The 2017 Jeep Wrangler two-door Sport offers a base model that prioritizes rugged capability over luxury amenities. If you are looking for a vehicle that can tackle tough trails without breaking the bank, the 2017 jeep wrangler 2 door sport is a solid choice. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this iconic off-roader, from its specs to its quirks.
Many people think the Wrangler is just for show. But the Sport trim is the real deal. It is built for action, not for comfort. Let’s see what makes it special.
2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport
This model sits at the entry level of the Wrangler lineup. It does not have leather seats or fancy tech. Instead, it has a strong frame, solid axles, and a proven 4×4 system. You get a vehicle that is ready for mud, rocks, and snow right from the factory.
Engine And Performance Specs
The heart of the 2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport is a 3.6-liter V6 engine. It produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic.
- Engine: 3.6L Pentastar V6
- Horsepower: 285 hp at 6,400 rpm
- Torque: 260 lb-ft at 4,800 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual (standard) or 5-speed automatic (optional)
- Drivetrain: Part-time 4WD with shift-on-the-fly capability
The manual transmission gives you more control on trails. The automatic is smoother for daily driving. Both are reliable, but the manual is lighter and simpler.
Fuel economy is not a strong point. You can expect around 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. This is typical for a boxy, heavy off-roader.
Off-Road Capabilities
This is where the Sport shines. It comes with a Command-Trac NV241 part-time transfer case. This gives you a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. That is enough for most moderate trails.
You also get solid Dana 30 front and Dana 35 rear axles. The ground clearance is 10.1 inches. The approach angle is 41.4 degrees, and the departure angle is 36.5 degrees. These numbers are impressive for a stock vehicle.
- Approach Angle: 41.4 degrees
- Departure Angle: 36.5 degrees
- Breakover Angle: 25.4 degrees
- Ground Clearance: 10.1 inches
- Water Fording: 30 inches
The standard tires are 225/75R16 all-season tires. They are fine for light off-roading. But if you plan to hit serious trails, you will want to upgrade to all-terrain or mud-terrain tires.
Interior And Comfort
Do not expect luxury here. The interior is basic and functional. You get vinyl flooring instead of carpet. This makes it easy to hose out after a muddy trip. The seats are cloth and manually adjustable.
The dashboard is simple. You get a basic radio with a CD player and auxiliary input. There is no touchscreen or navigation. But you can add aftermarket upgrades easily.
- Vinyl floor covering (easy to clean)
- Cloth seats with manual adjustment
- Basic AM/FM radio with CD player
- Manual windows and door locks (standard)
- Air conditioning (optional on base model)
The two-door design means limited rear seat space. The back seat is best for kids or small adults. Cargo space is also tight. You get about 31 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. With the seat up, you have only 13 cubic feet.
Road noise is noticeable. The removable hardtop or soft top does not block much sound. This is part of the Wrangler experience. You hear the wind and the engine. Some people love it. Others find it tiring on long trips.
Exterior Design And Features
The 2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport looks classic. It has the familiar seven-slot grille, round headlights, and boxy shape. The fenders are black plastic, which is durable and easy to replace.
You can choose between a soft top or a hardtop. The soft top is lighter and easier to remove. The hardtop is more secure and quieter. Both are removable for open-air driving.
- Black fender flares
- 16-inch steel wheels
- Full-size spare tire mounted on the rear
- Removable doors (standard feature)
- Fold-down windshield
The removable doors and fold-down windshield are unique to the Wrangler. They let you have a true open-air experience. It is one of the main reasons people buy this vehicle.
Common Issues And Reliability
No vehicle is perfect. The 2017 Wrangler has some known issues. The most common is the “death wobble.” This is a violent shaking of the front end at highway speeds. It is usually caused by worn steering or suspension components.
Another issue is the oil filter housing. It is made of plastic and can crack over time. This leads to oil leaks. Many owners replace it with an aftermarket aluminum part.
Electrical gremlins can also appear. The power windows and locks may stop working. The radio might cut out. These are usually easy to fix with a fuse or relay replacement.
- Death Wobble: Check steering stabilizer and track bar.
- Oil Filter Housing: Replace with aluminum version.
- Electrical Issues: Inspect fuses and relays.
- Soft Top Leaks: Ensure proper alignment and seals.
- Manual Transmission Grinding: Check clutch and fluid levels.
Overall, the 2017 Wrangler is reliable if you maintain it. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks will keep it running well. The engine is known to last over 200,000 miles with proper care.
Trim Levels And Options
The 2017 Wrangler comes in several trims. The Sport is the base model. Above it are the Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon. The Sport S adds power windows, locks, and air conditioning. The Sahara has more comfort features. The Rubicon is built for extreme off-roading.
For the 2017 jeep wrangler 2 door sport, you can add some options. The most popular are the hardtop, air conditioning, and the automatic transmission. You can also get a limited-slip rear differential for better traction.
- Sport S Package: Adds power windows, locks, and A/C.
- Max Tow Package: Increases towing capacity to 3,500 lbs.
- Limited-Slip Differential: Improves traction on slippery surfaces.
- Hardtop: More secure and quieter than soft top.
- Automatic Transmission: Easier for daily driving.
If you want a more capable off-roader, look for a used Rubicon. But the Sport is a great starting point. You can always upgrade parts later.
Modifications And Upgrades
The aftermarket for the Wrangler is huge. You can customize almost everything. The most common upgrades are tires, suspension, and bumpers.
Start with good tires. A set of 33-inch all-terrain tires will improve traction and look. You may need a small lift kit to fit them. A 2-inch lift is common and easy to install.
- Tires: Upgrade to 33-inch all-terrain or mud-terrain.
- Suspension: Add a 2-inch lift kit for clearance.
- Bumpers: Replace with steel bumpers for protection.
- Winch: Install a winch for self-recovery.
- Lights: Add LED light bars for night driving.
You can also add a snorkel for deep water crossings. Or a roof rack for extra storage. The possibilities are endless. Just remember that modifications can affect reliability and warranty.
Buying A Used 2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport
If you are looking for a used one, check the condition carefully. Look for rust on the frame and body. The Wrangler is prone to rust, especially in cold climates.
Check the soft top for tears or leaks. Test the 4WD system. Make sure it engages and disengages smoothly. Drive it on the highway to check for death wobble.
- Frame Rust: Inspect under the vehicle for rust holes.
- Soft Top Condition: Look for cracks and leaks.
- 4WD System: Test all modes.
- Death Wobble: Drive at 55-65 mph and feel for shaking.
- Service History: Ask for records of oil changes and repairs.
The resale value of Wranglers is high. You will pay more for a used one than for other SUVs. But they hold their value well. A well-maintained 2017 model can still sell for $20,000 or more.
Pros And Cons Summary
Here is a quick list of the good and bad points.
Pros:
- Excellent off-road capability
- Removable doors and top
- Strong resale value
- Simple and reliable engine
- Huge aftermarket support
Cons:
- Poor fuel economy
- Noisy and rough ride
- Basic interior with few features
- Limited rear seat and cargo space
- Known issues like death wobble
If you want a vehicle for daily commuting and comfort, look elsewhere. But if you want a true off-roader that is fun and capable, the 2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport good for daily driving?
It is not the best for daily driving. The ride is stiff, and road noise is high. Fuel economy is low. But many people use it as a daily driver because they love the style and capability.
What is the towing capacity of the 2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport?
Without the Max Tow package, it can tow up to 2,000 lbs. With the package, it goes up to 3,500 lbs. That is enough for a small trailer or a couple of jet skis.
Can you remove the doors on the 2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport?
Yes, the doors are designed to be removed. You need a Torx bit set and some patience. It takes about 30 minutes to remove all four doors. The two-door model has two doors, but they are heavy.
How much does a 2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport cost used?
Prices vary by condition and mileage. Expect to pay between $18,000 and $25,000 for a clean example. Low-mileage models with the hardtop and automatic transmission cost more.
What is the best upgrade for the 2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport?
The best first upgrade is tires. A set of good all-terrain tires will transform its off-road ability. Next, consider a lift kit for more clearance. After that, add a winch for safety.
The 2017 Jeep Wrangler 2 Door Sport is a classic off-roader. It is not perfect, but it is honest. You get a vehicle that is built for adventure. If you can handle the compromises, you will love it. Take one for a test drive and see for yourself.