Avoid: 2022, 2019, 2018, 2007 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2009 · Best recent: 2021
17 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 20 model years, the Jeep Compass has 3,985 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 38 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. 2018 drew the most complaints (942), 2023 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (46).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Jeep Compass vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $15,772–$23,763.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 4 |
| 2025 | 26 |
| 2024 | 52 |
| 2023 | 46 |
| 2022 | 222 |
| 2021 | 80 |
| 2020 | 140 |
| 2019 | 329 |
| 2018 | 942 |
| 2017 | 229 |
| 2016 | 293 |
| 2015 | 113 |
| 2014 | 307 |
| 2013 | 80 |
| 2012 | 184 |
| 2011 | 187 |
| 2010 | 81 |
| 2009 | 64 |
| 2008 | 172 |
| 2007 | 434 |
Highest: 2018 (942 complaints). Lowest: 2023 (46).
Owner sentiment is predominantly negative, with widespread criticism focused on poor reliability, subpar build quality, and weak performance.
Very frequent reports of major mechanical issues (transmission, engine) and numerous electrical problems, often requiring expensive repairs well before 100,000 miles. Brand frequently ranked last in reliability surveys.
CVT transmissions (including Jatco units shared with Nissan) are notorious for failure, overheating, and sluggish performance. Conventional automatic transmissions also cited for being slow to respond and laggy.
Described as dangerously slow, with sluggish acceleration and lack of passing power, making the vehicle feel unsafe. The 4-cylinder engine is specifically called out for lacking power.
Recurrent problems with the CAN bus system causing cascading failures (e.g., power steering), faulty wiring, infotainment system failures (including blank screens), and moisture ingress damaging components.
Criticized for feeling top-heavy, unresponsive, and poorly engineered compared to competitors. Excessive road noise and a cheap-feeling interior are also noted.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Compass. Individual model years are broken down above.
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