Jeep Wrangler Power Train Problems

Source: NHTSA · Updated Oct 13, 2026 · 2,176 complaints analyzed

Owners have filed 2,176 complaints with NHTSA about power train problems on the Jeep Wrangler across 31 model years. The 2012 model year has the most (282). The words owners use most often: “power train steering” (11% of reports).

What owners describe

Phrases that appear unusually often in these complaints compared with complaints about other cars.

  • Power train steering: mentioned in 245 of 2,176 complaints (11%)
  • Oil cooler: mentioned in 128 of 2,176 complaints (6%)

How much does it cost to fix?

Owners who wrote down what they paid or were quoted put the typical power train repair on the Jeep Wrangler at $1,650, and half of them between $770 and $3,500.

Based on 25 NHTSA complaints about this problem alone that state a repair bill or quote (2001–2026), converted to 2026 dollars with the U.S. consumer price index. These are owners' own figures, not a quote: they include dealer quotes, and owners who file complaints often faced larger repairs, so they can run higher than typical shop prices. Prices vary by shop, region and warranty coverage. How we calculate this.

At what mileage do power train problems happen?

Based on 890 complaints that reported the odometer reading.

Under 10k miles205 · 23%
10k–25k miles177 · 20%
25k–50k miles193 · 22%
50k–75k miles181 · 20%
75k–100k miles70 · 8%
100k–150k miles50 · 6%
150k+ miles14 · 2%

How serious are the reports?

Of 2,176 complaints, 50 mention a crash, 68 a fire, 23 an injury.

Jeep Wrangler power train complaints by model year

Peak: 2012, with 282 complaints
1995: 3219951997: 531998: 331999: 2019992000: 702001: 232002: 1420022003: 222004: 262005: 4120052006: 572007: 462008: 6720082009: 342010: 682011: 4020112012: 2822822013: 2302014: 8820142015: 512016: 742017: 5020172018: 1772019: 792020: 4720202021: 1462022: 652023: 5120232024: 1772025: 122026: 12026

n = 2,176 complaints · Source: NHTSA

Model yearPower Train complaintsShare of that yearMedian miles
2026 Wrangler19%—
2025 Wrangler1217%—
2024 Wrangler17724%12,500
2023 Wrangler5114%21,000
2022 Wrangler6516%17,000
2021 Wrangler14615%15,000
2020 Wrangler478%3,750
2019 Wrangler7911%37,250
2018 Wrangler17710%27,294
2017 Wrangler5016%19,000
2016 Wrangler7416%31,000
2015 Wrangler5111%33,000
2014 Wrangler8813%44,000
2013 Wrangler23035%23,161
2012 Wrangler28234%18,250
2011 Wrangler408%35,000
2010 Wrangler6810%25,250
2009 Wrangler349%41,750
2008 Wrangler678%59,500
2007 Wrangler468%64,000
2006 Wrangler578%24,000
2005 Wrangler416%58,000
2004 Wrangler2614%32,500
2003 Wrangler2222%17,000
2002 Wrangler1413%20,000
2001 Wrangler2314%90,000
2000 Wrangler7028%35,400
1999 Wrangler209%52,000
1998 Wrangler3312%95,000
1997 Wrangler5313%73,815
1995 Wrangler3216%74,000

When owners reported it

Peak: 2014, with 372 complaints
1995: 219951996: 41997: 41998: 2019981999: 262000: 602001: 4220012002: 222003: 332004: 2320042005: 142006: 182007: 1120072008: 52009: 102010: 3920102011: 402012: 532013: 11520132014: 3723722015: 792016: 7320162017: 532018: 682019: 9120192020: 822021: 822022: 8420222023: 1652024: 1252025: 21520252026: 146

n = 2,176 complaints · Source: NHTSA

Related recalls (13)

Power train:manual transmission:control module:softwareAug 1, 2024 · NHTSA campaign 24V572000 · 94 vehicles

Model years: 2021

Problem: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator vehicles that were previously remedied under NHTSA recall number 23V-116. The software for the powertrain control module may cause an engine stall, which can result in a loss of drive power.

Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 92B. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 23V-116 will need to have the new remedy completed.

Power train:manual transmissionSep 18, 2023 · NHTSA campaign 23V641000 · 6,298 vehicles

Model years: 2022, 2023

Problem: Chrysler (FCA US), LLC is recalling certain 2022-2023 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. The rearview camera may fail to display the rearview image and the reverse lights may not illuminate when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 111, "Rear Visibility" and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: A disabled rearview image can decrease the driver's visibility of the rear view, and disabled reverse lights may not alert others that the vehicle is reversing, increasing the risk of injury or crash.

Fix: Dealers will replace the gear position sensor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 16, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 92A.

Power train:clutch assemblyFeb 23, 2023 · NHTSA campaign 23V116000 · 69,201 vehicles

Model years: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023

Problem: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Jeep Wrangler, and 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.

Risk: Overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will replace the clutch assembly and update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed from November 16, 2023 through July 25, 2024. Owners may contact (FCA US, LLC) customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 19A. This recall expands and replaces previous recall 21V-028. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 21V-028 will need to have the new remedy completed.

Power train:clutch assemblyJan 28, 2021 · NHTSA campaign 21V028000 · 42,887 vehicles

Model years: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021

Problem: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Jeep Wrangler and 2020-2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.

Risk: Overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will add software to reduce engine torque capability when clutch assembly temperatures rise to a level that may damage the inner pressure plate, free of charge." FCA has ordered a stop sale for the affected vehicles as of February 25, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 4, 2021.

Power train:clutch assemblyMar 3, 2020 · NHTSA campaign 20V124000 · 33,237 vehicles

Model years: 2018, 2019, 2020

Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Jeep Wrangler and 2020 Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.

Risk: The overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reroute a wire harness and inspect the clutch system, and replace components as needed. The recall began April 30, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W12.

Power train:automatic transmissionMay 1, 2018 · NHTSA campaign 18V280000 · 71 vehicles

Model years: 2018

Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Dodge Charger, Durango and Challenger, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, Chrysler 300, and RAM 1500 vehicles. An incorrect transmission park lock rod may have been installed in the transmission.

Risk: If the incorrect park lock rod is installed, the transmission may not shift into 'PARK' and keep the vehicle from moving, increasing the risk of unintended vehicle movement and the risk of a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install the correct park lock rod, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U43.

Power train:clutch assembly:pedal/hand lever(motorcycle)Apr 15, 2015 · NHTSA campaign 15V222000 · 43,939 vehicles

Model years: 2006

Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2006 Dodge Viper and Jeep Wrangler and Liberty vehicles manufactured July 1, 2005, to July 31, 2006. In the affected vehicles, the springs within the clutch pedal position switch that prevents the vehicle from starting unless the clutch pedal is pushed down may break. As a result, the vehicle may not be started when the clutch pedal is pushed down or the engine may crank and start without the clutch pedal being pushed down causing the vehicle to unexpectedly lurch.

Risk: If the vehicle unexpectedly moves there is an increased risk of a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the clutch ignition interlock switch, free of charge. The recall began on August 31, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R13.

Power train:automatic transmission:cooling unit and lines; steering:hydraulic power assist:hose, piping, and connectionsJun 4, 2013 · NHTSA campaign 13V234000 · 180,131 vehicles

Model years: 2012, 2013

Problem: Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Jeep Wrangler vehicles equipped with a 3.6L engine and an automatic transmission and manufactured January 23, 2011, through February 23, 2013. The power steering line may contact and wear a hole in the transmission oil cooler line resulting in a loss of transmission fluid.

Risk: A loss of transmission fluid may result in a loss of transmission function which may increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the power steering return tube assembly, free of charge. The recall began on September 23, 2013. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign number is N28.

Power train:automatic transmissionMay 16, 2012 · NHTSA campaign 12V216000 · 65,246 vehicles

Model years: 2010

Problem: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2010 jeep wrangler vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. The transmission skid plate, which is close to the catalytic converter, can collect debris.

Risk: If this occurs, the debris can ignite without warning, resulting in a vehicle fire.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the skid plate with a skid bar, free of charge. Owners may contact chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Power train:axle assemblyMar 1, 2011 · NHTSA campaign 11V145000 · 18,326 vehicles

Model years: 2010, 2011

Problem: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 jeep wrangler vehicles manufactured from july 12, 2010, through september 10, 2010. Some vehicles may experience a degradation of fastener torque for various front and rear axle attachments to the chassis module.

Risk: This could result in noise, or ultimately, degradation in steering and handling characteristics which could lead to loss of directional control of the vehicle increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will re-torque all nineteen fasteners to the maximum residual torque values. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on march 24, 2011. Owners may contact chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Power train:automatic transmissionNov 5, 2009 · NHTSA campaign 09V436000 · 88,461 vehicles

Model years: 2007, 2008

Problem: Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2007 through 2008 jeep wrangler vehicles manufactured from june 2006 through july 2008, equipped with automatic transmissions. These vehicles were not equipped with a transmission fluid temperature warning system.

Risk: Fluid could boil over and may come into contact with a hot engine or exhaust component and cause a fire.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and install a "hotoil" message in the instrument cluster and a chime indicating an elevated transmission fluid condition. The recall began on february 22, 2010. Owners may contact chrysler at 1-800-835-1403.

Power train:clutch assemblyMay 3, 2006 · NHTSA campaign 06V147000 · 6,876 vehicles

Model years: 2006

Problem: On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with 6 speed manual transmissions, the hydraulic clutch master cylinder linkage rod may break. This may not allow disengagement of the clutch when the pedal is depressed.

Risk: Unintentional vehicle movement, increased stopping distance, and engine stalling could occur which could result in a crash.

Fix: Dealers will replace the clutch master cylinder linkage rod free of charge. The recall began on august 7, 2006. Owners may contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Power train:automatic transmissionOct 6, 2005 · NHTSA campaign 05V460000 · 256,409 vehicles

Model years: 2005, 2006

Problem: On certain pickup trucks, sport utility and passenger vehicles equipped with 42rle automatic transmissions, the cup plug that retains the park pawl anchor shaft may be improperly installed. If the shaft moves out of position, the vehicle may not be able to achieve 'park' position.

Risk: If this occurs and the parking brake is not applied, the vehicle may roll away and cause a crash without warning.

Fix: Dealers will inspect the transmissions and install a bracket to ensure the park pawl anchor shaft is retained in the proper position. The recall began on november 28, 2005. Owners may contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

What owners report

Short excerpts of recent complaints, with personal details removed. Full reports are on NHTSA.gov.

I purchased my 2021 used with 29k miles in April 2024. Since then I have had to deal with three recalls but one of particular concern- 68c, meant to reduce the incidence of fire caused by the battery cell separators. Since then I have experienced a very noticeable change in how the Jeep drives…

Received Oct 12, 2026 · NHTSA complaint 11770522

I own a 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Sport S that has experienced a significant and potentially dangerous reduction in propulsion power following the completion of Recall 68C (NHTSA Campaign 25V741000) by an authorized Jeep dealership. These problems began after the recall software update and were not…

Received Oct 12, 2026 · NHTSA complaint 11770542

i PURCHASED MY 2022 JEEP RUBICON 4XE USED ON MARCH 31, 2026. IN APRIL, I HAD A RECALL NOTICE FOR RECALL 68C. I TOOK IT TO MY JEEP DEALER AND HAD THE RECALL DONE. IMMEDATELY, I NOTICED THAT MY ACCELERATION IN ELECTRIC MODE & HYBRID MODE IS DRASTICALLY REDUCED TO THE POINT OF BEING UNSAFE. ATTEMPTING…

Received Oct 11, 2026 · NHTSA complaint 11770462

I am reporting a recurring loss/reduction of expected electric propulsion in my 2025 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe after FCA Safety Recall 68C / NHTSA 25V-741 was completed. Before 68C, I routinely drove my normal route, including sustained uphill/high-load portions, in Electric mode for the full trip…

Received Oct 9, 2026 · NHTSA complaint 11770231

From a stop sign vehicle would only accelerate to 4 mph and then completely lost forward propulsion, forcing a tow to the dealership.

Received Oct 7, 2026 · NHTSA complaint 11769687
Jeep Wrangler
Jeep_Wrangler_Rubicon_(JL)_4xe at Retro Classics 2022. Representative photo; appearance varies by model year. Photo: Alexander Migl, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Frequently asked questions

Do all Jeep Wranglers have power train problems?

No. NHTSA has 2,176 owner complaints about power train for the Jeep Wrangler. Complaint data shows that the problem is reported, not how many of all cars sold are affected.

Was there a recall on the Jeep Wrangler power train?

Yes: 13 safety recalls list power train. Check your VIN on NHTSA.gov to see whether the fix was done on your car.

How much does it cost to fix power train problems on the Jeep Wrangler?

Owners report a typical cost of $1,650 (half paid between $770 and $3,500), from 25 complaints that state a repair bill or quote, in 2026 dollars.

What do owners say about power train problems on the Jeep Wrangler?

The most frequent phrase is “power train steering”, in 245 of 2,176 complaints, followed by “oil cooler” (128).

Other Jeep Wrangler problems

See all Jeep Wrangler problems.