I am getting ready to purchase my first Jeep. I have read that 2013 or later is a better motor/transmission combo. I can purchase a 2013 or later and not really be able to afford to sdo a lot of the mods I will want to do. If I purchase a 2011 or 2012, which I have read is a dog stock, and has some engine problems what would be the engine mods to get more power and better gas mileage. I will be adding a lift and 35's

 

You really should just go with the 2012 or newer. It's an entirely better Jeep. I had an 07 and moved up to a 15. It's a completely different driving experience.

You will never be able to make an older on as powerful as a new one. They have superchargers, but by the time you buy it and pay for install, you would be better off with the newer and more desirable engine and transmission. The interior is much improves as well.

Do the mods later.

 

Buy what you can afford. I have an 11, running 35s and 5:13 gears. Is it fast? No. Is it livable and drivable? Absolutely.
There are 100s of 1000s pre 13s on the road being enjoyed everyday.

 

There are going to be a ton of variables involved. Why not just drive a stock 07-11, and then drive a stock 12+. That should give you a much better idea than a few words on a website.

Since you are going to 35's, you should also try and find some that already have those tires. Local Jeep club? Dealer who mods vehicles for sale? Toss a post in the Staging Area for your location?

Take note of what gears are in them!!! A 3.8 with 35's and 5.13/5.38 with some performance mods just might feel peppier than a 3.6 with 35's and 3.21's. You should also note whether they are programmed for the gears/tires. And what, if any, performance mods they have (tuner, cai, exhaust, whatever).

Mechanical problems with various years? Luck of the draw. Carfax, extended warranty, rainy-day bank account...

 

If it's more of a daily driver, I would go with the newer 2012+. Wheeler, 2011 which also has the upgraded interior but the old 3.8 engine. I find the older engine has better lower end torque for wheeling. Rocks I'd go with auto, otherwise a manual. Lots of factors to consider.

 

Drivability on the street is MUCH better with the 2012 + as others have said. Test drive both, it's a night and day difference. I have had a head replaced, heater core replaced, and water pump bearing go bad but it's all been covered under warranty so I can't complain. Glad I chose 2012.

 

I drove an 09 for 4 years on 35s and I didn't think it was so bad, but I live at sea level...

Fast forward I bought a '15 and put 35s on it... WOW night and Day is all I can say.

 

no reason not to buy one besides the left heads are known issue but mine still has not thrown any codes to date . overall i think the 12s and newer are better but 3.8 was fine too i owned a 2011 before buying the 12
i think it depends how much if at all you abuse it and or maintain it