Avoid: 2022, 2021, 2020, 2018 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2004 · Best recent: 2016
24 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 30 model years, the Jeep Wrangler has 28,379 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 227 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and steering. 2021 drew the most complaints (2,955), 2003 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (102).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Jeep Wrangler vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $22,687–$36,690.
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 | 34 |
| 2025 | 229 |
| 2024 | 2,509 |
| 2023 | 507 |
| 2022 | 2,406 |
| 2021 | 2,955 |
| 2020 | 1,241 |
| 2019 | 1,484 |
| 2018 | 1,824 |
| 2017 | 622 |
| 2016 | 461 |
| 2015 | 948 |
| 2014 | 1,312 |
| 2013 | 1,308 |
| 2012 | 1,666 |
| 2011 | 970 |
| 2010 | 1,372 |
| 2009 | 1,022 |
| 2008 | 1,255 |
| 2007 | 1,058 |
| 2006 | 730 |
| 2005 | 650 |
| 2004 | 192 |
| 2003 | 102 |
| 2002 | 108 |
| 2001 | 177 |
| 2000 | 288 |
| 1999 | 223 |
| 1998 | 271 |
| 1997 | 455 |
Highest: 2021 (2,955 complaints). Lowest: 2003 (102).
Mixed sentiment with a clear division based on intended use. The vehicle is universally praised for its exceptional off-road capability, iconic styling, the ability to remove the top and doors, and a strong, supportive owner community.
Vehicle wanders, requires constant steering input, rides rough.
Particularly noticeable at highway speeds due to boxy shape and removable top/doors.
Described as "guzzling gas.".
Reputation for frequent repairs and expensive issues; cited as a weakness of the manufacturer.
Specifically on the frame and suspension arm mounts of older models (e.g., TJ generation).
Owner insights cover all generations of the Wrangler. Individual model years are broken down above.
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