10 Jeeps That Will Bankrupt You Through Maintenance And Repairs
Car Logos reports that Jeep is one of the most popular car brands in the U.S. The Stellantis-owned automaker ranks 6th on the list, following Mercedes-Benz. Given the company’s lengthy history, which dates back to the Willys and includes current bestsellers like the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee, it is easy to understand why American consumers adore the sport utility vehicles produced by Jeep. But with so many Jeep models and trims available, it can be challenging to decide which used car is a wise investment.
Luckily, Consumer Reports’ surveys highlight “the models with the greatest risk of problems.” Some popular models like the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Rubicon were on the list. So, if you are on the lookout for your next Jeep, these are the 10 least reliable Jeep models, according to Consumer Reports.
10 2023 Jeep Wrangler – CR: 2 Of 5
Although this is the newest model year, and it hasn’t had too much time on the market, the NHTSA has already issued two recalls for this Jeep model. One recall deals with engine issues, whereas the other recall is because the “HV battery pack assembly was built with incorrect fasteners to secure the 200-amp fuse, which can generate excessive heat.” Consumer Reports points out that there’s a risk of crashing. Evidently, this is not the best year for the Jeep Wrangler.
9 2023 Jeep Gladiator – CR: 2 Of 5
Another new model that gets a low score from Consumer Reports is the 2023 Jeep Gladiator. Consumer Reports believes that this model will be less dependable than the typical new automobile, despite the fact that there hasn’t been any recalls.
8 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee – CR: 1 Of 5
If you’re wondering about the Jeep’s reliability, don’t mention this model because it doesn’t get high scores for dependability. The NHTSA has issued 18 recalls for the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Some problems covered by the recalls include engine stall, electrical system problems that could lead to crashes, problems with the service brakes, and even problems with the airbags and seat belts.
7 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L – CR: 2 Of 5
Owners of this model encountered issues with the electrical system, high beams, engine, and even cameras. On Edmunds, this model has a 2.5 out of 5.0 rating, with 43 percent of consumers giving this model a 1 star score, and an additional 19 percent giving it 2 stars.
6 2012 Jeep Wrangler – CR: 1 Of 5
You often hear the same question tossed around, “Are Jeeps Wranglers reliable?” The answer is mostly yes. However, there are still several model years to steer clear of. One of the model years that consumers should avoid is the 2012 Jeep Wrangler. Consumer Reports points out that there are 10 recalls for this vehicle. The NHTSA has issued recalls because of problems with the seat belts, defective airbags, problems with the electrical system, steering and powertrain issues, and even equipment issues that could cause unintentional acceleration.
5 2013 Jeep Wrangler – 1 Of 5
Another Jeep Wrangler with reliability issues is the 2013 model year. The NHTSA has issued seven recalls for this model year. Even this time, owners have encountered serious problems with the airbags, seat belts, steering, equipment, electrical system and powertrain, which led to recalls.
4 2014 Jeep Wrangler – 1 Of 5
Evidently, Jeep Wrangler’s reliability wasn’t the finest for model years 2012 to 2014. For the 2014 model year, the NHTSA issued four recalls, which covered again problems with the seat belts and airbags, and additional issues with the tires that could have led to crashes.
“The Wrangler is seriously outdated in the modern world. While designed for capable offroading ability, on the road performance is uncivilized. The ride is unsettled, sometimes even snappy. Handling is very clumsy,” says Consumer Reports.
3 2014 Jeep Cherokee – CR: 1 Of 5
Evidently, we should avoid this Jeep model at all costs, given its 12 recalls! The NHTSA had to issue recalls because of issues with the powertrain that could cause a loss of drive that leads to possible crashes. And it issued additional recalls for the SUV’s speed control, problems with the equipment, suspension, seats, equipment, airbags, windshields, and even because of fire risks.
“The list of flaws is long. Performance and fuel economy from the four-cylinder engine are pathetic,” says Consumer Reports.
2 2015 Jeep Cherokee – CR: 1 Of 5
One year later and the Jeep still hasn’t rectified the Cherokee’s problems, so the NHTSA had to stand its ground and issue 10 recalls. Meanwhile, Consumer Reports maintains its assessment that this Jeep model has too many flaws.
1 2016 Jeep Cherokee – CR: 1 Of 5
Without a doubt, not all Jeep Cherokee are unreliable, but buyers should avoid the 2014 to 2016 model years at all costs. While the 2016 model year has only seven recalls, down from 12 recalls in 2014, some serious issues persist. Jeep still didn’t resolve the problems with the powertrain, electrical system, seats and equipment, which could lead to accidents.
Sources: Consumer Reports, Car Logos and Edmunds
