Last updated: 2026-03-04

2021 Jeep Wrangler Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler scores 56/100 ("Mixed"). With 16 recalls and 826 owner complaints, buyers should proceed with caution.
2021 is year 4 of the Fourth generation (JL).
Recalls
16
Complaints
826
Complaint Rate
40.4
per 10k sold
Above avgEst. Annual Cost
$694
Above avgMajor Repair Risk
16%
NHTSA Rating
N/A
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Mixed reliability — proceed with caution and budget for repairs.
Top Issues
16 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is year 4 of the Fourth generation (JL).
- Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 4th generation Wrangler (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
Fourth generation (JL)
Should You Buy the 2021 Jeep Wrangler?
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler scores 56/100 ("Mixed"). Buyers should proceed with caution. 2021 is year 4 of the Fourth generation (JL).
With 826 owner complaints and 16 recalls, the complaint volume is above average. Reported issues — particularly in steering (228) — can be costly to repair.
An extended warranty is strongly recommended. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focused on steering (228) is essential before committing.
Compared to the 2022 Jeep Wrangler, which scored 6 points higher. See also the 2020 Jeep Wrangler for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- Well-established generation
Cons
- Below-average reliability score
- Above-average repair costs for its class
- Above-average recall count
- Above-average complaint rate for SUV
- 20 fire incidents reported in owner complaints
- Safety recall: park-outside advisory issued
Compare 2021 Jeep Wrangler With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 16 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- STEERING (228)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (217)
- POWER TRAIN (116)
- SUSPENSION (56)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (54)
- ENGINE (47)
- FUEL SYSTEM (25)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (16)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (14)
- SERVICE BRAKES (10)
- AIR BAGS (9)
- STRUCTURE (7)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (6)
- SEATS (5)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (3)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3)
- TIRES (3)
- SEAT BELTS (2)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)
- WHEELS (1)
- EQUIPMENT (1)
- HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
Recall Overview
16
recalls on record
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler has 16 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
40.4
per 10k soldSegment avg: 17
Safety Incidents
Crashes
19
Fires
20
Injuries
12
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Recall Details
16 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Jeep Wrangler 4Xe and 2022-2026 Grand Cherokee 4Xe vehicles. The high voltage battery may fail internally and lead to a vehicle fire while parked or driving.
Consequence
A vehicle fire can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures and not to charge their vehicles until the remedy is completed. Dealers will update the high voltage battery software, and replace the high voltage battery, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning December 17, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 68C. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 6, 2025. Vehicles that were previously recalled for the same issue under NHTSA Recalls 24V720 and 23V787 will need to have the new remedy performed.
BACK OVER PREVENTION, EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The wiring harness for the rearview camera and the center brake light may short circuit, which can disable the rearview camera image and center brake light. 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."
Consequence
A rearview camera image that does not display decreases the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, a center brake light that fails to illuminate can fail to indicate to other drivers that the vehicle is slowing down, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers replaced the harness for the center brake light and rearview camera and/or the spare tire carrier/harness assembly, as necessary, free of charge. All vehicles were repaired by January 15, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 77B.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Jeep Gladiator and 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The instrument panel cluster may experience an internal short circuit and fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."
Consequence
An instrument panel that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the instrument panel cluster, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between October 3, 2024, and January 23, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 30B.
Showing 10 of 16 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
2021 Jeep Wrangler NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 26.7%
Safety Technologies
Diesel / Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 27.9%
Safety Technologies
PHEV Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Jeep Wrangler Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$694
vs $521 avg for compact SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
16%
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.
When Buying a Used 2021 Jeep Wrangler
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Test for steering wobble at highway speeds
- Check for electrical system recalls and updates
- Inspect clutch and transmission for responsiveness
- Verify battery and charging system functionality
- Test brakes for responsiveness and check for vacuum pump issues
- Inspect suspension components for wear or damage
- Check for accurate fuel gauge readings
- Ensure all airbags and seatbelts are functional
Check Any 2021 Jeep Wrangler's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2021 Wrangler in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Jeep Wrangler with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Common Problems by Component
826 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STEERING
228 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the steering of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler, predominantly related to the "death wobble" phenomenon. This condition typically occurs at highway speeds, often triggered by bumps or irregularities in the road, leading to violent shaking and requiring drivers to slow down significantly to regain control. Complaints often mention this issue arising around 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Some owners also describe sudden power steering failures, resulting in a significant increase in steering effort without prior warning. These issues pose safety risks, as they can lead to a loss of steering control and potential accidents. This information is crucial for potential buyers considering a used 2021 Jeep Wrangler, especially those planning to drive frequently on highways.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
217 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the electrical system of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler, particularly related to the high-voltage battery and start-stop system. Complaints often describe battery failures leading to vehicle fires, inability to charge, and warnings to park away from structures. Many owners experience problems with the key fobs disconnecting and the instrument cluster failing, which sometimes results in loss of vehicle information. These issues typically occur in vehicles with mileage ranging from 23,000 to 35,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of fires and crashes linked to electrical failures, underscoring potential risks for prospective buyers.
POWER TRAIN
116 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report issues related to sudden power loss and propulsion failures, particularly in the 4xe hybrid models. Complaints often describe the vehicle entering a "turtle mode," causing speed to drop significantly, sometimes to as low as 7-12 mph, and in some cases, the vehicle becomes completely unresponsive to the accelerator. These issues tend to occur after recall work has been performed, with some reports indicating problems as early as 10,400 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes and fires, as well as instances where the vehicle unexpectedly shifts into park while in motion, posing a risk of losing control. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns, especially if considering a used model with a history of recall involvement.
SUSPENSION (56 complaints)
SUSPENSION
56 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report issues related to the "death wobble," a condition where the vehicle shakes violently, especially after hitting bumps at highway speeds. Typical symptoms include uncontrollable shaking that often necessitates slowing down significantly to regain control. Complaints suggest these issues commonly emerge around 20,000 to 50,000 miles. Some reports indicate that leaking shock absorbers and failed dampers might contribute to the problem. Safety implications are significant, with at least one report of the vehicle veering off the road into a ditch. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring suspension issues and the associated safety risks.
ENGINE (47 complaints)
ENGINE
47 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report engine stalling and overheating issues, often linked to the cooling system. Complaints commonly describe coolant leaks, erratic temperature readings, and overheating, with some cases involving engine seizure and significant damage. These issues are often noted at relatively low mileage, sometimes under 30,000 miles. Fire incidents are reported in four cases, with one resulting in a total vehicle loss. Buyers should be aware of potential safety risks, such as sudden loss of power and overheating, especially in vehicles with the 2.0L turbocharged engine.
FUEL SYSTEM (25 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
25 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report issues related to the fuel system, particularly involving a recall that has yet to be addressed due to unavailable parts. Complaints often describe the vehicle losing motive power or stalling, sometimes accompanied by the check engine light, around mileage ranging from 31,000 to 70,000. Some owners note a fuel leak and a strong diesel odor, specifically affecting the fuel filter housing. Safety implications include instances where stalling results in loss of power steering and braking, posing a potential hazard if these failures occur while driving. Buyers should be aware of these unresolved recall issues and the potential for fuel system malfunctions at higher mileages.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (16 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
16 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report issues related to the fuel and propulsion systems, notably involving inaccurate fuel gauges and high-pressure fuel pump failures. Complaints often describe vehicles shutting down unexpectedly, sometimes while driving, due to fuel system malfunctions, with some incidents occurring at highway speeds. There are also reports of hybrid battery issues leading to fire hazards, with one confirmed case of a vehicle fire. These problems are noted across a range of mileages, with some vehicles having as few as a few thousand miles. Safety implications include potential vehicle fires and sudden loss of power, which could pose risks during operation.
SERVICE BRAKES (10 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
10 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several issues with the service brakes on the 2021 Jeep Wrangler, with multiple complaints highlighting persistent vacuum pump failures, brake pedal going to the floor, and warning lights for ABS and stability control. Typical symptoms include loss of power brakes, lack of brake responsiveness, and illuminated warning lights, often occurring around 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Two complaints involve crashes: one describes unintended acceleration through a fence while parked, and another details a vehicle lurching at a stop light, resulting in collisions with other vehicles. These issues, particularly those involving complete brake failure and loss of vehicle control, have significant safety implications that potential buyers should consider.
AIR BAGS (9 complaints)
AIR BAGS
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report issues with airbag non-deployment during crashes, with eight out of nine complaints involving accidents and ten injuries mentioned. Common symptoms include airbag failure notifications and instances where airbags do not deploy despite significant impacts, such as collisions with other vehicles, guardrails, or rollover events. Some complaints also highlight seatbelt malfunctions, where the seatbelt fails to lock during a crash. These issues occur at various mileages, with at least one report noting a failure at 930 miles. The pattern of airbag and seatbelt failures in crash situations suggests potential safety risks for occupants.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (6 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
6 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler report several issues related to vehicle speed control, particularly in models with the 4xe and diesel engines. Common symptoms include failure to accelerate from a stop, unexpected entry into limp mode restricting speed to as low as 5-8 mph, and erratic acceleration and braking behavior. These issues often occur alongside the illumination of check engine lights, with some complaints linked to recent recall services. Mileage at the time of incidents varies, with one report noting a crash at 9,000 miles due to sudden unintended acceleration. Safety implications are notable, as one complaint involves a crash resulting from the vehicle lunging forward unexpectedly, and others describe near-miss situations due to loss of power or control.
When Do 2021 Jeep Wrangler Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Jeep Wrangler Years
Best Jeep Wrangler Years to Buy
The best Jeep Wrangler year is 2025 with a reliability score of 74/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (62/100) and 2022 (62/100).
Jeep Wrangler Years to Avoid
The worst Jeep Wrangler year is 2018 with a score of 54/100, primarily due to steering (1100) issues.
See full Jeep Wrangler years-to-avoid analysis →Jeep Wrangler Reliability Score Trend
Jeep Wrangler reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 61/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 54/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 61/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 56/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 56/100 | Mixed |
| 2025 | 74/100 | Good |
Jeep Wrangler Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 64/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | 74/100 | +18 | Good | 4 | 49 |
| 2024 | 56/100 | -6 | Mixed | 12 | 702 |
| 2023 | 62/100 | 0 | Good | 13 | 283 |
| 2022 | 62/100 | +6 | Good | 14 | 313 |
| 2021(selected) | 56/100 | -5 | Mixed | 16 | 826 |
| 2020 | 61/100 | -1 | Good | 12 | 546 |
| 2019 | 62/100 | +8 | Good | 9 | 691 |
| 2018 | 54/100 | — | Mixed | 14 | 1750 |
2021 Jeep Wrangler Reliability by Powertrain
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler is available with 3 powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.
| Powertrain | Complaints | Recalls | Incidents* | Crash Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 0 | 0 | 0 | N/T |
| Diesel / Gas | 822 | 14 | 39 | N/T |
| PHEV | 4 | 2 | 0 | N/T |
| Total | 826 | 16 | 39 |
NHTSA tracks complaints separately for each powertrain configuration. Totals reflect the sum across all variants. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.
* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Jeep Wrangler reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Jeep Wrangler?
How many recalls does the 2021 Jeep Wrangler have?
Is the 2021 Jeep Wrangler expensive to maintain?
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.
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