2018 Jeep Wrangler Brakes Problems

The vehicle experienced repeated braking system failures that caused the front brakes to lock up while driving, overheat, and begin smoking. The front brake calipers, rotors, and pads were replaced multiple times,not lasting more than 3weeks before failing again. the problem continued to occur. The brake booster brake line and brake fluid were also replaced while attempting to diagnose the problem. Warning lights/messages appeared, including the ABS/traction control warning and “Service Electronic Stability Control.” The vehicle would also randomly turn off at stop lights and refuse to turn back on. An independent mechanic ultimately diagnosed a failure of the ABS control module. Showing a code “c2200” The vehicle is currently at the repair facility and is available for inspection. This failure created a serious safety risk because the brakes could engage/lock unexpectedly while the vehicle was being driven and the braking system became severely overheated and damaged multiple times. The vehicle is currently considered unsafe to drive unless I redo the whole braking system again and unplug the ABS module. I was informed that the required replacement ABS module is on national backorder with no reliable availability date and reliable refurbishes are also unable to do the repairs now. . I was also informed that obtaining a new replacement module may take an extended period of time. Because this is a safety-critical braking component, I am concerned that other vehicles with the same failure could experience unexpected brake malfunction or loss of safe braking control

NHTSA ID

11755687

Incident

Mar 25, 2026

3 out of the 4 calipers have failed.

NHTSA ID

11755287

Incident

Aug 5, 2026

The abs module has failed and i have no traction control or abs function all the lights are on the dash a common issue with the jk jeep wrangler platform

NHTSA ID

11752938

Incident

Apr 30, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. The contact stated that the ABS warning light was illuminated. While driving, the vehicle experienced a loss of traction, a pulsating or pumping sensation in the brake pedal, and skidded easily upon heavy brake application. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V896000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, Jeep models were not included in the recall parameters. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed with electronic control unit (ECU), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control, and ABS failures. The vehicle was not repaired because the parts were on backorder. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 42,000.

NHTSA ID

11748636

Incident

Jul 6, 2026

Mileage

42,000 mi

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving 20 miles away after an hour, the vehicle lost power steering and power braking functionality, and the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to a lower gear. The vehicle was turned off. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 91,300.

NHTSA ID

11745854

Incident

Jun 19, 2026

Mileage

91,300 mi

I own a 2018 Jeep Wrangler that my 19 year old son drives for college. While driving, the vehicle jerked and became sluggish. There were no warning lights illuminated. I became aware that the front brake rotors had overheated again. I had the front right brake caliber and brake line changed back in 2024 and the issue has recurred this year. I had a local mechanic change the front brake pads and rotors for both front tires and caliber to right front side only in April/2026 and the issue has started again today. The vehicle was taken back to local mechanic to be diagnosed again. He stated that the brake fluid was unable to properly bleed through the brake line restricting air to fully purge from the hydraulic system, which can result in incomplete bleeding, reduced braking performance, uneven pad wear, brake drag, or brake fade and is part of the reason for burning smell near right front tire. He added that car isn’t safe to drive in this condition due to safety concerns of accidents due to inability to properly brake or even a fire. Vehicle hasn’t been repaired due to cost and I will attempt to contact manufacturer. The initial mileage reading when this issue occurred in 2024 was 90,000 miles. The mileage as of this complaint is 112,392.

NHTSA ID

11742146

Incident

Jun 4, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the ABS and brake warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the warning lights illuminated the brake pedal was soft. The contact stated that additional pressure was needed to depress the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. Additionally, the check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the ABS module had failed and needed to be replaced; however, the part to repair the vehicle was on a national backorder. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure, and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 69,000.

NHTSA ID

11715227

Incident

Nov 10, 2025

Mileage

69,000 mi

My wife and I were at a stop light behind a box truck in our 2018 Jeep Wrangler, about 15 feet between us. I had slowed to stop and had my foot on the brake. All of the sudden the Jeep reved up (idle increase), did not see the tachometer, and with my foot on the brake accelerated into the box truck in front of us. When it started to accelerate, I pushed the brake peddle to the floor to stop the Jeep but it did not do a thing. I see 2 problems her: 1. The acceleration when stopped 2. The brake did not hold. There were no injuries or damage to the box truck. We were able to drive the Jeep about 20 miles to the dealer we bought at. It is ow being worked on in the body shop. The Jeep dealer technicians did a computer check on any codes that were activated, but unfortunately all after the fact.

NHTSA ID

11711717

Incident

Jan 16, 2026

The front right brake caliper on my 2018 Jeep Wrangler was installed upside down from the factory, with the bleeder screw located at the bottom of the caliper instead of the top. The vehicle has been serviced exclusively at authorized Jeep dealerships since new, with no prior front brake work, confirming this was a factory assembly defect and not the result of repair or modification. Because the bleeder screw is positioned at the bottom, air cannot be fully purged from the hydraulic system, which can result in incomplete bleeding, reduced braking performance, uneven pad wear, brake drag, or brake fade. This condition compromises the ability to properly service the braking system and may negatively affect braking effectiveness, creating a potential safety hazard, especially during emergency braking. The defect was discovered during routine inspection when brake performance and wear were evaluated (12-11-25). Photographs and dealership service records are available documenting the inverted caliper and confirming no prior disassembly.

NHTSA ID

11709385

Incident

Dec 11, 2025

The ABS module has failed on the vehicle. Attempts to repair it have been unsuccessful due to the part being back ordered for years.

NHTSA ID

11693201

Incident

Sep 1, 2025

ABS module has failed and has shut off the cruse control system. The O.E. module is on national back order with no idea of it availability. The unit is still in the vehicle. Non-A.B.S. brakes work. How ever the traction control system is shut off as well as the cruse control system posing a greater risk to all. Search on several internet sites confirms that this issue has been noted to the manufacture with no resolution. Owners are left to find their own part and none are available.

NHTSA ID

11691202

Incident

Sep 7, 2025

The primary component that failed is the brake caliper, which caused a dragging brake, overheating, and visible smoke after a brake pad replacement. This is a defect in a critical safety system, not routine wear and tear. The caliper failure, combined with rapid deterioration of the pads within only seven months of purchase, makes clear that the Jeep was sold to me with preexisting and undisclosed defects. The defective caliper and removed parts remain available for inspection. My safety and the safety of others were directly at risk. A dragging brake drastically reduces stopping ability, can cause sudden brake failure, and creates a fire hazard when smoke and heat build up. These risks make the vehicle unsafe for road use. In addition, there is a well-documented steering defect known as the “death wobble.” Some sources classify this under a recall, while others describe it as covered only by an extended warranty. This inconsistency has prevented me from obtaining clear assistance despite the serious safety implications. The issue has been reproduced and confirmed by a certified Jeep dealership. I have service records, dealer inspection notes, and photos documenting the condition, including metal-on-metal wear, dragging brake, and resulting smoke. The vehicle has been inspected by dealership technicians and is also under review with FCA, who have assigned a claim number. When I initially sought assistance, I was told the failures were “wear and tear.” That is inaccurate, as no reasonable consumer could cause this level of brake and steering deterioration in such a short period. I have been forced to pay out-of-pocket for defects clearly present at the time of sale, even though Carvana, SilverRock, and FCA denied responsibility. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, consumers are protected when vehicles are sold with hidden defects, regardless of warranty status. This Jeep was sold in unsafe condition. The caliper failure and death wobble are preexisting hazards

NHTSA ID

11684956

Incident

Mar 12, 2025

The contact's son owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH and pulling into a parking lot, the vehicle felt like one of the front tires was not rotating. The contact was able to pull into a parking space. Upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact noticed that the driver's side front tire was not rotating. The contact and a bystander noticed that the driver's side front tire was not rotating because the front brake caliper was protruding through the rim. The contact's husband arrived at the scene, removed the tire, and zip tied the caliper to the frame, and the vehicle was driven to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the brake pads, rotors, and the calipers were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the front brake lines had rusted internally, causing the brake lines to collapse. The dealer informed the contact that the failure prevented the brake fluid to reach the brakes, which remained close to the rotors and had burned out. The dealer determined that the front driver's side brake line, rotors, calipers, and the brake pads needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,100.

NHTSA ID

11682395

Incident

Aug 15, 2025

Mileage

90,100 mi

My ABS module has failed. Should be a simple fix however Jeep does not have this part available to be purchased. After doing a lot of research into this part it is a Mopar only part and there are thousands of people trying to find this part. This part is a vital part to the ABS system and is causing a lot of people to have to drive without it. Something needs to be done to ensure the safety of everyone that is going through this issue.

NHTSA ID

11677156

Incident

Jun 1, 2025

On [XXX] while driving my 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport (VIN: [XXX] ), the braking system failed without warning while I was approaching a stop sign on a residential road. I pressed the brake pedal and felt extreme resistance and grinding, followed by a near-total lack of braking power. I was forced to abruptly swerve into an open driveway to avoid a collision. This sudden malfunction put my life and the safety of others at serious risk, especially had it occurred on a highway or near pedestrian traffic. The affected component appears to be part of the braking system—likely the master cylinder, brake booster, or brake line integrity—but a full diagnosis is pending inspection. There were no warning lights or messages displayed on the dashboard at any time prior to or during the failure. The vehicle gave no indication that a malfunction was imminent. Immediately after the incident, I parked the vehicle and did not attempt to drive it again. As of now, the issue has not yet been formally confirmed by a dealer, but I am in the process of getting it inspected by a certified independent mechanic, and I am willing to make the vehicle and its components available for inspection upon request. I also plan to provide documentation once the evaluation is complete. I only recently purchased this Jeep from Carvana a few months ago, and it is extremely concerning that such a critical failure could occur so soon. The vehicle has two completed recalls related to steering and rear windows, but none that address braking—making this unexpected failure even more alarming. I believe this could indicate a larger pattern or potential defect that has not yet been officially acknowledged or addressed. This event was dangerous and could have resulted in a serious accident. I am requesting that this complaint be formally investigated, and I am open to cooperating fully with NHTSA, Chrysler, or any affiliated parties in reviewing the failure and addressing issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA)

NHTSA ID

11674567

Incident

Jul 16, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, but the vehicle slid before coming to a stop. The contact stated that the traction control warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with ABS failure, and determined that the braking system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to another independent mechanic, who related the failure to the ABS module. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 121,000.

NHTSA ID

11666314

Incident

May 1, 2025

Mileage

121,000 mi

First it was my clutch blowing up including the transmission from underneath me while I drove down a hwy. Then it was a month later before I got it back. (I'm single, and it's my only vehicle). Once I got my jeep back the start/stop button stopped working. I had to lock/unlock with the key fob for it to start. Even with both fobs in the jeep. Now every code, 101 to be exact) is being thrown out of nowhere. Every light goes off, the wipers start going off, the sway bar and traction control disconnects while I'm driving along with the steering wheel locking up while I'm driving down the hwy. The brakes are pulling very badky to the left and /or right. The entire thing is absolutely a death trap. I can't believe this was passed by someone who has the customers best interest for safety. I'd like to know if any of this is recalled because it's been every jeep from 2018-2021 that have this issues. Also 5th gear now vibrats pretty bad.

NHTSA ID

11662024

Incident

Mar 24, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed clock spring. The contact was informed that the clock spring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact stated that several of the steering wheel safety features were inoperable due to the failure. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that a diagnostic test was needed to determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 35,000.

NHTSA ID

11661040

Incident

Oct 14, 2024

Mileage

35,000 mi

ABS malfunction. Power steering and brakes go in and out of operation due to a communication error. All lights come on dash, engine light stays on. Occurs mainly when vehicle is hot during summer or above 65mph highway driving. Safety concern as vehicle power steering is unpredictable during this time. The Drive shaft locks in park and requires manual override when lights are on, but then without intervention, all the lights go away except the engine light and it runs fine. ABS modules are on back order with no ETA because this is a recurring problem for many. Once new abs module is put it, problem can be confirmed and more details can be given by auto repair services.

NHTSA ID

11659332

Incident

May 6, 2025

While driving the transmission and clutch system blew up. And I mean that in the literale sense. Sparks and a big flash. Unfortunately, I was an hour away from where I live. This caused me to have to find a way home and find a tow company that would be able to pick up my jeep on the side of the highway, tow it an hour to me. I couldn't afford that, so it was taken to the Chrysler dealership there and it was there for a month before they could work on it due to the parts having to be ordered and shipped in. Once the entire clutch system and transmission fully replaced I have to find a way to go back and pick it up. It was after hours when I finally got to it. That's when the mechanic that worked on it researched and found the recall for the transmission and clutch system because they would blow up. Just as mine did. But the next set of problems started as soon as I picked my jeep up. Pulls to the right when braking, push start won't start saying the fobs are not detected while I'm holding them in my hands. All lights on cluster go off randomly, the steering wheel locks up while I'm driving causing more danger. The traction control, sway bar will go off and on as well as the push start will not turn off. I did manage to take a short clip of this happening while I'm driving.

NHTSA ID

11647632

Incident

Nov 8, 2024

The brake line and caliper. The safety of myself and my children were at risk. Yes it has been confirmed as a problem from a dealer mechanic. It has not been inspected by police or others listed. There were no warnings or symptoms. It started smoking and the car shook while driving. This has now happened twice.

NHTSA ID

11647460

Incident

Feb 24, 2025

The vehicle will intermittently struggle to engage in 1st gear, the brake pedal gets hard, the auto stop start light will display on the dash and the esc light will display on the dash. Each issue may occur separately, not at all or they will all occur within 5 mins of driving the vehicle. I have been at a traffic light where the vehicle would not immediately engage in 1st gear and the vehicle behind me came within a few inches of rear ending my vehicle when I did not begin moving with the flow of traffic. I also have a similar experience with the auto stop start system failing while at a traffic light which caused the vehicle to stall in the intersection and I could not restart the vehicle without completely power cycling the ignition two times. The problems have been reproduced on multiple occasions throughout the past month. The vehicle has not been inspected by a 3rd party and the warning lights and alert messages that appeared for auto stop start system/ esc system did not appear until the problem occurred.

NHTSA ID

11645806

Incident

Feb 9, 2025

ABS module failure. Been waiting almost a year now for one, but apparently it’s not a priority to Chrysler and their engineers. It’s going to cause an accident one day and when it does, Chrysler is going to be writing a fat check to your truly.

NHTSA ID

11632973

Incident

Mar 5, 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the ABS, Transmission, and ESC warning lights illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer where it was diagnosed that there were several software updates available for the engine and power train. The updates were completed, and the vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the warning lights were illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle back to the same dealer. The dealer diagnosed the warning lights and applied other software updates. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while turning left onto a residential street, the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer; however, the dealer was notified of the failure. The dealer informed the contact that the failure was related to the ABS module and that parts to repair the vehicle were on backorder. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000.

NHTSA ID

11630600

Incident

Jul 12, 2024

Mileage

87,000 mi

A shimmy in the steering wheel after hitting an irregularity on the road surface, also whenever I want to turn it does like a Squirrelly is the best way I can put it. On uneven roads, bumps, dips, etc the jeep pulls to one side or the other. Consequently the traction control light comes on and the jeep loses power!

NHTSA ID

11626751

Incident

Nov 5, 2024