2018 Jeep Wrangler Powertrain (other) Problems

FCA US LLC is actively violating the intent of Safety Campaign 23V-116 by refusing to cover out-of-pocket consequential transmission damages. FCA’s own Part 573 Defect Report explicitly admits that the defective clutch pressure plate causes extreme friction, overheating, and fracturing capable of damaging the transmission case and nearby internal components. The vehicle operated under these defective parameters prior to the recall execution, subjecting the transmission internals to progressive thermal fatigue and severe structural vibration. This directly induced a premature internal mechanical failure less than 9,000 miles after the recall was performed. When a reimbursement claim was submitted for this consequential damage, Jeep Customer Care explicitly denied the claim under a corporate case file, stating the transmission components "are not covered under the recall repair," completely ignoring FCA's own federal defect acknowledgments. I am requesting a federal investigation into FCA’s systemic refusal to cover consequential powertrain failures caused by this safety defect.

NHTSA ID

11766430

Incident

May 19, 2025

manual transmission pops out of 2nd gear during deceleration, (grinding not all the way in nuetral) untill put back in gear again. getting worse over time. found alot of same thing on internet, some getting 2 ,3, or 4 transmisions under warrenty

NHTSA ID

11762834

Incident

Jul 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal burning odor inside the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact was informed that parts for a recall repair might have been replaced with defective parts. The contact was informed that there was no failure and the vehicle was released; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was confirmed that the clutch was slipping. The contact was informed that the clutch needed to be adjusted. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the failure was because the contact was changing gears at 2,000 RPM and the gears should be shifted at 2,500 RPM. The vehicle was taken to an alternative dealer where the contact was informed that the recall repair was completed incorrectly. The contact was informed that the recall repair needed to be performed a second time. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V116000 (Power Train). The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing the failure prior to the recall repair, but the failure became more persistent after the recall repair was completed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was informed that a second recall repair was denied. In addition, the contact was advised to take the vehicle to the initial dealer for a diagnostic test. The failure mileage was approximately 23,050.

NHTSA ID

11761305

Incident

May 27, 2026

Mileage

23,050 mi

Recall 19A was a full clutch assembly replacement on January 2024 at 60,000 miles. I purchased the vehicle in January 2025 with 64,000 miles. I have owned the jeep for 1 year and 8 months. I now have 78,000 miles. Service transmission light comes and goes if the vehicle cools down the light goes off and drives normal. When the service transmission light is on the clutch is overheated and slips I can not move the vehicle out of 1st gear. I drove it to a dealer and they state I have a bad clutch it is overheating. I do not believe I should pay for a clutch after a brand new clutch kit was installed 17,000 miles ago.

NHTSA ID

11760027

Incident

Aug 25, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the instrument panel was inoperative, except for the RPM gauge and speedometer. The contact researched and became aware of an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included. A dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not yet diagnosed. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle suddenly lost automotive power and then stalled. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was unable to be shifted into any gear and became inoperative. The San Antonio Police Department was contacted to assist with moving the vehicle out of traffic so the vehicle could be towed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the instrument cluster had short-circuited and caused the powertrain to become unable to shift into any gear. The mechanic determined that the instrument cluster needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ID

11758227

Incident

Jan 20, 2026

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

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 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

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

One day out of the blue, my Jeep Wrangler received a "Service Shifter" error code. The error code threw about 40 other codes at the same time. Loss of power steering, loss of abs, engine kept revving on its own, windshield wipers turned on. While in park it felt as if it was trying to shift itself into other gears. Loss of steering while driving as well as the engine revving up and down while on the interstate. Every warning light came on and stayed on. I can let it sit for awhile and it'll drive fine for a little while until it does it all again and again. I have not taken it to a dealership yet due to all the threads on being charged $2000 and it not get fixed.

NHTSA ID

11735563

Incident

Apr 3, 2026

The vehicle is a 2018 Jeep Wrangler with a 3.6L engine and approximately 124,000 miles. The engine has experienced a failure involving multiple components, including suspected head gasket failure, significant oil loss with no visible external leak, low oil pressure, and engine knocking. Diagnostic trouble codes P0365 and P06DD were present, indicating camshaft position sensor issues and oil pressure control failure. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This condition creates a safety risk due to the potential for sudden engine failure and loss of power while driving, which could occur without warning and increase the risk of an accident. The problem has been confirmed by an independent repair facility, which identified low oil levels, coolant loss, and symptoms consistent with internal engine damage. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer. Prior to the failure, warning signs included a low oil pressure condition and engine performance changes. These symptoms developed rapidly over a short period of time. The vehicle is currently not safe to operate due to the risk of further engine damage or sudden failure.

NHTSA ID

11727924

Incident

Mar 22, 2026

Vehicle equipped with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine developed loud ticking noises, engine misfires, and loss of power while driving. The vehicle hesitated during acceleration and could not reliably maintain speed, creating a safety risk in traffic. An authorized dealership pulled diagnostic trouble codes, acknowledged the abnormal ticking, and advised the failure was likely related to the camshaft, lifters, and rocker arms. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic for further inspection. The independent mechanic confirmed failure of the valve train and camshaft components, requiring replacement of the passenger side intake camshaft (Bank 2), cam phaser, phaser bolt, and all lifters and rocker arms. Photos of the failed components are available. The defect was confirmed by both a dealership and an independent repair facility. Issue presents risk of sudden loss of power while the vehicle is in motion.

NHTSA ID

11714299

Incident

Jan 8, 2026

Problem Description (very important): My 2018 Jeep Wrangler experiences a severe and violent front-end shaking commonly referred to as “death wobble.” This occurs while driving at highway speeds and makes the vehicle difficult to control until I slow down significantly. The shaking feels dangerous and unpredictable and creates a serious safety risk. I transport my children in this vehicle, and this issue is frightening and unsafe for passengers and other drivers. My dealership states there is no recall, but I am aware of widespread consumer complaints, documented defects, and lawsuits involving death wobble in Jeep Wranglers, including the 2018 model year. I believe this is a known steering/suspension defect and not normal wear and tear. I am reporting this for safety reasons.

NHTSA ID

11707581

Incident

Oct 10, 2025

My 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited has experienced repeated no-start failures and electrical/CAN-bus communication issues. The vehicle has intermittently failed to start and ultimately became completely inoperable. Due to the electrical failure, the vehicle was towed to an authorized Jeep dealership on June 8, 2025. Despite remaining in the dealership’s possession for several months, no diagnostic testing or repairs have been completed. The electrical failure prevents safe and reliable operation of the vehicle and poses a risk of being stranded without warning. As of December 2025, the vehicle remains inoperable and unrepaired.

NHTSA ID

11707274

Incident

Mar 5, 2025

I took my JEEP to the dealer because it was making a rubbing sound. They told me the rear end and differential where out and needed replaced. Originally the parts were on a 45 day backorder. 3 months later the parts on still on back order. I notified Jeep customer service, my case manager said the parts may be available Dec. 19th. There is a high demand for these parts and that there are not enough available.

NHTSA ID

11701788

Incident

Sep 15, 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the transmission failed to shift out of first gear and failed to exceed 8 MPH. The RPM was elevated almost to the red line. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times, and the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The contact later purchased a portable diagnostic tester. The contact retrieved DTC: U414 (Transmission Control Module Failure). The dealer was contacted and advised the contact to take the vehicle in for a diagnostic test. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer for the diagnostic test. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000.

NHTSA ID

11690500

Incident

Sep 27, 2025

Mileage

67,000 mi

My 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL Sport is experiencing multiple premature engine failures that present a serious safety risk: •Vehicle overheats while driving. •Recurrent misfire on Cylinder #5 (DTC P0305). •White exhaust smoke with a sweet coolant smell on cold start. •Coolant loss despite recent refill. •Oil contamination with metallic particles found during inspection. •Valvetrain noise from the right bank, suspected intake camshaft wear. These conditions create a risk of engine seizure or sudden stalling while driving, which could cause a crash. Manufacturer awareness: Jeep/Mopar has issued bulletins acknowledging these exact problems, including: •TSB MC-11018482-0001 (May 2025): Intake camshaft/rocker wear causing misfires (P0301–P0306). •Customer Satisfaction Notification ZD8 (2023): Coolant inlet tube fastener issue causing coolant leaks and overheating. My vehicle’s symptoms directly align with these known manufacturer issues. Despite this, Jeep/Mopar has denied goodwill repair coverage. Safety Concern: This defect is not just a performance issue — it creates a high probability of sudden engine stall or seizure, endangering me, my passengers, and other drivers. I am requesting NHTSA investigate premature engine failures on the Jeep Wrangler JL (3.6L Pentastar) and require Jeep/Mopar (Stellantis) to address this safety hazard.

NHTSA ID

11688993

Incident

Sep 1, 2025

The panel display is short circuiting. It flickers on and off then goes black. Abs modular was malfunctioning, had to be place and damage the Axel Locker system- jeep wouldn't come out of park.

NHTSA ID

11687290

Incident

Sep 6, 2024

Vehicle loses power steering while driving and is near impossible to steer when this happens. If in a curve i'm afraid the vehicle will not respond in time and leave the roadway or cross into oncoming traffic.

NHTSA ID

11664004

Incident

May 30, 2025

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

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 contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V116000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The dealer informed the contact that the parts were on backorder. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

NHTSA ID

11646317

Incident

Mar 4, 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

My vehicle will randomly have the check engine light come on, a service shifter light come on, and then lose the ability to steer. I have taken it to the dealership twice and told it was fixed. Now it is back at the dealership for the third time. As a result of this issue I was involved in a car accident when a van came into my lane and I was unable to avoid impact and they were able to leave the scene. This is a safety issue for not only myself and anyone in my car but also anyone on the road around me. I did not file a police report regarding the accident as my situation involves a language barrier and I was so upset I just wanted to get home and be safe. Now I am in a state of fear anytime I drive my vehicle. I did have passengers and witnesses for two different instances where our lives were put in jeopordy because of this issue. On a separate occasion we were on a busy highway lost steering and were unable to get out of first gear. If I end up in a court situation I have several witnesses that would all be willing to make statements on my behalf as their lives were also put in jeopardy. I'm very upset as this vehicle was expensive and I bought it brand new. Now I've been out of a car for weeks and am being told I may have to pay for something that is clearly an ongoing issue. I have read several forums and articles and complaints from fellow jeep owners, many the same year, who have experienced the same issue. This is horrendous! My service records are all on file with Auto Centro Caguas in Puerto Rico.

NHTSA ID

11642497

Incident

Dec 20, 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V116000 (Power Train). The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that after retrieving the vehicle, the vehicle intermittently failed to start. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed back to the local dealer and the contact was informed that a diagnostic test needed to be performed; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

NHTSA ID

11632079

Incident

Dec 19, 2024

Mileage

60,000 mi