Last updated: 2026-07-25

2020 Jeep Renegade Reliability Report
The 2020 Jeep Renegade scores 75/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 62 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
3
Complaints
62
Complaint Rate
9.9per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$498
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,200–$2,500
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 (12)
- ENGINE (11)
- POWER TRAIN (7)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 is 1 year after the 2019 facelift refresh.
- Year 6 in the First generation (BU) (2015–2023).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 1st generation Renegade (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2015: First generation (BU) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2019: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2020: This Model Year
2020 is 1 year after the 2019 facelift refresh.
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2020 Jeep Renegade?
At 75/100, the 2020 Jeep Renegade lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2020 is 1 year after the 2019 facelift refresh.
Owners log 62 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (12). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2021 Jeep Renegade, which scored the same. See also the 2019 Jeep Renegade for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (9%)
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Infotainment and Uconnect screen (12 complaints)
- −ENGINE: Several recurring engine issues with the 2020 Jeep Renegade (11 complaints)
Compare 2020 Jeep Renegade With

2020 Toyota C-HR
Reliability: 76/100

2020 Hyundai Kona
Reliability: 57/100

2020 Honda HR-V
Reliability: 80/100

2020 Subaru Crosstrek
Reliability: 72/100

2020 Ford Ecosport
Reliability: 58/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12)
- ENGINE (11)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2020 Jeep Renegade. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
9.9
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 20.2
Safety Incidents
10
Crashes
1
Fires
10
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 4/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Jeep Renegade Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Jeep Renegade. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS, SEAT BELTS
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia, 2018-2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio, 2019-2023 Fiat 500X, Jeep Renegade, and 2024 Fiat 500E vehicles. A seat belt buckle switch sensor may be improperly connected, preventing the front seat air bag from deploying as intended.
Consequence
A front seat air bag that does not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will repair the connection, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning August 27, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 82B.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Cherokee, 2019-2020 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Renegade and 2019 Dodge Challenger vehicles equipped with 8.4" or 12" radio displays. A software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Consequence
The lingering rearview image can distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler has notified owners, and dealers will update the radio display software, free of charge. Optionally, owners can choose to remotely update their software via an Over-The-Air (OTA) update available as of May 1, 2020. The recall began April 27, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W30-W37.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X vehicles. The right rear brake caliper could have been fractured during the casting process.
Consequence
A cracked right rear brake caliper can fail, reducing braking performance and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the right rear brake calipers, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is VE8.
Buying a used 2020 Jeep Renegade? Check its history first
Every 2020 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
2020 Jeep Renegade NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 22.8%
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 2020 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
24–27 MPG
Running cost: $2,700–$3,000/yr
Fuel + repair
21–24 city / 27–32 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 2020 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renegade 2WD 1.3L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 24 | 32 | 27 | $2,200 |
| Renegade 4WD 1.3L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 23 | 29 | 26 | $2,300 |
| 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 Trailhawk 4WD 1.3L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 22 | 27 | 24 | $2,500 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Jeep Renegade.
Check for excessive oil consumption by inspecting oil levels
Test the infotainment system and backup camera for screen glitches or failures
Inspect for any oil leaks, especially around the vacuum pump and gaskets
Test drive to check for transmission jerking or stalling
Inspect tires for tread separation or sidewall damage
Verify seat belt functionality, especially the driver's side
Check for any signs of radiator fan malfunction or overheating
2020 Jeep Renegade Common Problems by Component
62 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
12 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report persistent issues with the electrical system in the 2020 Jeep Renegade, particularly involving the infotainment and Uconnect screen. Common symptoms include the screen going black, displaying white lines, or glitching, which affects the functionality of the backup camera and radio. Several complaints describe the vehicle unexpectedly shutting down while driving, sometimes accompanied by warning lights for coolant pressure, parking brake, and throttle failure. These issues are noted at varied mileage, with one case reporting problems at 48,577 miles. Safety implications are significant, with one reported crash and injury due to loss of motive power. Potential buyers should be aware of these electrical concerns and their impact on vehicle safety and functionality.
ENGINE
11 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several recurring engine issues with the 2020 Jeep Renegade. Common complaints include excessive oil consumption, with some stating the vehicle burns a quart of oil every 1,000 miles, and oil leaks attributed to faulty vacuum pumps and gaskets. Engine stalling is another frequently mentioned problem, occurring at various speeds and sometimes resulting in crashes, as described in one incident where the vehicle stalled and rolled back into traffic. Multiple reports also highlight issues with the cooling system, including malfunctioning radiator fans and overheating, which some owners note affects a fleet of similar vehicles. These problems appear across a range of mileages, with some occurring as early as 4,300 miles, and may pose safety risks, particularly with stalling incidents.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
10 complaintsOwners report persistent issues with the dashboard screen and Uconnect system in the 2020 Jeep Renegade, with frequent mentions of the backup camera and navigation system failing or glitching. Symptoms include screens going black, glitching, or displaying only partially, which can impede visibility when reversing and affect navigation use. Several complaints indicate these issues occur despite attempts to repair, with dealers acknowledging the problem but lacking a definitive fix. Additionally, there are reports of oil leaks and engine stalling, sometimes accompanied by warning lights, which can occur in traffic and pose safety risks. These problems are reported at various mileage ranges, but specific timelines are not consistently mentioned.
POWER TRAIN (7 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
7 complaintsOwners report that the 2020 Jeep Renegade frequently experiences issues related to the power train, with symptoms such as unexpected stalling, jerking during acceleration, and loss of acceleration power. Complaints often describe the vehicle shutting off while driving, with multiple warning lights and error messages appearing simultaneously. These issues typically occur at mileage under 30,000, with some reports starting as early as 8,000 miles. Safety implications include loss of control, as described by owners who experience the vehicle suddenly shutting off or losing traction in potentially hazardous conditions. Buyers should be aware of these recurring issues, as they may affect vehicle reliability and safety.
AIR BAGS (5 complaints)
AIR BAGS
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2020 Jeep Renegade frequently experiences airbag non-deployment during crashes, with all five complaints involving accidents where airbags failed to deploy. Typical symptoms described include the airbags not engaging during collisions, even in severe impacts that resulted in the vehicle being totaled. Additionally, seat belts are reported to fail in restraining occupants, leading to injuries such as bruises, fractures, and other impact-related harm. These incidents occur at various mileages, with one noted at approximately 11,900 miles. The recurring non-deployment of airbags and seatbelt failures in crash situations highlight significant safety implications for potential buyers.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (4 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Jeep Renegade report issues primarily related to fuel system failures. Common symptoms include the vehicle stalling or shutting off unexpectedly while driving, often without warning lights or error messages, as noted in two complaints. Another owner describes a strong fuel smell and visible fuel leakage due to a damaged fuel supply tube. One incident involved a crash when the vehicle reportedly accelerated suddenly during parking. These issues typically occur in vehicles around three to four years old, and safety implications include potential crashes and loss of control, as highlighted by the crash report.
SEAT BELTS (2 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
2 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Jeep Renegade report issues with the seat belts, specifically noting that the driver side seat belt fails to lock in place when attempting to fasten it. Additionally, a complaint describes a failure with the front passenger anchor pretensioner. These reports do not specify mileage or timelines, so no clear pattern emerges regarding when these issues might arise. The inability of seat belts to function properly could have safety implications, particularly in the event of a collision, as they are critical for occupant restraint. Buyers considering a used 2020 Jeep Renegade may want to verify the functionality of the seat belts during a pre-purchase inspection.
TIRES (2 complaints)
TIRES
2 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Jeep Renegade report issues with tire tread separation and blowouts. Complaints frequently mention flapping sounds and visible tread separation on rear tires, as well as blowouts on the front passenger tire, with some noting tire splitting at the rim. These issues are reported around 25,000 miles. No crashes or loss of control are mentioned, but the symptoms indicate potential safety risks. Used car buyers should be aware of these tire-related problems and consider inspecting the tires for similar issues.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Jeep Renegade report visibility issues primarily related to the backup camera and windshield. Complaints frequently mention the backup camera failing shortly after replacement, with symptoms including lagging performance prior to complete failure. One owner notes the camera issue occurring approximately one month after replacement. Additionally, another owner describes the windshield fracturing easily when struck by a small rock at around 9,000 miles, suggesting potential susceptibility to damage. Safety implications include the risk of impaired visibility and potential accidents due to blind spots not being covered by the backup camera.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Jeep Renegade report issues with vehicle speed control, specifically describing incidents where pressing the brake pedal appears to inadvertently trigger acceleration. Complaints frequently mention this occurring at low speeds, around 15 mph, often leading to loss of control and crashes, including collisions with trees. Both reported incidents resulted in the vehicles being totaled, with one involving a fire and both resulting in injuries. These issues are reported to occur within a short time after purchase, with one vehicle having only approximately 200 miles. Safety implications are significant, as both cases resulted in crashes and injuries, indicating potential risks for drivers and passengers.
When Do 2020 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.
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 2020 Jeep Renegade reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Jeep Renegade?
How many recalls does the 2020 Jeep Renegade have?
Is the 2020 Jeep Renegade expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2020 Jeep Renegade 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.
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.
No spam. Only data updates for this model.
Browse More Jeep Models

Jeep Cherokee
Score: 76/100

Jeep Compass
Score: 83/100

Jeep Gladiator
Score: 64/100

Jeep Grand Cherokee
Score: 70/100

Jeep Wagoneer
Score: 72/100

Jeep Wrangler
Score: 82/100
Browse More 2020 Vehicles

2020 Mazda CX-5
Score: 86/100

2020 Lexus RX
Score: 86/100

2020 Lexus UX
Score: 84/100

2020 KIA Sedona
Score: 83/100

2020 Lexus IS
Score: 83/100

2020 Dodge Grand-Caravan
Score: 83/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue