48 of the
1,083 complaints about the 2019 Jeep Wrangler are about the
engine — 4% of everything
reported for this model year.
Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before
16,444 miles.
VEHICLE & INCIDENT: 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL 2.0L Turbo. While climbing an extended grade on Hwy 87, vehicle experienced a sudden sluggish throttle anomaly and rapid coolant temperature spike from ~215F to 255F under load. Vehicle was pulled off and shut down within ~20 seconds. SUSPECTED FAILURE MODE & UNDERHOOD FIRE: Upon opening the hood, pressurized coolant had sprayed across the engine bay from a split in the smaller rubber hose branch of the engine coolant outlet assembly (Mopar PN 68280797AC). The hose split longitudinally ~13mm with the center ~32mm from the hose end. The vehicle is equipped with a Baja Designs T-Fitting to replace 68280784A The hot, pressurized coolant sprayed directly onto the exposed, center section of the turbocharger between the compressor and turbine sections and on the turbine section itself. The coolant is suspected to have flash-ignited on contact with the turbo, creating an active under hood fire that began spreading to the hood insulation liner. The fire was successfully doused roadside with water, preventing a total vehicle burn-down. No other fuel sources were noted and the lines to the turbocharger were intact and did not show evidence of a leak. SAFETY CONCERN / HAZARD FOR NHTSA: 1. FIRE HAZARD: Pressurized factory coolant hoses and plastic junctions on the 2.0T GMET4 are routed in close proximity to the unshielded turbine housing. A hose rupture under normal grade-climbing thermal loads results in high-pressure atomized coolant hitting an ignition source well above its auto-ignition point. 2. COMPONENT DEGRADATION: Rubber lines near the engine outlet appear susceptible to heat-fatigue failure under high ambient/high load conditions, posing a sudden fire hazard at highway speeds. REPAIR: Roadside trim/re-clamp of the split hose allowed temporary transit. Replacing full hose assembly (68280797AC), upgrading radiator lines, and performing a full OAT coolant flush/vacuum refill. No oil contamination was noted after the incident.
NHTSA complaint #11755697 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 68,482 milesCovington, WA
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle suddenly lost motive power and stalled, and the vehicle went into LIMP Mode. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The driver was able to safely move the vehicle to the side of the road. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the ABS module had failed. The local dealer was contacted and advised that the replacement part was on backorder and referred the contact to the manufacturer for assistance. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the replacement part was not available. The failure mileage was approximately 68,482.
NHTSA complaint #11752102 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,000 milesDunnellon, FLFire
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the Check Engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to O'Reily's, where a portable diagnostic machine was used; however, no fault codes were retrieved. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was an old warning light. In addition, the contact was informed that the vehicle could be driven. The contact stated that while driving to the residence, the check engine warning light turned off. The failure reoccurred, and the engine seized. The contact stated that the vehicle rolled near the shoulder of the road. The contact became aware of smoke coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that a good Samaritan stopped and assisted the contact. The contact and a good Samaritan became aware of fire coming from the engine compartment near the battery. The good Samaritan attempted to extinguish the fire with a sweatshirt, then used a jug of water from inside the vehicle. No injuries were sustained. The vehicle was towed to the local tow yard. The Carvana dealer where the vehicle was purchased was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was then towed to a repair shop assigned by Carvana. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
NHTSA complaint #11744871 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Clearlake Oaks, CA
ENGINE
Jeep engine stopped running while driving on high way 20.Had to coast to stop in middle of side street.Jeep did start back up but would not go into drive until an hour of trying to get it into gear.Drove it home.Next morning I started jeep but would not go into drive.It was stuck in park.
NHTSA complaint #11733878 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Gulfport, MSFire
ENGINE
I was driving my 2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 2.0T/AT to the gym with my spouse. No Check Engine Light, Jeep Temps were perfect. All gauges operated as it should, so there was no sign of trouble. The vehicle was OFF. We parked and walked into the gym and then into the 1 set of exercises, Someone yelled in the gym that someone's truck was on fire. We ran outside and Lo and Behold it was our Jeep. The Engine Compartment Was totally Destroyed. Please Look At the Pictures for Reference.
NHTSA complaint #11732154 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mcdonough, GA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
See attached document for complaint.
NHTSA complaint #11730372 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Minneapolis, MN
ENGINE
Engine lights on Glass Recalibration failed multiple times. Engine failure when Jeep comes to a complete stop vehicle totally shuts down and needs to be restarted. When manufacture was contacted: not able to sell new engine. Resolution used engine with same issue. No real Resolution.
NHTSA complaint #11724009 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 61,000 milesWest Jordan, UT
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a misfire coming from the engine, and there was a backfire coming from the exhaust system. Additionally, there was a coolant intrusion in cylinder #3 and a burning in the head gasket. The contact stated that the engine overheated and the vehicle failed to restart after it was turned off. The catastrophic engine failure was attributed to coolant intrusion into the combustion chamber, which caused severe internal damage. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where the engine was being replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 61,000.
NHTSA complaint #11721982 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 61,000 milesWest Jordan, UT
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a misfire coming from the engine, and there was a backfire coming from the exhaust system. Additionally, there was a coolant intrusion in cylinder #3 and a burning in the head gasket. The contact stated that the engine overheated and the vehicle failed to restart after it was turned off. The catastrophic engine failure was attributed to coolant intrusion into the combustion chamber, which caused severe internal damage. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where the engine was being replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 61,000.
NHTSA complaint #11721982 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 111,000 milesMartinsville, IN
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle decelerated unintendedly and failed to exceed 40 MPH. Additionally, the vehicle lost power steering functionality and became difficult to steer. The contact stated that the vehicle later operated as needed; however, the failure recurred several times while driving. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 111,000.
NHTSA complaint #11674246 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 49,700 milesDayton, MN
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the vehicle was restarted. The contact continued to drive, but the power steering became inoperable. The contact stated that the vehicle became extremely hot, and the cells popped and damaged the battery. The contact stated that the check engine, power steering, and battery warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 49,700.
NHTSA complaint #11672434 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pevely, MO
ENGINE
LIKE EVERYONE ELSES JEEP WHILE DRIVING, ALL THE WARNING SIGNALS, BELLS, WHISTLES START GOING OFF. LOSE POWER STEERING, LOSE POWER, PUT JEEP IN PARK, CANNOT GET IT TO GO BACK IN DRIVE. SOEMTIMES WILL NOT START JUST LOOK IT UP ON TICTOK
NHTSA complaint #11665621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Live Oak, FL
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the water temperature gauge rose and failed to return to a normal engine temperature. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and became aware that the third reservoir tank was empty. The contact waited until the engine had cooled down, added coolant, and then continued driving the vehicle. The contact became aware of coolant leaking around the water pump. The dealer was informed of the failure however, the contact had not heard from the dealer. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11660847 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Peachtree City, GA
ENGINE
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a bulletin about coolant leaks in Jeep Wranglers with 2.0L engines: Bulletin: 07-001-20 REV. A, dated April 9, 2020 Vehicles affected: Jeep Wranglers built before November 30, 2019 with a 2.0L I4 DOHC DI Turbo Engine or 2.0L I4 DOHC DI Turbo Etorque Engine Issue: The coolant inlet tube fasteners may become loose, causing a coolant leak Solution: Remove the coolant inlet tube fasteners, clean the threads, add Thread Loc, and reinstall Tightening torque: Tighten to 11N∙m (8ft. lbs.) A coolant leak can cause the engine to overheat and potentially lead to engine failure. Engine fan was not shutting off after leaving a covered parking garage and an engine alert appeared and displayed that the engine was overheating. Had my jeep towed home. We were able to see that the main coolant reservoir was empty and that there was dry coolant all around the engine. Our jeep has not been fixed and is not drivable. Need guidance as there isn’t a recall on this but a known issue, and you have a bulletin out about it.
NHTSA complaint #11618709 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Mesa, AZ
ENGINE
Every light started blinking and the auto start started flashing and said auto start disabled. The jeep slowly started to die. I pulled over off the high way thankfully in a safe spot and it locked up. The steering wheel locked the shifter couldn’t move. Turned the car off and back on it was clicking but not turning off. Had to get it towed. There were no loud noises no oil leaking nothing. No indicators before hand of the Jeep needing oil change or misfiring. Got it diagnosed and they said my engine seized up and I had blew a piston. WITH NO WARNING or indicator of anything in the months weeks days prior. My engine light never came on.
NHTSA complaint #11615294 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesSaint Cloud, FL
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving at approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle experienced a loss of motive power. The contact pulled over the shoulder of the roadway, but the vehicle failed to restart. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer however, the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer unrepaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
NHTSA complaint #11615012 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lebanon, TN
ENGINE
So driving about 50-55mph, the dash lights lite up like a christmas tree. Everything from ABS, shifter lock, sway bar, airbags, traction control, aux battery and some other things that i can't remember. Engine lost power, power steering and unable to shift out of park. I took to my local dealer, I didn't buy it from them, and they diagnsoed the issue of a faulty ABS module. This module has been in the stage of "engineering" for over a year. I spent $900 on one ABS module that was available out of 5 in the US from another dealer and to get 20 minutes down the road only to have it happen again. The vehicle was at the dealer for 5 weeks. The new part was to become available on May20th. Two days ago the service manager called to tell me that they pushed the date to Aug 20th. This will be almost 2 years in this process with this part. The manager then proceeded to tell me it will probably be longer as Jeep went to a new vendor and it is redoing the part. I know of hundreds of other owners in the same boat. Jeep star techs say they can't diagnose past this part so I am paying on a big paper weight since November 23. I have started a case with Jeep customer care only for them to say they can't do anything financially or anything other than help expedite the issue. This is a lost cause as it is still being developed 2 years later. My GM of the dealership said he has 4-5 others at his lot in the same boat and a number of other owners with vehicles like myself at the house. I feel the need for someone to put pressure on the vendor to help with getting a recall on this situation.
NHTSA complaint #11589352 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hawthorne, FL
ENGINE
It started about 4 months ago and continues to get worse and more frequent but it starts shaking and wobbling violently at high speeds especially if you hit a bump it’s almost impossible to keep it in the road. It’s very scary and dangerous. After googling I heard about the death wobble which Chrysler has recalled some of the same models as mine. Any information or help you could give us would be appreciated. It also just started overheating when sitting idle probably not related but don’t understand why mine is having so many problems it’s not old enough
NHTSA complaint #11579423 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lake Arrowhead, CAFire
ENGINE
Took jeep to dealership it had 36,000 miles They worked on it for 40,000miles service And to ck wobble on jeep Mechanic took jeep for test drive it exploded luckily he new how to escape I don’t know what the cause of it was insurance are taking care of it
NHTSA complaint #11549050 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Odentonodenton, MDFire1 injured
ENGINE
Engine caught on fire
NHTSA complaint #11530384 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orlando, FL
ENGINE
After coming to a complete stop every time, the Auto Start/Stop kicks in and when it is time to accelerate the Jeep stalls, takes itself out of drive, lights start flashing, radio goes off, and windshield wipers start going. After getting through the disorientation of everything happening and cars honking at you or jamming on breaks to not hit you; one will need to re-step on the break, put the vehicle in park, restart the Jeep (if it starts, sometimes it takes 3 times pushing the start button or it may need a jump started. This is such a dangerous situation. I bought the Jeep in Oct of 2019. Had Batteries (both) replaced in Jan 2021. Still under warranty i took back to them this past Saturday, they said the main battery needed a 117 minute charge and the smaller battery was fine. they let it sit for 45 minutes and it started right up for them. The next morning same thing, struggling to turn over. I am again going to take to dealership as much as i do not want to as this is an on going issue not getting resolved.
NHTSA complaint #11522303 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 75,000 milesNorth Little Rock, AR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM):SOFTWARE
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH uphill, the vehicle failed to respond upon depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle lost power steering functionality. Additionally, the stereo and the windshield wipers engaged independently. A message indicating a shifter column failure was displayed, and other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to exit the highway and pulled into a driveway, where she parked the vehicle. The contact stated that the engine continued running after pressing the Start/Stop button several times to turn off the vehicle. Additionally, the contact stated that the engine revved up significantly while the accelerator pedal was not depressed. The contact pressed the Start/Stop button again, and the vehicle turned off. The contact then restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle responded as needed; however, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that upon using an OBD reader, codes indicating lost communication with ABS control module, torque request signal from PCM denied, CAN communication messages missing, invalid data from ECM/PCM, Lost communication with SCM/CANC and implausible missing transmission message, were read. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
NHTSA complaint #11520954 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 50,000 milesStamping Ground, KY
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the engine continued to rev up quickly, immediately followed by an abnormally loud sound coming from the engine compartment. Additionally, the contact stated that metal shards were seen coming from the vehicle onto the roadway. The contact was veered to the side of the roadway and had the vehicle towed to a dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V116000 (Power Train) however, the parts for the repair had not yet been developed. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
NHTSA complaint #11519735 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Chicago, IL
ENGINE
2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport - while driving the steering wheel locks up and all lights on dashboard come on. Several error messages "Auto Park Disabled", "Speed Control Messaging Unavailable", "Service Antilock Brake System", "Service Transmission Continue in DRIVE. Do Not Shift or Turn Off Engine" - to name a few. The car will not shut off, I had to remove a fuse to get the truck to turn off. No dealer or mechanic can assess or fix. Major Saftey concern. There needs to be a recall. Im out thousands of dollars trying to fix. My warranty expired the truck is a lemon. 04/16/2023 UPDATE- Letter from Attorney Gen. Off. of Illinois along with consumer complaint online form that states- Consumer had recall repairs done, issue still not fixed. Wants class action lawsuit. Requesting an exchange or refund for repairs, monetary compensation for pain & suffering, from anxiety and missed days at work from being stranded.
NHTSA complaint #11516362 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Duette, FL
ENGINE
It has happened several times since we got the vehicle. There are times we are on the freeway and we press the gas but the car slows down and makes a horrible sound then after a little while we wiggle the shift handle and move it around to make it go. It has been very scary. Also the car has turned off when stopped at red light. We called the dealership and they just turned off the auto start. They told us we do not have extended warranty and that was it. Also the steering wheel gets locked up. We just pray that nothing happens to us. Could you advice please.
NHTSA complaint #11515786 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Nolensville, TN
ENGINE
While driving with no warning the fuse array went bad causing the Jeep to lose all power including power steering and started jerk and pulsate. Everything turned off and left the vehicle stranded for several minutes in the middle of a dark street at night. Hazard lights did not work as well during this time. After continuously pushing the start button it started back up with the dashboard showing all different warnings with the clearest one in the middle of the dash reading “stop safely the vehicle will shut off soon” the vehicle was taken to the local dealership where it did the same thing for them. Later it was confirmed by them it was the fuse array.
NHTSA complaint #11505511 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oakley, CA
ENGINE
Service shifter light, EVERYTHING ON THE DASH BORD LIGHTS, UP, THE WHEEL LOCKS , NO EMERGENCY LIGHTS CAN BE TURN ON, WHEN THE SERVICE SHIFTER LIGHTS UP, OR PARK. THIS IS A MANUFACTURER HAZARD, ANY ONE CAN BE HURT. THIS HAPPEN TO ME IN THE RAIN , MULTIPLE TIMES, EXITING FROM FWY . I WAS NOT ABLE TO TURN ON THE EMEGENCY LIGHTS , I HAD MY NEWBORN IN THE CAR. I HAD TO STAND OUTSIDE IN THE RAIN WITH MY HANDS UP, LETTING THE TRAFFIC GO SOMEWHERE ELSE
NHTSA complaint #11503263 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Medway, MA
ENGINE
Intermittent loss of power steering and throttle. Gears lock and do not shift. Every code is flashing on dash, ABS, shifter, traction control, air bags.
NHTSA complaint #11476636 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salinas, CA
ENGINE
2019 Jeep Wrangler Sahara numerous fault vehicle slows down speedometer loss abs brake warning ,4 wheel drive service warning, blind spot warning, complete loss of power while driving. Taken to the Jeep dealer was told no fault codes available come get it. So making preparation to pick up vehicle finally dealer service reported that vehicle faulted with those code. I had the vehicle towed prior to service due to the transmission not being able to shift into any gear. There are several reports online with same problem total electrical system failure. Keep n mind vehicle has approximately 7500 miles. Vehicle currently under what they call Star service because Dealer has no idea to fix it.
NHTSA complaint #11469546 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Plainville, MA
ENGINE
Clutch failed at 4000 miles and 3 months of ownership on a brand new 2019 Wrangler Unlimited. Blame placed on me, 2 dealerships before they would do it with out charge. 3 months later 1st recall comes out. Also when clutch was failing the Start/Stop system said it needed service. The clutch went a second time after 30,000 miles. was forced to pay 2900, second recall came out at same time and the recall was done when new clutch was installed. Took almost a month and no loaner car or rental available. Now clutch starting to smell and fail, 30,000 miles later. Poor clutch, recalls did nothing to actually address the prob. The start/stop system failed twice leaving my jeep in run but the engine off and would not start. Kept saying push in clutch and start, but it would never start. all electrical in the car stayed on for 2 hours. A PCM needed to be replaced, 2+ weeks without a vehicle. Start/Stop failed again in traffic this time, needing to be pushed. Replaced battery, thought that it failed because the battery needed replacement. The problem still persists.
NHTSA complaint #11468948 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.