2018 Jeep Wrangler Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2018 Jeep Wrangler, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Steering1,11545.8%
- Suspension34214.1%
- Electrical26711.0%
- Powertrain (other)1696.9%
- Engine1024.2%
- Body & structure953.9%
- Driver assistance903.7%
- Brakes672.8%
- Other / unspecified632.6%
- Visibility431.8%
- Fuel system200.8%
- Interior & seats170.7%
- Airbags130.5%
- Seat belts90.4%
- Transmission90.4%
- Exterior lighting90.4%
- Tires & wheels20.1%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
2018 Jeep wrangler had a recall for the violently shaking front end suspension that happens while driving at high speeds of 65-70 mph and I hit a small bump. Also commonly known as the "death wobble". When this happens, I need to slow car down and pull onto the shoulder in order to get it to stop, which is very dangerous on the highway. The Repair the dealer did on this was a knowingly temporary fix. When the violent shaking returned a few thousand miles later, I was told it is not covered under the recall. They are putting a bandage on the problem instead of actually fixing. They know this wobble will return. I do not drive a lot, so it took months for this issue to come back. I had an independent service center try to fix it and was unable. I currently do not feel safe driving this Jeep on the Highway. Jeep changed the frontend suspension in 2018.
Change the ending so it is completely accurate: The electric power-steering assistance and electrical/instrument-panel systems have repeatedly malfunctioned. Power-steering assistance failed while I was driving on August 3, 2026, and again on August 8, 2026. Each time, the steering suddenly became extremely difficult. I struggled to maintain control and pull over safely without being struck or causing a collision. This placed me, my passengers, and other motorists at serious risk. The Jeep also displays numerous warning lamps and messages, the instrument cluster and odometer malfunction, the radio loses sound, and reverse sometimes will not engage. Multiple electrical systems can malfunction simultaneously. Five people have witnessed these problems. Electrical symptoms existed when I purchased the Jeep in May 2024. Federico Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram inspected it in July 2024 at 44,780 miles. The dealer documented a disappearing odometer, multiple warning lights, failure to start, required jump-starts, and inability to turn the vehicle off. Federico diagnosed an internal instrument-cluster failure and replaced the cluster. Similar problems continued intermittently afterward and became substantially worse beginning July 11, 2026. Federico recently reviewed my video. A technician considered a possible wiring problem, but the dealership requires a paid diagnostic before confirming the cause. The current failure has not been physically diagnosed. Mopar received my report and video but has not inspected the Jeep or provided a technical determination. Police, insurance representatives, and independent shops have not inspected it. The Jeep has fewer than 65,000 miles and is available for inspection upon request. I limit driving as much as possible because I believe it is unsafe, but I have no other vehicle and must occasionally drive it for essential transportation.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
Any time I get above 55 miles per hour the steering starts shaking and I feel as if I’m going to lose control of the vehicle. I have had the recalls done on it, but it continues.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
I had Recall issue occur on my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JLU #19A Clutch Assembly. The issue also damaged the Transmission as stated possible in the recall. Additionally the dealership reported that recall required replacement of the cluster (Instrument cluster with all gauges). This was all done. However, upon picking up the jeep and driving home, I realized that the cluster was no longer showing what gear the car is in. I called and reported to the dealer. They asked me to bring in as they though might be a software update or something, they would hook to machine. In the meantime the jeep started experiencing issues where every emergency light on cluster would go off. I would lose power steering, and I could not even turn the car off. I had to stall the car to get engine to stop. I took back to dealer (Cherry Hill Jeep) the reported the "star connector" or Can C-Bus Connector needed to be replaced. I explained that this never occurred prior to recall issue so it must be covered. they said they did not know. They replaced. I went to pick up and still the car did not show the proper gear. after further review by the dealer, they believe they received and installed the wrong cluster. This cluster now caused a problem with the Can C-Bus connector, and the car still does not show what gear it is in. All cars show what gear the car is in. this jeep currently does not. the dealer claims that the software update does not include the gear. This is not how i purchased the car or how i dropped it off prior to recall issue. Dealer is trying to charge me for labor of Can C-Bus connector and install for over $1000 and the car still does not show the gear. I have claim with Stallantis #98090202 they keep pointing to dealer. Dealer keeps pointing to Stallantis. A car must show the gear. This is safety concern to drive the car.
there is open recalls for the 2018 JLU wrangler models - however mine is not included onthe recall list - but I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE CLUSTER FOR THE EXACT REASONS THAT ARE BEING RECALLED. I have the service paperwork and receipts - I just had this done a couple months ago. Please advise as I would LOVE a refund. I love my jeep but this was definitely a mandatory safety issue that could not wait for a recall. now there is one and my jeep needs the official recall add. Thanks
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
Misfire no. 4cylinder due to head gasket leak and coolant leaking into cylinder.
See attached document for complaint.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
The doors, hinges, hood and other places is rusted, bubbled and huge 1-2" pieces of paint are coming off the 2018 Jeep JL Rubicon Unlimited at 32-35k miles. This is absolutely unacceptable when my unrestored 1988 Jeep Comanche is rust free! Been to every dealership around and they confirm it's an issue with these, but refuse to fix.
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
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
Change the ending so it is completely accurate: The electric power-steering assistance and electrical/instrument-panel systems have repeatedly malfunctioned. Power-steering assistance failed while I was driving on August 3, 2026, and again on August 8, 2026. Each time, the steering suddenly became extremely difficult. I struggled to maintain control and pull over safely without being struck or causing a collision. This placed me, my passengers, and other motorists at serious risk. The Jeep also displays numerous warning lamps and messages, the instrument cluster and odometer malfunction, the radio loses sound, and reverse sometimes will not engage. Multiple electrical systems can malfunction simultaneously. Five people have witnessed these problems. Electrical symptoms existed when I purchased the Jeep in May 2024. Federico Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram inspected it in July 2024 at 44,780 miles. The dealer documented a disappearing odometer, multiple warning lights, failure to start, required jump-starts, and inability to turn the vehicle off. Federico diagnosed an internal instrument-cluster failure and replaced the cluster. Similar problems continued intermittently afterward and became substantially worse beginning July 11, 2026. Federico recently reviewed my video. A technician considered a possible wiring problem, but the dealership requires a paid diagnostic before confirming the cause. The current failure has not been physically diagnosed. Mopar received my report and video but has not inspected the Jeep or provided a technical determination. Police, insurance representatives, and independent shops have not inspected it. The Jeep has fewer than 65,000 miles and is available for inspection upon request. I limit driving as much as possible because I believe it is unsafe, but I have no other vehicle and must occasionally drive it for essential transportation.
The jeep lost power while I was driving. The lights stayed on but jeep came to a stop. I touched the key area and it started running again.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
2018 Jeep Wrangler rubber brake lines collapsing internally, trapping hydraulic fluid pressure, and causing front brakes to overheat/lock up. Happened last year on my driver's side. It completely locked up my caliper. Ended up replacing Front Driver Hose & Caliper. And both Front Rotors and Brake Pads. Now its currently happening to my passenger side. This time its actually causing a burning smell. Last year it did not it was just grinding. Been for a few months. At first I though it was my aux battery that was dead and was causing the smell. But got that looked at and didnt even have a ln aux battery. Didnt notice the smell for a few months. But now in extreme heat and worsen driving conditions it has came back. Was told my hose is collapsing. So now I have to replace rotors and brake pads again. And new hose and caliper on my passenger side
On Monday, XXX, my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JKU had several errors displayed on the dashboard: ABS, Brake, and Traction Control failures. I took my vehicle to an auto repair shop and they diagnosed it as a faulty ABS Module. This part is on back-order as per discussion with local Jeep dealers in [XXX]. Stellantis confirms that this part is not available as it has been deemed a systematic failure. There is currently no solution from Stellantis which is causing safety concerns and increased risk of operating my Jeep Wrangler. The error code is C2200: ANTI-LOCK BRAKE MODULE INTERNAL - STORED. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while her son was driving approximately 70-75 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The check engine and traction control warning lights were illuminated. Upon research, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V524000 (Electrical System). The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.
I am filing this complaint due to a serious and recurring safety issue known as the “death wobble” on my 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JL. This defect causes violent front-end shaking at highway speeds when hitting bumps or making minor steering corrections. The issue began during the first week of ownership and has persisted through five separate service visits. Repairs have included steering damper replacements, track bar, alignments, and balancing, but the issue continues to return. A dealership technician confirmed the shaking on October 9, 2023, during a test drive at over 70 mph. The vehicle was only sent to a certified Jeep service center on the fourth visit. After researching the problem, I found this is a well-documented and widespread issue among Jeep owners — especially on Wrangler models of certain years. There are numerous forums, websites, and videos where other owners describe the exact same symptoms, often with no long-term resolution. I shared this information with the dealership to help them understand the seriousness of the issue, and only then did they investigate further. I have video evidence of the defect, technician confirmation, service records, and text messages showing dealership delays. This defect creates a major safety concern, especially with children in the car, and could easily cause an accident.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front windshield wipers failed to operate. An independent mechanic was contacted and reached out to the dealer to obtain a wiper power module for the repair; however, the part was unavailable. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 11,000.
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH and lowering the sun visor due to the sun glaring into his face, the contact stated that the sun visor detached from a retaining pin on the sun visor arm and hit the contact in the face. The contact stated that he was so startled from the strike of the sun visor that he swerved to the left and almost into oncoming traffic. The contact stated that he was able to place the sun visor into the closed position, but that whenever the sun visor was unhooked, it was hanging straight down and was blocking a portion of the windshield, reducing his visibility while driving. Additionally, the contact stated that the side view mirror toggle switch was no longer functioning, and the contact was not able to adjust the position of the driver's and passenger’s side view mirrors. The contact was able to see traffic on both sides of the vehicle safely using the side view mirrors. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 96,800.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
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
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.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH and lowering the sun visor due to the sun glaring into his face, the contact stated that the sun visor detached from a retaining pin on the sun visor arm and hit the contact in the face. The contact stated that he was so startled from the strike of the sun visor that he swerved to the left and almost into oncoming traffic. The contact stated that he was able to place the sun visor into the closed position, but that whenever the sun visor was unhooked, it was hanging straight down and was blocking a portion of the windshield, reducing his visibility while driving. Additionally, the contact stated that the side view mirror toggle switch was no longer functioning, and the contact was not able to adjust the position of the driver's and passenger’s side view mirrors. The contact was able to see traffic on both sides of the vehicle safely using the side view mirrors. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 96,800.
1. Both driver and passenger front seat latches that allow seat to fold forward to access rear seats have broken at approximately 70,000 miles. This will be the second time for the driver side to be repaired. It was repaired back in 2018 under warranty when brand new and has now failed. Currently the cost to repair is approximately $500. The replacement parts are made of flimsy plastic that will break again. 2. Head unit for radio display and climate controls failed at approximately 60,000 miles. Not covered by warranty. Paid over $1,500 to replace.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
I own a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The vehicle has a serious safety issue where the steering wheel shakes violently at freeway speeds, especially when driving over uneven roads or bumps. This makes the vehicle feel unsafe to operate. This issue was previously repaired under warranty with a steering damper replacement. However, the same problem has returned, indicating that the issue was not properly resolved. The dealership has recently verified the issue through a road test and confirmed the violent shaking condition. In addition, the vehicle currently has an active airbag warning light, and the dealership diagnosed a failed front right acceleration sensor. This raises concerns about the proper function of the airbag system in the event of a crash. I have contacted the manufacturer multiple times, but they have declined to provide assistance and have not been responsive. I am concerned that this vehicle has unresolved safety defects that could put the driver and passengers at risk.
I have brought my vehicle in for 3 time for the dealership to take a look at Europe messages I have received. It is currently with them right now.as the start stop function is now not working. This happened while in the dealers possession and was working normally prior to me being it into the dealership. They said they repaired a vacuum leak. After the apportionment I noticed the start stop function wasn’t working and it said battery charging. I took my vehicle on a long drive to charge the auxiliary battery, but nothing changed. I brought the car back to the dealership and they are now saying they are not responsible as a battery can drain at any time. I have asked for dates on their OBD scans but they either do not have them or are unwilling to provide them to me. I asked what systems the auxiliary battery affects other than the start stop function. They told me seat belts, dash lighting and obviously emission because the vehicle will not start and stop the way it is supposed to, and continues to run while sitting at a light or stopped in traffic. I am currently waiting on results regarding the start stop function.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
I have brought my vehicle in for 3 time for the dealership to take a look at Europe messages I have received. It is currently with them right now.as the start stop function is now not working. This happened while in the dealers possession and was working normally prior to me being it into the dealership. They said they repaired a vacuum leak. After the apportionment I noticed the start stop function wasn’t working and it said battery charging. I took my vehicle on a long drive to charge the auxiliary battery, but nothing changed. I brought the car back to the dealership and they are now saying they are not responsible as a battery can drain at any time. I have asked for dates on their OBD scans but they either do not have them or are unwilling to provide them to me. I asked what systems the auxiliary battery affects other than the start stop function. They told me seat belts, dash lighting and obviously emission because the vehicle will not start and stop the way it is supposed to, and continues to run while sitting at a light or stopped in traffic. I am currently waiting on results regarding the start stop function.
During a high-speed collision/accident the vehicle had a high speed impact and rolled several times during the accident. The airbag system did not deploy as it should have the airbags in the seats for the sides, and the back did not deploy the driver of the vehicle myself was injured severely and ejected from the vehicle due to the airbags, not deploying, I sustained multiple injuries the only airbag that deployed was from the steering wheel which cause multiple rib fractures, and no other airbags were deployed The drivers seatbelt was locked, and could not be removed, unable to open the seatbelts.
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
report to the dealer that my 2018 jeep has recall for clotch overheating and vehicle can catch on fire , and it has been 3 years with no respond or completion or the job been done , feel kind of scared for the safety of me and my family every day driving ah vehicle can catch on fire . please help us to resolve this situation thanks
See attached document for complaint
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
Several times I have experienced intermittent operation of the rear view camera system and rear brake light operation on my vehicle while reversing. The issue has occured about 10 times in the last year or so. The issue seems to be the same as symptoms as FCA US recall 77B, but my VIN number apparently does not fall under that recall despite being the same model, which I think is a mistake.
PASSENGER SIDE RUNNING LIGHT AND SIDE LIGHT STOPPED WORKING. CHANGED THE BULB AND DIDN'T FIX THE ISSUE. ALSO FOUND THE BACK RUNNING LIGHT TO WORK SO KNOW IT IS NOT A FUSE. APPEARS TO BE FAULY WIRING OR A BAD GROUND. HAS NEVER BEEN OFF ROAD WITH THIS VEHICLE AND ONLY 42K MILES.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
Tire size LT295/55R20 123/120Q E Driving on highway in fast lane going 65/70 mph heard a pop, moved over to slow lane , car started shaking and veering to right. Pulled over and got out on shoulder to see tire wall had separated from tire. I have driven 7000 miles , had them installed professionally by Tire Choice on April 20th 2024. Date today June 20th, 2025.
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 unavailable. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, there was an abnormal banging sound coming from underneath the floorboard. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled, and smoke was coming from underneath the vehicle. The contact stated he was not aware of any warning lights being illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer. The dealer diagnosed and determined that the transmission case was cracked open and severely damaged, and the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. 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 failure mileage was approximately 70,000. VIN tool confirms parts not yet available.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
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.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .