FaultScore

FaultScore report

2000 Jeep Wrangler problems

Owners have filed 311 complaints about the 2000 Jeep Wrangler with NHTSA between 1999 and 2026. The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain. Across this model's run it ranks 25 of 33 worst.

C

FaultScore 46/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Jeep Wrangler.

How this is worked out

The numbers

311

Complaints

24

Crashes reported

32

Fires reported

16

Injuries reported

92,456 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

13%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 23 vs 50 Severity 100 vs 50 Early failure 23 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 23
Against the median year of the Jeep Wrangler. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
23.2% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 23
13% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 2000 compares with every other Jeep Wrangler

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2000 Jeep Wrangler

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

3 crashes, 1 fires · median 32,800 mi

Body & Structure 56 18.0%

0 crashes, 1 fires · median 133,400 mi

1 crashes, 13 fires · median 95,000 mi

Suspension 25 8.0%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 125,000 mi

1 crashes, 9 fires · median 82,021 mi

Brakes 16 5.1%

3 crashes, 0 fires · median 85,000 mi

Airbags 16 5.1%

8 crashes, 0 fires · median 52,575 mi

Seat Belts 15 4.8%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 33,000 mi

1 crashes, 4 fires · median 110,000 mi

Steering 11 3.5%

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 100,000 mi

Other & Unspecified 9 2.9%

Median failure at 115,000 miles

Tires 7 2.3%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 100,000 mi

Windows, Mirrors & Wipers 6 1.9%

0 crashes, 2 fires · median 65,000 mi

Equipment & Accessories 3 1.0%

1 crashes, 1 fires · median 50,500 mi

Wheels 3 1.0%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 36,000 mi

Doors, Latches & Locks 2 0.6%
Lights 2 0.6%

0 crashes, 1 fires · median 69,103 mi

Acceleration & Cruise Control 2 0.6%

Median failure at 150,000 miles

Exactly what failed

NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.

Manual Transmission 50 38.2%
Body 27 20.6%
Frame AND Members 12 9.2%
Underbody Shields 11 8.4%
Automatic Transmission 11 8.4%
Gasoline 9 6.9%
Frontal 7 5.3%
Interior/Under Dash 4 3.1%

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

1,000 – 9,999 miles 5 3.5%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 7 4.9%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 21 14.8%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 24 16.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles 17 12.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles 32 22.5%
150,000+ miles 36 25.4%

NHTSA crash tests

The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own photographs and star ratings.

These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.

Frontal crash test of a 2000 Jeep Wrangler 2-DR. 4x4

Frontal crash test

Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration Overall Front Side Rollover
2000 Jeep Wrangler 2-DR. 4x4

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

Sep 1999 peak 23 Mar 2026

NHTSA investigations into the 2000 Jeep Wrangler

An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.

PE00018 Opened 14 Apr 2000 Closed 13 Oct 2000 AIR BAGS

AIR BAG MODULE DETACHMENT

ODI HAS RECEIVED A COMMPLAINT STATING THAT THE DRIVER-SIDE FRONTAL AIR BAG MODULE DETACHED FROM THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE ATTEMPTION TO USE THE HORN FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A BRAND NEW MODEL YEAR 2000 JEEP WRANGLE (PURCHASED I LATE MARCH 2000).THE AIR BAG MODULE FELL OFF THE STEERING WHEEL AND WAS HANGING BY ITS WIRES.THE REPAIRING DELERSHIP STATED THAT THE TWO MOUNTING SCREWS, HOLDING THE INTEGTATED HORN/AIR BAG MODULE TO THE STEERING WHEEL, WERE MISSING.THIS INVESTIGATIONN IS OPENED TO DETERMINE THE SCOPE OF THE POTENTIAL PROBLEM OF MIS-ASSEMBLED AIR BAG MODULES IN TH EJEEP WRANGLE VEHICLES.

Recalls on the 2000 Jeep Wrangler

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

United States — NHTSA

06E026000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

06E022000

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT BRAKE CYLINDERS FOR CERTAIN FORD, DAIMLERCHRYSLER, AND JEEP PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE BRAKE CYLINDERS WERE SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF NAPA, RAYBESTOS, AIMCO, AC DELCO, CARQUEST, BENDIX, AND WAGNER. ONLY PRODUCTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 27, 2005 THROUGH JANUARY 17, 2006 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.

Risk: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN LEAD TO A DECREASE IN BRAKE LINE PRESSURE AND AN INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE, WHICH CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

06E011000

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

CERTAIN AFTERMARKET AIRTEX ELECTRIC FUEL PUMPS INSTALLED FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR CERTAIN 1997-2004 JEEP WRANGLER; 1997-2001 JEEP CHEROKEE; 1997-2004 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE; AND 2000-2003 DODGE DAKOTA VEHICLES. THE PLASTIC ELECTRICAL GROMMET CONNECTORS AT THE TOP OF THE FUEL PUMP MODULE ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH AUTOMOTIVE FUELS AND MAY DEGRADE CAUSING A POTENTIAL LEAK PATH FOR FUEL.

Risk: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FUEL LEAK COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

04E041000

EQUIPMENT

BESTOP AFTERMARKET REAR SHELL ROOF RACKS,MANUFACTURED BETWEEN APRIL 27 AND MAY 20, 2004, DESIGNED FOR USE WITH THE BESTOP HARDTOP MADE FOR THE 1986-1995 AND 1997-2003 JEEP WRANGLER. THE COCKPIT COVER MAY NOT STAY LATCHED TO THE ROOF RACK BECAUSE THE LATCH BRACKET MISPOSITIONS THE ROTARY LATCH TO THE COCKPIT COVER. AS A RESULT, THE COCKPIT COVER MAY NOT STAY LATCHED TO THE ROOF RACK AND COULD SEPARATE FROM THE ROOF RACK. THIS RECALL ONLY PERTAINS TO AFTERMARKET REAR SHELL ROOF RACKS AND HAS NO RELATION TO ANY ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED ON JEEP WRANGLER VEHICLES BY DAIMLERCHRYSLER.

Risk: SHOULD THIS OCCUR, THE COCKPIT COULD CAUSE INJURY BY STRIKING PERSONS OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE OR COULD BECOME A DISTRACTION OR AN OBSTACLE TO OTHER DRIVERS, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

02V104000

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:INJECTORS

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 4.0L ENGINE ONLY, THE DESIGN OF THE INTAKE AND EXHAUST MANIFOLDS COULD ALLOW DEBRIS TO ACCUMULATE AT THE #3 CYLINDER LOCATION.

Risk: THIS COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

at 189,873 miles Titusville, FL Fire

STRUCTURE:BODY

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND MY JEEP CAUGHT FIRE FROM UNDERNEATH. I HAD TO STOP AND JUMP OUT TO SURVIVE. IT BURNT COMPLETELY. NOTHING SURVIVED.

NHTSA complaint #11205618 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 189,873 miles Titusville, FL Fire

ENGINE

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND MY JEEP CAUGHT FIRE FROM UNDERNEATH. I HAD TO STOP AND JUMP OUT TO SURVIVE. IT BURNT COMPLETELY. NOTHING SURVIVED.

NHTSA complaint #11205618 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 189,873 miles Titusville, FL Fire

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND MY JEEP CAUGHT FIRE FROM UNDERNEATH. I HAD TO STOP AND JUMP OUT TO SURVIVE. IT BURNT COMPLETELY. NOTHING SURVIVED.

NHTSA complaint #11205618 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 139,000 miles Paublo, CO Crash 1 injured

AIR BAGS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 JEEP WRANGLER. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO AVOID COLLIDING WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A ROCK WALL BARRIER. THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER EXPERIENCED MINOR SORENESS THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED DAMAGE TO THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE BUMPER AND THE FRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED AND REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 139,000.

NHTSA complaint #11102290 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 120,000 miles Tunnel Hill, GA Fire

ENGINE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 JEEP WRANGLER. AFTER PARKING AND SHUTTING OFF THE VEHICLE, SMOKE APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 02V104000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.

NHTSA complaint #10875168 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 120,000 miles Tunnel Hill, GA Fire

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 JEEP WRANGLER. AFTER PARKING AND SHUTTING OFF THE VEHICLE, SMOKE APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 02V104000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.

NHTSA complaint #10875168 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

at 262,384 miles Glendora, CA

PARKING BRAKE

The contact owns a 1994 N/A Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that the vehicle failed the State Inspection because the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 02V041000 (PARKING BRAKE). However, the part to do the recall repair was no longer available. The contact had not experienced a failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The mileage at the failure of the State Inspection was 262,384.

NHTSA complaint #11724178 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 172,000 miles Valley Springs, CA

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 1993 N/A Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that there was a strong fuel odor coming from the vehicle after the vehicle was refueled. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing rough idling and reduced power while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 94V106000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the dealer later informed the contact that the recall part had been discontinued. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the recall part had been discontinued. The contact requested that the manufacturer replace the entire fuel pump assembly. A case was filed. The failure mileage was 172,000.

NHTSA complaint #11715968 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 147,900 miles Gideon, MO

SUSPENSION

WE HAVE FOUND THAT AFTER REMOVING THE BOLTS FROM THE CROSS MEMBER UNDER THE JEEP THAT THE HOLES ARE RUSTED OUT. IN FACT THE FRAME ON BOTH SIDES OF OUR JEEP ARE RUSTED THROUGH FROM NOT HAVING ANY DRAIN HOLES FOR THE WATER TO DRAIN OUT.

NHTSA complaint #11414975 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 200,000 miles Elkridge, MD

SUSPENSION

FRAME ROTTED FROM THE INSIDE OUT AROUND THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS. THE CHASSIS IS OTHERWISE RUST FREE, BUT IT SPONTANEOUSLY ROTTED FROM THE INSIDE OUT. THE LOWER CONTROL ARM DISCONNECTED WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, LEAVING THE REAR AXLE FREE FLOATING, UNSTABLE, AND VERY LIKELY TO CAUSE A CRASH. THE FRAME HAS HOLES IN IT THAT LET WATER IN. THERE IS NO DRAINAGE HOLE WHERE THE FRAME GOES FROM FLAT ON THE BOTTOM AND CURVES UP AROUND THE WHEEL WELLS. WATER GETS INTO THE FRAME, SITS THERE, AND ROTS IT FROM THE INSIDE OUT. THERE IS NO WAY TO SEE THIS ROT FROM THE OUTSIDE AND THERE IS NO WAY TO FIX IT WITHOUT CUTTING OPEN THE FRAME AND WELDING IN REPAIRS. IF YOU GOOGLE IMAGE SEARCH "JEEP TJ FRAME ROT" YOU CAN SEE OTHER CASES OF THE FRAME FAILING IN THE EXACT SAME LOCATION. HERE'S A BLOG POST WITH SEVERAL INSTANCES OF IT HTTPS://SARAHSTONESADIE.BLOGSPOT.COM/2019/05/JEEP-TJ-FRAME-RECALL.HTML IF YOU GOOGLE "TJ FRAME CAP" YOU'LL SEE THERE'S AN ENTIRE SUB MARKET OF PRODUCTS SPECIFICALLY MADE TO ADDRESS THIS FAILURE. TOYOTA HAD A FRAME RECALL, WHY CAN'T JEEP? IT'S CLEARLY FAILING IN THE EXACT SAME PLACE AND CAN CAUSE SEVERE SAFETY ISSUES. ATTACHED IS A PICTURE "PRE_ROT" THAT SHOWED IT ABOUT 6 MONTHS(?) BEFORE IT COMPLETELY ROTTED THROUGH. THE OTHER PICTURE IS AFTER IT FAILED WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY. IT WAS A SMALL RUST BUBBLE THAT STARTED FROM THE INSIDE OUT THAT FAIRLY RAPIDLY RESULTED IN COMPLETE STRUCTURAL FAILURE.

NHTSA complaint #11349047 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 200,000 miles Elkridge, MD

STRUCTURE:BODY

FRAME ROTTED FROM THE INSIDE OUT AROUND THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS. THE CHASSIS IS OTHERWISE RUST FREE, BUT IT SPONTANEOUSLY ROTTED FROM THE INSIDE OUT. THE LOWER CONTROL ARM DISCONNECTED WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, LEAVING THE REAR AXLE FREE FLOATING, UNSTABLE, AND VERY LIKELY TO CAUSE A CRASH. THE FRAME HAS HOLES IN IT THAT LET WATER IN. THERE IS NO DRAINAGE HOLE WHERE THE FRAME GOES FROM FLAT ON THE BOTTOM AND CURVES UP AROUND THE WHEEL WELLS. WATER GETS INTO THE FRAME, SITS THERE, AND ROTS IT FROM THE INSIDE OUT. THERE IS NO WAY TO SEE THIS ROT FROM THE OUTSIDE AND THERE IS NO WAY TO FIX IT WITHOUT CUTTING OPEN THE FRAME AND WELDING IN REPAIRS. IF YOU GOOGLE IMAGE SEARCH "JEEP TJ FRAME ROT" YOU CAN SEE OTHER CASES OF THE FRAME FAILING IN THE EXACT SAME LOCATION. HERE'S A BLOG POST WITH SEVERAL INSTANCES OF IT HTTPS://SARAHSTONESADIE.BLOGSPOT.COM/2019/05/JEEP-TJ-FRAME-RECALL.HTML IF YOU GOOGLE "TJ FRAME CAP" YOU'LL SEE THERE'S AN ENTIRE SUB MARKET OF PRODUCTS SPECIFICALLY MADE TO ADDRESS THIS FAILURE. TOYOTA HAD A FRAME RECALL, WHY CAN'T JEEP? IT'S CLEARLY FAILING IN THE EXACT SAME PLACE AND CAN CAUSE SEVERE SAFETY ISSUES. ATTACHED IS A PICTURE "PRE_ROT" THAT SHOWED IT ABOUT 6 MONTHS(?) BEFORE IT COMPLETELY ROTTED THROUGH. THE OTHER PICTURE IS AFTER IT FAILED WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY. IT WAS A SMALL RUST BUBBLE THAT STARTED FROM THE INSIDE OUT THAT FAIRLY RAPIDLY RESULTED IN COMPLETE STRUCTURAL FAILURE.

NHTSA complaint #11349047 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 150,000 miles KEY West, FL

STRUCTURE:BODY

THE FRONT FRAME CAP, OR MOUNTING BRACKET HAS STARTED IS ROTTING AND DETERIORATING. THIS IS A MAJOR CONCERN WHICH HAS COURSES MANY OTHER SEVERE ISSUES. THIS IS A MAJOR SUSPENSION COMPONENT THAT IS ROTTING AWAY.

NHTSA complaint #11349085 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 171,150 miles Linesville, PA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, SPEED DOESN'T MATTER BC IT HAS HAPPENED AT MULTIPLE SPEEDS, THE SPEEDOMETER AND TACHOMETER WILL DROP TO NOTHING, WHILE THE OTHER GAUGES LIKE GAS, OIL PRESSURE, TEMPERATURE AND SUCH DO NOT HAVE ANY ISSUES AND REMAIN WHERE THEY SHOULD BE! A FEW SECONDS AFTER THE SPEEDOMETER AND TACHOMETER DROP, THE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON AND THE ODOMETER WILL READ 'NO BUS', A FEW SECONDS TO A MINUTE LATER THE GAUGES WILL RESUME AND THE ENGINE LIGHT AND 'NO BUS' DISAPPEAR! ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF THIS IS THE SPEEDOMETER AND TACHOMETER WILL DROP AND OTHER GAUGES NOT BE AFFECTED LIKE PREVIOUS SCENARIO ONLY WITH THIS ONE THE AIRBAG LIGHT WILL ILLUMINATE, LASTS FOR A BRIEF PERIOD AND THEN GOES BACK TO NORMAL! IT HAPPENS SPORADICALLY, BUT HAVE NOTICED IT HAPPENS MORE ON BUMPY ROADS! NONE OF THIS HAS HAPPENED WHILE THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY AT IDLE! ALL WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, VARIOUS SPEEDS, VARIOUS TYPES OF ROADWAYS!

NHTSA complaint #11348742 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 104,690 miles Claremont, NH

STEERING

THE FRONT PORTION OF THE FRAME HAS RUSTED FROM THE INSIDE OUT, NEARLY SEVERING THE STEERING GEAR BOX AND FRAME, FROM THE REST OF THE FRAME. IN ADDITION THE FRAME IN THE SAME LOCATION ON THE PASSENGER SIDE WAS ALSO SOFT TO THE POINT THAT I COULD COMPRESS THE FRAME WITH MY BARE HAND. I DISCOVERED THE PROBLEM AFTER INVESTIGATING WHY THE JEEP WAS SUDDENLY DIFFICULT TO KEEP STRAIGHT WITHIN THE TRAVELING LANE OF WASHINGTON STREET. THANKFULLY, I WAS CLOSE TO HOME AND WAS ABLE TO MAKE IT BACK. I WAS QUOTED $2,200 TO FIX BOTH SIDES OF THE FRAME THROUGH A METAL FRABRICATOR, BUT HE SUGGESTED REPLACING THE ENTIRE FRAME, AS THERE WAS FURTHER ROT CLEAR UP TO THE SPRING BUCKETS. ULTIMATELY I'LL BE FORCED TO TAKE A $4,600 LOAN TO REPLACE THE FRAME. JEEP TJ'S ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR FRAME RUST ISSUES, BUT THE FACT THAT THE RUST WAS UNSEEN JUST WEEKS BEFORE THIS INCIDENT, COMBINED WITH A SUDDEN LOSS OF STEERING STABILITY, IS WORTH TAKING NOTE OF CONCERN. TWO YEARS AGO THIS JEEP HAD NO VISIBLE RUST ANYWHERE ON THE BODY OR FRAME. THE STEERING GEAR BOX WAS REPLACED WITHIN THE LAST YEAR, AND AT THAT TIME THERE WERE NO INDICATIONS THAT THE FRAME WAS COMPROMISED.

NHTSA complaint #11344261 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 104,690 miles Claremont, NH

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

THE FRONT PORTION OF THE FRAME HAS RUSTED FROM THE INSIDE OUT, NEARLY SEVERING THE STEERING GEAR BOX AND FRAME, FROM THE REST OF THE FRAME. IN ADDITION THE FRAME IN THE SAME LOCATION ON THE PASSENGER SIDE WAS ALSO SOFT TO THE POINT THAT I COULD COMPRESS THE FRAME WITH MY BARE HAND. I DISCOVERED THE PROBLEM AFTER INVESTIGATING WHY THE JEEP WAS SUDDENLY DIFFICULT TO KEEP STRAIGHT WITHIN THE TRAVELING LANE OF WASHINGTON STREET. THANKFULLY, I WAS CLOSE TO HOME AND WAS ABLE TO MAKE IT BACK. I WAS QUOTED $2,200 TO FIX BOTH SIDES OF THE FRAME THROUGH A METAL FRABRICATOR, BUT HE SUGGESTED REPLACING THE ENTIRE FRAME, AS THERE WAS FURTHER ROT CLEAR UP TO THE SPRING BUCKETS. ULTIMATELY I'LL BE FORCED TO TAKE A $4,600 LOAN TO REPLACE THE FRAME. JEEP TJ'S ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR FRAME RUST ISSUES, BUT THE FACT THAT THE RUST WAS UNSEEN JUST WEEKS BEFORE THIS INCIDENT, COMBINED WITH A SUDDEN LOSS OF STEERING STABILITY, IS WORTH TAKING NOTE OF CONCERN. TWO YEARS AGO THIS JEEP HAD NO VISIBLE RUST ANYWHERE ON THE BODY OR FRAME. THE STEERING GEAR BOX WAS REPLACED WITHIN THE LAST YEAR, AND AT THAT TIME THERE WERE NO INDICATIONS THAT THE FRAME WAS COMPROMISED.

NHTSA complaint #11344261 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Sevierville, TN

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2000 JEEP WRANGLER TJ WITH VISIBLE FRAME RUST IN FRONT OF REAR WHEELS. LACK OF DRAINAGE HOLES ALLOWS WATER TO ENTER THROUGH FACTORY DRILLED FRAME HOLES LOCATED IN FRONT AND REAR WHEEL WELLS AND ACCUMULATE IN THE LOWER PARTS OF THE FRAME. BY THE TIME RUST IS VISIBLE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE FRAME, THE INSIDE HAS ALREADY BEEN COMPROMISED TO A GREATER DEGREE AS THE RUST PROGRESSES FROM THE INSIDE OUT. AFTER RESEARCHING ONLINE IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL. THERE ARE READILY AVAILABLE KITS TO REPAIR THESE JEEP FRAMES FROM SEVERAL PRIVATE COMPANIES WHICH ILLUSTRATES THE SEVERITY AND PREVALENCE OF THIS PROBLEM. ALTHOUGH THE PARTS ARE AVAILABLE AND INEXPENSIVE, THE COST OF INSTALLATION AS WITH MOST MAJOR VEHICLE REPAIR, IS DANGEROUS AND REQUIRES WELDING WITH SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT AND SKILLS. A REPAIR COMPLETED BY AN UNQUALIFIED PERSON MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE UNSAFE FOR USE ON PUBLIC ROADS. THIS VEHICLE HAS 175000 MILES DRIVEN ENTIRELY (EXCEPT ONE TRIP TO ATLANTA) IN TENNESSEE. THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN DRIVEN ALMOST ENTIRELY ON PAVED PUBLIC ROADS.

NHTSA complaint #11324387 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Sevierville, TN

SUSPENSION

2000 JEEP WRANGLER TJ WITH VISIBLE FRAME RUST IN FRONT OF REAR WHEELS. LACK OF DRAINAGE HOLES ALLOWS WATER TO ENTER THROUGH FACTORY DRILLED FRAME HOLES LOCATED IN FRONT AND REAR WHEEL WELLS AND ACCUMULATE IN THE LOWER PARTS OF THE FRAME. BY THE TIME RUST IS VISIBLE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE FRAME, THE INSIDE HAS ALREADY BEEN COMPROMISED TO A GREATER DEGREE AS THE RUST PROGRESSES FROM THE INSIDE OUT. AFTER RESEARCHING ONLINE IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL. THERE ARE READILY AVAILABLE KITS TO REPAIR THESE JEEP FRAMES FROM SEVERAL PRIVATE COMPANIES WHICH ILLUSTRATES THE SEVERITY AND PREVALENCE OF THIS PROBLEM. ALTHOUGH THE PARTS ARE AVAILABLE AND INEXPENSIVE, THE COST OF INSTALLATION AS WITH MOST MAJOR VEHICLE REPAIR, IS DANGEROUS AND REQUIRES WELDING WITH SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT AND SKILLS. A REPAIR COMPLETED BY AN UNQUALIFIED PERSON MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE UNSAFE FOR USE ON PUBLIC ROADS. THIS VEHICLE HAS 175000 MILES DRIVEN ENTIRELY (EXCEPT ONE TRIP TO ATLANTA) IN TENNESSEE. THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN DRIVEN ALMOST ENTIRELY ON PAVED PUBLIC ROADS.

NHTSA complaint #11324387 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Sevierville, TN

STRUCTURE:BODY

2000 JEEP WRANGLER TJ WITH VISIBLE FRAME RUST IN FRONT OF REAR WHEELS. LACK OF DRAINAGE HOLES ALLOWS WATER TO ENTER THROUGH FACTORY DRILLED FRAME HOLES LOCATED IN FRONT AND REAR WHEEL WELLS AND ACCUMULATE IN THE LOWER PARTS OF THE FRAME. BY THE TIME RUST IS VISIBLE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE FRAME, THE INSIDE HAS ALREADY BEEN COMPROMISED TO A GREATER DEGREE AS THE RUST PROGRESSES FROM THE INSIDE OUT. AFTER RESEARCHING ONLINE IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL. THERE ARE READILY AVAILABLE KITS TO REPAIR THESE JEEP FRAMES FROM SEVERAL PRIVATE COMPANIES WHICH ILLUSTRATES THE SEVERITY AND PREVALENCE OF THIS PROBLEM. ALTHOUGH THE PARTS ARE AVAILABLE AND INEXPENSIVE, THE COST OF INSTALLATION AS WITH MOST MAJOR VEHICLE REPAIR, IS DANGEROUS AND REQUIRES WELDING WITH SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT AND SKILLS. A REPAIR COMPLETED BY AN UNQUALIFIED PERSON MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE UNSAFE FOR USE ON PUBLIC ROADS. THIS VEHICLE HAS 175000 MILES DRIVEN ENTIRELY (EXCEPT ONE TRIP TO ATLANTA) IN TENNESSEE. THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN DRIVEN ALMOST ENTIRELY ON PAVED PUBLIC ROADS.

NHTSA complaint #11324387 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 149,000 miles Catonsville, MD

SUSPENSION

MY JEEP HAS 149,000 MILES. I AM ONLY THE SECOND OWNER. ON APRIL 20, 2019 I DROVE MY JEEP WRANGLER TJ SPORT APPROXIMATELY 10 MILES. I PARKED IT AND WENT BACK 5 MINUTES LATER. WHEN I DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL IT WENT TO THE FLOOR. I HAD IT TOWED TO MY MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT THERE WERE THREE RUST HOLES IN THE BRAKE LINES WHICH WERE LEAKING BRAKE FLUID. HE ALSO INFOMRED ME THAT THE FRAME WAS SO RUSTED THAT IT WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE AT HIGH SPEEDS. I TOOK IT TO A AUTO FRAME SHOP AND WAS GIVEN AN ESTIMATE OF $6,100.00 TO HAVE THE FRAME REPAIRED. I HAVE RESEARCHED THIS ISSUE AND DISCOVERED THAT THEIR IS A COTTAGE INDUSTRY WHICH HAS SPRUNG UP DUE TO THE MULTIPLE JEEPS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. THEY NOTE IN THEIR ADVERTISING THAT THE CHRYSTLER/JEEP WRANGLER T.J. FRAMES WERE MANUFACTURED WITHOUT DRAIN HOLES. THE FRAMES DO HAVE HOLES ON THEIR SIDES JUST BEHIND AND TIRES. WATER FROM THE TIRES GETS SPLASHED UP INTO THE FRAMES. IF YOU LIVE IN THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES THAT MEANS HIGHLY COROSIVE SALT WATER IS BEING SPLASHED UP INTO THE FRAMES ON THESE JEEPS AND RUSTING THE FRAMES FROM THE INSIDE OUT. I HAVE READ ABOUT MULTIPLE JEEP WRANGLER TJ'S SUFFERING FRAME FAILURES DUE TO THE RUST. I AM SHOCKED THAT CHRYSTLER/JEEP HAS NOT RECALLED THE WRANGLER TJ'S TO INSPECT, REPAIR OR REPLACE THE FRAMES ON THEM. I CANNOT BELIEVE CHRYSTLER/JEEP IS UNAWARE OF THE PROBLEM. TOYATA HAS A SIMILAR PROBLEM WITH THEIR TRUCK FRAMES AND THEY HAVE RECALLED VEHICLES. I CANNOT UNDERSTAND WHY THE NHTSA HAS NOT STEPPED UP AND FORCED CHRYSTLER/JEEP TO RECALL THESE VEHICLES. THE OLDER VEHILES ARE NOT SAFE. IT IS YOUR ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITY TO DO SOMETHING TO PROTECT THE CONSUMERS!

NHTSA complaint #11244695 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 118,000 miles Shaker Heights, OH

STRUCTURE:BODY

I BOUGHT MY JEEP IN OCTOBER 2000 AND HAD IT UNDERCOATED AT THE DEALERSHIP BEFORE IT EVER LEFT THE LOT. I HAD TAKEN IT BACK IN MULTIPLE TIMES TO HAVE IT RECOATED AND WHILE THE THE BODY EXPERIENCED SOME RUST DUE TO STONE CHIPS AND AGE THE FRAME STILL LOOKED GOOD UNTIL LAST YEAR WHEN I WENT TO HAVE SOME WORK DONE ON THE JEEP. WHEN LIFTING UP THE JEEP TO WORK ON IT, WE FOUND THAT THE FRAME HAD SOME STRANGE MARKS THAT SEEMED TO BE SHOWING ON THE FRAME. WHEN WE SCRATCHED OFF SOME OF THE UNDERCOATING WE FOUND THAT THE FRAME WAS CRUMBLING FROM THE INSIDE OUT. AFTER LOOKING CLOSER AT THE FRAME WE DISCOVERED THAT DAIMLER CHRYSLER HAD LEFT OPEN HOLES IN THE FRAME INSIDE OF BOTH FRONT AND REAR WHEEL WELLS ON THE SIDE OF THE FRAME NEAR THE TOP OF THE ARC OF THE CURVE IN THE FRAME. THIS MAY HAVE BEEN AN OK DESIGN BUT THEY DID NOT LEAVE ANY DRAIN HOLES IN THE FRAME AT ALL. THIS HAS LEAD TO THE ENTIRE FRAME BEING COMPROMISED WITH NO WAY TO KNOW THAT IT WAS HAPPENING AND NO WAY TO TRY TO PREVENT IT. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AS A FAILURE OF THE FRAME WHILE DRIVING WILL LEAD TO LOSS OF CONTROL AS WELL AS THE RISK OF INJURY OR DEATH.

NHTSA complaint #11242683 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 189,873 miles Titusville, FL Fire

STRUCTURE:BODY

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND MY JEEP CAUGHT FIRE FROM UNDERNEATH. I HAD TO STOP AND JUMP OUT TO SURVIVE. IT BURNT COMPLETELY. NOTHING SURVIVED.

NHTSA complaint #11205618 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 189,873 miles Titusville, FL Fire

ENGINE

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND MY JEEP CAUGHT FIRE FROM UNDERNEATH. I HAD TO STOP AND JUMP OUT TO SURVIVE. IT BURNT COMPLETELY. NOTHING SURVIVED.

NHTSA complaint #11205618 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 189,873 miles Titusville, FL Fire

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND MY JEEP CAUGHT FIRE FROM UNDERNEATH. I HAD TO STOP AND JUMP OUT TO SURVIVE. IT BURNT COMPLETELY. NOTHING SURVIVED.

NHTSA complaint #11205618 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 80,000 miles Troy, NY

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

CATASTROFIC FRAME ROT DUE TO DEFECTIVE DESIGN

NHTSA complaint #11193714 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 177,000 miles Milbridge, ME

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 JEEP WRANGLER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE DID NOT PASS INSPECTION BECAUSE THE FRAME ON BOTH SIDES UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE WAS RUSTED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 177,000.

NHTSA complaint #11189933 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Richmond, KY

STRUCTURE:BODY

FRAME TOTALLY RUSTED WHEN BOUGHT FROM PRIVATE SELLER. THERE ARE HOLES AND RUST EVERYWHERE. WE TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC WHO SAID IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE. THE JEEP ONLY HAS 114,000 MILES ON IT! WE PAID 7500 AND ALL WE BOUGHT IS A RUSTED FRAME BUT A BEAUTIFUL VEHICLE. NOW WE MUST PARK IT. WE CAN'T AFFORD TO FIX IT!!! CHRYSLER SHOULD HAVE A RECALL. WE COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED DRIVING IT!!!

NHTSA complaint #11119958 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 176,000 miles Kailua, HI

STRUCTURE:BODY

2000 JEEP WRANGLER FRAME RUSTED COMPLETELY OUT !

NHTSA complaint #11104902 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 139,000 miles Paublo, CO Crash 1 injured

AIR BAGS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 JEEP WRANGLER. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO AVOID COLLIDING WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A ROCK WALL BARRIER. THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER EXPERIENCED MINOR SORENESS THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED DAMAGE TO THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE BUMPER AND THE FRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED AND REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 139,000.

NHTSA complaint #11102290 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 59,903 miles Langhorne, PA

STRUCTURE:BODY

JEEP FAILED STATE INSPECTION DUE TO RUSTED FRAME COMPONENTS. CANNOT BE DRIVEN DAFELY UNTIL REPAIRS ARE MADE AT OWNERS EXPENSE. NEW FRAME ESTIMATES INCL LABOR AND MATERIAL ABOUT $10000. JEEP CUSTOMER SERVICE REPR HUNG UP ON ME WHEN CALLED.

NHTSA complaint #11102211 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 38,000 miles Fall River, MA

SUSPENSION

JEEP HAS LESS THAN 40,000 MILES AND IS WELL MAINTAINED NEVER OFF ROAD. . WAS DRIVING OVER A BRIDGE WHEN THE REAR END FELT LIKE IT WAS SEPARATING FROM THE BODY OF THE JEEP. JEEP BECAME IMPOSSIBLE TO CONTROL AND I WAS ALMOST HIT TRYING TO GET THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD. JEEP WAS TOWED TO MECHANIC WHO SAID THE FRAME IS NO GOOD REAR CONTROL ARMS SEPARATED FROM THE FRAME THE FRAME HAD RUSTED OUT FROM THE INSIDE. THERE IS NO SOLID STEEL LEFT TO WELD ONTO.

NHTSA complaint #11101873 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 38,000 miles Fall River, MA

STRUCTURE:BODY

JEEP HAS LESS THAN 40,000 MILES AND IS WELL MAINTAINED NEVER OFF ROAD. . WAS DRIVING OVER A BRIDGE WHEN THE REAR END FELT LIKE IT WAS SEPARATING FROM THE BODY OF THE JEEP. JEEP BECAME IMPOSSIBLE TO CONTROL AND I WAS ALMOST HIT TRYING TO GET THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD. JEEP WAS TOWED TO MECHANIC WHO SAID THE FRAME IS NO GOOD REAR CONTROL ARMS SEPARATED FROM THE FRAME THE FRAME HAD RUSTED OUT FROM THE INSIDE. THERE IS NO SOLID STEEL LEFT TO WELD ONTO.

NHTSA complaint #11101873 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.