I'm new to this forum. Just a little background before I ask my questions. Owned only 3 Jeeps in the last 47 years. My first was a '46 CJ-2A. Had it for 30 years (ended up highly modified) Next was a '79 CJ-7 - 10 years - (also modified). Now have a '94 XJ - 7 years (farfromstock).

I'm now looking at buying a JK. Lots of negative stuff about the Penestar's heads. Should I wait for '13? Or is it just the early '12's with the problem?

Should I consider a 2010 or 2011 w/o the Penestar?

I just don't want to jump into a known problem. Bad enough to deal with normal minor issues that crop up w/o buying into a known liability.

Your input would be greatly appreciated. I don't take my (probably) last and only NEW Jeep purchase lightly.

Thanks in advance.

 

I've had my 2013 for 10 days and 700 miles and I love it. The the 2013 has softer seats, lighted footwells and cup holders, map lights in the review mirror and a revised cylinder head that should hopefully have less issues than the 2012 engine.

 

I've had my JK12 for about 3 months and 2100 miles. It's running perfectly and has a VERY powerful engine (for a Jeep).

 

Find a 12 with a build date later than july. I just picked up a 12 with a june build date. If the engine issues happens it happens. Its worth the risk to save a some cash on a 12 but that's just me. I purchased my 12 below invoice price.

 

13s have a different soft top material. I don't know if its better or worse but its like fuzzy fabric rather than the typical slick vinyl impregnated fabric.

 

I build lifted vehicles at a local dealership and I've had some good one on one with the 2013 Jk new top it's super sweet! It almost reminds me of a wet suit type material but it goes up and down so much better. It's definitely black were as the 2012 is more a dark charcoal, very visible difference when side by side. Only drawback is its a "$400" charge for the new top, not sure how long that will stick....

 

That pretty much sums up what I was thinking. Hard to cover all your bases and at least Jeep is acknowledging the problem and dealing with it.

Thanks all for your input!