2021 Jeep Wrangler Problems

Notable Issues

Shopping for a used 2021 Jeep Wrangler? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Based on 500 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Electrical Faults the most reported area.

20209 years2022

Before you buy

This 2021 Jeep Wrangler has 500 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Electrical Faults.

A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.

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500
Complaints
6
Crashes
14
Fires
2
Injuries
Fatalities
14
Recalls

2021 Jeep Wrangler Fuel Economy

✓ EPA Official Data

EPA-rated fuel economy across 8 2021 Jeep Wrangler trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.

20
MPG City
1322 range
24
MPG Hwy
1725 range
21
MPG Combined
1423 range
416
g CO₂/mile
Regular Gasoline
⚠️Costs $3,500 more than avg vehicle over 5 years

Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 8 trims analysed.

2021 Jeep Wrangler Safety Ratings

NHTSA 5-Star Program

Official crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.

Overall

Not Rated

27.9% rollover risk

Frontal Crash

4/5

Side Crash

Not Rated

Rollover

3/5

27.9% probability

Stability Control: StandardForward Collision Warning: OptionalLane Departure Warning: No

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.

Quick Answer

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler has 500 owner complaints, 6 crash-related complaints, and 14 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Electrical Faults. NHTSA reliability signal: Notable Issues.

2021 Jeep Wrangler — key reliability facts
Make
Jeep
Model
Wrangler
Model year
2021
NHTSA owner complaints
500
Crash-related complaints
6
Safety recall campaigns
14
Top reported component
Electrical Faults
Reliability signal
Notable Issues
EPA MPG combined
21
EPA MPG city / highway
20 / 24
Fuel type
Regular Gasoline
NHTSA frontal crash rating
4/5 stars
NHTSA rollover rating
3/5 stars
Electronic stability control
Standard

Common problems

Most common 2021 Jeep Wrangler problems

Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.

#1
197
complaints

Electrical Faults

Crash-related:3
Fires:7
#2
115
complaints

Steering Defects

#3
108
complaints

Engine Problems

Fires:4

Complaint patterns center on Electrical Faults, Steering Defects, Engine Problems. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.

Buyer verdict

Should you buy a used 2021 Jeep Wrangler?

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.

Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.

Pre-purchase

What to check before buying a used 2021 Jeep Wrangler

Inspection Focus

  • Inspect electrical systems, including infotainment and wiring, for reported issues.
  • Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Request service records for steering, engine, and suspension components.
  • Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.

Before You Close the Deal

  • Inspect electrical systems, including infotainment and wiring, for reported issues.
  • Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Request service records for steering, engine, and suspension components.
  • Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.

Check the exact car

Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.

Before buying a used 2021 Jeep Wrangler, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.

AI verdict

What the complaint data suggests

Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology

Complaints for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler are concentrated in electrical faults, steering defects, and engine problems. The data suggests these areas may be common issues, but the low confidence level and limited year range mean patterns are uncertain.

Key Findings
  • Electrical faults account for the highest number of complaints among reported components.
  • Steering defects and engine problems are also frequently reported.
  • Crash-related complaints are relatively low at 6 out of 500 total complaints.
Top Concerns
  • Electrical faults are the most reported component issue.
  • Steering defects are the second most reported concern.
  • Engine problems are the third most reported component issue.
Data note: NHTSA complaints are consumer-submitted and do not confirm a manufacturing defect. The analysis covers only one model year (2021), limiting the ability to identify trends across years. Confidence level is low, so findings should be interpreted cautiously.

Full breakdown

All 2021 Jeep Wrangler complaints by category

Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.

ComponentComplaintsCrashesFiresAvg MileageVolume
Electrical Faults19737
Steering Defects115
Engine Problems1084
Suspension Failures92
Uncategorized Issues8025
Transmission / Drivetrain7621
Fuel/Propulsion System503
Unintended Acceleration2021
Fuel System16
Gasoline14
Brake System133
Wheel Issues10
Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB9
Structural Problems71
Airbag Malfunctions42
Headlight/Taillight Failures4
Lane Departure3
Seat Belt Issues2
Visibility2
Visibility/Wiper2
Diesel2
Tire Issues1
Door Lock Issues1
Equipment11
Seat-Related Issues1

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.

In their words

Real owner complaints

Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.

Showing 400 most recent complaints of 500 total. View all on NHTSA

Electrical FaultsMay 6, 2026

The primary component involved is the high-voltage charging system, specifically the charging port and connector interface. The vehicle previously experienced a confirmed failure involving a scorched charging port and a melted pin, which required replacement. The same symptoms ha…

Brake SystemMay 2, 2026

I have had a brake problem since September 2025. The symptom is a hard brake pedal that does not stop the vehicle at low speeds. There is a similar problem with other Wrangler models that do have a recall issued. It was related to a software update around the same time my problem…

Electrical FaultsApr 26, 2026

Vehicle has gone through the 68C update and the car sometimes hesitates in stop and go traffic. Also the vehicle hesitates on acceleration almost causing an accidents more times than I can count.

Electrical Faults FireApr 21, 2026

Driving on the highway smoke came from under the hood in the right hand side forcing my family out on the highway keep ingulfed in flames and burnt to a crisp

Structural Problems FireApr 20, 2026

The car which is barely driven, suddenly caught on fire while parked in my home driveway after sitting there for close to 8 hours. so the car wasn't in use at the time. It's completely gone.

Engine ProblemsApr 14, 2026

The engine is overheating at idle speed and there's a phamtom coolant leak. We just bought this in January and are already having major issues. Seems to be a problem with the plastic coolant reservoir being near a very hot engine.

Steering DefectsApr 6, 2026

This has happened several times and I have spent so much money trying to fix the issue but i dont seem to be able to do so. Whenever I am driving my Jeep on any road at speeds above 55 miles per hour the front wheels begin to vibrate violently and shake the car. After researching…

Unintended AccelerationApr 3, 2026

"The vehicle exhibits a recurring Loss of Motive Power (LMP) during low-speed maneuvers (intersections) and highway speeds (50+ mph). The failure is preceded by erratic instrument cluster behavior (gauge spikes) and results in a total loss of propulsion without prior warning. Thi…

Suspension FailuresApr 1, 2026

Noise while driving, gets louder when speed increases. Wheel bearings need replacement.

Transmission / DrivetrainMar 26, 2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? -After the 68C recall update for the HV battery failures, the vehicle has not been able to consistently maintain or provide power due to the limitation of the battery introduced as …

Electrical FaultsMar 26, 2026

A recall repair was completed in 2023 related to an overheating warning. Recently, the same issue has returned. The engine cooling fan runs at a very high speed for several minutes and then shuts off, even when the vehicle is cold or operating under normal conditions. An overheat…

Uncategorized IssuesMar 25, 2026

The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failed internally while I was driving at night, causing the vehicle to suddenly stall and shut off completely while my children were in the vehicle. This resulted in an immediate loss of power and created a dangerous situation in traffic. The f…

Electrical FaultsMar 23, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Wrangler. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V741000 (Electrical System); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where an engine oil …

Steering DefectsMar 22, 2026

While driving on roads I would characterize as good, Our 2021 Jeep Wrangle has exhibited what is widely know as the "death wobble". 1st time was when vehicle has approximately 10,000 miles and it was noted as being severe, dangerous and very scary. 2nd and 3rd time time and wi…

Transmission / DrivetrainMar 14, 2026

My 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (3.6L eTorque, automatic transmission) has had recurring drivetrain instability since about 2,000 miles while under factory warranty. It intermittently has high RPM flare during acceleration, delayed shifting, shuddering under load, and abrupt engage…

Fuel/Propulsion SystemMar 12, 2026

Vehicle stalled out. Then would not start. Daughter was stuck for 30 minutes until it finally turned over took it into dealership. Was told it’s the fuel pump. My issue is that now. These fuel pumps are back ordered indefinitely found out because all of the fuel pumps are going b…

Electrical FaultsMar 12, 2026

Glendale Dodge (CA) is actively using Federal Fire Risk Recall 68C to fraudulently conceal a separate, critical High-Voltage hardware failure on my 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe. Upon intake, my vehicle’s internal VIP diagnostic scan showed an active P0E15 code (Electric Coolant Heater …

Electrical FaultsMar 12, 2026

My vehicle is experiencing EV system failures, stalling, and system shutdown warnings that make the vehicle unsafe to operate. These symptoms began after a recall repair that was performed by the dealership. The dealership initially stated the recall was repaired, but the same s…

Engine ProblemsMar 11, 2026

I own a 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 with the 6.4L engine (VIN: [XXX] ). The vehicle has a dangerous condition where the engine stalls unexpectedly when the fuel level is approximately 1/4 tank or lower and the vehicle is traveling downhill. When the vehicle is positioned on a…

Suspension FailuresMar 10, 2026

While driving higher speeds (45 mph+) I have had my vehicle start shaking very violently which results in me having to slam on my breaks to gain control of my vehicle. When this happens I have been traveling on the highway or interstate which puts other drivers at risk due to me …

Page 1 of 20

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler.

Safety recalls

2021 Jeep Wrangler recalls

14 campaigns

NHTSA recall campaigns for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler. 14 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.

Safety recall

POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

#21V028000POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY28/01/2021
Safety recall

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION

#22V638000BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION25/08/2022
Safety recall

SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER

#22V766000SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER13/10/2022
Safety recall

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

#22V767000FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP13/10/2022
Safety recall

ENGINE

#22V865000ENGINE23/11/2022
Safety recall

POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

#23V116000POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY23/02/2023
Safety recall

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

#23V191000STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS23/03/2023
Safety recall

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

#23V263000FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP13/04/2023
Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

#23V787000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY22/11/2023
Safety recall

VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

#24V111000VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM15/02/2024
Safety recall

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE

#24V572000POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWAREJan 8, 2024
Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

#24V652000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANELMay 9, 2024
Safety recall

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

#24V676000BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERADec 9, 2024
Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

#25V741000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY30/10/2025

Across model years

Compare Jeep Wrangler model years

Compare complaint and recall volume across years to see whether 2021 lands in a lower-risk or higher-risk part of the model timeline.

Research more

Keep researching before you buy

Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.

Questions

2021 Jeep Wrangler buying FAQ

Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.

Is the 2021 Jeep Wrangler reliable?

Notable Issues. NHTSA currently shows 500 owner complaints, 6 crash-related complaints, and 14 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2021 Jeep Wrangler shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 Jeep Wrangler?

#1: Electrical Faults (197 complaints). #2: Steering Defects (115 complaints). #3: Engine Problems (108 complaints)

At what mileage do problems start on the 2021 Jeep Wrangler?

Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.

How safe is the 2021 Jeep Wrangler?

Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2021 Jeep Wrangler, NHTSA complaints include 6 crash-related reports and 14 fire reports out of 500 total complaints. 2 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.

Does the 2021 Jeep Wrangler have any recalls?

Yes. 14 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2021 Jeep Wrangler. A major recall area is POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY. 14 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.

Should I buy a 2021 Jeep Wrangler?

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Electrical Faults during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.

Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.

Wider context: See the full Jeep Wrangler reliability report with year-by-year comparison.

Owner Reliability Rating

Rate the 2021 Jeep Wrangler based on your ownership experience.

Add your rating:

Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.

Before you buy

Check the exact vehicle history before you buy

Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.