The Most Common Jeep Problems
Transmission issues, steering problems, and issues that can lead to engine stalling are commonly-reported issues for Jeep drivers.
Written by Melanie Krieps Mergen
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Among Jeep’s most commonly reported problems are transmission issues, engine stalling, and the infamous “death wobble” that can happen to steering wheels at high speeds or on rough terrain.
No vehicle make or model is without problems, and the likelihood you’ll need repairs on your vehicle rises as you continue putting miles on it. Knowing what issues your Jeep might be prone to can help you stay on top of its routine care and maintenance—and potentially spot serious issues before they become especially costly.
To learn more about some of the most common problems associated with Jeeps, take a look at the guide below, courtesy of
Jerry
, the car insurance
comparison app. For good measure, we'll also show you how you can trim down your Jeep insurance costs
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What are the most common Jeep problems?
Jeep has made a name for itself as a manufacturer of durable vehicles designed to handle off-road conditions, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to issues. The following are some commonly-reported problems that Jeep drivers experience with their vehicles:
- Wireless control module failures
- Shaky steering wheels at high speeds or over bumps, sometimes referred to as the “death wobble”
- Exhaust leaks
- Window motor failure
Based on data from the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee
is the Jeep model that’s been the most prone to problems, with 12 recalls and 2,161 recorded complaints. When it comes to the most reliable Jeep model, the Jeep Wrangler
tends to have fewer recalls and complaints compared to other models, depending on the year.When it comes to the most common problems in various Jeep models, check down this breakdown below.
Model | Starting price | J.D. Power reliability rating | Most common problems | Years to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Grand Cherokee | $38,270 | 79/100 | 2022 recalls include relate to signal malfunctions, missing tether weld from backseat frame, steering assembly bar issue | 2011, 2022 |
Cherokee | $33,995 | N/A | Transmission issues, headlamp issues, rough shifting | 1999, 2014, 2015 |
Compass | $26,390 | 78/100 | Engine problems, control arm/bushing failure, transmission issues | 2007, 2008, 2014, 2018 |
Renegade | $24,195 | 78/100 | Engine problems, brake screeching, transmission issues | 2015, 2016 |
Wrangler | $29,995 | 79/100 | Electrical issues, TIPM failure, steering wheel shaking | 2008, 2012, 2014 |
Gladiator | $36,480 | 81/100 | Steering issues | 2020 |
Wagoneer | $58,995 | N/A | Clutch pressure may overheat, seat belt retractor lock failure, transmission issues | 2018, 2014, 2016 |
Grand Wagoneer | $88,640 | N/A | Disabled air bags, rearview camera display issues, issues with seat locking into upright position | 1993, 2022 |
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MORE: Mechanical breakdown insurance: What is it, and do I need it?
Most common Jeep Grand Cherokee problems
Average annual repair cost: $666
CarComplaints.com complaints: 2,289
Of all Jeep’s models, the
Grand Cherokee
has had some of the most significant issues, including engine stalls, alternator failures, and ignition switch problems.While more recent models are generally more reliable, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee has had
three recent recalls
relating to potential turn signal malfunctions, a missing tether weld from a seat back frame, and a steering assembly issue that could affect a driver’s ability to control the vehicle.The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee has had
17 recalls
and 1,938 complaints reported to the NHTSA. A few of those problems included cruise control that won’t cancel, alternator failure and engine stalling, and a supercharger bracket issue that could damage the ABS line and result in a brake fluid leak. Most common Jeep Cherokee problems
Average annual repair cost: $520
CarComplaints.com complaints: 2,054
Like the Grand Cherokee, the standard
Cherokee
is one of Jeep’s less reliable models. Most common among complaints across model years are transmission issues, especially in 2014 and 2015 Jeep Cherokees.Other commonly-reported issues with other Jeep Cherokee model years include engine stalling, backup sensor alarm errors, and braking issues related to front rotor problems.
Most common Jeep Patriot problems
Average annual repair cost: $596
CarComplaints.com complaints: 832
Compared to other Jeep models, problems with the
Jeep Patriot
aren’t quite as common, and it’s considered one of the manufacturer’s more reliable models. Common Jeep Patriot problems include transmission issues, difficulty shifting between gears, and water leaks in the cabin. The model years for Jeep Patriots with the highest number of recalls are 2011 and 2012, with
four recalls
each to problems like airbag failures, fuel tank transfer tube issues, and steering column problems.Most common Jeep Liberty problems
Average annual repair cost: $674
CarComplaints.com complaints: 2,235
2002, 2003, and 2004 were especially problematic years for the
Jeep Liberty
, with 13 to 14 recalls being issued for these models. Recall issues include component issues that could lead to steering problems, airbag problems, and increased risk of fire after impact in certain situations.Problems reported with later-year models include transmission issues, defective power windows and sunroofs, and fluid leaks.
Most common Jeep Wrangler problems
Average annual repair cost: $694
CarComplaints.com complaints: 2,059
The Wrangler is generally considered one of Jeep’s more reliable models.
11 recalls were issued for certain 2010 Jeep Wranglers relating to problems with steering, transmission, airbag components, and brake fluid leaks. With 11 each, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2018 Wrangler models are tied for the highest number of recalls.
Another common complaint among Wrangler drivers is the issue nicknamed the “death wobble,” where the vehicle’s steering wheel starts excessively shaking or vibrating at high speeds or on rough terrain.
MORE: Car Loan for Jeep 2022
Are Jeep cars reliable?
Generally speaking, Jeep vehicles rank as average on the reliability scale.
Repair Pal
gives Jeep an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars and estimates the average annual repair costs across all Jeep models to be about $634 per year. The least reliable Jeep model: 2014 Jeep Cherokee
Most common problem: Engine misfires
NHTSA complaints: 2,161
The 2014 Jeep Cherokee has the highest number of complaints and recalls of all Jeeps. This model year had its fair share of issues, including alternator failures that could lead to engine stalls, EGR cooling problems that could increase the risk of fire, and cruise control that can’t be canceled.
Other common complaints among drivers of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee include problems with the remote keyless entry system, a faulty “service 4WD system” warning light, and air conditioning problems.
The most reliable Jeep model: 2018 Jeep Wrangler
Most common problem: Water leaks on side doors
NHTSA complaints: 0 (later release model: 1,310)
Jeeps can have their fair share of problems, but which ones are the most reliable? For many, the answer could be the 2018 Jeep Wrangler.
It should be noted that 11 recalls were issued for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler with 4WD, and 1,310 complaints were filed with the NHTSA. However, when it comes to other 2018 Jeep Wrangler models, no recalls or complaints have been shared by the NHTSA to date.
The sole problem reported by 2018 Jeep Wrangler drivers on Repair Pal is water leakage on its side doors, which is a common complaint across model years for the Wrangler.
MORE: 9 questions to ask when comparing car insurance quotes
How to buy hassle-free car insurance
Unexpected mechanical problems can really drive up the cost of Jeep ownership, but that doesn’t mean your
Jeep insurance costs
have to do the same. If you’re looking for better car insurance coverage at a better rate, the Jerry
app makes that easier than ever!With Jerry, all you have to do is answer a few quick questions to start reviewing personalized quotes from some of the nation’s top
car insurance
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The best part? Jerry users enjoy an average savings of more than $800 per year on car insurance! That frees up a lot of room in your budget if you might have to make an unexpected repair.
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FAQs
How long do Jeeps last?
It depends on what conditions they’re exposed to, but Jeeps commonly last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. With the right level of care and maintenance, you might be able to see that range expand to 300,000 miles or longer.
Why is Jeep unreliable?
Jeep is generally considered to be of average reliability across all its models, but reliability can fluctuate depending on the model and model year.
When it comes to some of the more common problems that can arise with Jeeps, transmission, steering, and engine stalling issues are examples that make the top of the list.
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