2016 Jeep Wrangler
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Service brakes is the leading concern among 460 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 15th highest complaint count among 26 Wrangler model years with reports.
Of the 2016 reports, 28 involved a crash and 15 involved a fire. 38 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Air bags, frontal, driver clockspring/spiral cassetteMar 14, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain right hand drive 2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Debris contamination may cause the clockspring to fail, preventing the driver's air bag from deploying in a crash.
An air bag that does not deploy in a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Dealers will replace the clockspring, steering wheel back cover, and steering column shrouds, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 27B.
Campaign 24V196000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, front, anchorageSep 26, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2011-2018 Jeep Wrangler right hand drive vehicles. The driver's seat belt buckle mounting strap may fracture and separate from the seat frame.
A separated or severed seat belt buckle strap will result in an inoperable seat belt, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
FCA US will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's seat belt buckle, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed November 19, 2019. Owners will received a second letter and the recall began March 26, 2020. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is VA6.
Campaign 19V680000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, passenger side, inflator moduleDo not drive until repairedJan 15, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2010 Dodge Ram 3500, Ram 4500/5500, 2010-2011 Dodge Dakota, 2010-2014 Dodge Challenger, 2010-2015 Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300, and 2010-2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 4, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V01.
Campaign 19V018000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, sensor/control module-inactiveOct 13, 2016
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Jeep Wrangler vehicles manufactured June 16, 2015, to August 14, 2016. In certain crash conditions, the front impact sensor wiring may be pulled until it detaches before a signal can be received by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC).
If the ORC module does not receive a signal from the front impact sensor, both frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reroute the front impact sensor wiring and relocate the impact sensor branch, free of charge. The recall began on November 10, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S76.
Campaign 16V734000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, driver side, inflator moduleMay 11, 2016
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Right Hand Drive Jeep Wrangler vehicles manufactured February 16, 2010, to May 2, 2016. The clockspring assembly may become contaminated with dust and cause the air bag circuit to fail.
Failure of the air bag circuit may prevent the driver's frontal air bag from deploying in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the clockspring, wheel back cover, and column shroud, free of charge. The recall began on August 11, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S40.
Campaign 16V288000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
460 reports, newest first.
Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Jun 19, 2024
My first issue is my windshield wiper fluid only works or comes out once every couple days. My 2nd issue is my TPM system has been blinking and does not show the pressure on very hot days. Both issues have been going on for over a year. 3rd issue is I can no longer use the AM/FM radio. 4th issue is my brakes went out due to a faulty rear passenger side brake hose in March. Over the past 2 weeks something has been wrong with using my brakes. Today I just found out both front brake hoses are defective. Due to these defective hoses, my rotors also need to be replaced. My automotive mechanic said this is very common. My car only has 54k miles on it. I feel like these issues should not be happening on a car that only has 54K miles on it. I feel like many children are in danger because of these hoses being defective. What if a parent has this happen and they are unable to stop on the interstate or anywhere really. I almost wrecked when my brakes went out in March, but luckily I was able to stop before hitting anything. The car behind me almost hit me as well. Can you please investigate these issues as soon as possible before anyone gets seriously hurt. Thank you.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Jun 14, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the ABS was erroneously activated, causing the vehicle to abruptly decelerate, and the brake pads and brake rotors overheated. During the failure, the ABS and Traction Control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the ABS Control Module was faulty and needed to be replaced, but the part was on backorder and not available. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 120,000.
Power train, Jun 6, 2024
2016 Wrangler 4 door 4x4 Automatic transmission, 110,000 miles, 4x4 used maybe for 30 minutes total in it's lifetime since I purchased it brand new. Transmission does not want to shift out of 4th into 5th, this was noticed when my RPM's never seemed to drop going down interstate at any speed, after the transmission has already shifted through 1st, 2nd, 3rd into 4th. I've noticed also that the transmission tends to linger in 3rd gear to long as well. I've had to put into manual mode and shift manually to get it out of 4th into 5th gear. This has been ongoing for a very long time, dealership unable to identify problem. Is this an isolated problem or others experiencing this also?
Service brakes, Hydraulic, May 31, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, he became aware that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with an ABS module malfunction. The contact stated the vehicle was not repaired due to parts not being available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Service brakes, May 24, 2024
The ABS warning lights come on and go off intermittently. Occasionally when I brake I can feel the brake pedal shudder. This problem has occurred at various speeds from 5mph to freeway driving at 65mph. This problem has been happening for several years but only occasionally. I would estimate it started at about 30,000 miles only occasionally and started more frequently about 50,000 miles. We love our Jeep and are diligent about maintenance. Now it is almost constant. I have taken it to a trusted independent mechanic who could not detect the problem over the past 2 years because it didn’t happen while in the shop. We have had a brake job done and that has not corrected the problem. We took it to get hoses replaced yesterday and got a call from our mechanic stating that the ABS warning system went on for them and they were able to detect a faulty sensor and will replace it. This most recent incident happened when moving vehicle to lift for repairs of heater hoses. The date is 5/24/2024. We have experienced similar and exact problems as other owners complained except have not taken our vehicle to the dealer. Seems it’s about time something be done by Jeep.
Electrical system, Engine, May 10, 2024
Vehicle cel for misfire. Replace plugs and coils. Still happens. Dealership says it needs a new engine? My research shows that this is an extremely common problem with Jeep engines. I am aware of a class action suit regarding this issue. I’m not sure of the status. Vehicle has just under 129k miles and is therefore out of warranty. Jeep/FCA knew these engines had problems and continued to sell them without disclosing the highly likely problems ownere would encounter.
Power train, Apr 19, 2024
The transmission shifter for the manual transmission has become loose and the entire shaft rotates making shifting gears nearly impossible. It caused me to shift into the incorrect gear yesterday and slowed the Jeep down quickly which is dangerous while driving in traffic.
Service brakes, Apr 8, 2024
*The ABS alert is on and it is disabling the antilock breaking system. The dealership has inspected the vehicle. *The safety at hand is that my antilock breaking system is not working. I was told that there is a chance if I had to break suddenly, the vehicle ABS will not work and the breaks will lock up, causing me to skid. They cautioned me to pump the breaks in the event I need to suddenly stop. *The Dealer has confirmed that this module is broken. They have inspected the vehicle and they were the ones who provided me with this information. *I was told the ABS module is inoperable at this time and the part has been on back order since I reported it in December 2023. *The alert/notification warning lights go on each time the vehicle is started and stays on the entire time the vehicle is on. The lights first appeared in early October (intermittently). We took the vehicle to Jeep and they could not duplicate the lights coming on or the problem and sent us away. *The warning lights continued to come on intermittently and we took the Jeep back to Jeep/Chrysler in December and we were then told the ABS module was broken. They placed an order for the part at that time. *I have called the dealership multiple times to see when the part would arrive and the dealership informed me that the ABS module for my vehicle is back ordered due an engineering review in progress for that part. Each month I am told the same information. I called Chrysler customer service and have been assigned a Case Manager. Today, the Case Manager gave me the same information and told me that the issue is under review and I will receive an update every 5 days.
Other or unspecified, Feb 20, 2024, crash
Stopped at traffic light. Hit from behind, into vehicle in front of said vehicle. Air bags did not deploy. Police report filed; insurance representative, jeep dealership all have inspected. No warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to the failure. Rear ended at traffic light. Front end and back end damaged- jeep was undrivable, wrecker service removed from the accident scene. Driver was transported by ambulance and admitted to the hospital.
Electrical system, Air bags, Feb 15, 2024
At 70000 miles our vehicle has an airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard. After diagnostics it was determined that a OBD / DTC code was present : "B1B06 Driver Airbag Squib 2 Circuit Open" Per the manufacturer FCA, this code indicates an issue with the Airbag clockspring, and the driver side airbag may not deploy in case of a crash, hence placing the driver at risk of injury or death. Although FCA issued a safety recall for this issue, it only covers vehicles manufactured before May-2-2016. Our vehicle was manufactured on May-27 yet is suffering from the exact same issue, but not covered by the safety recall as per FCA representatives. "Safety Recall S40 / NHTSA 16V-288 Airbag Clockspring" Attached. This is apparently a known issue on many Jeep Wranglers, not just the ones manufactured between the posted dates, yet FCA does not offer support for vehicle owners whose airbag may not deploy in the case of a crash.
Power train, Wheels, Service brakes, Feb 9, 2024
The ABS Traction Control Module in this year, and surrounding year, Jeep Wranglers continues to fail. Now Jeep has stated that the part is under engineering review and not available till June timeframe. Therefore, these vehicles no longer have anti lock brakes or traction control safety features. This is a widespread issue and should be a recall on these modules.
Electrical system, Engine, Feb 5, 2024
On multiple occasions, while operating my vehicle on the freeway, I have encountered a highly alarming problem. The engine of my car has unexpectedly shut off, resulting in a sudden loss of power and control. This has happened when driving between 45-75mph. This has placed me and other road users in extremely dangerous situations, as it has occurred at high speeds where maneuvering and reacting swiftly are essential. I have taken immediate action to have the issue investigated and resolved by authorized service centers. However, despite their efforts, the problem persists, leaving me deeply concerned about the reliability and safety of my vehicle. This recurring issue indicates a potential flaw in the design or manufacturing of the engine or related components.
Air bags, Other or unspecified, Jan 28, 2024
Air bad light is on all the time and the horn does not work.
Other or unspecified, Jan 19, 2024
Vehicle under-body gas tank skid plate is rusting from the inside out. My mechanic has advised me that he has seen many of the JK model Jeep Wranglers gas skid plates rust away from the inside out. Due to the nature of its location the inner portion rusting away is difficult to see this happening. Should this rust away and let go it could result in the gas tank falling from the vehicle at operating speeds on public roads. I was urged to report this as a safety problem.
Engine, Jan 17, 2024
ENGINE OIL COOLER WENT OUT AND MY MECHANIC WANTS $1100 TO REPAIR!! SAYS THEY ALL GO BAD EVENTUALLY START LEAKING OIL VERY BADLY!!!!!
Power train, Jan 17, 2024
Oil filter housing is made of plastic and over time the plastic, exposed to heat cycle and elements from being under the plenum, becomes brittle and cracks. The cracks in the oil filter housing create a susbtantial oil leak that drips engine oil onto the exhaust and is a potential for a fire. If the oil level is not properly maintained it could also create a lack of lubrication on the engine for a potential engine lock up while being driven.
Electrical system, Jan 12, 2024
Second instance of HVAC blower motor shorting out with smoke filling cabin. Connectors and wires melted/burned up.
Electrical system, Nov 5, 2023
Replaced Totally Integrated Power Module. Car was totally disabled due to the failure of the this module. Part replacement was difficult because part was in demand due to high replacement rate.
Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 1, 2023
While driving on the highway going approximately 60 miles per hour, I felt something in the engine go quiet and I instantly had no gas pedal power. My foot was pressing on the gas pedal all the way to the floor board and the jeep would not speed up. I instantly put on my hazard lights. The jeep was still running but had no fuel power. I was unable to move over to the right lane of the highway because the Jeep was crawling to a stop and cars were flying past me in the right lane. No warning lights or check engine lights ever came on. My daughter was in the Jeep with me. She called 911. The Jeep came to a complete stop and died. We were stuck in the vehicle and could not exit because cars were speeding past us on both sides of the vehicle. We were almost hit from behind by a semi trailer. It swerved to the right lane at the last moment. We called 911 again and they said police were on the way. A vehicle stopped in the right lane and let my daughter and I exit the Jeep on the passenger side. My daughter was crying hysterically because she was so shook up from almost being hit by the semi trailer. Police finally arrived and called a tow truck. The Jeep was towed to the dealer where it was purchased. The service department inspected the Jeep. Said the Jeep did not register any codes. It started and was driving normal. They say it could be the fuel pump. I’ve ordered a fuel pump but it is unavailable at this time. Not sure when it will come into the dealer. In the meanwhile, I’m terrified that this will happen again. I will not be driving it on the highway at all and will only drive it when necessary to run errands. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone other than the service department at the dealer where the Jeep was purchased.
Power train, Oct 15, 2023
Vehicle has 52940 miles on it only easy driving, never towed anything and all maintenance done at the dealership where it was purchased. Driving down the road has started whining. Transmission shot and needed rebuild or replacement. Jeep Wave and corporate not willing to help. 5 year/60,000 mile warranty that expired in July of 2022. Both dealerships and transmission shop stated that the transmission was done and needed rebuild or replacement.
Service brakes, Sep 19, 2023
Park Brake was set and parked against the curb. Jeep started to move on its on with no one in the driver or passenger seat. It rolled over the curb and started over the hill pulling me along side it as I was reaching for an empty bottle in the floor board causing me injury.
Engine, Sep 3, 2023
Started getting a loud ticking sound on driver side of engine . Took it to an auto mechanic he said it my left side head rocker arms making the noise. He also said Chrysler 3.6l Pentastar engine are known for this problem.
Service brakes, Aug 16, 2023
Had right front brakes, caliper and rotor replaced two times in the past 6 months. Same problem. At times, brakes feel like they are stuck and will not release. Standard transmission and there is no roll back on inclined driveway. Drove it 5 miles home when it started messing up. The brake light and ABS light came on. Got home and the brakes were smoking. Didn't drive it for three days and the same thing started to happen. Having to do a hard break is dangerous-the brakes will not catch and it jerks to the left. Drove it back home. Went maybe 15 miles and this time when I stepped on the brakes, it went all the way to the floor. The brake pads are missing, Caliper is stuck. Rotors are half of being brand new. All three items-pads, caliper, and rotor were replaced 1 month ago. I have the receipts. This is the second time the brake pads fell out at $350 a pop. Mileage is approximately 55,500 for a 2016 Jeep Sahara.
Steering, Aug 2, 2023
The sway bar on the 2016 Jeep Rubicon sway bar engages and you lose ability to steer. This has happened on the expressway to us, several time. I have read about this issue, there was a class action lawsuit that did not go anywhere. This is very dangerous to the people driving and also to people around them. I
Engine, Aug 2, 2023
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer but there was no failure found however, the dealer performed an oil change. The vehicle continued to experience the failure with the abnormal sound being more pronounced. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the cylinders needed to be adjusted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.