The Willys Jeep: American Classic and Reliable Off-Roader

A good off-road vehicle doesn't have to cost you more than your house. Many four wheelers like older models like the Willys Jeep. Parts for these classics are still easy to find so it's easy to keep them running.

What's a Willys?

Although Willys is a name that brings a blank look to most people's faces, it's one of the most recognizable vehicles out there: the World War II Army jeep. These sturdy and reliable performers remained one of the most popular Army vehicles for decades, serving not only Americans in Korea and Viet Nam but armies of other nations even to this day.

The original MB model was named a critical tool of World War II by General Eisenhower and an International Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

The late 1970s saw a change in the US military's policy toward personnel and cargo transport. They decided to go with larger and more advanced vehicles, so the venerable jeeps and trucks were replaced with the Humvee.

Although no longer used by the American military, there is still a strong community of enthusiasts that keeps their Willys fighting fit. Even 30 years after retirement, there is no lack of Willys Jeep parts and supplies.

Cheap, Tough, and Versatile

With World War II looming on the horizon, the US Army had basically three specifications for its new personnel vehicle. It had to be tough enough to survive combat use. It had to be able to drive anywhere from deserts to swamps. And it had to be cheap enough to supply an army.

The very characteristics that made the Jeep such a successful army vehicle are what make it so beloved today. It's not fancy. It's not pretty except to another jeeper. But it's rugged and never gives up.

Willys Jeeps were built in the days when all you needed to fix your car was a screwdriver. When you need to replace Willys Jeep parts, you don't have to be a rocket scientist to do it. You don't need expensive tools and computerized analysis. Invest a little sweat and elbow grease and your Jeep is ready to roll again.

The Off-Road Vehicle Built for Off-Roading

Most four-wheel vehicles built today are designed to look pretty sitting in your driveway. They are status symbols rather than rugged vehicles, no matter what the slick television ads say.

Willys Jeeps are all about function over form. These are not glorified minivans. These are vehicles for people who want to come home covered in dust and mud. They are about adventure and exploration and genuine off-road experiences.

Since they aren't manufactured anymore, it can be hard to find one - and even harder to find one that's not obscenely overpriced. Patience will pay off, particularly if you are willing to buy a junker and replace a few of the Willys Jeep parts yourself.