2021 Jeep Wrangler VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler has mixed reliability. There are 16 recalls and 826 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler. Severity signals include 19 crash-related complaints and 20 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Steering (228), Electrical System (217), Power Train (116).

Wrangler reliability snapshot

56/100

Latest model-year reliability score

3.5/5

RepairPal rating (medium)

$694

Avg annual repair cost vs $521 category avg

#25/26

Ranking in compact SUVs · better than 4% of peers

Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.

Used-car research

Research the Jeep Wrangler before checking the VIN

Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.

Best year to buyReliability, price and listing depth combined Years to avoidThe weakest years and stronger alternatives Common problemsComplaint patterns across model years Recall historyNHTSA campaigns grouped by model year Resale valueObserved prices, mileage and depreciation Maintenance & repair costYearly repair cost, reliability rating and segment rank

Most-reported 2021 Jeep Wrangler issues

Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.

Steering228
Electrical System217
Power Train116
Suspension56
Unknown Or Other54
Engine47

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler

Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.

Test for steering wobble at highway speeds
Check for electrical system recalls and updates
Inspect clutch and transmission for responsiveness
Verify battery and charging system functionality
Test brakes for responsiveness and check for vacuum pump issues
Inspect suspension components for wear or damage
Check for accurate fuel gauge readings
Ensure all airbags and seatbelts are functional

What owners reported

2021 Jeep Wrangler owner complaints in detail

Owners have reported 19 crashes, 20 fires and 12 injuries to NHTSA for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.

Owner complaints228

STEERING

Owners report frequent issues with the steering of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler, predominantly related to the "death wobble" phenomenon. This condition typically occurs at highway speeds, often triggered by bumps or irregularities in the road, leading to violent shaking and requiring drivers to slow down significantly to regain control. Complaints often mention this issue arising around 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Some owners also describe sudden power steering failures, resulting in a significant increase in steering effort without prior warning. These issues pose safety risks, as they can lead to a loss of steering control and potential accidents. This information is crucial for potential buyers considering a used 2021 Jeep Wrangler, especially those planning to drive frequently on highways.

Owner complaints217

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners report frequent issues with the electrical system of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler, particularly related to the high-voltage battery and start-stop system. Complaints often describe battery failures leading to vehicle fires, inability to charge, and warnings to park away from structures. Many owners experience problems with the key fobs disconnecting and the instrument cluster failing, which sometimes results in loss of vehicle information. These issues typically occur in vehicles with mileage ranging from 23,000 to 35,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of fires and crashes linked to electrical failures, underscoring potential risks for prospective buyers.

Severity signals: 4 crash, 7 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints116

POWER TRAIN

Owners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report issues related to sudden power loss and propulsion failures, particularly in the 4xe hybrid models. Complaints often describe the vehicle entering a "turtle mode," causing speed to drop significantly, sometimes to as low as 7-12 mph, and in some cases, the vehicle becomes completely unresponsive to the accelerator. These issues tend to occur after recall work has been performed, with some reports indicating problems as early as 10,400 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes and fires, as well as instances where the vehicle unexpectedly shifts into park while in motion, posing a risk of losing control. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns, especially if considering a used model with a history of recall involvement.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 5 fire, 1 injury reports

Owner complaints56

SUSPENSION

Owners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report issues related to the "death wobble," a condition where the vehicle shakes violently, especially after hitting bumps at highway speeds. Typical symptoms include uncontrollable shaking that often necessitates slowing down significantly to regain control. Complaints suggest these issues commonly emerge around 20,000 to 50,000 miles. Some reports indicate that leaking shock absorbers and failed dampers might contribute to the problem. Safety implications are significant, with at least one report of the vehicle veering off the road into a ditch. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring suspension issues and the associated safety risks.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints47

ENGINE

Owners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report engine stalling and overheating issues, often linked to the cooling system. Complaints commonly describe coolant leaks, erratic temperature readings, and overheating, with some cases involving engine seizure and significant damage. These issues are often noted at relatively low mileage, sometimes under 30,000 miles. Fire incidents are reported in four cases, with one resulting in a total vehicle loss. Buyers should be aware of potential safety risks, such as sudden loss of power and overheating, especially in vehicles with the 2.0L turbocharged engine.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 4 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints25

FUEL SYSTEM

Owners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report issues related to the fuel system, particularly involving a recall that has yet to be addressed due to unavailable parts. Complaints often describe the vehicle losing motive power or stalling, sometimes accompanied by the check engine light, around mileage ranging from 31,000 to 70,000. Some owners note a fuel leak and a strong diesel odor, specifically affecting the fuel filter housing. Safety implications include instances where stalling results in loss of power steering and braking, posing a potential hazard if these failures occur while driving. Buyers should be aware of these unresolved recall issues and the potential for fuel system malfunctions at higher mileages.

Owner complaints16

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Owners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report issues related to the fuel and propulsion systems, notably involving inaccurate fuel gauges and high-pressure fuel pump failures. Complaints often describe vehicles shutting down unexpectedly, sometimes while driving, due to fuel system malfunctions, with some incidents occurring at highway speeds. There are also reports of hybrid battery issues leading to fire hazards, with one confirmed case of a vehicle fire. These problems are noted across a range of mileages, with some vehicles having as few as a few thousand miles. Safety implications include potential vehicle fires and sudden loss of power, which could pose risks during operation.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 1 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints10

SERVICE BRAKES

Owners report several issues with the service brakes on the 2021 Jeep Wrangler, with multiple complaints highlighting persistent vacuum pump failures, brake pedal going to the floor, and warning lights for ABS and stability control. Typical symptoms include loss of power brakes, lack of brake responsiveness, and illuminated warning lights, often occurring around 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Two complaints involve crashes: one describes unintended acceleration through a fence while parked, and another details a vehicle lurching at a stop light, resulting in collisions with other vehicles. These issues, particularly those involving complete brake failure and loss of vehicle control, have significant safety implications that potential buyers should consider.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints9

AIR BAGS

Owners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler frequently report issues with airbag non-deployment during crashes, with eight out of nine complaints involving accidents and ten injuries mentioned. Common symptoms include airbag failure notifications and instances where airbags do not deploy despite significant impacts, such as collisions with other vehicles, guardrails, or rollover events. Some complaints also highlight seatbelt malfunctions, where the seatbelt fails to lock during a crash. These issues occur at various mileages, with at least one report noting a failure at 930 miles. The pattern of airbag and seatbelt failures in crash situations suggests potential safety risks for occupants.

Severity signals: 8 crash, 0 fire, 10 injury reports

Owner complaints6

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler report several issues related to vehicle speed control, particularly in models with the 4xe and diesel engines. Common symptoms include failure to accelerate from a stop, unexpected entry into limp mode restricting speed to as low as 5-8 mph, and erratic acceleration and braking behavior. These issues often occur alongside the illumination of check engine lights, with some complaints linked to recent recall services. Mileage at the time of incidents varies, with one report noting a crash at 9,000 miles due to sudden unintended acceleration. Safety implications are notable, as one complaint involves a crash resulting from the vehicle lunging forward unexpectedly, and others describe near-miss situations due to loss of power or control.

Severity signals: 1 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

2021 Wrangler recalls (16)

Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Wrangler. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 25V741000Oct 30, 2025
Park outside until repaired
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Jeep Wrangler 4Xe and 2022-2026 Grand Cherokee 4Xe vehicles. The high voltage battery may fail internally and lead to a vehicle fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: A vehicle fire can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures and not to charge their vehicles until the remedy is completed. Dealers will update the high voltage battery software, and replace the high voltage battery, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning December 17, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 68C. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 6, 2025. Vehicles that were previously recalled for the same issue under NHTSA Recalls 24V720 and 23V787 will need to have the new remedy performed.
BACK OVER PREVENTION, EXTERIOR LIGHTINGNHTSA 24V676000Sep 12, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The wiring harness for the rearview camera and the center brake light may short circuit, which can disable the rearview camera image and center brake light. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 111, "Rear Visibility" and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: A rearview camera image that does not display decreases the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, a center brake light that fails to illuminate can fail to indicate to other drivers that the vehicle is slowing down, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers replaced the harness for the center brake light and rearview camera and/or the spare tire carrier/harness assembly, as necessary, free of charge. All vehicles were repaired by January 15, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 77B.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 24V652000Sep 5, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Jeep Gladiator and 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The instrument panel cluster may experience an internal short circuit and fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."
Consequence: An instrument panel that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the instrument panel cluster, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between October 3, 2024, and January 23, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 30B.
POWER TRAINNHTSA 24V572000Aug 1, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator vehicles that were previously remedied under NHTSA recall number 23V-116. The software for the powertrain control module may cause an engine stall, which can result in a loss of drive power.
Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 92B. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 23V-116 will need to have the new remedy completed.
VISIBILITYNHTSA 24V111000Feb 15, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Jeep Wrangler and 2022-2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. A hybrid control processor (HCP) software error may cause the defrosting and defogging system to be inoperative. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 103, "Windshield Defrosting and Defogging Systems."
Consequence: An inoperative windshield defrosting and defogging system may decrease the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the HCP software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 29, 2024. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 04B.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 23V787000Nov 22, 2023
Park outside until repaired
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) vehicles. The high voltage battery may fail internally and lead to a vehicle fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: A vehicle fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to recharge their vehicles, and to park outside and away from structures, until they are repaired. Dealers will update the high voltage battery pack software and replace the battery pack assembly if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 89A. This recall is superseded by NHTSA Recall 24V-720.
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESELNHTSA 23V263000Apr 13, 2023
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler, Gladiator, and 2022-2023 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with a 3.0L diesel engine. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail.
Consequence: Fuel pump failure can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the HPFP and replace additional fuel system components, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 17, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 01A.
STRUCTURENHTSA 23V191000Mar 23, 2023
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. A stud on the frame assembly may puncture the fuel tank in a crash, which can result in a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, remove the frame stud and apply paint, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 6, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 28A.
POWER TRAINNHTSA 23V116000Feb 23, 2023
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Jeep Wrangler, and 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.
Consequence: Overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the clutch assembly and update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed from November 16, 2023 through July 25, 2024. Owners may contact (FCA US, LLC) customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 19A. This recall expands and replaces previous recall 21V-028. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 21V-028 will need to have the new remedy completed.
ENGINENHTSA 22V865000Nov 23, 2022
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe vehicles equipped with 2.0L Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle engines. A loss of communication may cause an engine shutdown.
Consequence: An engine shutdown can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
There is more than one involved component and calibration software. Updating the calibration software in the Transmission Control Module, Hybrid Control Processor and Auxiliary Hybrid Control Processor that changes fail safe from shut down to limp home. Dealers will update the transmission control module software, Hybrid Control Processor and Auxiliary Hybrid Control Processor, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 22, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall ZB7.
SEAT BELTSNHTSA 22V766000Oct 13, 2022
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Ram 1500, Jeep Gladiator, and 2021 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The front seat belt retractors may have an improperly welded micro gas generator, which can result in seat belt pretensioner failure.
Consequence: A seat belt with pretensioner failure may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the front seat belt retractors. free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 8, 2022. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Z95.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, ENGINENHTSA 22V767000Oct 13, 2022
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Jeep Wrangler, Ram 1500, and 2021-2022 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail, causing an engine stall.
Consequence: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the HPFP and inspect and replace additional fuel system components, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 17, 2023. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Z96.
BACK OVER PREVENTIONNHTSA 22V638000Aug 25, 2022
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Jeep Wrangler, RAM 1500 and 2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles. A radio software error may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 6, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA, LLC's number for this recall is Z86.
POWER TRAINNHTSA 21V028000Jan 28, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Jeep Wrangler and 2020-2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.
Consequence: Overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will add software to reduce engine torque capability when clutch assembly temperatures rise to a level that may damage the inner pressure plate, free of charge." FCA has ordered a stop sale for the affected vehicles as of February 25, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 4, 2021.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 24V720000Sep 27, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Jeep Wrangler 4XE and 2022-2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE vehicles. The high voltage battery may fail internally and lead to a vehicle fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: A vehicle fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
This recall is replaced by NHTSA recall number 25V741. Vehicles already repaired under this recall will need to have the new remedy completed. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures, and not to recharge their vehicles until they are repaired. Dealers will update the high voltage battery pack software and replace the battery pack assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed October 11, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning December 2024. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 95B. Vehicles in this recall that were previously recalled for the same issue under NHTSA Recall 23V-787 will need to have the new remedy performed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 21V949000Dec 9, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Wrangler Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) vehicles. After reaching 13,342 miles, the odometer will no longer display vehicle mileage. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Control and Displays."
Consequence: A missing odometer reading could lead to an unintended delay in critical safety-related maintenance, potentially impairing the safe operation of the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the instrument panel cluster (IPC) software on vehicles with less than 13,342 miles, and replace the IPC on vehicles in which the mileage is not displayed, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 28, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Y94.

Used-market value

2021 Jeep Wrangler resale snapshot

69.1%estimated value retained after 5 years

720listings in the model-level benchmark

$27,994median asking price from 60 listings

Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.

Compare Jeep Wrangler value by year →Full Jeep Wrangler market analysis at CarResaleValue →

2021 Jeep Wrangler on the road

204,610 2021 Jeep Wrangler units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2021 Jeep Wrangler stacks up against rivals

The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.

Ford Bronco-Sport

Reliability: 77/100·Rivalry score: 95

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Land Rover Defender 110

Reliability: 64/100·Rivalry score: 95

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Ford Bronco

Reliability: 59/100·Rivalry score: 95

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Toyota 4RUNNER

Reliability: 84/100·Rivalry score: 85

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Reliability verdict for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler

With a 60/100 score against a 72/100 segment average, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler lands below average for reliability. That gap points to a higher-than-typical likelihood of owner-reported problems compared with peers, placing it at the low end of the “mixed” range and close to elevated risk.

Complaints are not confined to a single system. Steering and the electrical system dominate the pattern, with powertrain concerns also prominent, suggesting multiple core areas contribute to the overall burden. Suspension and uncategorized reports add to the spread rather than narrowing it to one weak spot. Recall activity is elevated, reinforcing that this model year carries more corrective actions than a limited-recall vehicle.

Overall risk level is moderate-to-elevated versus the segment average.

What you get in a 2021 Jeep Wrangler report

Available title brand history

Odometer readings & rollback detection

Accident & damage records

Auction sales with photos

Open safety recalls

Theft & stolen vehicle check

Check a 2021 Jeep Wrangler now

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2021 Jeep Wrangler — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2021 Jeep Wrangler reliable?

How many recalls does the 2021 Jeep Wrangler have?

16 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

What are the most common 2021 Jeep Wrangler problems?

The most-reported 2021 Jeep Wrangler problem areas are: Steering (228), Electrical System (217), Power Train (116).

Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Jeep Wrangler?

Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Jeep Wrangler, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.