Jeep Gladiator Mojave 1 year 26,000 mile review

A detailed review of my 2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave. I talk about how it handles on road, off road and discuss the things I like and don't like about my Mojave.

[@wranglernator]

these are the reviews that are priceless, a real guy with a real review. thank you for sharing. Just ordered mine this week. was a debate between gobi, stingray and green. Stingray won out.

[@MojaveTrails]

Thank you Dean for the kind words. I’m glad I was able to help. It’s people like you that I’m trying to reach. Enjoy your new Gladiator!! Take care!

[@traviskimbrell1209]

I chose the Mojave because of the stronger frame and awesome suspension. And yes, it rides sooooo much better than the sport or rubicon.

[@MojaveTrails]

Hi Travis I agree 100% with everything you said. It’s the best riding Jeep in the fleet! Thanks for watching and posting!

[@nstooge]

I was looking for a Gladiator. Was not overly happy with what I saw on the lot. The salesman obviously saw the look on my face and said he had another on the sales floor. As soon as we walked inside my wife said: “ ooo, I like that one!”. The more she looked at it and around it, sat in it, the more she kept saying how much she liked it. It was the Mojave edition. She does not have a poker face. We ended up buying it. It’s Sting-Gray in color with the black leather seats. I’m absolutely happy with it and so is my wife.

[@MojaveTrails]

What a great story Norm thanks for sharing! My wife also said Gladiators were so ugly until I came home with the Mojave now she takes it as much as she can. Even when we both have to go somewhere I usually let her take because some day I’ll want to buy another one :). Plus it’s the best riding Jeep of them all

[@donaldmei8797]

Great review. Thank you. Your low key, informational presentation is appreciated.

[@MojaveTrails]

Thanks Donald I really appreciate the comments!

[@proto7688]

Any one searching for more power, the recent ecu tunes are very good! They completely transform the top end power of the engine. Factory has the power drop off after 5000 rpm and tune makes 40+ hp on the top end using 93 octane. Simply derestricting the throttle body position sensor. I'm extremely happy and its cheap compared to a supercharger.

[@MojaveTrails]

This is very good to know thank you. What tools did you use to get the new tune?

[@chuckcribbs3398]

I have 29k miles after 13 months. I bought a manual Rubicon. No issues other than a serpentine belt replacement due to squeaking. Very happy. And I average 21 mpg mixed.

[@MojaveTrails]

That’s awesome! Enjoy your Rubi!

[@richardthomas1531]

I also have a Gobi Mojave and I strongly recommend the Twill Sunrider Top to replace the freedom panels .Not only can you open faster , you also don't have to store panels someplace.I did put the Rubicon rock guards behind the rear tires $150 each side from mopar so it bolt right in.

[@MojaveTrails]

Great idea! I will look into those for next year. How hard was the install on the rock rails? Thanks for watching and posting

[@richardthomas1531]

@@MojaveTrails Rock rails were easier than laying on my back and getting back up a bunch. At 68 nothing is easy. Should have hired it done.

[@MojaveTrails]

I hear that! Thanks

[@mowcowbell]

+1 on the Bestop Sunrider. I put one on my Sahara 4xe and love how easy it is to pop open the top, without getting out of the vehicle or trying to figure out where I'm going to store the Freedom Panels.

[@tednugent8200]

Nice review! I picked up a 21 Rubicon JT a few weeks ago. I've owned several Jeeps over the years. XJs, ZJs,WJs,WKs,YJ, JKU and this one beats them all. I love the ride, utility and features. I'm only at 800 miles but looking forward to getting it out and about. I love it just the way it is stock. Maybe 35s in 3 or 4 years when stock tires wear out but that's about it!

[@MojaveTrails]

Congratulations and enjoy your journey!

[@DUNEATV]

Love your music! 😉

[@DUNEATV]

I have a 21 2dr Rubicon with the 3.6L 8-speed…I’m amazed how good it is!!!

[@MojaveTrails]

Congratulations on your ride! Sooo much better than the old strait six that was in them for years and the eight speed works really well on and off road!

[@Bolgabolgabolga]

Aftermarket seats are plentiful for the gladiator....one of the first mods I will do when I get mine... I have spinal problems requiring a plusher seat,in turn I have researched that aspect.. so, yes many seats out there. Personally I was going rubicon at first ,but after many hours of comparing and watching vids like yours and asking owners their take.....The Mojave will probably be my final choice simply for the plusher suspension and friendlier highway handling, being it will be a dual purpose vehicle.. rear lockers are plenty when you're doing forest service roads and moderate trails..

[@MojaveTrails]

Great comments thanks for sharing. You will have to let me know what seat you go with and your results. I’ve been hesitant to replace mine mainly because I don’t know anyone who has and can tell me if it’s really worth it. Sorry to hear about your back I have back issues as well and it sucks on longer trips. Mojave is the better choice for a gladiator. I still have yet to be in a scenario where I would have used a front locker. The shocks are great and after putting on 35 I don’t have any need to go larger. It looks great so I can put the money to things like bumper winch and other stuff I would have had to put twords the lift. You can get a spacer lift if you want to run 37. Normally I don’t recommend spacer lifts but for that setup on a Mojave it works. After having built multiple Jeeps I’ve learned the closet you can keep it to stock and still fit your needs the better. Good luck with your build!!

[@TerraFirmaX]

Did you ever find a snorkel? WAYALIFE has a video on one that runs under the hood and comes out the side of the cowling. very nice. here's the link. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z3e8oYera9-Kesk

[@MojaveTrails]

Hi and thanks for the post. I’ve looked at that snorkel and unfortunately it doesn’t fit a Mojave because of the taller hood. The only one that fits is the one by River Raider which comes up in front of the passenger side of the windshield which my wife is not a fan of, I’ve seen some people 3d print a cover piece for the Mojave and use the Mopar snorkel but I don’t know how to do that. Thanks again for the info and for watching take care!

[@allied1394]

I’m definitely gonna get one of these in the future maybe even put a small plow on it it’s perfect for what I need

[@MojaveTrails]

You will love it and a plow would work well on a Mojave. Good luck!

[@johnblackie314]

Super nice video. Love the train in the background, reminds me of home. You’re a very articulate person. I could listen to you all day. You sure make me comfortable with the decision I made to get the Mojave. How’s was your Deer Season ? Do you have any Hunting videos with your Mojave ? Keep on keeping on .

[@MojaveTrails]

Hi John thanks for the very kind words! Also thanks for watching! You won’t regret your decision I’m sure! I’ve owned a bunch of vehicles and this is my favorite. My wife recently bought a new Mercedes and while it’s nice, comfy etc I still like my Mojave way more. It’s funny after the newness wore off her car, whenever we go somewhere she wants to take the Jeep! Hunting sucked this year I didn’t see anything. I don’t film hunting because I’m on private land in Buffalo County and the owner is really funny about filming there. I’ll try to put some more videos of that area together for your enjoyment! Take care

[@gvsukids]

I've got 26,000 miles, but took 18 months. I just put on the 33" Wildpeak M/T and love the look. Looking forward to this winter to see how the truck behaves with the new tires. I think you also have 4.10 gears. Suspension also hurts the towing. Gotta carry the plywood! :)

[@MojaveTrails]

Great to here from you! You must be loving your Gladiator as much as I do. The new Tires will make a big difference off road I bet. Let me know how you like them.

[@BillyBennecke]

I'm having a lot of time to think about the strength of the frame... some say get a sport and start building from there. But you can't build the stronger frame into a sport- or a Rubicon for that matter. And to install beefer axles and the cast steel steering knucks are a major undertaking. The Mojave is the best platform for the perfect build. With that phenomenal frame, I can't believe the engineers overlooked the importance of the bumpers. There is some steel in the factory bumpers, but at 1/16 thick and not being reinforced, it would do more harm than good in even slow speed accidents.. with the smittybilt 3/16 bumpers you can locomotive tipping.

[@MojaveTrails]

Totally agree with you Bill the frame alone makes this the superior Jeep to buy and the other stuff is just bonus. Especially if your looking to build out an overland rig with all the xtra weight that goes into them. The bumper is just because they can get away with it. It should have the steel one especially at the price.

[@360VRStudios]

I'm waiting for the inline six on the jeeps again.

[@MojaveTrails]

That was a great engine I’ve heard of people with 400k+ on that engine and still going

[@johnmalkovich4042]

Great video! Did not know Mojave came with BLD. Do all non Rubicons come with BLD?

[@MojaveTrails]

I believe it’s standard on all Jeep’s. It is programmed differently on different models and in different modes. 4 low be 4 hi, off road + etc. they continue to advance the programing on it. Honestly once you are used it it, it can get you through almost as much as lockers can and is all most people will ever need. If Money is a deciding factor the Wyllis package is a great option.

[@donaldmei8797]

All jeeps have it.

[@dougstdig]

BLD??? I don’t know the acronym. Can you explain please?

[@DUNEATV]

@@dougstdig Brake Lock Differential… The computer uses the brakes to assist the vehicle in getting better traction off-road.

[@michaelsimmons8447]

Try off-road plus with locker on in 4-lo then shift back to 4-hi. In my JLR if I do that, both the lockers and sway bar disconnect will stay on driving in 4-hi (sway bar reconnects above 15mph automatically though)

[@MojaveTrails]

Hi Michael, In the 2021 Rubicon and Mojave they allow you to enable the locker in 4-Hi. I don't know if that is a mistake in the Rubicon since it's only supposed to be available in the Mojave or if Jeep just listened to all the people asking for it and left it in both as they should have. Still in my 2020 I can't enable them in 4-Hi still waiting on a software update to allow this from the factory. I tried what you suggested and the locker stays on for a little bit but then turns off.

[@michaelsimmons8447]

@@MojaveTrails Oh, sorry it didn't work. Hopefully they get that software updated soon!

[@CrateCraftedArms]

We need Gobi back. Favorite color

[@MojaveTrails]

Thank you and I agree!!

[@markhoffman4587]

I guess all the Gladiator Rubicon owners with 3 inch lifts and 37s who do major rock crawling must be totally misinformed about what their trucks can and will do..and do daily ? Maybe you can help them to come to their senses ? 😅

[@MojaveTrails]

Na, if all of the banging, scraping and high centering that comes along with taking a gladiator or any pickup truck, over a difficult rock crawling trail like the Rubicon, doesn't bring them to their senses my words aren't going to do anything. But thanks for thinking of me!

[@JR-ut1yx]

Excellent review 😊

[@MojaveTrails]

Thanks!

[@javilink7]

Thanks for your thoughts on the pros and cons of the Mojave. I did not not know that the 2020 does not have 4high locker. Hopefully they will release that firmware update. I really enjoyed learning why you think 37 inch or a lift is needed. Many of those mods are just aesthetic and don't provide any functionality or improve the ride quality.

[@MojaveTrails]

Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts!

[@shawnblaylock5956]

Idk…but my 2020 Mojave rear locker works in high and low ranges. Are you sure yours doesn’t?

[@richardthomas1531]

37 inch tires gives you 4 inch of axel clearance.lift is for clearance for bigger tires.

[@marksweetser6312]

The Mojave also has 4.10 gears

[@MojaveTrails]

Hi Mark right it’s the 2:72 vs 4-1 transfer case I meant to say! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@Spartan5420]

That’s a good looking Jeep man. I recently bought a 23 wrangler and so glad I bought it

[@MojaveTrails]

Thank you! And congratulations on your new Jeep! Enjoy it ti it’s fullest !

[@Grodd70]

Mojave Trails: Thanks for the update...great to know that after a year your still happy. I just crossed a year with my JT Rubicon and 100% agree with your comment that as time goes by tend to love it more and more. I was thinking about a new Bronco till I saw it in person, nope I am happy with Gladiator. I agree a bit more power sometimes would be nice. I don't really need a 392, I think a Gladiator Mojave/Rubicon with a 5.7 Hemi would be the perfect truck. Take care and thanks for the updates.

[@MojaveTrails]

Hi and thanks for watching and your comments. I totally agree an option with more power would be great! Or an option with a supercharger from the factory would be nice. The way a turbo builds up it’s power doesn’t really work well for most off-road scenarios, although driving fast in the desert is one place it could make sense I would still prefer a supercharger over a turbo. Take care!

[@D4V1D-TN]

@@MojaveTrails I agree with you. I've been saying that myself. This truck would be great with a V8, but that may be overkill. Why not just turbo the V6? At least for me and my needs, that would be more than enough. The media and forums are all screaming for the V8, but I'd much prefer a turbo V6. Better fuel economy to boot!

[@NeverFollowTheCrowd]

What mpg do you get at 50 to 60 mph I wonder 🤔

[@MojaveTrails]

Hello, Not sure if you watched my video on my new tires, I'm now running the Toyo Open Country AT they are a 35x11.5R17 and fit on the stock rims. They also weigh within a few lbs the same as the Falken 33 MT which came with the Jeep and are what is in this video. After setting the new tire size in the computer via Tazer Mini I am getting the same as I was before. 15 - 17 in my daily driving and 19-21 on the freeway. How you drive it makes a difference for sure. When my wife takes it for a extended period of time it drops to about 13 around town and 15 highway but she likes to apply the skinny pedal and waits till the end to break. I'm the opposite. Thanks for watching and for asking your question! Take Care.

[@gerard0l6569]

Nice Jeep and review....is the color Gobi?

[@MojaveTrails]

Thanks Gerald! Yes the color is Gobi and I just love the color. It’s kinda weird but to me color is as important as any of the other options.

[@dantimber]

Now that you've had the Mojave a year what is your opinion of the ride on rough logging roads?

[@MojaveTrails]

It’s great for rough roads that’s where it shines. And if you take the time to sit down to say 28 psi it’s really good. If you can find some whoops and get the suspension cycling, it’s the most fun off road I’ve ever had!

[@dantimber]

@@MojaveTrails Excellent. I've owned four 4x4 vehicles but not a Jeep. To be honest I wish the Gladiator had a fixed steel hardtop option for better noise and weather protection. I would buy one today and probably the Mojave trim for the better ride in rough conditions. Thanks!

[@pam24550]

Great review, thank you.

[@MojaveTrails]

Your welcome and thank you for watching!

[@sfleisher]

Great review. Thanks!

[@MojaveTrails]

Glad it was helpful! Y Thanks for watching!

[@reviewswithdouglas]

Rugged Ridge has a snorkel

[@MojaveTrails]

Hi Doug do you have a link to it? When I last checked they didn’t have any that fit the Mojave but that was a while ago maybe they make one now it’s only a trim piece that would need to be changed so I would have thought all the manufacturers would have mace one it’s been over 2 years

[@eleakalevitch6492]

what tire pressure did you run?

[@MojaveTrails]

Hi Elea, Thanks for the question and for watching!. When I'm on gravel roads I start at 28 ps. For rocks I will generally start at 22 psi and go down from their if needed. For Sand I start at 25 psi and adjust accordingly. If its really soft deep sand I will go as low as 15 psi. For snow I start at 25 psi and only go down if I feel I'm not getting enough traction. Snow depends a lot on how cold it is, the colder it is the better traction you get, but if your tires are not winter rated (most MTA tires are not,) your tires won't soften as much when its cold so you need to adjust accordingly. The above is a good place to start. If your running heavy you won't need to go down as much since the extra weight will help elongate the tires as well.

[@brisketbaron]

I love my 22 Mojave. Best decision I’ve ever made.

[@MojaveTrails]

As far as vehicles go I totally agree with you!

[@christophermartinez5314]

Excellent video

[@MojaveTrails]

Thank you!

[@CarlosGarcia-ox7dm]

Thank you for your thoughtful review. I am trying to decide between the Gladiator and a Ford Ranger Tremor and this was helpful.

[@MojaveTrails]

Glad this video helped let me know what you decide I'm sure either way you will be happy. No matter what you choose you will be giving something up to get something else. The fact that you are doing your research and not rushing to buy something based on emotion or fad is absolutely the right way to do it in my opinion. It took me 2 years to actually buy my Mojave I almost bought a Raptor but held off to see what the Gladiator was all about once they were released. Then I heard about the Mojave coming in 2020 and wanted to check that out on my own before buying anything. Once I did it was an easy choice for me. Thanks for watching and Good Luck!

[@donaldmei8797]

I think the Jeep is really about taking the top and/or doors off. You are paying a big premium for that. If you won't put the top down or remove the doors, the Ford is a much better buy.

[@justin________7477]

@@donaldmei8797 That, and the customization/aftermarket. And the ability to get a manual transmission, and other manual controls. And a naturally aspirated engine. Part of why I decided at least.

[@thejeepdude7875]

Mayyyybbee not 8k for the suspension but it’s definitely premium

[@MojaveTrails]

I got my dollars and rupees mixed up again!

[@ahmedmithani8213]

its very good price please ?

[@MojaveTrails]

I paid 55k but that was in 2020 it’s probably more today since there is not a lot of inventory around. I was able to negotiate a few grand off the price other people I’ve talked to recently are not getting deals having to pay full list and in some cases additional dealer markup. Ouch. I still love mine and it runs like a dream no plans on moving it I will continue to add some mods to fit my needs. Thanks!

[@dimitrijeteodorovic6204]

Great review, you obviously know what are you talking about. I like Mojave, but problem that I have in my mind is the price. Don't you think that for that money value is trd pro or raptor, even used one?

[@MojaveTrails]

Hi thanks for watching and for your comments. I’ll address them below as best I can 1. They are not Jeep’s Pretty much sums it up for me. TRD Pro has less payload, less horsepower, less articulation, smaller tires, less clearance, less capable, not as nice looking, can’t remove top or doors etc. it should cost less Raptor a lot of the top applies but if your comparing new to new the Raptor is not cheaper. And you can’t really compare new to used. If you wait a little longer you will find used Mojave too. I almost bought a Raptor I have owned other Ford pickups and liked them but I waited for the Mojave to come out and I’m glad I did. Best, funnest and most capable truck I’ve owned no regrets! Your money is your money and you need to do what is best for you Good luck with what ever you decide. You can have awesome adventures in any of them!

[@dimitrijeteodorovic6204]

@@MojaveTrails Thank you for your answer, much appreciated. I meant trd pro tundra . Just got call from my dealer that one is on the way and I should put the deposit on it if I want it. Now I'm on the spot.

[@MojaveTrails]

Good Luck!

[@mini2nut67]

Great real world review! Where did you hear 6.5 mm vs. 10.5mm frame thickness on the Mojave trim?

[@MojaveTrails]

Hi thanks for watching! The frame thickness was listed on the Mojave data sheet. It was also told to me by my salesman when we were discussing the difference between it and the Rubicon. Jeep needed to strengthen the frame by making it thicker to stand up to the air you can often get when driving fast in the desert. They basically built it to handle small jumps although you will never get Jeep to say you can jump it nor would I on purpose. For me I often put a lot of weight on my Jeep when hauling equipment and I wanted the larger frame to prevent metal fatigue that you can get on older vehicles especially pickup trucks that have been used hard. If your thinking of getting a gladiator the Mojave is the one to get. If you really need a rock crawler a gladiator will never be great at it nor will any pickup truck unless you want to spend another 50k or more trying to turn it Into one. And if that’s your goal I’d still get the Mojave because of the stronger frame. Truth is you don’t need all of that stuff there has yet to be a place I wanted to go that I couldn’t get there in my Mojave and the ride is much better than any other Jeep model. Although we hint driven a 392 yet so I don’t know how that one actually rides. Hope this helps

[@MojaveTrails]

I should add the Mojave will rock crawl better than any other stick pickup. Yiu can give a slight edge to the rubicon because of the slightly better crawl ratio and the front locker if you need it which so far I have not. I’ve done a number of moderate rock crawling trails with no problem.

[@mini2nut67]

Interesting. I have found no factual data on this claim. Jeep has stated that the Mojave frame has more gusseting and welds for better strength but they never mention frame thickness is heavier gauge than non-Mojave models.

[@UnkyJofus]

I believe the 10.5mm claim is the Mojave has the HD Dana 44s, the axle tube housing(10.5mm) is thicker than base model Gladiators. Only the Max Tow and Rubicons share that same axle housing. I own a '23 Mojave. I understand the frame is gusseted and welded a little better, as well as the suspension mounting reinforcement. Larger diameter hardware is also used for the Fox 2.5s. Great trucks, love how it handles. I have a Ram with a similar ZF8 and 170k miles problem free.