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The Jeep Renegade is a compact SUV with tons of character. Some of the vehicle’s highlights are its exciting look and diverse color options. However, the Renegade has never been the most reliable vehicle. Of course, recent models are better, but there are some real clunkers in its lineup. Here are three of the worst used Jeep Renegade models. 

2015 is not a great used Jeep Renegade

2015 Jeep Renegade
2015 Jeep Renegade | Stellantis

The 2015 Jeep Renegade is largely considered the worst from the lineup. This makes sense, as it’s the first year for the vehicle. One of the most complained about issues is that the 2015 model often doesn’t start. Years later, there is still no concrete reason why this model Jeep Renegade has this mysterious no-start issue.

Like with many bad vehicles, there are also reports of transmission problems from the 2015 Renegade. Apparently, after the gears shift, the car often pauses and then launches forward. As many would guess, this could easily cause an accident. Initially, dealerships resetting the computer would work, but many owners reported that the issue returned. Ultimately, many of the impacted transmissions had to be replaced. 

There were also initial problems with the brakes making loud squeaking noises. However, an investigation determined that the noise stemmed from the materials the brake calipers were made from. The noise went away after the owners had the brakes changed. Still, the 2015 Jeep Renegade is considered a bad choice for a used SUV. 

2016

A Green 2016 Jeep Renegade
2016 Jeep Renegade | Stellantis

The 2016 is another of the worst used Renegade models. It’s not as bad as the first edition, but people don’t recommend it for your next compact SUV. According to Get Jerry, one of the biggest problems with this model year is with the suspension and the rear control arm bracket. Unfortunately, this malfunction could cause a crash, but there was a recall for it.

Another recall resulted from a build issue. 2016 Jeep Renegade models with the factory trailer hitch only had one fastener instead of three. Of course, this meant that it could easily come off while towing. This was a huge safety concern.

The 2016 model also has problems with excessive oil consumption. Additionally, the check engine light is a frequent occurrence in the Renegade. Overall, buying this early model Renegade isn’t the best choice. 

2017

The 2017 Jeep Renegade is an improvement but is still not a celebrated used model. It has some of the same issues as the first two, such as excessive oil use, but it does seem that the automaker made positive changes. The excessive oil use mainly occurs with the models equipped with the 2.4-liter engine. It seems to stem from a cracked oil pump housing or balance shaft module. 

The 2017 Jeep Renegade also has transmission problems. People have reported hard shifts, off-beat acceleration, and loud clunking noises. Additionally, there are problems related to the fuel system. Overall, this is one of the best of the worst Jeep Renegade models. There are much better choices on the market for used SUVs.

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