the outside.

[@JustinKingOffroad]

i drove a diesel gladiator a couple weeks ago and was really impressed with it. that's a solid power plant for the jeep line up for sure.

[@dayesloope2221]

I bought the 2020 gladiator. Wish I would've known they had a diesel option. Granted I practically stole mine so I doubt I would've gotten the same deal

[@jdenslinger]

Brad, I want to thank you for all your videos! This specific video helped me to choose both the JT and the EcoDiesel! When I went to test drive the only EcoDiesel in a 50 mile radius, it happened to be a Rubicon... and was told there'd be at least a 3 month wait for a custom order. So, we bought her! I joke with my wife that it was her Valentine's present to me, because we got it on Feb 14th! I've noticed a HUGE difference in fuel economy between the cheaper fuel and top tier fuel. ($3.86/g vs $4.05/g) I was getting about 19mpg with the cheap stuff, and 24+ with top tier. Admittedly, I've put less than 1k miles on it, and none of that was highway. We bought it for 2 main uses: She'll be my daily driver, which includes running errands, picking up lumber, going to work, etc, and because these are all mostly short trips, I'll be taking long Sunday drives And she'll be towing our A-frame camper up from Florida to the mountains, a few times a year. Just... not necessarily during summer... I've had her for a couple weeks and absolutely love driving (and owning!) her! She's going to be the last truck I own, going to make her last another 20-30 years! So far, no regrets!

[@4x4ready]

Every time I need a solid review to help with some decision making I always land on TrailRecon video and it helps every damn time. Thank you!

[@jeckart3d]

Diesel Pump PSA: Do not leave your vehicle sitting at a diesel pump. Don’t be lazy. Park your dang car! 😆

[@happy2bnfla]

Same goes for gas pumpers that leave their cars blocking diesel pumps or even better, drive past several gas only pumps and choose the only pump that has diesel!

[@jeckart3d]

@@happy2bnfla oh, that’s what I was implying. I think those of us with oil burners understand the pain and get in and get out ASAP. It tends to be the gassers that don’t realize that they’re squatting on valuable real estate. They see a station full of open pumps and don’t realize that they bellied up to one of the few with diesel, so they just hang out assuming we can use one of the other 14 open pumps.

[@AmericanSurvival001]

Spoken like a true democrat!

[@jeckart3d]

@@AmericanSurvival001 ummm… what?

[@Grenyas]

Up until recently, I never gave it much thought (never owned a diesel). Then I started driving for FedEx and I realized the valuable real estate diesel vehicles need. I've had quite a few frustrating moments already.

[@Donnut123]

"Should I have just waited for the 392?" That look!!!😆

[@dkucharek]

lol was hoping someone else commented on this...that look said a LOT

[@richardesquivel7517]

I have a ecodiesel gladiator with the Mopar lift with 37s and loving this thing.

[@westwardbound8817]

I had a gladiator ecodiesel, i loved it compared to the gutless 3.6, i used 3 boxes of def in 10000 miles, short trips definitely you notice the regen cycles, would love to delete the emissions garbage. Volcanoes put out more emissions than all of the engines ever made in the history of the world! I am going to put a 12 valve cummins in a 90s suburban for my next adventure vehicle. peace

[@livininmo65]

Get your DEF at a truck stop. Easier and convenient. Save a jug or two and refill those at the truck stop too.

[@DMH52]

As a fellow JLU Diesel owner, this video helped a lot. I kind of figured oil changes for this jeep weren't going to be cheap. That's ok with me. The purpose of my diesel JLU is to travel and explore the world, and I will be putting it to the test.

[@KJsProjects]

How's it going with the Ecodiesel?

[@kg0311]

​@@KJsProjectsThey're great

[@jppieterse768]

I live in South Africa and have 2.8 diesel jk. Love it! Diesel is very common in SA and the jk doesn’t need def. Has lots of torque and is good on fuel on 35s. Didn’t need to regear. Love it

[@kennethsillers2310]

Is this the same 2.8 that was on the diesel liberty?

[@jppieterse768]

I think so.

[@tomhorner9918]

Thanks for the review Brad. I ordered my JLUR Diesel on 6/1. Looked at the 392 but couldn't justify the added cost over the diesel and I would imagine not so great mpg. I just got home from a 6000 mile trip from NC to AZ, UT, CO and back. My 2018 JL with a 3.6 struggled over some of the mountain passes. I do have a gobi rack and rooftop tent so that turns the JL into a bigger aerodynamic brick. I'm looking for the torque and I am a diesel guy.

[@LaddGardner4]

Great review, B-man: As usual, honest and comprehensive. As a guy who's owned nothing but diesels (Ram Cummins) for thirty years -- and been there/done that with engine "upgrades" ("chips," exhaust, egr-delete, injectors, fuel-pumps, etc.) I'd counsel you to reconsider the Banks install. First thing that happens, as you know, is you become "your own warranty station." Regens happen WAY more frequently because you're burning more fuel; can't cheat the basic laws of thermodynamics. Don't buy the "more power AND better mileage" B.S. Turbos -- especially variable-geometry -- soot up much faster. Check out the price of a new turbo, for giggles. I've replaced a few. Your boost is waste-gated at about 30 psi, so you'll need to address that with further upgrades. Even before Covid, there's a serious shortage of diesel techs -- especially at Jeep dealerships -- so failed injectors (etc.) can leave you driving a rental for weeks. Diesel engine parts are back-ordered forever (see: Covid). The "upgrade the diesel for more fun" journey is a trip down Alice's rabbit hole, and there are more downsides than upsides. In summary: Don't do it. PS. CA is probably the most hostile state in the USA for emissions "mods." Consider local laws and penalties. Also, "enhanced" diesels (more torque) find the weakest link in drivelines VERY fast. They eat transmissions, torque-converters, input shafts, drive-shafts, etc. at inopportune times. As a guy who's installed a few billet input shafts (after the fact), plus R&R'd a few trannies, forget trailside bandaids. Trade that beautiful Jeep for the 392. :)

[@keither7731]

Thanks Brad, really enjoy this portion of your experience with Diesel-powered Wranglers, Very informative, no sugarcoating, just telling it like it is.

[@curlyeagle]

Having owned the 1st gen eco diesel in a ram 1500, I loved everything about it and really loved the fuel mileage. Yes the initial shock of the first oil change was a wholly hell shock. But being your able to go twice the distance between oil changes, it isn’t to bad being able to go 9000 miles before changing the oil. Plus the oil still looks great at 9000 miles of use compared to engines of old at 5000 miles. Love your honesty of reviews, keeps me watching

[@davidburkhart5143]

Just a great review. I'm thinking of getting either a diesel Gladiator or Rubicon. You are really thoughtful and thorough. Thank you

[@teddyg210]

Fantastic information! Many people overlook the maintenance cost and this adds up quick. Thank you for this information!

[@mikethompson7406]

Thanks for this review and all this info!!! I've been waiting for the 6th gen 4runner for YEARS and ended up with an Outback, lifted it with a 2" spacer lift and I'm around 24 city now with the 3.6. I've been seriously considering the ecodiesel and this is awesome! I've never owned a diesel so this info is great.

[@arunmaroli]

With the horrible approach departure angles Outback has, even with 2" lift, it can't go where a stock base Wrangler can. One of my cars as ML250 diesel which returns low 30s mpg on a highway, I can go more than 700 miles between fillups; thinking of picking up one of last of '23 diesel Wranglers.

[@NANKEL1]

In Australia, we call DEF AdBlue, and just to let you know if you really get stuck just add water, I hauled for a company that made this stuff one day and all they did was add some type of compound to water. The owner of the company told me if ever I fall short of a Petrol (gas) station just put a couple of liter in and you should be right, and I can tell you I have done this with no problems

[@bowtieMD]

I have had my Diesel Wrangler for 4 months/7,000 miles with absolutely no problems. I got it for the torque and see the improved as bonus. I am very happy with my choice. DEF is just part of living with a Diesel

[@Poor_ManTruck]

Just delete it 🤷

[@Jay-tc9on]

I wish keep would offer just the 5.7 hemi. I don’t have any issues with the 392 except that you have to buy the top of the line trim to get it. I would prefer to see it as an option or at least the 5.7 as one. The 4xe is apparently amazing by the way. My neighbor has both that and a gladiator and says the 4xe is the best choice.

[@TrailRecon]

Totally agree

[@ChrisStack22]

I have a 4xe Rubicon on order, can’t wait to get it and see how it exceeds my current 3.6L.

[@taraaaron1242]

Agree.

[@SimplyCarReviews]

@@ChrisStack22 love it driven it several times you will enjoy it. Very refined and polished.

[@jasondutchman6736]

@@Photojeeper I've been saying that for years(about electrified vehicles in general)! That would make a vehicle like the 4xe Really appealing. Couple a fuel cell with super or ultracapacitors and that would be something to behold! ;)

[@justjsse8917]

My buddy did a diesel swap in his xj. Unbelievable difference especially with long arms as well

[@Rem700SD]

Cummins 2.8?

[@wyattensley9281]

Which engine I have an xj that sounds dope

[@misterrc51]

Trailrecon ,Bank programmer are good and they are California emissions compliance certified, have few of their programmers on my Jeep for 5 years and no check engine light problem, I had other major big brand and they always caused the check engine light to come once awhile.

[@R3dWolf24]

Hold up! Marco got a 392?! Ima need a video!

[@patrickclifford5313]

Good video I love diesels I've got a VW diesel with over half a million miles on it still runs perfect 60 MPG on the highway another nice thing about diesel is it is not explosive like gasoline so you can always carry a couple of cans in the back no problem you never run out

[@willito1211]

Just saw Marcos 392!! It’s exactly like the one I ordered!!

[@work.life.travel6747]

First off love, your channel i have been watching for years your content is awesome! So I have been driving ram trucks for about five years with a 6.7 L turbo diesel and one thing that you should know is that the DEF system is only warranted if you use the Mopar DEF now the Mopar is more expensive but it has a two-year shelflife if kept between I believe it’s 45 and 75°F IN Aclimate controlled environment. If you buy in bulk from the dealership normally you can get a pretty good discount for buying 24 or more gallons at a time and you tend to get better fuel economy, and it last longer than the other off brand. Another benefit that I like in buying it in 1 gallon jugs is that it’s easier to keep your tank topped off and it’s easy to throw a couple spare gallons if you’re going to go on a long trip in the back of your truck

[@silverstake88]

Most all truckstops and "travel centers" have def at the pump. Maverick, Kum&Go, Quiktrip, Pilot, Flying J, Petro, T/A, Love's, etc, etc.... Just remember to keep an eye on your def levels as you travel. ALSO - VERY IMPORTANT! ---> If you live in COLD climates - during the winter when Temps drop below 10-15° - keep your def tank only half full. The def tank heater will work much better when their isn't a 5 gallon block of iced-over def to thaw. AND - if your engine requires a def "dosing" and your fluid is frozen you will get a check engine - def system warning ⚠️. You don't want that. That equals tows and $$$$ Also - you need to run Lucas Diesel Deep Clean on a regular basis. Especially in the winter or if you constantly run short trips to the store or whatever. The def dosing system will get coked up because it isn't allowed to run a full regen because it doesn't get hot enough. So get the Lucas and run a few 1-hour trips to wherever on the highway every now and then. Retired oilfield contractor with many years of newer diesel and def experience. And a ecodiesel owner myself!

[@drbvr23]

Just watching this now, but I have a 2021 Rubicon Ecodiesel since new. almost 15k miles. Running 35s and a 2" Mopar/FOX lift. Bank's Derringer tuner. Not a single problem with the Jeep or any parts. Love the torque!

[@brianreilly429]

Brad, the DEF adds $.05 to the gallon and the oil change is 4 more qts than a 3.6 ( all approx) and the fuel consumption is 10 mpg better. The added cost for the engine pays for itself pretty quickly. I have one in a 2021 JLU Sport and its very stripped. Hard to find.

[@Exzerras]

I've had my 2021 wrangler Willys ecodiesel for about a month now and just shy of 4k miles and zero issues, mpg is insane(30 mpg flat ground at 70mph) averages 27-28 mpg for my commute which is pretty hilly, loving every day with it and taking on some trails this weekend.

[@davidnoel1750]

Shell Rotella T6 full synthetic should be readily available in San Diego for less than $60 2.5 gallons. Up in Northern CA we can find it at WalMart, Tractor Supply, Sam's Club and Costco. $14.80 Qt is crazy expensive compared to the cost for 2.5 gallons. We love your channel, high quality video and content, keep up the great work Brad!.

[@DeltaBravoOpr8r]

My wife owns a 4xE… its a Mall Crawler… she averages about 35 MPG right now with the Level 1 charger. She is buying the Level 2 which will allow her to get a much faster charge so her MPG should go up. I love my 2012 JKU 6 speed… We are a Jeep family.

[@NesCarh]

Great feed back!!! Looking to get my Rubicon Eco diesel this year.

[@ethan6698]

You should get an electric feul pump for the def tank it'll stop once it's full and its battery powered so you don't have to worry about plugging it in

[@fmxman1564]

Thanks for passing your thoughts on to us about yoke ride!! Much appreciated and always keep being cool!!!! Love your stuff. Worth my time.

[@bmkjeep]

Hey i don’t know if your close to any but most truck stops have DEF on pump. And it is usually cheaper that way too. Makes it a lot easier and cleaner.

[@keithmcleod811]

8:56 I see two album covers on the wall --- 1984 & Pyromania! Two of my favorite albums of all time. And that's a nice Jeep that you have there :)

[@mattinthehat22]

C'mon, I can't be the only truck driver sub'd to this channel. Every truck driver on the planet has a pair of cheap leather gloves just inside the driver's door at the bottom of the seat... mostly for pumping fuel. To heck with those jugs. Find a station that has a def pump. Cost of ownership: Considering Jeeps & Tacos have the best resale value of any vehicles sold in the US, it's GOT TO be safe to assume the diesels will have even better resale bc they don't wear out like gas engines. Take a quick look at what people want for 10yr old Ford Super Dutys with 250k miles. That 'cost' of ownership is an investment. I'm sure Brad will trade that like he said in a few years. Hopefully he is really pleased at what they give him for it. The engineers that design diesels measure their life in gallons of fuel burned so the better mileage you get (or the easier you go on it - no long pulls up hills with weight), the longer it will last. Also, with the def, regens, and killer mileage there is no reason AT ALL to go less than 15k on oil changes on diesels with the new synthetic oils. Air & fuel filters are more important on diesels than on gas engines. Spend more on those. Lastly, that engine probably won't be completely broken in until 20-25k - watch, you'll get better mileage as it gets broken in.

[@garym9433]

Thank you. I have been looking forward to this video! Happy Father’s Day.

[@TrailRecon]

You are so welcome!

[@cowboygeologist7772]

Thanks for a great review. I am debating on a brand new 2023 diesel wrangler. They are $8,000 off sticker. I don't drive a lot though. I've had my current vehicle 22 months and it only has 6,800 miles on it.

[@mikevondebag]

DEF is what keeps me from wanting to ever buy a newer diesel vehicle.

[@Propelled]

Yup, as well as astronomical repair costs when things go wrong. They just have too many gizmos and whackagadgets to go wrong, they aren’t your grandpa’s diesel.

[@GDeemerEsq]

DEF isn’t really an issue, just go to any truck stop / gas station (TA, etc.)

[@brycecampbell4845]

It's not that big of a deal. It's every 5,000 miles

[@MorrisOutdoors98]

Is changing your oil a issue too?? DEF is every 5k miles, like 20 bucks at advance auto. No issues whatsoever

[@justanotheraviator2357]

@@MorrisOutdoors98 I have a def pump at the station too

[@johnreno8909]

diesel is not only a great fuel economy and great torque,. it is also a great engine life span and great off-road capabilities.

[@willito1211]

Happy-Fathers Day sir! Did I just hear Marco “just got a 392” ?!?!?!? Cheers to him! I can’t wait until mine comes

[@nigelshort8669]

Brad, Interesting here in the UK every fuel staton always has a diesel on each pump some times a diesel only pump but always slightly more expensive that petrol. We dont have that def tank not come across that before, just fill up and go. Drive a 3ltr Nissan Patrol also takes 9 ltrs oil which about £95 or 130$ Love the channel.

[@brycecampbell4845]

I have Jeep Diesel Gladiator Rubicon and it's great. I have the Banks power tuner and the Banks "Pedal Monster" which takes care of "turbo lag" and with 42" tires on mine it works great. I have an AFE cold air induction kit I'm putting on in next few days. Also thinking about Water Methanol kit which will further increase HP and Torque and even MPG. I have 5.13 gears and I get around 17-18mpg on highway now. If I ever have a problem getting def fluid or run out of warranty the Re-gen DPF SYSTEM WILL BE STRIPPED OFF AND THEN I WILL TELL YOU THE RESULTS AFTER THAT.

[@ryanmartinage]

$4500 upcharge, $250 oil changes, ~$15 every 2500 miles. Ill take the Pentastar with a regear any day. Not to mention when it inevitably has a crucial emissions related component bite the dust. I just couldn't see myself having one over warranty.

[@Fei8lo]

I have a Pre-DEF Cummins Ram so maintenance cost is not bad. I spend more on upgrades than maintenance. Once the oil type for the Eco diesel becomes more common, the price will come down. 0w-20 used to be expensive but is common place for gasoline cars now. Hard to beat the torque and range of a diesel rig for sure. We need people to buy more diesels otherwise they will no longer be an option.

[@J.Young808]

Banks is a very good name in Diesel tuning and they do clean tunes. You’ll like the tune plus you might get increased MPG’s.

[@genxgamerdad141]

Eyeing that Banks system myself. Anxious for your review.

[@deankeller2532]

I have the banks tuner and pedal monster. Game changer.

[@eldritchblastjt9502]

This has thoroughly convinced me... The Gladiator/Wrangler needs the 5.7L Hemi... The 392 is a pure money grab but too many ppl actually put these to work.

[@treegrower1]

I was looking at a 2.8 turbo diesel 6 speed today. Very nice truck.

[@jakeb.3918]

DEF hack, you can fuel up your DEF tank at any truck stop for roughly $4.00 per gal. An additional benefit of doing this; Brad mentioned shelf life and is absolutely right. You want to screw up your system, toss some ol def in there. Truck stops, the def is being used daily and is constantly “stirred up” and added to so it’s almost always fresh.

[@jumapelljohn3958]

Great review, I was seriously considering the diesel but now I'm not so sure. Maybe the less expensive turbo 4 which has more torque than the V6 and has lower overall maintenance cost is the better option for me. Also, there are 49 state legal tunes that add more torque and power if needed. Thanks for this info.

[@andymckane7271]

If memory serves correctly, and I believe it does, the Jeep dealership in Provo, Utah where we purchased my wife's 2014 Grand Cherokee Overland diesel charged $70.00 plus for the first couple of oil filter elements we had them install on Debbie's Jeep. (We had two oil changes per year regardless of mileage in our various cars. That was in Utah. It's much rougher getting it changed here on the Island of Molokai.) We found a Jeep dealership in Florida who sold OEM MoPar filter elements for the diesel for about $35.00. Needless to say, it was that parts source we purchased our filters from in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th years of ownership. Because of the clogged particulate filter, quite a few incidents of that, we sold Deb's Grand Cherokee in January 2019 before moving from Springville, Utah to Molokai. Deb put a little over 30,000 miles on her Grand Cherokee between when we purchased it in 2014 and when we sold it in 2019. I've a hunch that I'd not have had "issues" with the particulate filter clogging up had the Grand Cherokee been my daily driver. My 2012 Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon has been and continues to be my daily driver since April 2012. I totally agree with you about the DEF. I remember only finding one pump on our cross country trip to Washington, D.C. area where a station had a pump that also sold DEF fluid. The rest of the time we had to top off using the same 2.5 gallon containers you mention in this video. As for my next Wrangler, I'm waiting until I finish work on my first Pearl Harbor book. Been working on that, mostly research, since October 1983. (The Station HYPO blog posted our essay, Pearl Harbor: The First Overt Act, during the first six days of this December.) If we still lived in Utah, or just about anywhere else on the Mainland (and perhaps even on Oahu or the Big Island), I'd opt for the Wrangler Rubicon 392 for our next Jeep. Here on Molokai I'm still thinking of making our next Wrangler a diesel. Deb knows what she wants for her next car: It'll be a Gladiator with the 3.6 liter gasoline engine in it. We've driven two Gladiators in the past half year or so, both rental vehicles, while visiting the Big Island and Maui. Most of our rental cars are Jeeps. We put 3,750 miles on a 3.6 liter gasoline Grand Cherokee this past July while visiting family members. I've been 100 percent happy with the reliability of our Wrangler Rubicon. That said, we had an air suspension problem (one wheel only) on Deb's Grand Cherokee. I always enjoy your advice on Jeep's, Brad! P.S. That "truck route" you drove your diesel on was, I suspect, I-80. Thanks very much, Semper Fidelis, and Merry Christmas! Andy McKane, Maunaloa, Molokai, Hawaii.

[@terrybrlecic3669]

Thanks for taking the time to do a review of the Diesel. Good information.

[@zxej6879]

A year ago I was in the market for a vehicle that I could park easier than my lifted '16 Ram 1500 Quadcab 4wd Ecodiesel. My wife has an '18 Ram 2500 Crewcab 4wd Cummins. We love our diesels for all the reasons Brad likes the Wrangler with the Ecodiesel. The problem was my local dealer did not have a configuration that interested me on the lot. So I settled on a Dodge Durango GT AWD with the Tow-N-Go package. With the 3.6L, I get 22 -34mpg, depending on the weather, the road, and the velocity traveled. I figured that once the Durango was paid for. I would find a Ecodiesel Wrangler. But I agree that the 4xe just complicates the plan. If they made an Ecodiesel Power Wagon. My Ram 1500 Ecodiesel would be replaced in a heartbeat.

[@stacythomas4017]

Great Channel Brad, always full of great info! 1700 miles on my ecodiesel so far, runs like a champ. Moab and Alpine Loop coming up this summer!

[@warmeds2009]

I own the ecodiesel jeep wrangler and have the AFE tune and pedal commander- it performs amazing!

[@jk_wrangler13]

You talked about diesel being higher than gas here in Missouri. I live in Missouri and its no different than any where else I've traveled. I've been up north all the way down south, and gas is always cheaper then diesel.

[@merrittrenovations6547]

Here in Alabama, diesel was always cheaper until a few years ago, but for the last year diesel has been the same price as 87 octane.

[@gregschreiber3663]

Thanks Bro, I'm waiting for my new Rubicon Eco Diesel. Hope to have it this week. Then the build to come down the line. You reaffirmed what I thought about the diesel.

[@67wildwolf]

Have you changed the fuel filter yet? It's something you should be doing and keeping track of. Thanks for another great informative vid Brad. The banks tuner is plug and play so it shouldn't void your warranty

[@aMAYSingLife]

How often should the fuel filter be changed? Why is it critical to change before you feel something is off? I’m new to diesel so trying to catch up

[@rajarizal4739]

Hi Brad, from Malaysia here. All our 4x4 Trucks here are diesel, the hiluxs, Mitsubishi Triton, Isuzu Dmax etc. Our diesel here is cheaper then gas. Also we are already using the Euro 5 diesel which is much cleaner.

[@TYZR4ME]

Awesome Video Brad!!! We are loving are eco diesel too... Can't wait to put some more miles on her. Thanks for making the review because you answered some of our questions.

[@CWJameson]

You could get Amazon brand euro 5w-40 which is api sn certified which is equivalent to ms12991 29.99 for 6 quarts and you can save a few bucks with an ecoguard s11880 oil filter so you can be under a 100 bucks for an oil change

[@patrickcraft6546]

Pennzoil platinum Euro meets ms12991. $42 on Amazon for 6 quarts

[@jayba4345]

For those of you that are looking at a diesel with a DEF system. Keep in mind you’re DEF fluid freezes at -13°C, and there is no antifreeze that can be put into it. At my work we often have trouble with equipment, cranes, trucks and all machines that run DEF. As soon as the warranty is over, we immediately remove the DEF system

[@romandevengenzo4267]

Great insights as always Brad, thanks for taking the time to share, this is very helpful in giving me confidence that the premium I paid for my 392 may be worth it, time will inevitably have to tell with respect to my particular experience and use case. I’m already thinking of swapping out the dual mode exhaust for an auxiliary fuel tank.

[@finfish260]

I'm still waiting for my 392 to deliver and I believe it will be worth the wait. I almost went with the Pentastar V6 but I really needed a V8 for pulling my Off Grid trailer over those mountain passes. I wasn't thrilled about the dual exhaust system because I think it's a gimmick prone to fail, but a buyer has no choice. I didn't know you could take it off and stay legal.

[@J.Young808]

That’s why I wear gloves to fill up my diesel car. Just my old work gloves.

[@Trail429]

Bought my diesel wrangler March 2020. Oil changes free at the dealerships in Colorado. Diesel less expensive than gas currently. Also have never been to a station that does not have diesel. Must be a Cali thing. Anyhow loving my diesel as well. Cheers!

[@Zanderthelab]

If you go to truck stops they have DEF and Diesel at one pump. You don’t even have to pull up to another pump. Fun fact. Plus there is the high capacity flow for the diesel pumps. Which is really nice.

[@beowulfgrendel24]

Truck stations have def at the big rig pumps. It is normally cheaper and fresher than the box. Also it helps to carry rubber gloves for the diesel pumps.

[@barrosgus]

Here in Atlanta you can put Blue DEF from a pump next to the diesel pump.

[@bakerfamilyoverland996]

Still driving my 07 jku...modded and going strong at 149k miles. But family is growing and we're outgrowing our wrangler...Would love the diesel wrangler for our long overland trips...been eyeing the ram 2500 Turbo diesel or the Silverado HD Duramax.

[@jasontaylor9871]

07 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 3.0. Bought it new now has 170K 95% trouble free miles. Oil changes break the bank but no def for my motor so I save a few $ Lifted on 33's and still gets 28mpg all day Biggest complaint I have had since day 1 is the dirty fuel pump handles and winter mornings waiting for the motor to warm up so I can use the heat.

[@iamblaineful]

I bought an Eco-Diesel Gladiator Rubi in March and I just love it. Mine is on 37's and a 5.5" lift, the nearly instant torque right off idle when running trails is a game changer. I don't need a regear currently, but will be moving up to40s next spring. It's a mixed purpose rig, and I agree with Brad that it's Rocklanding, sort of a mix of rock crawling and remote/desolate camping with my wife and kids. We are in NorCal near the Rubicon Trail and Fordyce, each being less than 40mins from my front door. Shortly after buying it, we ran Death Valley and never saw a paved road for 6 days and 200miles. My last Jeep was a TJ and the Gladiator/JT felt a bit big at first, but we've adapted.

[@gogerwi]

Fantastic and honest review Brad. I'm quite pleased with my diesel Gladiator Rubicon running on 37's. I think it's the best engine Jeep ever put in a Jeep for jeeping around, remember it's a tool. Zero issues so far. The 6.4 is cool but it's just axles waiting to break with the Dana 44's and bigger tires, If you want to go fast get a Z06, I've had 3. Pennzoil bottles the Mopar oil (they have no refineries), it's $7 a quart or $56 for 9 quarts plus $47 for the filter, so it's $103 for the oil change, from Amazon. Happy father's Day Amigo, You got some fine boy's, I'm sure your proud.

[@craig5306]

Please do the Banks tuner asap, I am waiting on purchasing one until I hear your feedback! keep the videos coming, thank you.

[@michaelmchale8375]

Doc!! Former Marine here, I used to work at a Dodge dealer as a Service Tech. There's definitely drawbacks to having a diesel in modern times, including the DEF. However, saw alot of customers come in needing exhaust work done from problems with DEF. Be careful. The dealer always looks to see if your using Blue DEF, it's the worst DEF you can use! *I know everyone has strong opinions here, but I know you have the extended warranty* I learned that from a retired navy ordnance guy I worked with at the dealer. It will void your warranty. Love the jeep, and the channel! Hope to see you on the trails one day! Semper Fi Doc, happy belated Corpsman BDay!

[@michaelmchale8375]

@@eugeneenslow8563 dealer has it. Costs a little extra. But worth it. The repairs to the DEF system cost a lot without warranty.

[@benjaminless3269]

LOL. "Step on the Gas..." is a term for gasoline engines. In Diesel Speak it's called, "Stepping on the fuel...: or Fuel Mileage vs Gas Mileage. It takes a while to overcome those terms. The diesel world loves this vehicle and your video was excellent. Thank you. Two thumbs up.

[@loveracing1988]

One good thing I recently noticed about diesel is that during the recent fuel shortages every station had diesel and half of those were out of gasoline.

[@davidsiewert4326]

Very helpful info and content Brad. Don't forget about fuel filter replacement cost, I would recommend Mopar def while vehicle is under still under warranty. have seen issues were codes and component failure caused by contaminated DEF fluid

[@wvlongshooter3912]

Are you still running factory D44’s ? Thank you !!! Love the channel.

[@robertbean330]

Brad I agree with everything you said. I got my diesel gladiator last October and love it. I just had my first oil change and didn’t pay a thing. I got 4 free oil changes from the dealer. Three are though Jeep Wave program. The only complaint no way to tell exact amount of DEF.

[@comingtofull-ageinchrist6736]

I was thinking the 392 was diesel. Goes to show my ignorance of Jeep, which is one of the reasons I'm watching your videos, to educate myself before I go out and buy one. The only thing I know for sure is that I want the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon; my present vehicle and probably my last couple of vehicles have been automatics, but I drove a standard from the time I was in my teens, like 14 and 15, and I have always leaned toward driving a standard, and I drove a big truck for 8 years, and I've been in different types of gear set ups, and I think I may be leaning toward a standard. Because I do want to go off road with it! Thanks for the review. I'm not sure I want the diesel but the 392 sounds appealing. If you can, I would like to hear more on the 392 for specs and how it handles on the highway and on some of the tougher trails! Thanks for all the reviews you do, Brad. they are really helping me to get more educated on upgrades and accessories! I watched your video on Expo West in Flagg Staff; lots of great content! Thanks for sharing your opinion and knowledge!

[@ca7889]

Wow been following for a while and the last year I've been on the fence- ecodiesel or 2.0 turbo-pulled the trigger this past Monday and got the 2.0 turbo-too many horror stories about the ecodiesel. Thanks great info.

[@MichaelSmith-kr9qw]

Glad to see ya went with the Derringer, Gale Banks is the GOAT when it comes to the diesel market and his products are top notch. 57hp and 73 ft-lbs of torque and doesn't void the warranty whatsoever !!! I think you will pleasantly surprised Doc !!!!

[@santacruzoverlander]

It doesn't void warrantee?

[@TrailRecon]

Looking forward to getting it wired up, should be pretty easy.

[@MichaelSmith-kr9qw]

@@TrailRecon From what I have seen it is just a one of the sensors is a PITA to get too !

[@vdub5818]

@@santacruzoverlander it doesn't leave a signature in the factory ECU, since it is just tricking the computer via intercepted fuel rail pressure and intake manifold pressure signals. Therefore, if you remove the Derringer before bringing it to the dealer, they would have no idea it was ever there. I definitely don't recommend leaving it installed when taking it to the dealer.

[@MrTeslaX]

You don't buy diesel to save money but to enjoy that torque!

[@motorcycleguy73]

There is a company in Canada that makes a DEF removal kit. They reflash your computer and give you the kit to move and eliminate that problem. Only problem is your truck is down for about 2 weeks while you send them your computer they reflash it and they send it back. Still runs just as clean. A must if you live in a state without emissions and inspections

[@daveoffroad7396]

What...!! Marco got a 392...!! Can’t wait to see it.!!

[@ScientistPrepper]

good video as always on this channel. Powertrain maintenance cost another tough one to swallow unless the owner does trade-ins every few years.