JEEP Wrangler Reliability by Year
Best & Worst Years, Problems & Recalls — NHTSA Data
Comparing used JEEP Wrangler options? We analyzed 10 model years (2017–2026) using real NHTSA complaint and recall data so you can spot stronger years, avoid riskier ones, and know what to inspect before buying.
Model-year trends show patterns. Run a VIN check for the exact JEEP Wrangler you plan to buy.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the JEEP Wrangler has 4,887 owner complaints and 93 safety recalls across model years 2017–2026. The most reported issue area is STEERING. 2018 drew the most complaints; 2025 drew the fewest.
- Make
- JEEP
- Model
- Wrangler
- Model years analyzed
- 2017–2026 (10 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 4,887
- Safety recall campaigns
- 93
- Crash-related complaints
- 107
- Fire-related complaints
- 103
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2018 (1,779 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2025 (0 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- STEERING
- Reliability signal
- Poor
JEEP Wrangler: Which Years to Avoid & Which to Buy
Based on total NHTSA owner complaints per model year. Higher complaint counts indicate a riskier year to buy used — lower counts suggest a cleaner reliability record.
These years have the most owner complaints. Inspect carefully and always run a VIN check.
These years have the fewest owner complaints on record — lower risk starting points.
⭐ NHTSA NCAP Crash Test Ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
NCAP crash test ratings for this model are not yet loaded or this vehicle was not tested in the years analyzed. NHTSA tests a subset of new vehicles each year. Check nhtsa.gov/ratings directly for the latest results.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
PoorThe JEEP WRANGLER has 4,887 NHTSA complaints and 93 recalls on record. 107 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- 4,887 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 93 federal recall campaigns
- 107 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with elevated complaint rates.
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with fewer reported issues.
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
🔔 NHTSA Safety Recalls
93 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
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Safety Recall
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Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Safety Recall
Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2017–2026. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
🔧 Most-Reported Problem Areas
Based on component keywords extracted from all 4,887 NHTSA complaints.
📋 NHTSA Complaint Reports
4,887 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
Front brake caliper became loose, moved away from the rotor, resulted in the caliper grinding against the inner wheel. Inspection by mechanic revealed missing caliper mounting bolts on both driver and passenger side of brakes. Front caliper mounting bolts were replaced with OEM-spec hardware, torqued to spec, with blue Loctite added to threads of fasteners. The mechanic noted many well-documented failures of the same nature on Jeep JK, JL, and Gladiator models, although no formal recalls have been issued.
The battery terminals will stop tightening, which made me think it was fully tightened. I wiggled them from side-to-side and they didn't move. As I was driving, the vehicle died, which almost caused an accident because the steering wheel locked. I was able to get the vehicle to a safe stop and hook up a jump pack to it. I then discovered that my negative battery terminal wasn't even on the battery post. It slipped off when lifted UP but didn't move AT ALL when wiggled side-to-side. I am unable to find the proper OEM replacement battery terminals at this time.
My 2017 Jeep Wrangler experienced repeated brake system failures beginning shortly after purchase. After extensive brake repairs, the vehicle was ultimately diagnosed with a failed ABS control module. The vehicle is unsafe to operate due to loss of ABS/stability safety systems. Jeep/Stellantis has the required OEM module on national backorder with no repair timeline (some other jeep owner reports say it has been on backorder for up to 18 months), reportedly under engineering review. Dealerships and mechanics indicate this issue is widespread among Jeep Wranglers. The inability to obtain a safety-critical brake component leaves the vehicle effectively unusable and unable to be safely repaired (has been undriveable since Feb 11 2026).
The motor of the wiper stop working.
Oil plug in engine gets brittle and fails by cracking. This cause a complete engine failure with only 36k miles on it. Mechanic says this is a known issue. I could not operate the vehichle and broke down without warning. I have a reciept for the nrand new engine.
A deer jumped in front of me and the brakes locked up. The jeep spun 180 degrees before it stopped. Nothing was damaged and I traveled on. About a week later the ABS and traction control lights started blinking. Within a day they were solid and the cruise control stopped also. I researched and found the speed sensor was a common problem. I carried it to a ASE certified mechanic for the sensor to be replaced. The sensor was replaced but the lights didn’t go out. It was put on the computer and noted it was the ABS CONTROL MODULE part number 68259556AD. The problem is that the part is in such demand that it will take months to get it. So this seems to be a recurring issue for jeeps. I am now riding with no ABS because MOPAR can’t keep up with the demand.
For about 6 months now, the abs control module has been bad. Leaving every light regarding braking on the dashboard and no safety features, such as abs, skid control, ect ect . The parts for this have beem on back order over a year now and there are tons of people experiencing the same issue as I. My vehicle only had 63000 miles when it failed. ( code c2200, abs internal failure) . Many people have experienced failure with way less miles. This is not a use failure, but rather a factory defect as these are a known issue. There needs to be a safety recall on the module and have it replaced. Thank you
Recent ABS module failure w C2200 code. Took to Chrysler/Jeep dealer for repair and was told replacement module part is unavailable with up to and more, a year backorder. Was advised there was nothing they could do to repair. Researched other dealers and suppliers with same results. This is certainly a safety concern as this ABS module failure appears to be a common failure in Jeeps of this and adjacent model years and there is nothing a dealer or any other service firm can repair due to part availability.
The fenders front fenders become loss due to faulty plastic clips and flights off while driving once the wind catches under them. Very dangerous to other cars. Also the windshields crack around once a year and you have to really be-careful to stay back from any auto that might throw a rock, but you can’t avoid someone passing you.
The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30-45 MPH, the vehicle lost power. On another occasion, while driving at 20 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. While shifting into gear, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. The check engine warning light illuminated after the failure. The driver was able to pull over safely. The vehicle was running, and the heat was functioning. The vehicle was towed to a AAA Service Center, where the filter and oil were changed; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was towed to AAA again, but no assistance was provided. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
I bought my 2017 jeep with 29,000 miles on it. I had an issue with the rear driverside brake locking up around 40,000 miles. I feel this is a safety issue due to how hot the brakes got and at times would be smoking. It being the weekend and my only vehicle, repaired myself for approximately $280. I have had to replace several coil packs around $50,000 miles. My main complaint today, at 66,000 miles it seems to be leaking oil. I took to mechanic this morning and was told this is a common problem with jeeps. The oil cooler housing is cracked and leaking. This part is made out of plastic. The repair for this is going to cost $1200 to $1500. I have read complaints regarding this issue and do not understand why this hasn't been recalled. This is a major safety concern and could possibly cause a fire. I have owned jeeps my whole life and as of today, I will never purchase another. The jeep brand has declined in reliability and has proved to be a huge financial mistake.
The ABS module in my 2017 Jeep Wrangler has stopped working 25 months ago and the display in on my dash warning lights glows constantly every time I turn the ignition on, even as I drive. This means my vehicle is lacking the safety features that are proven to help prevent accidents and as a result, deaths. I took it to the dealer immediately when the warning light presented in 2023. I was told the part in on back order and I'm on the list to receive a replacement asap. In the meantime, I have had several occasions with a very close miss from having an accident. The back order of this vital component causes great risk to me and my passengers, as well as anyone else near me on the road, despite my excellent driving record. The part is desired to reduce the chance of accident, so it's malfunctioning promotes the chance of an accident and needs to be addressed. I am one of thousands of customers experiencing this neglect. Please help.
The oil filter housing is made of plastic but holds hot oil, over time it cracks since plastic is not made to handle hot (oil) and cold (weather) cycles
Dear Sir(or Madam), The Left Rear Caliber is locking up AGAIN. We have changed 4 Rear Calibers, Rotors , Breaks and Brake Hoses and Two Sets of Front Calibers, Breaks, Rotors and Break Hoses and again the Caliber in the Rear Right is locking up again. This you would think is a Safety Hazard by now. We have owned three Wranglers and everyone of them had Brake Problems. I thought that maybe Jeep would have this problem solved by now. But am sure if NHTSA doesn't do anything then Jeep isn't going to do anything. This problem is costing us a arm and leg. I wish you at NHTSA would do something about this on going problem. Thank you.
Fuel tank valve control valve leak has small crack where fuel vapors are leaking affecting my fuel efficiency and causing a evap system ECL.
Dear Sir (or Madam), We have a 2017 Wrangler Rubicon and we've change the rear Brake Hoses, Calibers, Rotors and Brakes twice due to the brake hoses collapsing and not letting the fluid return to the master cylinder. The first time it was covered the second time 1000 bucks. We have also replaced the front Brake Hoses, Calibers, rotors and brake due to the brake hose collapsing and not letting the fluid return to the master cylinder another 640 bucks. This is the third Wrangler we've owned and the same thing has happened on all 3 the rear hoses collapse and wont let the fluid return to the master cylinder. You would think that since it has to do with the brakes you at NHTSA would say its a hazard because the brakes lock up.
Every time the vehicle is filled with fuel it overfills and a large amount of fuel spills in the vehicle and ground. This is a safety concern which can lead to a fire unexpectedly. Upon inspection the fuel tank control valve has been found to be inoperative and can cause a fuel leak during a vehicle rollover event, debris in the fuel tank, and/or the ability to overfill the fuel tank during refueling. A fuel leak during a vehicle rollover event, in the presence of an ignition source, could cause a fire without warning and lead to death. The vehicle is not shown to have an outstanding recall though this year and model does have a recall for a limited number of the production.
The ABS Module Failed while Driving. Yes it is available for inspection. The 2017 Jeep Wrangler stopped abruptly. Then it barely moved when I continued to press on the Accelerator pedal. Then it ran normal for about a mile, then it started jerking like I was depressing the brake pedal, intermittently. The safety of myself and others was put at risk by the sudden braking without any input from me. Yes, the problem has been confirmed by an independent service center. No, the vehicle has not been inspected by the Police, Manufacturer, or Insurance Representatives. The ABS lamp came on, as well as others. It has been at the service shop for one month. The owner of the shop told me that the "working" part is unavailable, right now. He is looking in Junkyards for a used part. I wrote an email to [XXX] " and they said that they're not working on Jeeps with this problem right now, because they can't get the "chips" (Micro processors). I called the Jeep Dealership, they told me that the part would cost me $371.70. Then I talked with the service Manager. He told me that installation and programming would cost me $490.00 + tax. That's a total of $861.70. Then he mentioned it could take 2 years, 1 year; or 6 Months to get the part. He said that he just got one in, and the lady had waited since February (8 Months) to get her part. Different year models require different versions of this part, and it is made in China. This shortage of ABS Modules has been going on for years! I have done multiple searches on the internet, and I found that there are thousands of people with this problem. I also found out that the ABS modules for sale on Amazon and Ebay do NOT work. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Parts of the manual transmission are failing and appear in the bottom of the transmission when changing the fluid. It appears to be part of the synchro. This is apparently not uncommon for these manual transmissions. There were no warning lamps or messages indicating a failure or problem with the transmission. A transmission failure can startle a driver and cause an accident. It did not in this case.
It randomly will not start and will need a jump start to get going. My safety has been put at risk due to not being able to start the car while in unfamiliar locations. I have had fhe battery and alternator checked and both came back with no issue. No symptoms. Just the issue of not starting even after driving around all day. There’s no pattern when it comes to knowing if it will start or not.
Showing 20 of 4,887 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Before You Buy, Check the Exact JEEP Wrangler
These pages show model-year patterns across 10years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
📖 Understanding This Data
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is — but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The JEEP Wrangler has 4,887 complaints on record across 10 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The JEEP Wrangler has 93 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 107 of the JEEP Wrangler's 4,887 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions — a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the Reliability Verdict Calculated?
The reliability verdict (Poor) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. This verdict gives buyers a quick interpretation before they review year-level details and VIN-level history. It should be treated as one decision input, not a substitute for a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable — simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all JEEP Wrangler vehicles on the road — not any specific car. Two JEEP Wrangler vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage — NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The JEEP Wrangler has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.