Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Jeep Renegade
SUV · Gas · 9 versions · owner report
Ranked #14 of 15 used subcompact SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Power
Combined, EPA 2023
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, heavily dependent on model year and powertrain.
8 problems reported (4 very frequent, 4 recurrent) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentPoor reliability / major component failures
Very frequent complaints encompassing engines (2.4L oil consumption, piston ring failures), transmissions (9-speed automatic failures, jerky shifting, "reprogramming" required), and electrical systems (module failures, battery issues).
- Very frequentUnderpowered, unrefined engines
Sluggish acceleration, excessive engine noise when stressed, turbo lag (1.3L/1.4L), lack of passing power. The 2.4L is specifically criticized.
- Very frequent9-speed automatic transmission problems
Jerky shifts, hesitation, reliability concerns, high failure rates, particularly in early model years.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- Very frequentElectrical system gremlins
Random warning lights, infotainment failures (especially older UConnect), battery drain issues, faulty modules (e.g., Powertrain Control Module).
- RecurrentMySky sunroof failures
Mechanism prone to breaking, very expensive to repair, commonly cited as a design flaw.
- RecurrentLow-quality interior materials
Excessive hard plastics, cheap-feeling switchgear compared to segment rivals.
- RecurrentRide quality / noise
Bouncy ride, excessive road and wind noise at highway speeds.
- RecurrentRapid depreciation
Significant loss in value shortly after purchase, poor resale value compared to Japanese competitors.
The version owners recommend
Trailhawk trim is frequently mentioned for maximizing off-road capability with features like increased ground clearance, skid plates, and a locking rear differential. For later model years (post-2019), the 1.3L turbo engine is strongly recommended over the older 2.4L naturally aspirated engine. The manual transmission paired with the 1.4L turbo (in pre-2019 models) is noted for better fuel economy and pep, though not recommended for towing.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ford Bronco Sport, Subaru Crosstrek/Outback, Honda HR-V, Toyota RAV4 and Toyota C-HR.
Is the Renegade right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, heavily dependent on model year and powertrain. The vehicle is praised by a subset of owners for its unique, quirky styling, surprisingly spacious interior for its compact footprint, good headroom, decent fuel economy (reports of 30-34 MPG with the 1.4L turbo), and genuine off-road capability in Trailhawk trim. It is frequently described as a fun, characterful vehicle that is easy to park and capable in winter conditions with proper tires. However, significant and very frequent criticism centers on poor long-term reliability, particularly for early model years (2015-2017). Major concerns include problematic engines (notably the 2.4L "Tigershark"), a notoriously unrefined and failure-prone 9-speed automatic transmission, and pervasive electrical issues. The powertrain is widely described as underpowered, slow, and unrefined, with pronounced turbo lag, sluggish acceleration, and excessive engine noise when pushed. The consensus indicates that satisfaction is highly conditional on getting a post-2018 model with the updated 1.3L turbo, diligent maintenance, and a significant tolerance for potential repairs.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more affordable, style-focused, and genuinely capable off-road alternative within the subcompact crossover segment. It is considered more capable off-road than mainstream competitors like the Honda HR-V, Toyota C-HR, and Kia Seltos, and is often compared directly to the Ford Bronco Sport, with some owner feedback suggesting the Bronco Sport is sportier and more capable. It is consistently described as inferior to competitors from Toyota, Honda, and Mazda in terms of reliability, refinement, interior material quality, and long-term value retention. The related Fiat 500X is noted as a more street-tuned platform cousin. It is viewed as a vastly more practical and fuel-efficient daily driver than a Jeep Wrangler, but not a replacement for Wrangler-level off-road prowess.
Recommended configurations
Post-2019 models with the 1.3L turbo engine. Trailhawk trim for off-road intent. Avoid the 2.4L "Tigershark" engine, especially in model years 2015-2017. Avoid the early iterations of the ZF 9-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is recommended for resale value and winter capability. Avoid the MySky sunroof option due to high failure rates. Plan for aftermarket radio head unit replacement, particularly in older models with defunct UConnect 3G systems. Use high-quality synthetic oil and adhere to strict, frequent oil change intervals (every 3,000-5,000 miles). Consider pre-emptive transmission fluid changes on automatic models. Winter tires are recommended for snow performance.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers who prioritize distinctive styling, compact urban dimensions, and light-to-moderate off-road capability over long-term reliability and refinement. Not recommended for buyers seeking a powerful, quiet, or engaging driving experience. NOT recommended for purchase at or near original MSRP due to steep depreciation. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a specialist is essential, with a focus on engine health, transmission operation, and electrical systems. Only consider with a comprehensive warranty or a significant budget for out-of-warranty repairs. For daily driving only, more reliable competitors (e.g., Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30) are strongly advised.
Remarks
Owner experiences are sharply divided by model year, creating a "two-tier" reliability perception. Models from the launch years (2015-2017) are almost universally criticized for severe mechanical and electrical issues. Community feedback indicates notable improvements in powertrain reliability for models built after 2018, particularly with the introduction of the revised 1.3L turbo engine and updated transmission software, though underlying concerns about long-term durability persist. The vehicle was discontinued in the US and Canadian markets in 2023 but remains in production elsewhere. A significant portion of negative sentiment stems from buyers who expected Toyota-like reliability from an entry-level, style-focused Jeep, leading to disappointment. Analysis based on approximately 50 substantive owner discussions and inquiries.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2017. Years to avoid: 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Jeep Renegade years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 20 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2022 | 26 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 67 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 62 | 3 | engine |
| 2019 | 79 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 442 | 2 | engine |
| 2017 | 564 | 3 | engine |
| 2016 | 430 | 2 | engine |
| 2015 | 511 | 4 | power train |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices24 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2023 · air bags:frontalcampaign 24V510000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia, 2018-2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, 2019-2023 Fiat 500X, Jeep Renegade, and 2024 Fiat 500E vehicles. A seat belt buckle switch sensor may be improperly connected, preventing the front seat air bag from deploying as intended.
2023 · exterior lighting:back up lightscampaign 24V918000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Renegade vehicles. The incorrect bumper reverse light assembly may have been installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2022 · air bags:frontalcampaign 24V510000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia, 2018-2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, 2019-2023 Fiat 500X, Jeep Renegade, and 2024 Fiat 500E vehicles. A seat belt buckle switch sensor may be improperly connected, preventing the front seat air bag from deploying as intended.
2022 · exterior lighting:back up lightscampaign 24V918000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Renegade vehicles. The incorrect bumper reverse light assembly may have been installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2021 · air bags:frontalcampaign 24V510000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia, 2018-2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, 2019-2023 Fiat 500X, Jeep Renegade, and 2024 Fiat 500E vehicles. A seat belt buckle switch sensor may be improperly connected, preventing the front seat air bag from deploying as intended.
2021 · exterior lighting:back up lightscampaign 24V918000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Renegade vehicles. The incorrect bumper reverse light assembly may have been installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2020 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:calipercampaign 19V909000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X vehicles. The right rear brake caliper could have been fractured during the casting process.
2020 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 20V191000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Cherokee, 2019-2020 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Renegade and 2019 Dodge Challenger vehicles equipped with 8.4" or 12" radio displays. A software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
2020 · air bags:frontalcampaign 24V510000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia, 2018-2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, 2019-2023 Fiat 500X, Jeep Renegade, and 2024 Fiat 500E vehicles. A seat belt buckle switch sensor may be improperly connected, preventing the front seat air bag from deploying as intended.
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 20V191000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Cherokee, 2019-2020 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Renegade and 2019 Dodge Challenger vehicles equipped with 8.4" or 12" radio displays. A software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
2019 · air bags: air bag/restraint control modulecampaign 19V287000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X vehicles. Incorrect software may cause the occupant restraint controller (ORC) module to disable certain passive safety features.
2019 · air bags: air bag/restraint control modulecampaign 19V438000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Renegade vehicles equipped with the Upland trim package. The Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) may have been incorrectly calibrated.
2019 · air bags:frontalcampaign 24V510000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia, 2018-2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, 2019-2023 Fiat 500X, Jeep Renegade, and 2024 Fiat 500E vehicles. A seat belt buckle switch sensor may be improperly connected, preventing the front seat air bag from deploying as intended.
2018 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 18V731000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Jeep Renegade 4X2 flex fuel/E85 vehicles equipped with a 2.4L engine. In certain operating conditions such as high power demand in conjunction with high altitude and/or high ambient temperatures, a manufacturing error in the fuel pump assembly may result in a loss of fuel pressure.
2018 · electrical system:wiring:front underhoodcampaign 18V524000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles and 2018-2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid vehicles. The powertrain control module may be equipped with a voltage regulator chip in the circuit board that may fail, causing a stall or a no start condition.
9 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
2.4 MultiAir2 TIGERSHARK
2.4L 4-cylinder · 182 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2019–2026