The Worst Jeep Renegade Model to Watch out For
If you want a used Jeep Renegade, that’s awesome. They are amazing SUVs. However, not every Jeep Renegade was created the same. There is one model year in particular that you need to avoid at all costs. But things have only been improving since then.
The Worst Jeep Renegade Model Year
The Jeep Renegade was hit with a low-reliability rating only because of the worst model year. Apparently, the 2016 Jeep Renegade has a few issues that need to be avoided.
However, the 2017 and later models are perfectly fine Jeeps to trust reliability and confidence in. They don’t have the same issues that plagued the 2016 model. This could indicate that the Jeep Reneade has been correcting issues.
The 2023 Jeep Renegade has an above-average reliability rating, while the 2016 model is just average. Models from 2017 and later could be a safer bet.
Problems With The 2016 Renegade
The 2016 Jeep Renegade was recalled for having a dangerous rear suspension issue. If the axle moves, the risk of having an accident was significantly increased.
Daystar Products International Inc issues a recall for their aftermarket rear control arms included in their 2015 – 2016 Jeep Renegade 1.5” Jeep Renegade spacer kit.
The particular rear control arms were manufactured between October 27 – November 5, 2015. They may have improper or faulty welds on the top flange near the rear control bracket. As a result, the axle may shift while driving.
There was another recall in 2016 for Jeep Renegades because they could have improperly installed trailer hitches. The recall was for 2015 – 2016 Jeep Renegade models that were manufactured between August 25, 2014 – June 25, 2016, that came with the optional factory-equipped trailer hitch package.
The trailer hitches were installed with only one fastener per side, instead of the standard three fasteners per side. As a result, while towing something, the trailer hitch may become disconnected from the vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents.
We know that Crysler loves their Uconnect system in Jeeps, but the 2016 Renegade, the electrical issues caused the problems with it to become even more frustrating.
Some drivers dealt with their infotainment system failing to turn on upon starting their Renegade. Other times, the system would randomly go black, and the sound would stop playing.
Other drivers experienced poor sound quality from their Bose speakers, and the spark plugs were prone to failing, making their Jeeps a headache to start.
There are also quite a few reports of the cluster display showing blinking warnings for the airbags, brakes, and more. As many as five different speeds flashed on their display for unknown reasons.
Does the Renegade have engine Issues?
The 2016 Renegade was prone to engine issues as well. Some drivers would see the acceleration symbol illuminate before their Jeeps randomly lost power. Other times Jeep Renegade drivers would see the check engine light appear before their vehicles suddenly stalled in traffic. The engine was prone to overheating.
Very early on, before the 2016 Renegade hit 50k miles, it was prone to having acceleration issues. The acceleration would suddenly peter out, or if the vehicle was stopped, it wouldn’t accelerate at all. Drivers have mentioned their personal accounts of almost being rear-ended due to this issue.
According to CarComplaints, the 2016 model has over 179 reports of engine problems. However, the 2019 model only has eight complaints about the engine, and the 2022 model has two reports. So, it has been improving.
