Here's Why The Jeep Wrangler's Reliability Score Is So Low

Key Takeaways

The Jeep Wrangler has a lower reliability rating and is not known for scoring high in safety ratings, with several recalls and potential expensive repairs.
Consumer Reports highlights the Wrangler's poor ride quality and fuel economy, making it less ideal as a daily driver.
The Wrangler has a history of recalls for various safety concerns, including electrical system issues, engine shutdown, and fire risks. Potential buyers should be cautious and aware of these risks, especially with certain model years.

Despite Jeep's status as a beloved American brand, its iconic Wrangler SUV repeatedly falls below expectations when it comes to reliability and may not be the most dependable option in its segment. The rugged compact SUV has been subjected to several recalls over the years and is not quite as reputable for scoring high in safety ratings either.

During a side impact test of the 4-door 2022 Wrangler model, IIHS downgraded its overall rating after the vehicle tipped onto its passenger side. The Wrangler is also susceptible to faults that can result in expensive repairs. The popular off-roader currently has a 3.5 out of 5 rating on RepairPal, ranking second to last among compact SUVs.

Still, the Wrangler remains a solid choice for shoppers, thanks to its distinctive styling, exceptional off-road prowess, intuitive infotainment system, and American background. Here, then, we're going to take an in-depth look at its reliability to help make things easier for you to determine whether it is the right vehicle for your off-road needs.

UPDATED AUGUST 2023: Despite scoring low-reliability ratings across the board, the Jeep Wrangler still remains a popular SUV. We examine the data while factoring in newer models (including the updated 2024 Jeep Wrangler) to determine whether it's a trusty off-roader or more trouble than it's worth for most people.

We've compiled data from CarEdge, Consumer Reports, Cars.com, and RepairPal to paint a more complete picture of the Jeep Wrangler's reliability.

Are Jeep Wranglers Reliable?

Reliability score: 3.5 out of 5.0

Estimated maintenance costs for 5 years of ownership: $2,755 (CarEdge)
Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $694 (RepairPal)
Recalls: 41 (Cars.com)

In December 2014, Consumer Reports released a list of the year's worst cars, highlighting small city cars such as the Smart ForTwo and Scion iQ. But, the list's lowest-ranked vehicle ended up being the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. Despite its reliability issues, 74 percent of owners polled admitted they'd buy it again in a satisfaction survey.

According to Consumer Reports, the Wrangler has some strikes against it as a daily driver: the ride quality and fuel economy. Its car-testing team considered the Wrangler Unlimited "punishing" to drive while citing its poor handling. And, with the vehicle achieving a fuel economy of just 17 mpg, Wrangler owners should expect more trips to the pump.

Fast-forward to today and the 2023 Wrangler fares slightly better than its predecessor in reliability ratings, scoring a 2 out of 5 in Consumer Reports' Predicted Reliability rating (the 2014 model scored 1 out of 5). The new Wrangler's low points are once again due to its "stiff ride" and poor fuel economy (21 mpg combined).

Are There Any Recalls On Jeep Wranglers?

Recalls for 2023 Jeep Wrangler: 4

Over the years, there have been 41 NHTSA safety recalls for various Wrangler models for issues ranging from minor to dangerous. As of this writing, Jeep has issued four recalls on the 2023 Wrangler. The first was in October 2022, when the vehicle was recalled amid electrical system concerns, as the Wrangler 4xe's overheating battery pack posed a safety risk when driving.

The second was in December 2022 when Jeep recalled Jeep Wrangler 4XE models from 2021 through 2023 due to concerns that the engine may shut off unexpectedly while driving. The third recall was in March 2023 over a potential fire risk from an unused stud that could puncture the fuel tank in an accident. The fourth recall was in August 2023 over an obstructed brake light in certain 2023 models.

The 2022 Wrangler, for its part, has two open recalls for potential engine stalls and compromised side marker lights. Meanwhile, the 2020 model has a whopping 7 recalls, suggesting there are high chances of this model going wrong. Buyers should be wary of the risks, no matter how tempting a price on one of these used Wranglers looks. One such recall affects approximately 3,000 Jeep Wranglers regarding the axles.

Specifically, there may be a poor weld between the control arm and the axle, resulting in a possible separation of parts that may pose a danger to drivers and passengers. Another recall was issued regarding fire risk. The clutch components were targeted, with Jeep saying they could overheat and catch fire. This caused an even bigger response, as 33,000 vehicles were affected this time — approximately 11 times that of the previous recall.

On top of that, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has pointed out the increased crash risk of the Jeep Wrangler, despite its ideal off-roader status.

Do Jeep Wranglers Have Electrical Problems?

Despite boasting a robust, modern interior, the Wangler can be prone to electrical malfunctions. Also, its body has been deemed to lack structural integrity, meaning Jeep could do better in that regard as well.

Similarly, the 2020 model scored just 44 out of 100 for owner satisfaction, with many users dissatisfied with the seats, climate control, and ride quality. To see how it compares to other model years, check out our rundown of the best and worst Wranglers ever made.

Electrical issues aren't the only problem Wrangler owners are likely to run into, though. Consumer Reports highlights several other "Trouble Spots" plaguing owners, with suspension faults forming the majority of problems, followed by transmission issues. Owners also reported major faults related to the turbocharger, cylinder heads, timing chain, and more.

What Jeep Wrangler Models Should I Avoid?

Despite all the negative reports, the Jeep Wrangler continues to hold a special place in the hearts of 4x4 enthusiasts. However, there are certain models shoppers should steer clear of on the used market. Per Consumer Reports, affected vehicles include model-year 2012 to 2015 Jeep Wrangler and 2018 to 2019. We strongly recommend you consider adding the 2020 Jeep Wangler to that list, considering the high number of recalls it has received.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler is the latest model, with about the same number of trims available as earlier. While it continues to be a loud, uncomfortable, impractical, and unreliable SUV, it remains heavily sought after and one of the most impressive off-road vehicles on the market today.

Sources: Consumer Reports, Repair Pal, IIHS, CarEdge, Cars.com