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Model reliability

Jeep Wrangler reliability

The Jeep Wrangler fails its MOT more often than most cars 6 to 10 years old: 28.3% of 1,646 tests failed in 2023, against 24.4% on average.

Up to 5 years old
12% failed their MOT
About average
From 1,610 MOT tests of Jeep Wranglers this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 35% more oftenHeadlamp aim2.3% vs 1.7%Fix about £30
Fails 3× as oftenExhaust emissions2.2% vs 0.8%Fix about £150
6 to 10 years old
28.3% failed their MOT
Worse than most
From 1,646 MOT tests of Jeep Wranglers this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 3× as oftenHeadlamp aim6.9% vs 2.5%Fix about £30
Fails 8× as oftenDirection indicators5.9% vs 0.7%
Fails 11× as oftenFront and rear fog lamps4.3% vs 0.4%Fix about £30
Fails 2× as oftenBrake performance4% vs 1.9%
Over 10 years old
32.1% failed their MOT
Better than most
From 644 MOT tests of Jeep Wranglers this age. A small sample, so take it as a rough guide: a few cars either way can move these figures.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 6× as oftenFront and rear fog lamps5.7% vs 1%Fix about £30
Fails 2× as oftenDirection indicators4.7% vs 2.3%
Fails 38% more oftenWipers3.6% vs 2.6%
Fails 40% more oftenSeat belts1.4% vs 1%
Advised 3× as oftenAnti-roll bars15.4% vs 6%
Safety recalls

34 DVSA recalls for the Jeep Wrangler

Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.

R/2026/13020 Mar 2026Built 2006–2012Passenger airbag inflator

In the event that the airbag is activated excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator body to rupture and metal fragments may pass through the cushion material causing injury to the vehicle occupants and / or in worst cases a fatality. The concern is caused by moisture in the air getting past faulty seals and being absorbed by the pyrotechnic biscuits in the inflator. As a result it is more likely to occur sooner in areas of high humidity and high temperature difference.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the passenger front air bag module which includes the inflator.

Recalled models: WRANGLER

R/2026/13520 Mar 2026Built 2009–2016Passenger airbag inflator

Passenger air bag may deploy incorrectly if activated.

Fix: Replace the passenger air bag inflator.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 1,281 vehicles

R/2026/0602 Mar 2026Built 2017–20222018-2022 Jeep Wrangler Check Engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp Incorrect operation and warning

On affected vehicles the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) may not function as intended in the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). This condition will not affect emissions. However in the event of an emission issue that would require illumination of the MIL the driver may not be alerted due to the MIL not illuminating.

Fix: Install updated software.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 1,450 vehicles

R/2026/02916 Feb 2026Built 2020–20242020-2025 Jeep Wrangler and 2022-2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee PHEV vehicles. High voltage battery.

On affected vehicles the High Voltage (HV) battery may have been built with a battery pack which contains cells which are susceptible to separator damage which combined with other complex interactions within the cells may lead to a vehicle fire.

Fix: Reprogram the battery pack control module with modified software and check and if necessary replace the HV Battery.

Recalled models: WRANGLER

R/2025/28521 Aug 2025Built 2024–2025Warning chime does not cancel

On affected vehicles equipped with traffic sign recognition software the traffic sign speed limit warning chime may not cancel as intended and may not display an image of the traffic sign. This does not comply with the regulations.

Fix: Install updated instrument panel software.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 425 vehicles

R/2024/33113 Sept 2024Built 20232023 Jeep Wrangler steering column control module (SCCM) internal failure

Affected vehicles may have a Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) that may have been built with an insufficient weld between an internal flexible flat cable (FFC) and busbar. This may prevent deployment of the driver airbag resulting in increased risk of injury to the driver in a crash

Fix: Inspect and if necessary replace the Steering Column Control Module.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 13 vehicles

R/2024/28722 Aug 2024Built 2015–2016Jeep Wrangler 2016 (JK) Airbag clockspring

On certain vehicles the steering wheel airbag clock spring may have been built with a design that can allow dust or dirt to enter the mechanism when exposed to certain environmental conditions.

Fix: Replacement of the steering wheel airbag clock spring.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 187 vehicles

R/2024/15930 May 2024Built 2020–2023Windscreen defrost

Affected vehicles may have been built with incorrectly programmed Hybrid Control Processor (HCP) software which may result in a disabled windscreen defrost system under certain conditions.

Fix: Update the hybrid control Processor (HCP) software.

Recalled models: Wrangler PHEV

R/2021/37810 Nov 2021Built 2020The fuel supply line connector may crack

The fuel supply line connector may crack.

Fix: Inspect the date code on the fuel line tag. If the date falls within the specified range replace the line. If the tag is missing replace the line.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 229 vehicles

R/2021/32820 Oct 2021Built 2020–2021The statutory plate label maybe missing the whole vehicle type approval number for the european market

The statutory plate label maybe missing the Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA) number for the European market.

Fix: : Replace the statutory plate label with a new statutory plate label containing the WVTA number.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 314 vehicles

R/2021/08913 Apr 2021Built 2019–2020The statutory plate label may be missing the whole vehicle type approval (wvta) number

The statutory plate label maybe missing the Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA) number.

Fix: Replace the statutory plate Label with a new statutory plate label containing the WVTA number.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 77 vehicles

R/2021/07117 Mar 2021Built 2019The front seat belt retractor may have been built with an improperly formed wave disc

The front seat belt retractor may have been built with an improperly formed wave disc.

Fix: Replace the front seat belt retractor.

Recalled models: JEEP WRANGLER · 1 vehicles

R/2020/16929 Oct 2020Built 2019–2020The transmission harness may have insufficient clearance to the catalytic converter

Insufficient clearance between transmission harness and catalytic convertor.

Fix: Inspect the transmission wiring harness reposition harness or replace if heat damaged.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 547 vehicles

R/2020/02828 Feb 2020Built 2017–2019The transmission wiring harness may have insufficient clearance with the catalytic converter

Insufficient clearance for the transmission wiring harness

Fix: Inspect the harness for damage and replace if necessary.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 664 vehicles

R/2019/14324 May 2019Built 2017–2019The steering intermediate shaft may contain a loose nut

The steering intermediate shaft may contain a loose foreign nut in the cardan joint boot.

Fix: Replacement of the steering intermediate shaft on the affected vehicles.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 881 vehicles

R/2018/0816 Apr 2018Built 2017Brake lamp switch may malfunction

The brake lamp switch may malfunction which can be identified by a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination an audible chime and the brake lights will be illuminated. A malfunctioning brake switch could allow the vehicle to be shifted out of PARK without the brake pedal being depressed and could cause the rear brake lamps to be continuously illuminated. Being able to shift a vehicle out of PARK when the brake pedal is not depressed (and the ignition is in the RUN mode) and/or having the rear brake lamps continuously illuminated could cause a vehicle to crash without prior warning.

Fix: Replace the brake lamp switch.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 22 vehicles

R/2018/06819 Mar 2018Built 2008–2013Passenger Airbag inflator

The front passenger airbag inflator (PAB) may contain propellant that could possibly degrade over a period of time. This may cause metal fragments to pass through the air bag and into the vehicle interior at high speed which may result in injury to vehicle occupants in the event of a deployment event.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the inflator assembly.

Recalled models: WRANGLER

R/2017/04231 Mar 2017Built 2006–2010Airbag circuit may be compromised

The driver' s airbag clockspring may ingest dust. This may cause the airbag warning light to illuminate. It may also affect the air bag operation in the event of a collision.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the air bag clock spring steering wheel back cover and steering column shrouds.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 1,306 vehicles

R/2016/28023 Dec 2016Built 2015–2016Airbag and/or pretensioner may fail to deploy in a collision

The front impact sensor wire(s) may become detached during a crash event before the �impact signal� is recorded by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). This may affect deployment of airbags and/or operation of pretensioners.

Fix: On affected vehicles the existing front end module wiring harness must be modified then routed and secured to a new location.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 235 vehicles

R/2016/20812 Oct 2016Built 2010–2016Airbag circuit may be compromised

The driver' s airbag clockspring may ingest dust. This may cause the airbag warning light to illuminate. It may also affect the air bag operation in the event of a collision.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the air bag clock spring steering wheel back cover and steering column shrouds.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 2,165 vehicles

R/2015/1926 Nov 2015Built 2005–2006Unintended vehicle movement

The clutch interlock switch may be faulty. This could allow starting of the engine without depressing the clutch pedal and with the transmission engaged.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace the clutch interlock switch.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 988 vehicles

R/2015/07324 Apr 2015Built 2010–2013Electronic stability control may become disabled

The Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) may experience electrical interference (static) in the SCCM printed circuit board communication circuit. This unintended electrical interference (static) can cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) to become disabled and the ESC warning lamp to illuminate. A loss of ESC function during certain driving conditions could cause a crash without warning.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and reprogramme the Steering Column Control Module.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 1,069 vehicles

R/2015/07421 Apr 2015Built 2010–2013Risk of fire

The power side view mirrors may experience a loss of right and/or left heated power mirror function. This is due to corrosion caused water may travelling along the heated power mirror wiring harness and into the heated power mirror electrical connector(s). This corrosion inside the forms a resistive bridge between the power and ground electrical terminals and could cause a fire without warning.

Fix: On affected vehicles relocate the power feed electrical terminal for the heated power mirrors to a separate electrical connector and add a water shield.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 2,348 vehicles

R/2011/0248 Apr 2011Built 2007–2008Tow bar may detach

Vehicles fitted with a MOPAR brand tow bar there is a possibility the tow bar may allow the towed vehicle to become detached from the tow vehicle. This may result in a loss of control and a crash without warning.

Fix: Repair is to replace the cross tube and all associated mountings. Most vehicles will not have this type of tow bar fitted.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 1,064 vehicles

R/2010/22518 Mar 2011Brakes may fail

Front inner fender liners may detach or sag allowing fender liner to contact brake pipes. Continuous fender liner contact with the brake pipes could result in a hydraulic leak and reduce brake performance. This loss in brake performance could cause a crash without warning.

Fix: Modify and refit fender liners securing clips. If required renew brake pipes.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 1,291 vehicles

R/2010/04123 Apr 2010Fire may occur

Under certain driving conditions the transmission fluid may overheat. Continuous operations under these conditions may cause the fluid to boil over and come into contact with hot exhaust and engine components which might lead to an under bonnet fire.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to reprogramme the cabin compartment computer to add a transmission temperature warning feature. An addendum will also be added to the Owner's Manual.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 25 vehicles

R/2009/0305 May 2009Manufacturers weight label is incorrect

It has been identified that during manufacturer an incorrect label indicating the maximum gross (GCW) carrying weight was installed. The current label indicates a maximum GCW of 6085 kg however the vehicle was certified to 6005 kg only.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the subject label replaced with one indicting the correct GCW.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 107 vehicles

R/2007/15815 Feb 2008Built 2006–2007Electronic brake control module may allow a momentary delay in brake application.

It has been established that the software programmed into the electronic brake control module (EBC) may permit a momentary delay in brake application when coasting uphill during certain conditions.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the EBC reprogrammed.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 9,427 vehicles

R/2002/04529 Nov 2002Built 2002Ignition switch may short circuit

The ignition switch may short circuit in the presence of water and impurities. This could cause a vehicle fire.

Fix: Recall vehicles and replace ignition switch.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 265 vehicles

R/2002/06129 Nov 2002Built 2001–2002Underbonnet fire concern

Debris may accumulate on the exhaust manifold. This could lead to an under bonnet fire.

Fix: Install an intake/exhaust manifold debris shield.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 1,651 vehicles

R/1998/0701 Feb 1999Inaccurate indication of fuel tank contents

The fuel tank level sending unit may cause the fuel gauge to display an inaccurate fuel level. As a result the vehicle may run out of fuel when the gauge still indicates that there is fuel remaining in the tank.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and fit a quality assured fuel tank sender unit.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 9,206 vehicles

R/1998/03622 Jun 1998Built 1997Brake booster diaphragm may split

The brake booster diaphragm on affected vehicles may split or rupture causing a loss of brake power assistance. This can result in increased effort being required at the brake pedal.

Fix: Recall the affected range of vehicles examine the power brake booster and replace if necessary.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 157 vehicles

R/1998/04315 Jun 1998Built 1998Front seat shoulder belts adjustable anchors may have inadequate strength

The front shoulder belt adjustable anchors on affected vehicles may have been improperly manufactured and could have inadequate strength. An anchor with inadequate strength may allow the front shoulder belt to separate from the anchor under certain accident conditions.

Fix: To correct this condition both front shoulder belt adjustable anchors must be replaced.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 20 vehicles

R/1995/0294 Apr 1995Built 1993Leakage of fuel from tank area

The fuel tank sending unit gasket may crack resulting in the potential for fuel leakage.

Fix: Recall the affected vehicles for straightening of the sending unit flange and the fitment of a new gasket.

Recalled models: WRANGLER · 647 vehicles

DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Crown copyright, Open Government Licence).

Checking a Jeep Wrangler before you buy

Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.

Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests 2023 (Open Government Licence v3.0). Failure rates compare this model with all cars in the same age band. Fix prices are typical independent-garage estimates.
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