Last updated: 2026-07-25

2018 Jeep Renegade Reliability Report
The 2018 Jeep Renegade scores 65/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 440 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
2
Complaints
440
Complaint Rate
45.3per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$498
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,400–$2,850
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (112)
- ENGINE (104)
- POWER TRAIN (58)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is year 4 of the First generation (BU).
- Redesigned for the 2015 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- A refresh arrives in 2019.
- 1st generation Renegade (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
2015: First generation (BU) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2018: This Model Year
2018 is year 4 of the First generation (BU).
2019: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2018 Jeep Renegade?
At 65/100, the 2018 Jeep Renegade lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2018 is year 4 of the First generation (BU).
Its complaint rate of 45.3 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the SUV segment average of 27.1. The most common reports involve electrical system (112).
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (112). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2019 Jeep Renegade, which scored 10 points higher.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (9%)
- +Low recall count
Cons
- −Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (112 complaints)
- −ENGINE issues reported (104 complaints)
Compare 2018 Jeep Renegade With

2018 Hyundai Kona
Reliability: 69/100

2018 Honda HR-V
Reliability: 78/100

2018 Toyota C-HR
Reliability: 66/100

2018 Subaru Crosstrek
Reliability: 60/100

2018 Ford Ecosport
Reliability: 56/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (112)
- ENGINE (104)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2018 Jeep Renegade carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
45.3
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 27.1
Safety Incidents
16
Crashes
8
Fires
13
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 4/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2018 Jeep Renegade Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Jeep Renegade. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Jeep Renegade 4X2 flex fuel/E85 vehicles equipped with a 2.4L engine. In certain operating conditions such as high power demand in conjunction with high altitude and/or high ambient temperatures, a manufacturing error in the fuel pump assembly may result in a loss of fuel pressure.
Consequence
A loss of fuel pressure can cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began April 26, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is UB2.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles and 2018-2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid vehicles. The powertrain control module may be equipped with a voltage regulator chip in the circuit board that may fail, causing a stall or a no start condition.
Consequence
A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began October 2, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U87.
Buying a used 2018 Jeep Renegade? Check its history first
Every 2018 Jeep Renegade has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Jeep Renegade NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 23.0%
Safety Technologies
Jeep RenegadeRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$498
vs $466 avg for subcompact SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
9%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Jeep Renegade Resale Value
The Jeep Renegade is estimated to retain about 69.7% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the Jeep Renegade model overall and is not specific to the 2018 model year.
- Value Retained
- 69.7%
- Depreciation
- 30.3%
- Listings Analyzed
- 258
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore Jeep Renegade depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.comMPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
24–26 MPG
Running cost: $2,900–$3,350/yr
Fuel + repair
21–24 city / 29–31 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renegade 2WD 2.4L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 22 | 30 | 25 | $2,400 |
| Renegade 2WD 2.4L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 22 | 30 | 25 | $2,400 |
| Renegade 4WD 2.4L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 21 | 29 | 24 | $2,500 |
| Renegade 2WD 1.4L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 24 | 31 | 26 | $2,850 |
| Renegade 4WD 1.4L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 24 | 31 | 26 | $2,850 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Jeep Renegade.
Check for excessive oil consumption by monitoring oil levels over a few weeks
Test infotainment system for screen delamination and random setting changes
Inspect for any signs of fuel pump issues, such as stalling or difficulty starting
Verify that all recalls have been addressed, especially those related to engine and fuel systems
Test drive the vehicle to check for any unexpected stalling or loss of power
Inspect brake rotors for grooves and ensure brake system functions properly
2018 Jeep Renegade Common Problems by Component
440 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
112 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Jeep Renegade frequently report issues with the infotainment system, particularly the Uconnect screen and backup camera, which often glitch, go partially blank, or fail completely. These problems typically manifest around 60,000 to 84,000 miles, with symptoms including a black or streaked screen, inability to use the backup camera, and erratic touchscreen behavior affecting controls for climate and audio systems. Additionally, multiple owners describe electrical fires linked to tail light assembly failures and interior panel fires, with one incident resulting in injury. Complaints also mention engine stalling without warning, which can occur at various speeds and poses a risk of collision. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, especially given their implications for safety and repair costs.
ENGINE
104 complaintsOwners report that the 2018 Jeep Renegade frequently experiences excessive oil consumption, with many noting the need to add oil every 1,000 to 2,000 miles. Complaints frequently mention engine stalling, often without warning, which can occur at various speeds, including highway driving, and sometimes results in loss of motive power and steering lock-up. These issues are often linked to low oil levels, despite recent oil changes, with some owners indicating that oil consumption tests have failed to resolve the problem. Typical failure mileage ranges from approximately 20,000 to over 80,000 miles. The stalling and loss of power raise safety concerns, particularly when occurring at high speeds or in traffic. This information is critical for used car buyers considering this model year.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
60 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Jeep Renegade frequently report issues with the infotainment touchscreen, including delamination, blank screens, and malfunctioning backup cameras. These problems often result in loss of control over vehicle settings and functions such as Bluetooth and climate control. Complaints typically describe the screen becoming unresponsive or displaying vertical lines, with some owners noting the onset of issues shortly after purchase or within a few years of ownership. Safety implications are noted, particularly concerning the inability to use the backup camera, which is crucial for reversing safely. Additionally, multiple owners mention stalling issues, often associated with high oil consumption and occurring in traffic, posing a risk of collisions.
POWER TRAIN (58 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
58 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the power train of the 2018 Jeep Renegade, with many describing the vehicle stalling or shutting down while driving, often without warning. Symptoms commonly include the vehicle losing power, dashboard warning lights activating, and the need to restart the engine, sometimes multiple times, to regain functionality. These incidents occur at various speeds, including highway conditions, and typically begin appearing around 50,000 to 75,000 miles. Several complaints mention safety implications, such as the risk of collisions due to sudden loss of control or power, especially in traffic or at high speeds. Additionally, a number of owners note issues with the transmission, including slipping gears and delayed shifting, which further contributes to concerns about the vehicle's reliability.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (25 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
25 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Jeep Renegade frequently report issues related to the fuel system, primarily involving fuel pump failures. Common symptoms include the vehicle stalling while in motion, difficulty starting, and inaccurate fuel gauge readings, with some owners noting the vehicle indicates fuel when it is actually empty. These problems often appear around 60,000 miles, though some are reported much earlier. Safety implications are notable, as multiple complaints describe the car stalling in traffic, sometimes at highway speeds, posing a risk of collision. Prospective buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and the potential for unexpected vehicle shutdowns.
STEERING (11 complaints)
STEERING
11 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Jeep Renegade frequently report issues with the steering system, particularly involving the power steering locking up or becoming stiff. Symptoms often include the steering wheel becoming difficult or impossible to move, sometimes accompanied by warning lights such as "Hill Assist Needs Service" and "Traction Control." These issues are reported by owners with vehicles at various mileage levels, including some as low as 4,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with one report involving a crash due to the vehicle shutting off and causing the steering to stiffen. Buyers should be aware of the potential for sudden loss of steering control while driving, which poses a risk of accidents.
SERVICE BRAKES (11 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
11 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Jeep Renegade report several issues related to the service brakes, with a common problem being a hissing sound and a firm brake pedal, often making it difficult to depress. Some complaints describe the brake pedal going to the floorboard, leading to a loss of braking capability. Issues with the automatic parking brake system and grooved brake rotors are also frequently mentioned. The complaints reveal safety implications, including two crashes and two instances of fire, with failures typically occurring between 6,700 to 60,000 miles. These patterns suggest potential safety risks that prospective buyers should consider.
AIR BAGS (9 complaints)
AIR BAGS
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Jeep Renegade frequently report issues with airbag deployment during crashes, with numerous complaints indicating that airbags failed to deploy in various collision scenarios, including frontal, side, and rear impacts. Symptoms described by owners include airbags not activating during high-impact crashes, leading to injuries such as head trauma, knee injuries, and chest damage. These incidents often occur at highway speeds, and one report mentions a fire following a collision. The mileage at the time of these events varies, but one report specifies approximately 24,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with all complaints involving crashes and several resulting in injuries, highlighting a potential risk for buyers considering a used 2018 Jeep Renegade.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (6 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
6 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Jeep Renegade frequently report issues with the vehicle unexpectedly stalling or losing acceleration, often at highway speeds. Typical symptoms include a sudden inability to accelerate, the vehicle stalling without warning lights, and instances where the cruise control fails to function. Complaints often mention these issues occurring at relatively low mileages, such as 5,200 miles and 42,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with multiple reports of vehicles stalling in traffic or on highways, posing risks of collisions. Potential buyers should be aware of these patterns, especially considering that some vehicles experiencing these issues are not covered under existing recalls.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (5 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
5 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Jeep Renegade report several engine and cooling-related issues. Commonly described symptoms include sudden engine shut-offs while driving, overheating with associated warning lights, and oil leaks or consumption problems. Several complaints mention issues with the Engine Control Module (ECM/PCM) and coolant mixing with oil, leading to significant engine damage. These problems often occur at mileages ranging from approximately 41,000 to 131,350 miles. Safety implications are noted, such as engine stalling in traffic, which could pose risks during driving. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential issues and verify if repairs or recalls have been addressed.
When Do 2018 Jeep Renegade Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Jeep Renegade Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Jeep Renegade Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Jeep Renegade year is 2023 with a reliability score of 77/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2022 (76/100) and 2021 (75/100).
Jeep Renegade Years to Avoid
The worst Jeep Renegade year is 2018 with a score of 65/100, primarily due to electrical system (112) issues.
2018
(Current Model)
Jeep Renegade Reliability Score Trend
Jeep Renegade reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 74/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 77/100 | Good |
Jeep Renegade Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Jeep Renegade reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Jeep Renegade?
How many recalls does the 2018 Jeep Renegade have?
Is the 2018 Jeep Renegade expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2018 Jeep Renegade without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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
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.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
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.
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.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Jeep Renegade.
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