2003 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon from North America - Comments

So far, the only issue I have had with this Wrangler is a rattle from the clutch pedal. The pedal arm has some lateral movement that makes a rather loud knock sound while driving on a rough surface, i.e. gravel road, off-road, etc.

Before purchasing the 2003 Rubicon, I test drove 3 different new 2004 models; a SE 4-cylinder, a Sport with the automatic & manual transmission, both with 6-cylinder engines. This led me to choose a 6-cylinder.

When comparing the options of the Sport model and what aftermarket improvements I intended or dreamed of adding, the Rubicon seemed to be the best choice to purchase.

Handles incredibly well in corners for a SUV.

The Rubicon does run out of gears before it runs out of power. I noticed that at freeway speeds the RPM's are high and negatively affect mileage at speeds greater than 65 mph.

The instrument cluster, console, and dashboard offer great ergonomics, although all took some getting used to after having the immense interior space of a full-size bronco.

Looking forward to trying to get stuck off-road, as long as I don't do any damage.

I also have a Rubicon and the reason yours seems to run out of gears on the highway is the low axle ratios of 4.1. It causes it to wind up a little more than your standard Wrangler. It does work great when you combine it with the transfer case 4.1 for a crawl ratio of around 66/1 (don't quote me on that number). Happy wheeling. RCK

I'm considering the same choice--the 6-cylinder 6-speed Rubicon because of the off-road capability, or the 4-cylinder 6-speed SE because of the better gas mileage. What were your impressions of the 4-cylinder manual? Also, isn't it true that the 2003 Rubicon is significantly different from the 2005 Rubicon, in that it does not have 4.10 gears, and does not have front (or rear?) air lockers? Did the 2003 Rubicon have only the 5-speed manual rather than the 6-speed available?

I also own a 2003 Rubicon. To my knowledge, it has 4.10 gears and lockers FRONT and REAR. It's been a great vehicle so far, 36k miles and no mechanical problems at all.

I also own a 2003 Rubicon. To my knowledge, it has 4.10 gears and lockers FRONT and REAR. It's been a great vehicle so far, 36k miles and no mechanical problems at all.

The only manual gearbox available was the 5-spd. I see a tranny swap in my future:)