2018 Jeep Wrangler Owner Complaints

When driving or upon start up the instrument panel cluster goes black not being able to see speedometer or gas gauge.

NHTSA ID

11755934

Incident

Jan 25, 2025

The steering column mechanically disconnected, causing a complete loss of steering control while traveling approximately 70 mph on a highway. I was in the right lane when steering control was lost without any warning signs, including noises, vibrations, warning lights, or increased steering resistance. I immediately activated the hazard lights, informed my passenger, checked surrounding traffic, and applied the brakes. The vehicle pulled to the left under braking, crossed into the left lane, and entered the grassy median. The vehicle continued through a steep V-shaped median and came to a stop before entering opposing traffic. A collision was narrowly avoided.

NHTSA ID

11755832

Incident

Aug 7, 2026

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

I have a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL. Both digital and analog dash gauges have stopped working. I am unable to read odometer, speedometer, gas level, RPM, temperature gauge, etc. This poses a significant risk to my safety while driving.

NHTSA ID

11755446

Incident

Aug 6, 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

1 - rear door opened while driving, door was checked closed before driving on 7/14/26, it is available for inspection 2 - safety for others were at risk, as some of contents exited vehicle on road 3 - have an appointment on 7/21/26 with original cr dealer 4 - waiting on car dealer to inspect it 5 - no warning lights or messages, first apppeared on 7/14/26

NHTSA ID

11750649

Incident

Jul 14, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle the instrument panel would not illuminate, due to the failure, no warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was advised that the instrument panel was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered no assistance as the vin was not allocated to a recall. The failure mileage was 50,000.

NHTSA ID

11750047

Incident

Feb 23, 2026

Mileage

50,000 mi

The instrument cluster display in my 2018 Jeep Wrangler Sahara has failed. The display is either blank or nonfunctional, preventing me from viewing critical vehicle information and safety warnings while driving. This failure affects my ability to monitor engine temperature, fuel tank capacity, warning messages, fault indicators, and other important vehicle operating information. As a result, I may not be alerted to potentially dangerous conditions such as engine overheating, low oil pressure, charging system failures, or other safety-related issues. I am aware that Jeep has issued recalls involving instrument cluster defects on certain Wrangler vehicles, but my VIN is not included in the recall. The symptoms of my vehicle appear similar to those reported in recalled vehicles. Because the instrument cluster is a primary safety component used to communicate vehicle warnings and operating conditions to the driver, I believe this defect presents a safety risk. I am submitting this complaint so the issue can be investigated and to determine whether additional vehicles should be covered.

NHTSA ID

11750046

Incident

Nov 22, 2025

I purchased this 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited on July 19, 2025. Since purchasing the vehicle, I have experienced repeated mechanical failures that have required multiple repairs. The most serious issue involves the engine overheating at highway speeds without any visible coolant leak or clearly identifiable cause.Despite seeking professional diagnosis, the source of the overheating could not be determined. Shortly afterward, the vehicle developed a P0302 (Cylinder 2 Misfire), raising concerns about possible internal engine damage caused by the overheating.I believe this presents a significant safety hazard. An engine that overheats unexpectedly while driving at highway speeds can lose power or fail without warning, creating a dangerous situation for the driver and surrounding traffic. The vehicle has become unreliable and unsafe to operate because I cannot predict when it may overheat or experience another engine failure.As someone who often drives alone, I no longer feel safe taking this vehicle on long trips. I am concerned that the vehicle could leave me stranded on a highway or in a remote location without warning, placing my personal safety at risk. A vehicle should provide dependable transportation, not expose its occupants to the possibility of sudden mechanical failure.This vehicle has spent more time in repair facilities than on the road. I have incurred thousands of dollars in repair expenses, and I am now being asked to pay for an engine teardown simply to determine the cause of the failure before any warranty consideration can be made. Despite multiple repair attempts, the underlying cause of the overheating and engine problems has not been resolved.I am submitting this complaint because I believe the repeated overheating, unexplained engine malfunction, and resulting cylinder misfire may indicate a safety-related defect that warrants investigation. I request that the review to determine whether similar failure whether a broader safety issu

NHTSA ID

11749969

Incident

Mar 3, 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

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Jeep started on fire and is still at a tow yard in Belchertown, MA How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The Jeep started on fire while I was driving. I pulled over as the engine was smoking and then it burst into flames while I was still inside. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Not that I know of. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Yes, we gave permission for our insurance agency and Jeep to inspect the burned out vehicle. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? While I was driving, the engine temp and coolant warning lights shot way up and then the engine began to smoke. I pulled over and before I could exit the vehicle, fire was coming into the cab through the air vents.

NHTSA ID

11745771

Incident

Jun 16, 2026

EGR pre conditions to pass CA state smog emissions test will not clear. Have changed entire EGR system and have drive the recommended Chrysler Drive cycle for my car with hundreds of miles on it since replacing battery with no luck. All other system checks clear.

NHTSA ID

11745688

Incident

Jun 22, 2026

Any time I am over the speed of about 55 mph, and hit any type of bump, the steering wheel starts to shake violently. I have to slow down to about 40 mph to make it stop. I almost got rearended by an 18-wheeler yesterday on the interstate.

NHTSA ID

11743278

Incident

Jun 9, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized and the vehicle failed to accelerate. The electronic parking brake, check engine, and several other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact shifted to park (P) and then drive (D) and was able to continue driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that coolant had leaked into the computer and damaged the battery pack control module. The mechanic related the failure to Customer Satisfaction Program: Y40 (Control Module Software Updates); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was then towed to an unknown dealer; however, the vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

NHTSA ID

11743143

Incident

Dec 1, 2025

Mileage

100,000 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

My electronic instrument panel went completely out. I could not tell my speed, amount of gas, mileage, or anything else. This happened suddenly and without any warning.

NHTSA ID

11741084

Incident

May 29, 2026

I had the clutch plate recall done on my 2018 jeep wrangler unlimited 3.6 in January 2024. The first 8 months my dash lite up warning me my clutch is overheating and to reduce clutch use. This happens every time im on traffic or reversing around obstacles going up hill. The dash also lite up saying clutch performance is limited reduce clutch use. This is still happening after the recall was completed and its May 2026 currently trying to get it fixed. I have pictures of the dash lighting up with 3 different warning about the clutch plate

NHTSA ID

11740630

Incident

Aug 16, 2024

Was stopping at red light. Got to about 5mph when Jeep accelerated to about 35mph. I was standing on the breaks but the Jeep kept accelerating until impact struck the car in front me which was stopped. I have video.

NHTSA ID

11739609

Incident

May 22, 2026

Defect in the instrument panel cluster (IPC) that can cause it to go blank or fail entirely. Screen is completely blank which makes it impossible to monitor or see any warnings for vehicle with it being an electrical dash. There is a safety recall on 2018-2024 Wranglers, but for some reason my VIN does not populate on the recall when I have a 2018 Wrangler. This has caused me not to be monitor oil life, fuel, and see check engine notifications. NHTSA Recall Number: 24V‑652 for year model 2018–2024 Wranglers (and 2020–2024 Gladiators)

NHTSA ID

11739012

Incident

Mar 20, 2026

I bought this vehicle used in 2022 from CarMax. According to Jeep (Stellantis) Co. multiple recalls were fixed by the previous owner, but the patch available for 2018 Jeep Wranglers was not done. In 2024 my iphone and Mac laptop were hacked and shortly after I began having problems with my 2018 Jeep Wrangler. My alarm system started going off while I was in my home without touching or being near the FOB. When I used my FOB to unlock the doors, they would lock back before I could open the door. I was unable to use the push button start for a few minutes up to 15 minutes and in 2025 I was unable to use the push button at all on most days. I had to research a work around to be able to start my Jeep and even after that depending on the day, it takes several seconds to minutes to start it this way. On 2 different occasions as I was driving, I had no control over my steering for approx. 10 seconds. I held on to the wheel and slowed down. The control returned and I was able to drive home. I researched and found out that 2014-2018 had reports of hacking and the hacker taking control of the vehicle in multiple ways including steering, brakes, alarm system, and hacking FOB. My radio has been turned off and the stations changed. One of my FOBs was tampered with, including switching the lock and unlock button's capability, panic button was disabled, and now the FOB does not work at all. There is a loud grinding noise behind my glove box that can be heard at different times including when Jeep is turned off. Loud noises that sound like a rock hitting the window happen randomly to my front windshield, driver and passenger windows happens multiple times while I am driving and when vehicle is turned off. I took Jeep to a trusted mechanic and was told there was no way to tell and it would be better to just sell it. After I moved, I didn't experience these problems for a while, but am experiencing them again. I am concerned for my safety and anyone who may be a passenger in my Jeep.

NHTSA ID

11738632

Incident

Feb 12, 2025

Engine - The vehicle is available but the engine was replaced. I was able to get home however there was a potential for significant engine failure. Yes it was inspected by an independent service center. Yes it was inspected by an independent service center. A check engine light came on. Upon further inspection it was a Cylinder 6 misfire P0306. When the engine was inspected further by a mechanic it was determined that the cylinder wall was damaged and that coolant had entered the cylinder. Due to the extent of the engine damage the engine needed to be replaced.

NHTSA ID

11738445

Incident

Mar 22, 2026

Oil cooler failure at 7 years and 90000 miles. This is a known engineering issue due to a plastic housing that is resolved by upgrading the oil cooler housing to aluminum instead of plastic. It’s a $1000 repair. Because this is an engineering issue the consumer should not have to pay the entire cost of the repair. This is a SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD DUE TO THE LEAKAGE OF OIL CAUSED BY THIS FAILURE. It should definitely be deemed a recall and fixed at the expense of the manufacturer!

NHTSA ID

11738326

Incident

Dec 1, 2025

While driving my engine light comes on and I lose power like it won’t take gear I can switch to manual and it’s fine engine light pulls a code for oil pressure sensor but I’ve done paid for that to be fixed and it still doing the same as above but the engine light will go off after cutting the jeep off and stays off for a few days then out of nowhere while driving it comes back on and the process starts all over

NHTSA ID

11738240

Incident

Dec 22, 2025