Last updated: 2026-03-15

2020 Jeep Compass
RELIABILITY SCORE: 76/100 (GOOD)

2020 Jeep Compass Reliability Report

The 2020 Jeep Compass scores 76/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 129 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

1

Complaints

129

Complaint Rate

11.9

per 10k sold

Est. Annual Cost

$526

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity60/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact88/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity88/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (48)
  • POWER TRAIN (23)
  • ENGINE (13)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 4)

2020 is year 4 of the Second generation (MP).

  • Redesigned for the 2017 model year.
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • A refresh arrives in 2022.
  • 2nd generation Compass (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2017: Second generation (MP) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2020: This Model Year

2020 is year 4 of the Second generation (MP).

2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2020 Jeep Compass?

The 2020 Jeep Compass scores 76/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2020 is year 4 of the Second generation (MP).

With 129 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.

A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to electrical system (48). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.

Compared to the 2021 Jeep Compass, which scored 4 points higher. See also the 2019 Jeep Compass for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
  • +Low major repair risk (11%)
  • +Low recall count

Cons

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (48 complaints)
  • POWER TRAIN issues reported (23 complaints)

Compare 2020 Jeep Compass With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 1 manufacturer recall issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (48)
  • POWER TRAIN (23)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

1

recall on record

The 2020 Jeep Compass has 1 recall on record. This is a low count. Recalls are manufacturer-initiated fixes for safety or compliance issues and are repaired at no cost to the owner at authorized dealerships.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

11.9

per 10k sold

Segment avg: 18.1

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

Safety Incidents

3

Crashes

2

Fires

3

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 4/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2020 Jeep Compass Recall Details

1 recall has been issued for the 2020 Jeep Compass. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

20V2080002020-04-09

VISIBILITY

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ram 1500, 1500 Classic and Jeep Compass vehicles. The windshield wiper arm or arms may loosen, possibly causing the wipers to not operate properly and reduce the driver's visibility in certain weather conditions.

Consequence

Reduced visibility increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will tighten the wiper nuts, free of charge. The recall began April 27, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W25.

2020 Jeep Compass NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 4 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 20.6%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (No)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Jeep Compass Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$526

vs $521 avg for compact SUVs

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.2

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

11%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Compass
$526
Category Avg
$521
All Vehicles
$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Jeep Compass.

  • Check for excessive oil consumption by monitoring oil levels frequently

  • Test the Stop/Start feature for proper operation

  • Inspect infotainment screen and backup camera for functionality

  • Verify engine does not stall or overheat during a test drive

  • Ensure all warning lights are off during operation

  • Test vehicle acceleration to ensure it exceeds 20 mph without issue

Buying a 2020 Compass? Check Its History First

Every 2020 Jeep Compass has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

2020 Jeep Compass Common Problems by Component

129 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

48
23
18
13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (48)POWER TRAIN (23)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (18)ENGINE (13)STEERING (5)VISIBILITY/WIPER (4)ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3)TIRES (3)Other (12)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

48 complaints

Owners report frequent electrical system failures in the 2020 Jeep Compass, with common issues including infotainment screen malfunctions, battery failures, and recurring "Coolant Temperature Too High" warnings. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as pixilated or blank infotainment screens, inoperative backup cameras, and unexpected vehicle shutdowns. These issues often arise around 20,000 to 68,000 miles. Several reports highlight safety concerns, such as loss of vehicle power while driving, which poses a risk of accidents. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring electrical problems, which can lead to significant repair costs and safety risks.

48 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

23 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2020 Jeep Compass frequently report issues related to engine overheating, sudden engine shutdowns, and transmission failures. Typical symptoms include coolant temperature warnings, spontaneous vehicle stalls, and instances of coolant mixing with oil. These issues often emerge around 30,000 to 98,000 miles. Several complaints highlight safety concerns, such as loss of control, particularly when the vehicle shuts off unexpectedly while driving, posing risks in traffic or on highways. Buyers should be aware of these recurring problems, especially when considering high-mileage vehicles.

23 complaints total1 fire

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

18 complaintsSafety-related

Owners report that the 2020 Jeep Compass frequently experiences unexpected engine shutdowns often accompanied by a "high coolant temperature" warning, occurring both at high speeds and while idling. Complaints describe the need to restart the vehicle to continue driving, with some incidents happening shortly after purchase. Another common issue involves the UConnect display screen malfunctioning, affecting rearview camera visibility and other controls. Safety implications include one reported crash and a fire incident, with the latter resulting in total vehicle loss and damage to surrounding cars. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers, particularly regarding sudden engine shutdowns and electronic failures.

18 complaints total1 crash1 fire
ENGINE (13 complaints)

ENGINE

13 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Jeep Compass frequently report issues related to the engine unexpectedly shutting down, often without warning, both while driving and when the vehicle is stopped. This stalling is sometimes accompanied by messages such as "coolant temperature high" or "service airbag system," and appears to be linked to the Stop/Start feature. Many complaints also describe excessive oil consumption, with some owners noting the need to add a quart of oil every 1,000 miles or less, even at relatively low mileages around 19,000 to 40,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as several owners mention near-miss incidents due to the vehicle stalling during driving, increasing the risk of accidents. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers considering a used 2020 Jeep Compass.

13 complaints total
STEERING (5 complaints)

STEERING

5 complaints

Owners report that the 2020 Jeep Compass frequently experiences issues related to sudden vehicle shutdowns while driving, often accompanied by warning messages such as "key has left vehicle" or overheating alerts. These shutdowns lead to loss of steering control, posing a potential safety risk, especially at higher speeds. Complaints often mention auxiliary battery failures and persistent warning lights, with some vehicles requiring frequent jump starts or battery charging. These issues are noted at varying mileages, with one report at 58,884 miles, and multiple owners express frustration over unresolved problems despite dealership visits. Prospective buyers should be aware of these reported safety implications and the potential for repeated, unresolved mechanical issues.

5 complaints total
VISIBILITY/WIPER (4 complaints)

VISIBILITY/WIPER

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2020 Jeep Compass report issues with the vehicle's windshield wipers and windows affecting visibility. Complaints frequently mention that the wipers fail to operate, with one owner unable to find a replacement motor. Another owner describes the windshield and windows appearing to melt or distort in hot weather, impairing visibility. One incident involved a crash at approximately 19,126 miles due to wiper failure during rain, resulting in injuries and a police report. These issues highlight potential safety risks, particularly in adverse weather conditions, and may be covered under a specific recall campaign.

4 complaints total1 crash1 injury
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

3 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Jeep Compass frequently report issues related to engine overheating and stalling. Typical symptoms include the temperature gauge rising to high levels, a high coolant temperature warning, and the vehicle stalling either in traffic or while driving at various speeds. Complaints often describe these problems occurring around 34,000 to 74,685 miles. In some instances, the auto Stop-Start feature fails to restart the engine, and the check engine light is illuminated. These issues sometimes necessitate towing and have not been consistently diagnosed or resolved by dealers. Safety implications include the potential for loss of motive power while driving, which could pose a risk in traffic situations.

3 complaints total
SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

3 complaints

Owners report multiple issues with the 2020 Jeep Compass related to the service brakes. Complaints frequently mention a persistent squeaking and squealing noise from the brakes, particularly noticeable when slowing down to a stop, with some owners experiencing this issue as early as 5,000 miles. Additionally, there are reports of the vehicle's emergency braking system activating unexpectedly, including instances where the car warns of a non-existent obstacle and applies the brakes autonomously, leading to near rear-end collisions. Another significant issue involves the vehicle stalling unexpectedly when approaching a stop, with the emergency brake engaging without warning, posing a safety risk. These problems are reported at low mileages, often within the first few months of ownership, and may affect the vehicle's reliability and safety.

3 complaints total
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

2 complaints

Owners of the 2020 Jeep Compass frequently report issues related to vehicle speed control, specifically a sudden inability to accelerate beyond 20 miles per hour and engine shutdowns at highway speeds. Typical symptoms include clunking noises during acceleration and the engine shutting off unexpectedly, sometimes failing to restart at stop signs or lights. These problems have been noted as early as six months into ownership, though specific mileage is not consistently reported. Safety implications are significant, as the described issues occur during driving, potentially leading to loss of control. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns and verify if the vehicle has been subject to any relevant recalls.

2 complaints total
AIR BAGS (2 complaints)

AIR BAGS

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2020 Jeep Compass report issues with the airbag system, specifically mentioning dashboard warnings such as "SERVICE AIRBAG SYSTEM." One owner describes repeated service visits, initially for ORC module replacement and subsequently for a Clock Spring device, yet the warning light persists. Another report involves a low-speed crash where airbags did not deploy, resulting in injuries to the occupants, with the vehicle being deemed a total loss. This incident occurred at approximately 35,000 miles. These complaints highlight potential safety implications, especially regarding airbag deployment failures in collision scenarios.

2 complaints total1 crash2 injuries

When Do 2020 Jeep Compass Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

20,000–68,000 milesElectrical system failures
34,000–74,685 milesEngine stalling and overheating
30,000–98,000 milesTransmission and power train issues

Best & Worst Jeep Compass Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Jeep Compass Years to Buy

The best Jeep Compass year is 2024 with a reliability score of 84/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2025 (83/100) and 2021 (80/100).

Jeep Compass Years to Avoid

The worst Jeep Compass year is 2018 with a score of 61/100, primarily due to electrical system (293) issues.

Jeep Compass Reliability Score Trend

Jeep Compass reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 79/100 compared to 72/100 for older years.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Jeep Compass reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201861/100Good
201970/100Good
202076/100Good
202180/100Excellent
202270/100Good
202378/100Good
202484/100Excellent
202583/100Excellent

Jeep Compass Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202583/100-1Excellent013
202484/100+6Excellent034
202378/100+8Good243
202270/100-10Good4204
202180/100+4Excellent070
2020(selected)76/100+6Good1129
201970/100+9Good2305
201861/100Good6912

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2020 Jeep Compass reliable?
The 2020 Jeep Compass has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 76/100. It is reasonably reliable with 1 recall and 129 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Jeep Compass?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 Jeep Compass include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (48 complaints), POWER TRAIN (23 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (18 complaints), ENGINE (13 complaints), STEERING (5 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2020 Jeep Compass have?
The 2020 Jeep Compass has 1 recall on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2020 Jeep Compass expensive to maintain?
The 2020 Jeep Compass has estimated annual repair costs of $526/year, which is $5 more than the compact SUVs average of $521. With a reliability score of 76/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2020 Jeep Compass without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

See incorrect data? Report an issue