Jeep Wrangler Years to Avoid
Every Wrangler model year ranked by owner complaints filed with NHTSA, with recalls and the top problem for each year.
Updated Oct 16, 2026.
Which Wrangler years should you avoid?
The 2018, 2021 and 2008 Wrangler have the most NHTSA complaints. Adjusted for how long each year has been on the road, the 2009, 2011 and 2017 models have the fewest problems.
Complaints by model year
Total complaints. Newer years have had less time on the road, so their totals will keep climbing.
Every year at a glance
| Year | Complaints | Per year | Recalls | Top problem |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 71 | 36 | 4 | Electrical |
| 2024 | 741 | 247 | 11 | Electrical |
| 2023 | 368 | 92 | 14 | Electrical |
| 2022 | 404 | 81 | 15 | Electrical |
| 2021 | 951 | 159 | 15 | Electrical |
| 2020 | 613 | 88 | 12 | Steering |
| 2019 | 744 | 93 | 9 | Steering |
| 2018 | 1,827 | 203 | 14 | Steering |
| 2017 | 311 | 31 | 5 | Brakes |
| 2016 | 461 | 42 | 5 | Brakes |
| 2015 | 476 | 40 | 3 | Brakes |
| 2014 | 657 | 51 | 4 | Engine |
| 2013 | 654 | 47 | 7 | Transmission |
| 2012 | 835 | 56 | 10 | Transmission |
| 2011 | 485 | 30 | 11 | Airbags |
| 2010 | 686 | 40 | 11 | Fuel System |
| 2009 | 372 | 21 | 7 | Airbags |
| 2008 | 873 | 46 | 9 | Airbags |
"Per year" divides complaints by the years since that model year went on sale, so new and old years compare fairly. Highlighted rows have the most complaints.
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Common questions
What is the worst year for the Jeep Wrangler?
The 2018 Wrangler, with 1,827 complaints. Its most reported problem area is the steering.
What is the best year for the Jeep Wrangler?
Among years with at least three years of owner reports, the 2009 Wrangler has the fewest complaints per year on the road.
Which Jeep Wrangler years should I avoid?
Be most careful with the 2018, 2021 and 2008 models. Check service records and recall work before buying.