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2014 Jeep Wrangler Engine Problems

Owner-reported complaints naming the engine system, filed with NHTSA

Data refreshed

Engine reportsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
330
Latest Jul 6, 2026
Share of all reportsThis category as a share of every owner report on file for this model year. One report can name more than one component, so the categories overlap.
51%
of 651 total
Crash or fire reportedReports in this category whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. The reporter's own answer on the NHTSA form, not a verified finding.
16
Injuries or deaths reportedTotals the submitters entered on their own reports in this category. Not verified by NHTSA and not a casualty statistic.
1

What this page shows

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components. Every record below is an owner-reported complaint about the 2014 Jeep Wrangler submitted to NHTSA — not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. 330 reports on file name it.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Owner reports naming engine

The 25 most recent of 330, in the owner's own words

Engine
Filed Jul 6, 2026

The plastic oil filter housing was leaking oil onto my exhaust I had to quit driving it because of fear of a FIRE, SO MY QUESTION IS : IF YOU HAVE OIL RUNNING DOWN AND DRIPPING OF YOUR EXHAUST AND YOU GUYS WONT RECALL IT BECAUSE YOU SAY ITS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE? YOU GUYS ARE NUTS, THE MANUFACTURE SHOULD BE MADE TO MAN UP AND FIX THIS PROBLEM INSTEAD OF LEAVING THE CONSUMER STUCK WITH A PROBLEM THAT THEY CREATED AND AN EMPTY WALLET AS WELL, SIMPLY NOT FAIR MANY PEOPLE HAVE BEEN STUCK WITH THIS PROBLEM TO DEAL WITH WITHOUT ANY HELP FROM THE ENGINEERS THAT CAUSED IT, MAN UP AND MAKE EM TAKE RESPONSIBILITY IF NOT THEN WHY DOES THE NHTSA EVEN EXIST AT ALL

NHTSA ID
11748414
Incident
May 30, 2026
Engine
Filed Feb 10, 2026

OIL HOUSING FAILED , CAUSED OIL INTO ENGINE AND EXHAUST

NHTSA ID
11717001
Incident
Feb 10, 2026
Body & structureElectricalEngine
Filed Dec 23, 2025
Fire reported

I was driving on I35 on 10/23/2025 when I saw a small spark then my vehicle caught fire and i exited the vehicle called 911 Lewisville Fire Department and was informed that they responded to vehicle fire on 10/23/2025 at 9:45 pm, their case number is 2025-0012175. The representative stated that the Lewisville Police Dept. also completed a report, case number 250068809.

NHTSA ID
11706752
Incident
Oct 23, 2025
Engine
Filed Dec 19, 2025

The contact owns a 2014 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked on a driveway on two occasions, the contact noticed that the vehicle was leaking oil onto the ground. The vehicle was towed to Seaside Park Service Center, where it was diagnosed with an oil filter housing failure. The contact was advised that it was a common failure. The mechanic recommended replacing the oil filter housing with another model. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The mechanic referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to file a safety complaint. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000. The VIN was unavailable.

NHTSA ID
11706043
Incident
Dec 10, 2025
Mileage
68,000 mi
ElectricalEngine
Filed Nov 4, 2025

I had repairs done to my Jeep in April 2024. At that time, I was made aware that my ABS control module was faulty and no longer functioning. I have been periodically checking with my mechanic and online to check the status of this part, only to find that it has been an ongoing issue with some models having this part unavailable since 2019. At the end of October 2025, I began having a major safety issue in which my Jeep's engine will shut off without warning and the only reason I will be aware is because the wheel will no longer turn easily (trying to turn without power steering). In addition, there will at times be a fluctuation of power either having a an extreme spike or drop in RPMs causing the Jeep to lurch while driving. The cruise control cannot be used with this issue, and I have also experienced malfunctions in the traction control (i.e. hydroplaning in a very small puddle in the road that a normal car could handle, let alone a Jeep). I have been waiting patiently for a year and a half and there are no updates available for Jeep owners, and the issues caused by this lack of parts could cause fatalities on the road or leave individuals with a very expensive, undrivable vehicle followed by the additional cost of purchasing a new vehicle. This is unacceptable for an extremely large and popular vehicle manufacturer to be unable to come to an agreement with parts manufacturers to resume production of a crucial vehicle part.

NHTSA ID
11697466
Incident
Apr 20, 2024
Engine
Filed Oct 19, 2025

Starting in approximately mid 2023 the vehicle began to leak oil. This was noted once the vehicle was parked after driving. There were various amounts of oil pooled underneath the oil filter housing on the ground. At this time it had approximately 70,000 miles. I had to consistently add many quarts of oil to keep the vehicle operating while going to several mechanics to diagnose the problem. There are many instances where a strong burning smell comes from the engine compartment especially when traveling at higher speeds (highway driving). It was determined that the oil filter housing had cracked and was the source of the oil leak. The cost for repair was approximately $800 for labor and the part, having to spend additional money to get a rental car. The mechanics stated that they have had to replace this same part on many other Jeep Wranglers that are the same make/year. The mechanic did say that another jeep that had the same problem did catch on fire due to the oil running down through the heated engine as this part is made of plastic and situated on the top side of the engine. My Jeep is current on all maintenance and there has been no accident to cause this part to crack. I was made aware that previous models had metal housing, as opposed to plastic hence there not being an issue. By the time we figured out the source of the leak, it was no longer under warranty, so I had the work completed by a local mechanic instead of the dealer. No warnings, not even a low oil pressure or check engine light came on. It was the burning smell and oil loss that made me aware of an issue. Once again, at approximately 100,000 miles it has happened again. The mechanic I originally brought it to is out of business, but the part would be out of warranty regardless. Now I am stuck spending another approximately 1,000 to have it replaced again, with the same part that will inevitably crack again. They really need to recall and replace this part with a metal housing.

NHTSA ID
11694407
Incident
May 26, 2023
Engine
Filed Sep 6, 2025

The engine in my 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (3.6L Pentastar V6) suddenly seized without warning at approx. 154,525 miles. The vehicle stalled while in motion, causing immediate loss of power and creating a dangerous situation where I could have been struck by other traffic. This was a major safety hazard. The Jeep was towed to a dealership, where technicians confirmed the engine is seized and provided a written estimate of about $12,000 for full engine replacement. I later had the vehicle towed back to my home, but the failed engine remains in the vehicle and is available for inspection upon request. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed by the authorized Jeep service center. Jeep/Stellantis Customer Care has also been contacted, and a case has been opened.Decline goodwill assistance. There were no warning lamps, messages, or prior symptoms before the failure. The vehicle was operating normally until the sudden stall. This lack of warning combined with the engine seizure placed my safety and the safety of others at risk. I believe this issue is part of a known defect pattern with the 3.6L Pentastar engine, which has been subject to numerous complaints, service bulletins, and litigation. A well-maintained Jeep engine should not fail catastrophically at this mileage without warning.

NHTSA ID
11685445
Incident
Sep 2, 2025
Engine
Filed Jun 25, 2025

See attached document for complaint.

NHTSA ID
11669119
Incident
May 28, 2025
ElectricalEngine
Filed Jun 13, 2025

My 2014 jeep wrangler unlimited started throwing the motor in limp mode. Had it checked out and it's the TIPM and the wiring harness. As I dug into that some 2014 jeeps already have a recall on this. But I cannot find on my VIN. Could this be a needed recall that this jeep needs to be added too? Help please.almost caused an accident 3 different times throwing a brand new motor into limp mode

NHTSA ID
11666875
Incident
Feb 1, 2025
Engine
Filed Mar 18, 2025

In 2020 and 2025, Oil Coolant Housing cracked and failed. First incident happened on the way to an oil change. Certified Mechanic found oil covering entire undercarriage and engine, and notified me this was a severe fire and safety hazard. Replaced with an OEM Housing from dealership. 2025, same failure. Found by another Certified Mechanic while researching check engine light. Replaced with a metal Housing. Getting a P0303 and P0305 error code. Recorded over 300 misfires in 2 days. Replaced all spark plugs, coil packs and fuel injector in #5. No improvement in performance, continued coding. While returning to Mechanic, had a strong burning smell and smoke coming out from under the hood. Coolant was covering entire engine compartment and undercarriage. Mechanic notified me the Coolant was flowing through the engine and exiting out the #5 cylinder. Diagnosed failure of head gasket and engine. Driving vehicle causes smoke under hood, some in passenger compartment and strong burning smell. Recommended replacing engine as complete failure is imminent and is a safety and fire hazard.

NHTSA ID
11649012
Incident
Feb 5, 2025
Engine
Filed Feb 1, 2025

In the 9 years I have owned my Jeep I have now replaced the oil filter housing twice. Each time has caused me over $300 just for the part, which is PLASTIC from the dealership to my mechanic then over $1000 to install. My mechanic explained to me that when plastic is heated then cold with oil it will eventually crack. This then drips on the exhaust which causes either smoke through the vents or a small fire eventually. This needs a recall.

NHTSA ID
11640130
Incident
Nov 22, 2024
Engine
Filed Jan 25, 2025

The oil filter housing developed a leak which lead to excessive amounts of oil spilling on the exterior of the engine which could cause a fire.

NHTSA ID
11638561
Incident
Jan 24, 2025
EngineFuel systemPowertrain (other)
Filed Jan 1, 2025

Starting in March of 2024 the vehicle began to leak copious amounts of oil. This was noted once the vehicle was parked after driving. It was anywhere from the size of a half dollar to a dinner plate size of oil pooled underneath the oil filter housing on the ground. At this time the Jeep had approximately 103,000 miles. While diagnosing the issue, I had to consistently add many quarts of oil to keep the vehicle operating. During the diagnosis stage, there were many instances where a strong burning smell became obvious from the engine compartment. After consulting with two independent certified mechanics, it was determined that the oil filter housing had become compromised and was the source of the oil leak. The cost for repair was $175 for the part and $950 for labor, plus $200 for a rental. Both mechanics that diagnosed the issue advised they both had replaced this same part on many other Jeep Wrangler JK between the years of 2014-16. While the burning smell was indicative of a possible fire at some point, one mechanic did say one other jeep that had this part fail did catch on fire due to the oil running down through the heated engine as this part is made of plastic and situated on the top side of the engine. Fires were most certainly a life safety concern as this is my primary vehicle for myself and children. The vehicle had all of its maintenance current and properly done, there was no accident or incident to cause this part to crack other than a poor design with cheap parts. The oil clean up during the fix was extensive as it had pooled and ran into multiple locations on the engine. I did not have the vehicle inspected by the manufacturer as it was no longer under warranty and it would have cost even more to have them do the work. No warnings, not even a low oil pressure or check engine light came on. It was the burning smell and oil loss that was visibly noted that identified an issue.

NHTSA ID
11633539
Incident
Mar 12, 2024
Engine
Filed Oct 11, 2024

Engine oil cooler/filter housing. Developed oil leak by being placed under manifold. Took it to dealer, Flow, confirmed bad oil leak in item mentioned. They replaced the mentioned part. Bad oil leaks can cause engine fire. Not sure it is available for view at dealer. Cost was over $1300. Mileage was about 93000.

NHTSA ID
11619356
Incident
Jan 25, 2024
Engine
Filed Aug 29, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed a loud clanking sound coming from the engine. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the vehicle was diagnosed with engine rod bearing failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 104,000.

NHTSA ID
11611629
Incident
Aug 29, 2024
Mileage
104,000 mi
ElectricalEngineFuel system
Filed Jul 23, 2024

- VEHICLE ENGINE SHUT DOWN & LOST ALL POWER TO ENGINE AT MAJOR INTERSECTION - IN TURNING LANE AT RUSH HOUR COULD NOT MOVE CAR- OTHERS SLAMMED BRAKES -RESULTED IN ANGRY DRIVERS & NO ABILITY TO MOVE CAR 3 LANES EITHER DIRECTION. - PROBLEM RECONFIRMED BY CHRYSLER -JEEP DEALERSHIP - INSPECTED BY CHRYSLER MECHANICS TO CONFIRM LOOSE CONNECTION THAT CAUSED FUSE TO BLOW & BURNT (TIPM) CIRCUIT BOARD ALLOWING NO POWER TO THROTTLE. -NO WARNINGS AT ALL AT A CENTER INTERSECTION WHEN ENTIRE CAR SHUT DOWN. 2ND OCCURRENCE AFTER A FUSE REPAIR RESULTED IN VEHICLE THROTTLE SHUT DOWN AGAIN NO WARNING & THIS TIME ON A 2 LANE HIGHWAY AT 50+ MILE SPEED WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN ON 6 LANE HWY. AT 70+ MILE HOURS SPEEDS WHICH COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A DEADLY ACCIDENT INVOLVING NUMEROUS DRIVERS! THIS (TIPM) PART HAS A MAJOR RECALL FOR MANY CHRYSLERS MODELS. IT DOES NOT SHOW FOR OUR VIN BUT WE HAVE EXPERIENCED THE EXACT ISSUES AS DESCRIBED FOR THIS SPECIFIC RECALL. COSTS INCLUDE TOW FEES, REPAIR QUOTE AT OVER $1700.00, TIME IN SHOP WITHOUT A CAR ALL SIGNIFICANT. CONCERN: WILL IT HAPPEN AGAIN ? REQUEST RECALL REIMBURSEMENT THAT SHOULD QUALIFY FOR OUR VEHICLE AS WELL !!

NHTSA ID
11604140
Incident
Jul 12, 2024
Engine
Filed Jul 12, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the contact became aware of an abnormal coolant odor and a burning odor. Additionally, there was smoke coming from underneath the hood. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact drove back to the residence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that cylinder #2 and #5 were leaking air into the cooling system. The mechanic determined that the head gasket, the intake manifold, and the front timing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted, and an appointment was scheduled for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000.

NHTSA ID
11601528
Incident
Jul 5, 2024
Mileage
95,000 mi
Engine
Filed Jul 12, 2024

Engine started chugging at about 30,000 miles and engine light illuminated. The engine light continued to go off and on until about 36,000 miles, at which point it stayed on. Brought to dealership and and they did a leak down test on the left side cylinder. It was found that cylinder 2 had a 65% compression loss. This engine is a Pentastar 3.6l v6 that was part of a recall for 2011-2013 models. Apparently Mopar still installed these engines in later years but are refusing to foot the bill for them. I worked with Customer Support and they flat out refused to help me.

NHTSA ID
11601468
Incident
Mar 1, 2024
Engine
Filed Jun 11, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the fan turned on. The hot oil message was displayed and there was an abnormal beeping sound detected. The contact called the local dealer, who informed her there was no recall or warranty coverage on the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 47,000.

NHTSA ID
11593717
Incident
Jun 9, 2024
Mileage
47,000 mi
Engine
Filed May 3, 2024

My Jeep only has 60,000 and I already have to replace the oil cooler on it. This causes the radiator fluid to leak and overheated my car. This could cause major damage to my engine and its components. This would also cause the oil to leak into my coolant reservoir. It’s a major defect by Jeep and needs modifications.

NHTSA ID
11586907
Incident
Apr 25, 2024
Engine
Filed Dec 25, 2023

The Jeep oil cooler will leak from factory. It will cause the engine to cease working causing the vehicle to stop. The dealer said this would happen. There were no warning signs, just the smell of burning oil.

NHTSA ID
11561789
Incident
Oct 10, 2022
Driver assistanceElectricalEngine
Filed May 26, 2023

Driving sometimes with cruise on and sometimes not or going up a slight inclined the car will lose RPM goes down and then back up. I Was merging on to a highway went to give it gas and RPM goes down and I had 2 semis coming up on me so had to pull over to shoulder. It is very unsafe because you just dont know when it is going to do it. Have had it in to dealership computer and no code. But very very frustrating. They have put computer on and drove around and of course it wouldnt do it. We are at our end of the rope we don't know what to do. Service dept just said if it doesn't throw a code cant do anything. I guess when we get hit they wiil do something.

NHTSA ID
11524086
Incident
May 26, 2023
Engine
Filed May 16, 2023

There needs to be a recall on the 2014 Jeep wrangler oil filter housing immediately. My Jeep has the Pentastar oil filter housing used in these vehicles can crack and warp due to heat exposure and this can lead to serious oil leaks. Despite knowing about this issue, the company has never issued a recall, instead, they have discontinued the production of the Pentastar and redesigned the oil filter housing for newer vehicle models. My jeep was pouring out oil and the red oil light turned on. I immediately had my jeep towed to the dealer . They had already "fixed" this issue two times previously. It is beyond comprehension that this has not been a manufacturer recall. It is extremely dangerous.

NHTSA ID
11522211
Incident
May 15, 2023
ElectricalEngine
Filed Apr 11, 2023

The contact owns a 2014 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing electrical failures. The check engine warning light was illuminated intermittently, and the infotainment system failed to turn on. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the oil sensor pressure circuit was replaced due to an internal short in the oil-sending unit. Additionally, the PCM software was updated, and the infotainment system was replaced. The contact also stated that the fuel gauge provided inaccurate readings and would not read that the fuel tank was full. The vehicle was taken to the dealer twice for fuel gauge failure. The dealer performed a PCM software update for fuel sender recalibration and replaced the fuel pump module. The contact stated that the traction control warning light illuminated intermittently, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer, who replaced an unknown sensor. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing an electrical draw, and the battery was replaced four times. The vehicle was taken to the second dealer McCord's - Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram (990 Tennant Way, Longview, WA 98632) where it was diagnosed that the electrical draw was due to a failure of the instrument cluster electrical wiring or a failure of the electrical wiring underneath the dashboard. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but did not provide any assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.

NHTSA ID
11516564
Incident
Mar 17, 2015
Mileage
46,000 mi
Engine
Filed Feb 17, 2023

The plastic oil filter housing cracked. So many have cracked you can’t find one to replace it. Metal ones are being made but can’t find those either. It’s a HUGE problem and with minivans.also. They need to recall all the plastic oil filter housing units.

NHTSA ID
11507824
Incident
Jan 2, 2023

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

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