Jeep Wrangler engine problems

2,753 of the 23,013 complaints filed about the Jeep Wrangler are about the engine — 100% of everything owners reported. The worst model year for it is 2024.

2,753

Complaints

100%

Share of all complaints

39

Crashes

203

Fires

Engine & Cooling complaints by model year

1987 Wrangler 9 0.3%
1988 Wrangler 8 0.3%
1989 Wrangler 13 0.5%
1990 Wrangler 11 0.4%

Median failure at 99,000 miles

1991 Wrangler 14 0.5%
1992 Wrangler 8 0.3%

Median failure at 103,824 miles

1993 Wrangler 19 0.7%

Median failure at 60,000 miles

1994 Wrangler 29 1.1%

Median failure at 130,000 miles

1995 Wrangler 39 1.4%

Median failure at 103,000 miles

1997 Wrangler 122 4.4%

Median failure at 73,000 miles

1998 Wrangler 58 2.1%

Median failure at 53,000 miles

1999 Wrangler 53 1.9%

Median failure at 56,500 miles

2000 Wrangler 28 1.0%

Median failure at 95,000 miles

2001 Wrangler 26 0.9%

Median failure at 82,000 miles

2002 Wrangler 8 0.3%

Median failure at 124,000 miles

2003 Wrangler 7 0.3%

Median failure at 24,000 miles

2004 Wrangler 13 0.5%

Median failure at 4,025 miles

2005 Wrangler 41 1.5%

Median failure at 64,833 miles

2006 Wrangler 29 1.1%

Median failure at 44,000 miles

2007 Wrangler 62 2.3%

Median failure at 54,500 miles

2008 Wrangler 48 1.7%

Median failure at 70,204 miles

2009 Wrangler 23 0.8%

Median failure at 55,000 miles

2010 Wrangler 53 1.9%

Median failure at 43,000 miles

2011 Wrangler 42 1.5%

Median failure at 67,883 miles

2012 Wrangler 179 6.5%

Median failure at 40,000 miles

2013 Wrangler 144 5.2%

Median failure at 63,000 miles

2014 Wrangler 331 12.0%

Median failure at 52,000 miles

2015 Wrangler 132 4.8%

Median failure at 45,570 miles

2016 Wrangler 93 3.4%

Median failure at 45,000 miles

2017 Wrangler 63 2.3%

Median failure at 52,000 miles

2018 Wrangler 101 3.7%

Median failure at 15,700 miles

2019 Wrangler 49 1.8%

Median failure at 16,444 miles

2020 Wrangler 60 2.2%

Median failure at 37,895 miles

2021 Wrangler 220 8.0%

Median failure at 27,100 miles

2022 Wrangler 90 3.3%

Median failure at 15,250 miles

2023 Wrangler 102 3.7%

Median failure at 10,000 miles

2024 Wrangler 400 14.5%

Median failure at 20,000 miles

2025 Wrangler 25 0.9%
2026 Wrangler 1 0.0%

What owners said

2021 Jeep Wrangler Charleston, SC

ENGINE

After the safety recall 68C, the vehicle no longer operates as designed. In electric only mode, the gas engine engages, which is bad for the engine. This fails to give the engine time to prepare for short sudden use. When driving, the high voltage battery will lag or not produce power as it did prior. This can cause an accident (which it almost did already for myself). The acceleration lags before engaging. This vehicle performed properly prior to this software (1/1/2026) update. I don't trust or feel safe in my vehicle at this juncture. I seek the manufacturer to correct this for the safety of those who drive these vehicles.

NHTSA complaint #11763990 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2023 Jeep Wrangler Spanaway, WA. 98387, WA

ENGINE

Manufacturer Recall Number68C NHTSA Recall Number25V-741 Recall StatusRecall Incomplete Cannot charge and "recommended" to not charge, or park by my own house!! waiting for solution for over a year now. Its unsafe and cannot even get good trade in value. Help me solve this or buy it back. pay it off. something! Its unsafe for my kids and family and property. It needs to get fixed asap

NHTSA complaint #11764089 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2015 Jeep Wrangler Tucson, AZ

ENGINE

I purchased this 2015 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon new and have maintained and serviced it regularly. At approximately 75,000–80,000 miles, the engine began developing a ticking noise from the passenger/right cylinder head area. The problem progressively worsened. At approximately 100,000 miles, repairs were performed involving the right-side cylinder head and camshaft because of camshaft/valvetrain wear and a persistent cylinder #2 misfire. The right-side cylinder head/camshaft area has required repair more than once. Rocker arms were also replaced, but the underlying problem continued. The vehicle now has approximately 150,000 miles. The engine recently shut down and developed a loud mechanical noise. Upon inspection, significant wear/damage was again found involving the right-side exhaust camshaft/valvetrain, and there are concerns involving the timing chain/tensioning system. A failure of these components while driving could cause sudden engine shutdown or loss of power, creating a safety risk. The vehicle has also developed electrical/safety-related problems. The airbag warning light is illuminated, and the steering-wheel controls and steering-wheel illumination are not functioning. The vehicle was involved in an accident in 2019; however, the engine ticking condition was already present before that accident, although it was less noticeable at that time. Despite previous repairs, the engine/valvetrain problem has returned. I am reporting this because the repeated camshaft/valvetrain failure, persistent cylinder #2 issue, possible timing-system problem, and associated risk of engine shutdown appear abnormal and potentially safety-related for a regularly maintained vehicle.

NHTSA complaint #11763968 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2020 Jeep Wrangler Las Vegas, NV

ENGINE

My Jeep Wrangler currently has a very strong fuel smell, and when the AC is on the smell is very strong inside the cabin. My kids and I became Ill and had headaches. It's been parked for two weeks. Pending an inspection by an independent mechanic. We came across an article stating that a lot of 2020 Jeep Wranglers with 2.0L motors were recalled because of the same issue but my Jeep was not recalled and I'm having the same issue. Is there anything you can do to help me?

NHTSA complaint #11763846 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2025 Jeep Wrangler Lugoff, SC Fire

ENGINE

The contact called for an acquaintance who owned a 2025 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the driveway, a neighbor saw black smoke coming from the vehicle. The neighbor called the authorities first and then called the contact, who was not at the residence during the failure. The vehicle caught on fire, and the neighbor alerted the occupants inside the residence about the fire. The Fire Department arrived on the scene and extinguished the fire. The fire burned several trees in the yard and damaged the concrete in the driveway. A fire report was filed. The remnant of the vehicle was towed to a salvage yard and deemed a total loss.

NHTSA complaint #11762719 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2015 Jeep Wrangler La Vista, NE

ENGINE

From September 2024 I have a problem with the engine system make a noise i always make oil change on time and also electric problems and seatbelts problems l know a 2 3 owner off jeep wrangler with the same problem

NHTSA complaint #11762642 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2019 Jeep Wrangler Detroit, MI

ENGINE

2019 Jeep Wrangler JLU experienced intermittent CAN-C communication failure. Vehicle has repeatedly experienced simultaneous loss of multiple electronic systems. On September 7th 2026, while driving, vehicle unexpectedly lost electric power steering, windshield wipers activated without command, ABS/TPMS/ESC warning lights illuminated, and vehicle subsequently would not shift into gear after stopping at a traffic light. Hazard lights would not activate. After shutting vehicle off, vehicle would not enter ACC or restart normally. Opening driver’s door unexpectedly caused vehicle to enter ACC. Manipulating the CAN-bus wiring/STAR connector behind the glove box has historically temporarily restored normal operation. Vehicle has previously required repair to this wiring/connector, and the failure has recurred. This has been occurring for at least 3 years and since 60,000 miles. This presents a significant safety hazard because steering assistance, shifting/propulsion, and signaling were simultaneously affected while driving. It is a known Chrysler issue (FCA STAR Case S2108000146) and should be recalled as there is a CLEAR and present danger with this ongoing issue.

NHTSA complaint #11762615 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2024 Jeep Wrangler Priest River, ID

ENGINE

Intermittent delayed/loss of acceleration when accelerator is depressed, along with abnormal switching between electric and gasoline propulsion. Symptoms began after recall 68C was performed. I was on all electric at the time going 40 mph when compressing the accelerated did not work and the car seemed to slow for a few seconds before it engaged. I have roughly 15,500 miles on the Jeep and got the 68C done last fall.

NHTSA complaint #11762315 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2024 Jeep Wrangler Salt Lake City, UT

ENGINE

I left my home for work on XXX. I noticed a lack of propulsion upon stepping on the gas & air conditioning blowing warm air. At a stoplight ([XXX] and [XXX] in [XXX]), I attempted to restart the vehicle in hopes that a reset may fix any issues. What I found was that my vehicle would not restart and I could not remove it from park in a busy intersection. After 30 minutes of trying, I was able to get it to turn on and move to the Burger King parking lot. A tow truck arrived and took me to the [XXX] Valley Chysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealer. They told me it would take until Tuesday XXX to look at it. They could not offer me a loaner nor a rental vehicle. They called on XXX and said it was a battery defect and may take weeks to repair. To date, my vehicle with 27,000 miles have been in for four separate recalls, citing lack of propulsion, risk of battery fire. Zero accidents. I no longer feel safe driving the vehicle after recalls: "the 2.0 engine may be contaminated with sand from the casting process ... leading to catastrophic engine failure." "firmware software...may cause loss of drive power which can cause a vehicle crash." "The high voltage battery may become damaged during normal vehicle operation ... advising owners to park away from structures or other vehicles" "Electric Hydraulic Power Steering Pump may have electrical issue ... may lead to a fire." The manufacturer and dealer are offering minimal insight or restitution for my experience or safety. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11762272 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2023 Jeep Wrangler Willowbrook, IL

ENGINE

Vehicle went into “limp mode” as I was entering an intersection. Pressed accelerator to the floor and vehicle would only sputter and crawl slowly. Vehicle towed to dealership. My safety and the safety of others was put at risk as the vehicle, without warning, essentially stalled while driving. If there were other vehicles on the roadway, this could have easily caused an an accident with injuries or worse. Yes the problem was comfirmed by the dealership. Yes the vehicle has been inspected by the dealer and manufacturer engineer. Dealership reports high voltage battery needs replacement. Dealership states that they cannot guarantee this won’t happen again even after battery is replaced. Check engine light was illuminated.

NHTSA complaint #11761713 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2021 Jeep Wrangler at 170,000 miles Johnstown, PA Fire

FIRERELATED

The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while seated inside the vehicle while the vehicle was stationary, the contact heard a pop and then saw flames coming from underneath the hood. The contact safely exited the vehicle. The fire was extinguished by bystanders nearby with fire extinguishers and water. The fire department arrived on the scene, but the fire was already extinguished. The fire department pried the hood open. The vehicle was inspected by the Police and the Fire Department. A police report was filed. The contact stated sustained smoke inhalation, but medical attention was not sought. The failure mileage was 170,000.

NHTSA complaint #11761429 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2024 Jeep Wrangler Oak Park, MI

ENGINE

Vehicle engine light comes on and says loss of power restart engine. Dealer found no codes and no repairs were made. This is the second occurrence.

NHTSA complaint #11760555 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2017 Jeep Wrangler Kings Mountain, NC

ENGINE

The first time happening I was driving on the interstate going about 70 miles an hour in the dark, the car completely shut down with no warning I was able to coast then tried to restart the vehicle and it started. I was able to get off the road and to my destination. The second time this happened, it was 5am in the morning getting on the interstate going about 40 miles an hour I got to the end of the ramp and merged into traffic again no warning the car shut down. This time the vehicle would not restart. I was able to coast to the shoulder with traffic approaching on me. Had to wait for a tow in the dark by myself.

NHTSA complaint #11759825 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2022 Jeep Wrangler Hartsville, TN

ENGINE

I took my 2022 Jeep Wrangler to my local Jeep dealership for a 21D Fire risk campaign recall inspection and powertrain software update. Car had to be towed to dealership a few days after services were completed, and was diagnosed at dealership, with an offline TCM, throwing a U0101 code. Car was in good working, driving order prior to the recall and software update and is now completely inoperable.

NHTSA complaint #11759015 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2020 Jeep Wrangler Naperville, IL

ENGINE

Absolutely terrible gasoline vapor filling the inside cabin of the vehicle causing burning eyes, nausea and feeing ill. Checked for fuel, leak, leakage recall, while there was one it wasn’t including our VIN, however, after inspection and repair, it is the exact same damage as what was indicated in the recall. Looking for a full refund for repair and compensation for danger, discomfort, safety and inconvenience of vehicle not being included in the original recall. I am appalled and insulted that JEEP dealerships aren’t more more proactive in having to appeal these dangerous situations.

NHTSA complaint #11758700 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2020 Jeep Wrangler Corbett, OR

ENGINE

The 2.0L Turbo engine suffers from premature failures. Jeep issued a TSB over leaking around the water pump, but did not notify owners. My engine overheated due to low coolant (there's no low coolant warning), and the temperature gauge proves to be unreliable. My engine suffered a head gasket failure due to overheating, while within the factory warranty period, and Jeep would not honor their warranty. My Jeep only has 33,700 miles on it, and the failure initially happened in 2024. I spent over a year going back and forth with Jeep, and in the end, they simply stopped responding. BTW, tried to upload 2 small .JPG files, but repeatedly said "upload failed".

NHTSA complaint #11758718 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2022 Jeep Wrangler Dallas, TX

ENGINE

I am reporting repeated premature failures of the factory charge air cooler (turbo intercooler) hoses on my 2022 Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel (3.0L V6). Within 73,000 miles, both the primary and secondary turbo charge hoses have hardened, cracked, and failed under standard boost pressure. Safety Risk: When these turbo charge hoses split, the engine experiences an immediate and complete loss of boost pressure (limp mode / Code P0299), severely restricting acceleration and vehicle speed. This sudden, unannounced loss of engine power occurs while driving at highway speeds, creating a severe rear-end collision hazard in heavy traffic. Failure History & Repair Documentation: First Hose Failure: Replaced by an authorized Jeep dealership at under 60,000 miles (November 2025). Second Hose Failure: Replaced by an authorized Jeep dealership at 73,000 miles (August 2026). Stellantis/Jeep treats these recurring structural hose splits as non-warranty "wear and tear," forcing out-of-pocket repairs despite the severe highway safety hazard caused by sudden power loss. I am requesting NHTSA open a safety defect investigation into the material failure rate of 3.0L EcoDiesel charge air hoses.

NHTSA complaint #11758720 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2005 Jeep Wrangler at 154,000 miles Yuba City, CA

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2005 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was flashing. The contact pulled over to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to three different independent mechanics to be diagnosed, and the third mechanic diagnosed the vehicle with camshaft failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted and referred the contact to the manufacturer. The manufacturer informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under Chrysler Campaign Number: E05 due to the engine build date. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 154,000.

NHTSA complaint #11758518 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2021 Jeep Wrangler at 56,700 miles Auburn, WA

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the engine overheated, and the vehicle was driving sluggishly with the temperature gauge indicating that the engine was overheating. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined that the coolant reservoir was cracked and was leaking coolant. The coolant reservoir was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to immediately start due to battery failure. No further information was available. The local dealer was notified of the failures, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 56,700.

NHTSA complaint #11758236 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

2021 Jeep Wrangler Denver, CO

ENGINE

When using electric mode, repeatedly and consistently, when I try to accelerate (for example to get onto a highway) despite having the acceleration fully depressed, the car does not accelerate. After some time, the gas powered engine will rev, the RPM will shoot up and then the car will start to accelerate. If I slow down the electric engine will take back over, but then if I try to accelerate again the same thing will occur. I have videos of the dashboard confirming electric mode, delay to accelerate and eventual activation of the gas motor and RPMs. This same issue was noted by Jeep technicians after the fix for a previous recall on the battery. This is dangerous, If I am not able to accelerate I can not safely drive change lanes, go onto highways, or avoid danger. it has been occurring, but my first video is from Feb 2026, and most recently July 2026.

NHTSA complaint #11758009 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Other Jeep Wrangler problems