2017 Jeep Compass: common problems and reliability

The 2017 Jeep Compass has 228 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 4 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and engine. 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 2017 model year

228
Owner complaints
4
Recalls
10
Crash reports
3
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2017 Jeep Compass vehicles (US, public record).

Where owners report problems

electrical system
86
engine
71
power train
42
service brakes
27
steering
15

Recalls affecting the 2017 Compass

electrical system: instrument cluster/panel

Campaign 17V740000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2017-2018 Jeep Compass vehicles. The brightness of the backlighting for the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) cannot be adjusted. As such, these vehicles fail to comply …

equipment

Campaign 17V824000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https…

power train:axle assembly:axle shaft

Campaign 17V301000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017 Jeep Compass vehicles equipped with a 6-speed transmission. The left front halfshaft may not be properly seated, and, as a result, it may disengage from the transmission an…

equipment:other:owners/service/other manual

Campaign 17V433000

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017 Jeep Compass vehicles. The affected vehicles have User's Guides that contain incorrect information regarding the jump start procedure, specifically, the polarity of the bat…

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.

Other Compass model years

2025 Compass2022 Compass2021 Compass2020 Compass2018 Compass2013 Compass2011 Compass2007 Compass
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