The Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep Wrangler came with special badging and interior details that set it apart from any other Wrangler on the road. If you are a fan of the Call of Duty franchise or just a collector of unique vehicles, this edition is a rare find. Built to celebrate the launch of the 2011 video game, this Jeep combines off-road capability with military-inspired styling.
Only a handful of these Jeeps were ever made, making them a true collector’s item. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about this special edition. From its exterior features to its performance specs, you will get a complete picture.
Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep
This special edition Wrangler was a collaboration between Jeep and Activision. It was designed to honor the soldiers and the game’s intense combat scenarios. The vehicle was not just a paint job; it had real functional upgrades that made it stand out.
Let us break down exactly what makes this Jeep so unique. We will cover the exterior, interior, performance, and why it remains a sought-after model today.
Exterior Design And Badging
The first thing you notice is the matte black hood and the special decals. The Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep features a unique “Call of Duty” graphic on the hood and sides. The badging is subtle but unmistakable for fans of the game.
- Matte black hood with a large Call of Duty logo
- Special “Modern Warfare 3” fender badges
- Blacked-out grille and headlight bezels
- Unique 17-inch black alloy wheels
- Off-road tires with aggressive tread pattern
The exterior also includes a heavy-duty front bumper and tow hooks. These are not just for show; they add real off-road capability. The entire look is aggressive and military-inspired, fitting the game’s theme perfectly.
Interior Features And Details
Inside the cabin, you will find more special touches. The seats are upholstered in black cloth with red stitching. The “Modern Warfare 3” logo is embroidered into the front seatbacks. The steering wheel also gets red stitching and a thicker grip.
Other interior details include:
- Special floor mats with the Call of Duty logo
- Red accent stitching on the shifter boot
- Unique gauge cluster with red needles
- Mopar sill guards with the game’s branding
The interior is functional and durable, just like a military vehicle. You get the standard Wrangler features like air conditioning and a basic sound system. But the special touches make it feel like a limited edition.
Performance And Off-Road Capability
Under the hood, the Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep is based on the Wrangler Sahara model. It comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission.
The off-road performance is excellent. You get Jeep’s legendary four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case. The ground clearance is 10.2 inches, and the approach angle is 42.2 degrees. These numbers mean you can tackle tough trails with confidence.
Engine And Transmission Options
Most of these Jeeps came with the automatic transmission. The manual is rare and more desirable among collectors. The engine is the same Pentastar V6 found in other Wranglers of that era. It is reliable and offers good power for daily driving and off-roading.
Fuel economy is not great, around 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. But that is expected for a boxy off-roader. The real appeal is the capability and the unique styling.
Suspension And Tires
The suspension is tuned for off-road use. You get heavy-duty shocks and springs. The tires are BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KOs, which provide good grip on rocks and mud. The 17-inch wheels are painted black to match the military theme.
If you plan to take this Jeep off-road, you will be happy with the stock setup. It can handle most trails without modifications. The only upgrade you might want is a winch for extreme situations.
Rarity And Collectibility
How many Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeeps were made? Exact numbers are not official, but estimates suggest around 1,500 units. This makes it one of the rarest Wrangler special editions. Most were sold in the United States, with a few in Canada.
Because of the low production numbers, these Jeeps hold their value well. A clean example with low miles can sell for $35,000 to $45,000 today. That is more than the original MSRP of around $30,000. The manual transmission models are worth even more.
Why Collectors Want This Jeep
- Limited production run
- Unique Call of Duty branding
- Military-inspired styling
- Strong off-road capability
- Growing nostalgia for the game
If you find one for sale, check the VIN to verify it is a genuine edition. Some owners add fake badging to regular Wranglers. Look for the special interior details and the hood decal. A real one will have all the factory features.
How To Buy A Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep
Finding one for sale can be a challenge. These Jeeps are not common on dealer lots. You will need to search online marketplaces like eBay Motors, Autotrader, or specialized Jeep forums. Be prepared to travel to see the vehicle in person.
- Search for “2012 Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty edition”
- Check the VIN with Jeep to confirm authenticity
- Inspect the interior for special badging and stitching
- Look for the matte black hood and decals
- Get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic
Prices vary based on condition and mileage. A well-maintained example with under 50,000 miles will cost more. Higher mileage cars are cheaper but may need repairs. Always budget for maintenance, as these are older vehicles now.
Common Issues To Watch For
Like any Wrangler of this era, there are some common problems. The most reported issues include:
- Oil cooler leaks on the 3.6L V6 engine
- Death wobble from worn steering components
- Rust on the frame, especially in salt-belt states
- Electrical issues with the power windows and locks
Make sure the previous owner kept up with oil changes and recalls. The death wobble can be fixed with a steering stabilizer and new ball joints. Rust is a deal-breaker, so check the frame carefully.
Modifications And Upgrades
Many owners choose to modify their Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep. Because it is a limited edition, some prefer to keep it stock. But if you want to improve performance, there are plenty of options.
Popular Mods For This Jeep
- Lift kit (2-4 inches) for bigger tires
- Aftermarket bumpers with winch mounts
- LED headlights for better visibility
- Cold air intake and exhaust for more power
- Bedliner coating for the interior floor
If you plan to off-road heavily, consider upgrading the axles and differentials. The stock Dana 30 front and Dana 44 rear are good, but larger tires can stress them. A locker in the rear axle will improve traction in tough terrain.
Remember that modifications can affect the resale value. Some collectors prefer untouched examples. If you modify yours, keep the original parts so you can revert it later.
Comparison To Other Special Editions
Jeep has released many special edition Wranglers over the years. How does the Modern Warfare 3 Edition compare to others?
Vs. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
The Rubicon has better off-road hardware like locking diffs and a sway bar disconnect. The MW3 edition is based on the Sahara, so it has less capability. But the MW3 has unique styling that the Rubicon lacks.
Vs. Jeep Wrangler 75Th Anniversary
The 75th Anniversary edition has bronze accents and special badging. It is more classy than military. The MW3 is more aggressive and themed.
Vs. Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler
The Willys Wheeler has a retro military look but no video game tie-in. It is also more affordable and easier to find. The MW3 is rarer and has more modern styling.
For collectors, the MW3 edition holds its value better than most other special editions. The connection to a popular video game adds to its appeal.
Maintenance Tips For Owners
If you own a Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep, proper maintenance is key to preserving its value. Here are some tips:
- Change the oil every 5,000 miles with full synthetic
- Flush the coolant every 5 years
- Replace the serpentine belt at 60,000 miles
- Check the frame for rust annually
- Keep the interior clean and avoid sun damage
The special decals and badges can fade over time. Park in a garage or use a car cover to protect them. If the decals get damaged, replacement sets are hard to find. Some owners have them custom made.
Where To Find Replacement Parts
Because this is a limited edition, some parts are unique. The interior badges and floor mats are not available from Jeep anymore. Check online forums and salvage yards for used parts. Some aftermarket companies reproduce the decals.
For mechanical parts, standard Wrangler Sahara parts work fine. The engine, transmission, and suspension are the same as other 2012-2018 Wranglers. You can get these from any auto parts store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeeps were made?
A: Estimates suggest around 1,500 units, but Jeep never released an official number. It is one of the rarest Wrangler special editions.
Q: What engine does the Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep have?
A: It has a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine with 285 horsepower. It comes with either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission.
Q: Is the Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep good for off-roading?
A: Yes, it is based on the Wrangler Sahara and has good off-road capability. It has a two-speed transfer case and all-terrain tires. It can handle most trails.
Q: How much is a Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep worth today?
A: Prices range from $25,000 for high-mileage examples to $45,000 for low-mileage, clean ones. Manual transmission models are worth more.
Q: Can I still buy a new Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep?
A: No, they were only made for the 2012 model year. You can only find them on the used market. They are rare, so be prepared to search.
Final Thoughts On This Collectible Jeep
The Modern Warfare 3 Edition Jeep is a unique piece of automotive and gaming history. It combines the off-road prowess of a Wrangler with the cool factor of a popular video game. If you can find one in good condition, it is a worthwhile investment.
Whether you are a gamer, a Jeep enthusiast, or a collector, this vehicle has something to offer. It is fun to drive, capable off-road, and sure to turn heads. Just be ready to pay a premium for the rarity.
Keep an eye on online auctions and forums. With patience, you might find the perfect example for your collection. And if you already own one, take good care of it. These Jeeps are only going to become more valuable over time.
Thank you for reading this guide. We hope it helped you understand everything about this special edition Jeep. If you have more questions, feel free to reach out to the Jeep community online. They are always happy to help fellow enthusiasts.