A 2017 Rubicon four-door comes factory-equipped with front and rear locking differentials, a disconnecting sway bar, and 32-inch tires. That means the 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door is ready for serious off-road action right off the lot. You don’t need to spend extra cash on upgrades just to hit the trails. This Jeep is built to crawl over rocks, mud, and sand without breaking a sweat.
But there’s more to this rig than just its hardcore hardware. The four-door version, also known as the Unlimited, gives you extra space for passengers and gear. It’s a practical choice if you need a daily driver that can also tackle weekend adventures. Let’s break down everything you should know about this iconic vehicle.
Engine Options And Performance
The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door offers two engine choices. The standard is a 3.6-liter V6 that makes 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine is smooth and reliable, and it pairs well with either a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission.
If you want more low-end grunt, there’s the optional 2.8-liter turbo diesel four-cylinder. It produces 200 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The diesel gives you better fuel economy and more towing capacity, but it’s only available with the automatic transmission.
Both engines are capable, but the V6 is the more popular choice. It revs freely and sounds good doing it. The diesel is quieter and more efficient, but it costs more upfront.
Transmission Choices
You have two transmission options for the 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door:
- Six-speed manual: Gives you full control, great for off-road crawling
- Five-speed automatic: Smoother for daily driving, works well in traffic
The manual is fun but can be tiring in stop-and-go traffic. The automatic is more convenient and still performs well off-road. Most buyers go with the automatic, but enthusiasts often prefer the manual.
Off-Road Capabilities
The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door is the most capable Wrangler you can buy. It comes with Rock-Trac 4:1 transfer case, which gives you a 4:1 low-range gear ratio. That means you can crawl over obstacles at very low speeds without stalling.
Other key off-road features include:
- Front and rear locking differentials
- Electronic disconnecting front sway bar
- 32-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires
- 9.7 inches of ground clearance
- Skid plates for the fuel tank, transfer case, and transmission
These features make the Rubicon a beast on the trail. You can tackle steep inclines, deep ruts, and rocky paths with confidence. The locking diffs help you keep traction when one wheel is in the air. The sway bar disconnect gives you more articulation, so the tires stay on the ground.
How It Compares To Other Trims
The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door sits above the Sport and Sahara trims. The Sport is basic and affordable, but it lacks the Rubicon’s off-road goodies. The Sahara is more luxurious but still not as capable as the Rubicon.
Here’s a quick comparison:
- Sport: Open diffs, part-time 4WD, 32-inch tires optional
- Sahara: Open diffs, full-time 4WD, 32-inch tires optional
- Rubicon: Locking diffs, Rock-Trac 4:1, 32-inch tires standard
If you plan to off-road regularly, the Rubicon is worth the extra money. If you mostly drive on pavement, a Sahara might be a better fit.
Interior And Comfort
The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door has a simple, functional interior. It’s not luxurious, but it gets the job done. The seats are cloth standard, but you can upgrade to leather. The front seats are comfortable for long drives, but the rear seats are a bit tight for tall adults.
One big advantage of the four-door model is the extra cargo space. You get 31 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and 70 cubic feet with the seats folded. That’s enough for camping gear, coolers, or even a small dog crate.
The infotainment system is basic. You get a 5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth and a USB port. Optional upgrades include a 6.5-inch screen with navigation and a premium Alpine sound system. The system works fine, but it’s not as modern as what you’d find in a new car.
Common Interior Issues
Some owners report that the interior plastics scratch easily. The carpet is also prone to getting dirty, especially if you off-road often. Many owners swap out the carpet for rubber floor mats or bedliner.
Another issue is the soft top. If you buy a soft-top model, it can be noisy on the highway. The hardtop is quieter and better for cold weather, but it’s heavier and harder to remove.
Fuel Economy And Towing
Fuel economy is not the 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door’s strong suit. The V6 gets an EPA-estimated 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. The diesel does slightly better at 21 city and 28 highway. Real-world numbers are often lower, especially if you have larger tires or a lift kit.
Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds for both engines. That’s enough for a small trailer, a couple of dirt bikes, or a pop-up camper. If you need to tow more, look at a pickup truck.
Reliability And Common Problems
The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door is generally reliable, but it has some known issues. The most common problem is the “death wobble,” which is a violent shaking of the front end at highway speeds. This is usually caused by worn steering components or improper alignment.
Other issues include:
- Leaking soft tops or hardtops
- Electrical gremlins with the power windows and locks
- Rust on the frame, especially in salt-belt states
- Oil cooler leaks on the V6 engine
Most of these problems are fixable, but they can be annoying. If you buy a used 2017 Rubicon, have a mechanic check the frame for rust and the steering for play.
Modifications And Upgrades
One of the best things about the 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door is how easy it is to modify. The aftermarket is huge, and you can customize your Jeep to fit your needs. Common upgrades include:
- Lift kits (2-4 inches) for bigger tires
- 35-inch or 37-inch tires for better off-road traction
- Aftermarket bumpers with winch mounts
- LED headlights for better visibility
- Snorkel for deep water crossings
Keep in mind that bigger tires and lift kits will hurt fuel economy and on-road handling. Also, check local laws before making major modifications.
Step-By-Step Guide To Lifting Your Rubicon
If you want to lift your 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door, here’s a basic plan:
- Choose a lift kit: 2.5-inch or 3-inch is good for 35-inch tires
- Install the kit: You’ll need spring compressors, wrenches, and a jack
- Add longer shocks: Stock shocks won’t work with a lift
- Get an alignment: The lift changes your suspension geometry
- Test drive: Check for vibrations or steering issues
If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, a shop can install a lift for $500-$1,000 in labor.
2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 Door
Now let’s talk about the 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 Door in more detail. This model year is part of the JK generation, which ran from 2007 to 2018. The JK Wrangler is known for its solid front axle and rugged design. The 2017 model got a few updates, including a new steering wheel and improved sound insulation.
The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 Door is a great choice if you want a capable off-roader that can also serve as a daily driver. It’s not perfect, but it’s one of the most fun vehicles you can own. The resale value is also excellent, so you can sell it later without losing too much money.
What To Look For When Buying Used
If you’re shopping for a used 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door, here are some tips:
- Check the frame for rust: Look under the vehicle, especially near the rear
- Test the 4WD system: Engage all modes and listen for strange noises
- Inspect the tires: Stock tires are 32 inches, but some owners upgrade
- Check the soft top or hardtop: Look for leaks or cracks
- Drive it on the highway: Feel for death wobble or vibrations
Also, ask for maintenance records. A well-maintained Rubicon can last 200,000 miles or more. A neglected one can have expensive problems.
Pros And Cons
Here’s a quick summary of the 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door:
Pros:
- Excellent off-road capability right from the factory
- Removable doors and roof for open-air driving
- Strong resale value
- Huge aftermarket support
- Reliable V6 engine
Cons:
- Poor fuel economy
- Noisy cabin on the highway
- Basic interior with cheap plastics
- Potential death wobble issues
- Limited rear seat space
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 Door Good For Daily Driving?
Yes, but it’s not as comfortable as a crossover. The ride is stiff, and the cabin is noisy. If you commute on rough roads, it might wear you out. But many people use it as a daily driver and love it.
How Much Does A 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 Door Cost Used?
Prices vary by mileage and condition. Expect to pay between $28,000 and $38,000 for a clean example. Low-mileage models with the diesel engine can cost more.
Can The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 Door Fit 35-Inch Tires Without A Lift?
Yes, but you’ll need to trim the fenders or add spacers. A 2-inch lift is recommended for 35-inch tires to avoid rubbing. With 37-inch tires, you’ll need a 3-4 inch lift.
What Is The Towing Capacity Of The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 Door?
It’s 3,500 pounds for both the V6 and diesel engines. That’s enough for a small boat or camper. Make sure you have the tow package, which includes a hitch and wiring.
How Reliable Is The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 Door?
Overall, it’s reliable. The V6 engine is proven, and the drivetrain is tough. Common issues include death wobble and rust, but these are manageable with proper maintenance.
Final Thoughts
The 2017 Jeep Rubicon 4 door is a fantastic off-road vehicle that also works as a daily driver. It’s not perfect, but it’s fun, capable, and holds its value well. If you’re looking for a used Wrangler that can handle tough trails and still fit your family, this is a solid choice. Just be prepared for the trade-offs in comfort and fuel economy. With the right maintenance, this Jeep will serve you for years to come.