The Ultimate Jeep Wrangler 4xe Charging Guide
So you’ve joined the hybrid Jeep club — welcome! The Wrangler 4xe blends electric efficiency with off-road muscle, letting you explore trails or commute silently in EV mode. But if you’re new to plug-in hybrids, charging can feel a little mysterious at first.
Don’t worry — this DIY Wrap Club guide breaks down everything you need to know about charging your Jeep Wrangler 4xe: how it works, where to plug in, and how to get the best performance from your battery.
1. Know Your Battery and Charging System
The Wrangler 4xe uses a 17.3-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located safely under the rear seats. This powers the electric motors that deliver up to 21–25 miles of electric-only range, depending on conditions.
Charging happens through the J1772 charge port on the driver’s-side front fender — designed for both home and public charging stations.
You can charge the 4xe in 2 main ways:
| Charging Level | Voltage | Approx. Time | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 120V (standard outlet) | 12–14 hours | Overnight trickle charge |
| Level 2 | 240V (home charger or public station) | 2–3 hours | Daily full charge |
| DC Fast Charge | N/A – Not supported on 4xe | — | — |
DIY Tip: The 4xe does not support DC fast charging. You’ll get the best results with a Level 2 home charger.
2. Setting Up Home Charging
Charging at home is the most convenient — and often cheapest — way to keep your 4xe powered.
Option 1: Use the Included Charger (Level 1)
- Plug into any standard household outlet (120V).
- Best for topping off overnight or if you drive fewer than 10 miles daily.
- Avoid using extension cords — they can overheat or slow charging.
Option 2: Install a Level 2 Charger (240V)
- Recommended for daily use or full overnight charging.
- Requires a dedicated 240V outlet (like a dryer plug) or hardwired unit.
- Popular options: ChargePoint Home Flex, JuiceBox 40, Emporia, or Mopar’s branded unit.
- You can use a Tesla Wall Connector with a J1772 adapter.
- Can be installed by a licensed electrician in your garage or driveway.
Charging Time Example:
- From 0% to 100% on a Level 2 = ~2.5 hours
- From 0% to 100% on a Level 1 = ~12 hours
3. Using Public Chargers
The 4xe can use any public Level 2 J1772 charging station. You’ll find them at:
- Shopping centers and malls
- Hotels and restaurants
- Trailheads and national parks
- Campgrounds and Jeep adventure areas
Apps to find chargers:
- PlugShare
- ChargePoint
- EVgo
- Electrify America (Level 2 only)
Most public chargers are pay-per-use or free for customers. Always bring your included charging cable just in case you find a compatible outlet instead.
4. Maximize Your Range and Charging Efficiency
Charging your Jeep is one thing — charging it smart is another. Here’s how to get the most out of every plug-in:
Best Practices:
- Charge after driving: Warm batteries charge faster.
- Avoid topping off constantly: Let the battery cycle between 20%–80% when possible.
- Use scheduled charging: Set charging to off-peak hours via the Uconnect app for cheaper rates.
- Precondition while plugged in: Use the Jeep app to warm/cool the cabin before unplugging — it saves battery range.
- Drive in Hybrid Mode for long trips: This balances electric and gas power for best efficiency.
5. Understanding the 4xe Drive Modes
Charging is just one side of the equation — how you use the power matters just as much.
EV Mode:
Pure electric driving. Great for short commutes, neighborhoods, and quiet trail runs.
Hybrid Mode:
Balances gas and electric for longer drives. This is the default and most efficient for mixed trips.
eSave Mode:
Prioritizes the gas engine to preserve or recharge the battery for later — perfect for saving electric power for off-roading.
Pro Tip: Use eSave on highways, then switch to EV Mode when you reach trails or urban zones.
6. Off-Road Charging Realities
Trail charging sounds futuristic, but it’s slowly becoming real — especially with solar or campground hookups.
If you’re off-grid:
- Consider bringing a portable Level 1 charger or small solar generator (EcoFlow, Bluetti, etc.)
- Plan routes near campsites with RV hookups (many have 240V outlets)
- Use eSave to recharge while driving to your next base
And remember, even when you run out of electric range, the Wrangler 4xe’s gas engine ensures you’re never stranded.
7. Battery Longevity & Care
Like all lithium batteries, Jeep’s 4xe pack prefers gentle treatment. To keep it healthy:
- Avoid storing your Jeep fully charged or completely empty for long periods
- Keep it parked in a shaded area or garage
- Charge slowly whenever possible
- Drive regularly — the battery management system stays healthiest with use
DIY Tip: Battery health is best when temps stay between 50°F–80°F. If you live in extreme climates, charge indoors or use scheduled pre-conditioning.
8. Charging FAQs
Q: Can I plug the 4xe into a Tesla charger?
Not directly — Tesla uses a proprietary connector. You can use a J1772-to-Tesla adapter for compatible Level 2 stations.
Q: Can I charge in the rain?
Yes — the system is fully weather-sealed and safe for outdoor use.
Q: Does regenerative braking recharge the battery?
Yes! It captures energy when slowing down, extending your electric range slightly.
Q: What’s the charging cost?
On average, a full charge costs $1.50–$2.00, depending on electricity rates — much cheaper than a tank of gas.
Final Thoughts
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe makes electrified adventure easier than ever. Once you’ve set up your home charger and learned the basics, plugging in becomes as natural as filling up — only quieter and cleaner.
To make the most of your hybrid Jeep, protect your investment with DIY Wrap Club’s precision-cut wrap and PPF kits, made specifically for Jeep Wrangler models.
Keep your Jeep powered, protected, and ready for every adventure.
