Last updated: 2026-10-10

Jeep Gladiator

Jeep Gladiator Years to Avoid

7 scored model years (2020–2026) · model average 55/100

The Jeep Gladiator years to avoid are 2022, 2021 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2022 with a reliability score of 49/100. The best Jeep Gladiator year to buy is 2024 59/100.

Verdict

The 2022, 2021 Jeep Gladiator score significantly below the model average of 55/100. The weakest year is 2022 with a score of 49/100 due to steering (32) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2024 59/100. Newer model years (2025–2026) score higher partly because they've had less time to accumulate owner complaints.

See years to avoid ↓See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

Jeep Gladiator Years to Avoid

These model years score significantly below the Jeep Gladiator average of 55/100.

#YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaintsTop Issue
1202249/100Mixed7104Steering (32)
2202149/100Mixed7261Steering (87)

Why These Years Should Be Avoided

49
MixedReliability score: 49 out of 100, rated Mixed

2022 Jeep Gladiator

Weakest of the seven scored Gladiator years, with steering loss, death wobble, and parked engine-bay fires leading the owner complaints.

7 recalls104 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Steering (32), Electrical System (21), Power Train (18), Suspension (6), Engine (5), Fuel Propulsion System (4)

View full 2022reliability report →
49
MixedReliability score: 49 out of 100, rated Mixed

2021 Jeep Gladiator

Death wobble in nearly new trucks and early rear axle leaks make this one of the weaker Gladiator years, with 261 complaints and 7 recalls.

7 recalls261 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Steering (87), Power Train (54), Electrical System (24), Suspension (15), Engine (14), Unknown Or Other (12)

View full 2021reliability report →

What Are Common Jeep Gladiator Problems?

STEERING

308 complaints

Most reported in 2020, 2021, 2022

2020: Loose, wandering steering is the main complaint.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

207 complaints

Most reported in 2020, 2021, 2022

2020: The instrument cluster screen goes black without warning.

POWER TRAIN

121 complaints

Most reported in 2021, 2020, 2022

2021: Gear oil leaking from the right rear axle seal is the most common complaint.

ENGINE

41 complaints

Most reported in 2020, 2021, 2022

2020: Multiple-cylinder misfires with code P0300 show up on nearly new trucks, sometimes within the first few hundred miles.

SUSPENSION

37 complaints

Most reported in 2021, 2020, 2022

2021: Most complaints here also describe death wobble.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

19 complaints

Most reported in 2021, 2022, 2020

2021: The LED third brake light in the tailgate burns out, and nothing on the dash tells the driver.

Best Jeep Gladiator Year to Buy Instead

59
MixedReliability score: 59 out of 100, rated Mixed

2024 Jeep Gladiator

Among the stronger Gladiator years, but owners report steering shake, a pull to the left, and unexpected acceleration, plus one electrical recall.

Score: 59/100 (Mixed)1 recalls11 complaints
View full 2024reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the 2024 Jeep Gladiator has 1 recall on file. A VIN check confirms the recall work on the exact car and shows its accident, title, and service history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All Jeep Gladiator Years by Generation

Frequently Asked Questions

What Jeep Gladiator years should you avoid?
Based on our data, you should avoid the following Jeep Gladiator years: 2022 (score: 49/100), 2021 (score: 49/100). These model years score significantly below the Jeep Gladiator average of 55/100.
What is the best year for the Jeep Gladiator?
The best year for the Jeep Gladiator is 2024, with a reliability score of 59/100 ("Mixed"). It has 1 recalls and 11 owner complaints. Newer model years (2025–2026) score higher partly because they've had less time to accumulate owner complaints.
How many recalls does the Jeep Gladiator have?
Across all years in our database, the Jeep Gladiator has a total of 27 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used Jeep Gladiator worth buying?
The Jeep Gladiator has mixed reliability across model years. If buying used, do thorough research on the specific year and budget for potential repairs.
What are common Jeep Gladiator problems?
The most common Jeep Gladiator problems are steering (308 complaints), electrical system (207 complaints), power train (121 complaints). These issues are reported across multiple model years based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
Is the Jeep Gladiator reliable long-term?
The Jeep Gladiator has an average reliability score of 55/100 across all model years in our database, rated "mixed". Reliability varies significantly by model year — choose carefully.
Is the 2024 Jeep Gladiator a good used buy?
Yes, the 2024 Jeep Gladiator is our top-recommended model year with a reliability score of 59/100 ("Mixed"). It has 1 recalls and 11 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

How we score every Jeep Gladiator model year

Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

See incorrect data? Report an issue