2013 Jeep Compass: common problems and reliability
The 2013 Jeep Compass has 80 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are power train and air bags. Owners most often flag poor reliability and build quality — 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. frequency: very frequent.
Safety record for the 2013 model year
80
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
7
Crash reports
5
Fire reports
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2013 Jeep Compass vehicles (US, public record).
Where owners report problems
power train
27
air bags
16
electrical system
13
engine
10
seat belts
9
Recalls affecting the 2013 Compass
seat belts:pretensioner
Campaign 16V668000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles. The Occupant Restraint Control …
What owners say across generations
Owner sentiment is predominantly negative, with widespread criticism focused on poor reliability, subpar build quality, and weak performance. The vehicle is frequently described as a poor value proposition, especially when purchased new at or near MSRP, due to
Poor reliability and build quality — 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. Frequency: very frequent.
Transmission problems — 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. Frequency: very frequent.
Underpowered engine — 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. Frequency: very frequent.
Electrical system issues — 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. Frequency: recurrent.
Unrefined driving dynamics — Criticized for feeling top-heavy, unresponsive, and poorly engineered compared to competitors. Excessive road noise and a cheap-feeling interior are also noted. Frequency: recurrent.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Compass.
Typical used price
Used Compass listings typically run $25,170–$27,692 across 2018 to 2026 model years.