What 1,793 owners told NHTSA about the 2018 Jeep Wrangler 4-door 4xe

I purchased this 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited on July 19, 2025. Since purchasing the vehicle, I have experienced repeated mechanical failures that have required multiple repairs. The most serious issue involves the engine overheating at highway speeds without any visible coolant leak or clearly identifiable cause.Despite seeking professional diagnosis, the source of the overheating could not be determined. Shortly afterward, the vehicle developed a P0302 (Cylinder 2 Misfire), raising concerns about possible internal engine damage caused by the overheating.I believe this presents a significant safety hazard. An engine that overheats unexpectedly while driving at highway speeds can lose power or fail without warning, creating a dangerous situation for the driver and surrounding traffic. The vehicle has become unreliable and unsafe to operate because I cannot predict when it may overheat or experience another engine failure.As someone who often drives alone, I no longer feel safe taking this vehicle on long trips. I am concerned that the vehicle could leave me stranded on a highway or in a remote location without warning, placing my personal safety at risk. A vehicle should provide dependable transportation, not expose its occupants to the possibility of sudden mechanical failure.This vehicle has spent more time in repair facilities than on the road. I have incurred thousands of dollars in repair expenses, and I am now being asked to pay for an engine teardown simply to determine the cause of the failure before any warranty consideration can be made. Despite multiple repair attempts, the underlying cause of the overheating and engine problems has not been resolved.I am submitting this complaint because I believe the repeated overheating, unexplained engine malfunction, and resulting cylinder misfire may indicate a safety-related defect that warrants investigation. I request that the review to determine whether similar failure whether a broader safety issu

NHTSA ODI 11749969

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Jeep started on fire and is still at a tow yard in Belchertown, MA How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The Jeep started on fire while I was driving. I pulled over as the engine was smoking and then it burst into flames while I was still inside. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Not that I know of. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Yes, we gave permission for our insurance agency and Jeep to inspect the burned out vehicle. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? While I was driving, the engine temp and coolant warning lights shot way up and then the engine began to smoke. I pulled over and before I could exit the vehicle, fire was coming into the cab through the air vents.

NHTSA ODI 11745771

Was stopping at red light. Got to about 5mph when Jeep accelerated to about 35mph. I was standing on the breaks but the Jeep kept accelerating until impact struck the car in front me which was stopped. I have video.

NHTSA ODI 11739609

I bought this vehicle used in 2022 from CarMax. According to Jeep (Stellantis) Co. multiple recalls were fixed by the previous owner, but the patch available for 2018 Jeep Wranglers was not done. In 2024 my iphone and Mac laptop were hacked and shortly after I began having problems with my 2018 Jeep Wrangler. My alarm system started going off while I was in my home without touching or being near the FOB. When I used my FOB to unlock the doors, they would lock back before I could open the door. I was unable to use the push button start for a few minutes up to 15 minutes and in 2025 I was unable to use the push button at all on most days. I had to research a work around to be able to start my Jeep and even after that depending on the day, it takes several seconds to minutes to start it this way. On 2 different occasions as I was driving, I had no control over my steering for approx. 10 seconds. I held on to the wheel and slowed down. The control returned and I was able to drive home. I researched and found out that 2014-2018 had reports of hacking and the hacker taking control of the vehicle in multiple ways including steering, brakes, alarm system, and hacking FOB. My radio has been turned off and the stations changed. One of my FOBs was tampered with, including switching the lock and unlock button's capability, panic button was disabled, and now the FOB does not work at all. There is a loud grinding noise behind my glove box that can be heard at different times including when Jeep is turned off. Loud noises that sound like a rock hitting the window happen randomly to my front windshield, driver and passenger windows happens multiple times while I am driving and when vehicle is turned off. I took Jeep to a trusted mechanic and was told there was no way to tell and it would be better to just sell it. After I moved, I didn't experience these problems for a while, but am experiencing them again. I am concerned for my safety and anyone who may be a passenger in my Jeep.

NHTSA ODI 11738632

Engine - The vehicle is available but the engine was replaced. I was able to get home however there was a potential for significant engine failure. Yes it was inspected by an independent service center. Yes it was inspected by an independent service center. A check engine light came on. Upon further inspection it was a Cylinder 6 misfire P0306. When the engine was inspected further by a mechanic it was determined that the cylinder wall was damaged and that coolant had entered the cylinder. Due to the extent of the engine damage the engine needed to be replaced.

NHTSA ODI 11738445

Oil cooler failure at 7 years and 90000 miles. This is a known engineering issue due to a plastic housing that is resolved by upgrading the oil cooler housing to aluminum instead of plastic. It’s a $1000 repair. Because this is an engineering issue the consumer should not have to pay the entire cost of the repair. This is a SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD DUE TO THE LEAKAGE OF OIL CAUSED BY THIS FAILURE. It should definitely be deemed a recall and fixed at the expense of the manufacturer!

NHTSA ODI 11738326

On March 19, 2026 I paid $5,778.87 for repairs to my 2018 Wrangler JL. Repairs included the replacement of warped cylinder head and failed head gasket with coolant getting into the combustion chamber, showing up as rough running, misfire, flashing check engine light, and burning coolant smell. On April 18, 2026, at approximately 10:30 pm, after attending the [XXX] concert at Bank of America stadium (+70,000 in attendance), the vehicle stalled and was unable to be restarted or moved to the shoulder of the highway. The vehicle failure occurred on I277 outside of Bank of America Stadium with hundreds of cars passing us as my wife and were stranded in the middle lane. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11732368

I have a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL Sport S (2 door) with approximately 66,000 miles. On March 26th, 2026 I had a flashing check engine light come up along with the vehicle shaking in low gears. I had the vehicle towed to the Jeep dealership (Gandrud Auto Group) from which I bought it from and upon their inspection they found the left bank head gasket leaking coolant into the combustion chamber causing misfires. This repair was over $5000 and took over a week to fix. The service ticket from Grandrud will be attached which lists all parts that needed to be replaced. This vehicle is much too new to be having these kinds of issues and Gandrud even stated that many customers with JL Wranglers have been coming to them with the same issue of the head gasket failing. 1. Left bank head gasket leaking coolant into the combustion chamber causing misfires. Photos will be attached. 2. Shaking vehicle. Had vehicle towed. 3. Dealership inspected and identified the issue. Invoice attached. 4. Check engine light came on for just one day back in December of 2025, was brought into Gandrud and it was a misfire code, no noticeable issues at the time however and check engine light went away. On March 26th, 2026 I had a flashing check engine light come up along with the vehicle shaking in low gears.

NHTSA ODI 11732245

The vehicle is a 2018 Jeep Wrangler with a 3.6L engine and approximately 124,000 miles. The engine has experienced a failure involving multiple components, including suspected head gasket failure, significant oil loss with no visible external leak, low oil pressure, and engine knocking. Diagnostic trouble codes P0365 and P06DD were present, indicating camshaft position sensor issues and oil pressure control failure. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This condition creates a safety risk due to the potential for sudden engine failure and loss of power while driving, which could occur without warning and increase the risk of an accident. The problem has been confirmed by an independent repair facility, which identified low oil levels, coolant loss, and symptoms consistent with internal engine damage. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer. Prior to the failure, warning signs included a low oil pressure condition and engine performance changes. These symptoms developed rapidly over a short period of time. The vehicle is currently not safe to operate due to the risk of further engine damage or sudden failure.

NHTSA ODI 11727924

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while her son was driving approximately 70-75 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The check engine and traction control warning lights were illuminated. Upon research, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V524000 (Electrical System). The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.

NHTSA ODI 11720094

My 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL only now has 77,700 miles and got a blown head gasket!? This is so UNACCEPTABLE! Makes me regret ever purchasing! There is a ton more with same issue some with less miles and has been well maintained. Took to the dealer is who diagnosed and supposedly repaired due to a warranty that I am having to pay BIG money for! Alos, UNCALLED FOR! Took to dealer when Aux light first appeared but then eventually the engine light came on and I took to dealer and that's when diagnosed this! VERY VERY UPSETTING AS warranty should not have to cover not to mention, HOW DO YOU STOP FROM HAPPENING in ANOTHER 70000 or less miles? JEEP NEEDS TO BE RESPONSIBLE AND STEP UP BIG AND DO SOMETHING REGARDING THIS PROBLEM THAT IS THERE PROBLEM!

NHTSA ODI 11719031

Vehicle equipped with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine developed loud ticking noises, engine misfires, and loss of power while driving. The vehicle hesitated during acceleration and could not reliably maintain speed, creating a safety risk in traffic. An authorized dealership pulled diagnostic trouble codes, acknowledged the abnormal ticking, and advised the failure was likely related to the camshaft, lifters, and rocker arms. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic for further inspection. The independent mechanic confirmed failure of the valve train and camshaft components, requiring replacement of the passenger side intake camshaft (Bank 2), cam phaser, phaser bolt, and all lifters and rocker arms. Photos of the failed components are available. The defect was confirmed by both a dealership and an independent repair facility. Issue presents risk of sudden loss of power while the vehicle is in motion.

NHTSA ODI 11714299

On January 14, 2026, my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK Sport (3.6L) with approximately 134,099 miles was inspected at Cox’s Automotive & Repair Inc. due to a check engine light and rough engine operation. During diagnostic testing, multiple fault codes were identified, including P000A (camshaft position slow response), P0300 In addition to the diagnostic findings, I contacted and visited multiple automotive repair facilities regarding this issue. Each shop advised that they have previously serviced 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK models with the same 3.6L engine presenting identical symptoms and diagnostic codes, including timing correlation errors, misfires, and internal engine damage. Several repair facilities indicated that they have had the same make and model in their shops for the same failure, including vehicles with significantly lower mileage, with one reported case occurring at approximately 7,000 miles. Based on consistent feedback from multiple independent repair facilities, this condition appears to be a known and recurring mechanical issue associated with this vehicle model, rather than damage caused by misuse, neglect, or owner fault. (random/multiple cylinder misfires), P0017 and P0019 (camshaft/crankshaft timing correlation errors). Upon removal of the oil filter, metal debris was found in the oil filter cartridge, indicating possible internal engine damage. Based on these findings, the repair facility recommended engine replacement or major engine repair.

NHTSA ODI 11711257

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? THE THROTTLE FAILED ON THE FREEWAY DUE TO A BREAK IN THE ENGINE HARNESS. HAVE FULL REPAIR RECEIPTS FROM SHOP. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? FULL ENGINE AND THROTTLE FAILURE ON FREEWAY MULTIPLE TIMES, 1X ON A STRETCH OF FREEWAY WITH LITTLE TO NO SHOULDER WITH MY 1 YEAR OLD IN THE BACK SEAT. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? YES, FULL SERVICE REPAIR RECEIPTS ON HAND. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? YES Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? NO

NHTSA ODI 11709279

The jeep lost power while I was driving. The lights stayed on but jeep came to a stop. I touched the key area and it started running again.

NHTSA ODI 11708593

Started having misfire issues. Replaced spark plugs. problem continued. started having to add antifreeze regurlarly. 1 quart per 300 miles. multiple P0302 error codes. Dealer 1st tried to tell me was a loose coil pack. looked at it again and said needs a new head gasket possibly a whole new engine. 117,000 miles and this seems rediculous for a 60,000 dollar vehecle. Especially since Jeep already issued an extended 150,000 mile warranty for 2011-2013. with 100's of these same issues still happening on 2018's and latter they clearly did not correct the defect.

NHTSA ODI 11702534

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled, and the engine seized. In addition, the contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while driving on a busy highway full of traffic and tractor-trailers. The contact stated that the vehicle was stuck in an unsafe location, in the middle of the highway. The contact exited the vehicle, trying to get to a safe area, onto the shoulder of the road. The contact stated that the grounds were icy and snowy. The contact stated that while crossing the highway on foot, trying to get to the shoulder of the road, the contact fell. The contact was transported to the local Medical Center by ambulance. The contact sustained a fractured left leg and fractured left knee. The contact stated that medical treatment was ongoing. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the vehicle was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact stated that the failure occurred a month after the vehicle was purchased. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 61,000. The VIN was unavailable.

NHTSA ODI 11696819

On August 6, 2025, while driving at approximately 65 mph on the highway, the vehicle experienced a sudden and total loss of motive power. The engine warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle would not accelerate, forcing an emergency maneuver across multiple lanes of traffic to reach the shoulder. This failure occurred just one day after a warranty repair for the same issue, and followed a previous 199-day repair for a known camshaft defect. This sudden power loss in highway traffic created an extreme and unreasonable risk of a high-speed collision and serious injury.

NHTSA ODI 11696420

Continuous engine problems Says not in park/ is in park Clicking sounds when turned off Steering wheel won’t lock Will turn over but won’t start even tho all lights come on and air All lights will turn off when brake is pressed and when foot is off brake the lights will flash and the car will beep continuously All lights in gear will be lit up orange but can’t move it

NHTSA ODI 11695681

The Check Engine light illuminated and diagnostic code P219A was recorded (Bank 1 Air/Fuel Ratio Imbalance), and the engine has a ticking noise. The dealership has indicated the issue likely involves the valvetrain/rocker arms/lifters and will require engine internal repair (valve cover removal, spark plug replacement, possible rocker arm replacement) estimated at ~$2,900-$4,500. The 3.6 L Pentastar engine has been the subject of numerous owner complaints of ticking noise, power loss, misfire, and premature valvetrain failure. I understand there have been related Jeep Technical Service Bulletins (such as 09-002-14 and 09-008-18) addressing these types of failures. A class action lawsuit (Maugain et al. v. FCA US LLC) alleges defects in the 3.6L Pentastar engine’s valve train (rocker arms, lifters) and failure to disclose the defect. Maintenance History: Regular oil changes (every <6,000 miles) at approved service centers; no prior major engine internal repairs. Concern: The defect affects engine performance, may lead to catastrophic engine failure, and potentially reduces safe vehicle operation and control (power loss, hesitation). Relief Sought: I request the NHTSA open a vehicle safety defect investigation and compel FCA / Chrysler / Jeep to evaluate this condition under recall criteria.

NHTSA ODI 11695176

My Jeep began misfiring, giving a P0304 error code via the ODB. On June 2nd 2025, we took it to the Sandy Sansing CDJR Dealership. They determined that my 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine needed a new camshaft and lifters, despite having only 42,609 miles on it. To further complicate things, it took the dealership over a month to get a replacement camshaft in and installed, due to an abnormally high demand for replacement camshafts; this suggests a systemic problem with the engine, especially considering the problematic history of earlier versions of the 3.6L Pentastar V6 (1). https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2014/MC-10069161-0335.pdf

NHTSA ODI 11695313

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle hesitated and failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light was illuminated. In addition, the vehicle failed to accelerate while driving uphill or downhill. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the catalytic converter was replaced. After several more tests on the vehicle, it was determined that there was a leak in the engine block, and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.

NHTSA ODI 11689971

My 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL Sport is experiencing multiple premature engine failures that present a serious safety risk: •Vehicle overheats while driving. •Recurrent misfire on Cylinder #5 (DTC P0305). •White exhaust smoke with a sweet coolant smell on cold start. •Coolant loss despite recent refill. •Oil contamination with metallic particles found during inspection. •Valvetrain noise from the right bank, suspected intake camshaft wear. These conditions create a risk of engine seizure or sudden stalling while driving, which could cause a crash. Manufacturer awareness: Jeep/Mopar has issued bulletins acknowledging these exact problems, including: •TSB MC-11018482-0001 (May 2025): Intake camshaft/rocker wear causing misfires (P0301–P0306). •Customer Satisfaction Notification ZD8 (2023): Coolant inlet tube fastener issue causing coolant leaks and overheating. My vehicle’s symptoms directly align with these known manufacturer issues. Despite this, Jeep/Mopar has denied goodwill repair coverage. Safety Concern: This defect is not just a performance issue — it creates a high probability of sudden engine stall or seizure, endangering me, my passengers, and other drivers. I am requesting NHTSA investigate premature engine failures on the Jeep Wrangler JL (3.6L Pentastar) and require Jeep/Mopar (Stellantis) to address this safety hazard.

NHTSA ODI 11688993

Left headgasket blew at 51k miles / Sept 2024. Second headgasket (waiting on confirmation of left or right) blew at 62k miles. Vehicle is well maintained. Forums online suggest similar issues with other 2018 - 2023 jeep / chrysler engines.

NHTSA ODI 11687950

After filing my first concern with the vehicle and attempting to rack my brain with answers to why a 2018 is falling apart at the seams, I can only come up with either fraud, or the vehicle has been modified in major ways and glued together only to fall apart every bump I go over. After some reading I’m questioning 49 CFR part 565 form that was turned in after I purchased the vehicle means that I possibly have a replica, “remanufactured”, or altered vehicle. I’m not sure of the legality of selling a vehicle built from whatever vehicles I have, I do know that parts are not all the same years upon scanning modules I got some strange replacement identifiers that I will send. I also question if it really passed emissions being that my short term fuel trim sensor passed the catalytic converter on both sides stays over 99% consistently, also one of the “inspection” reports was done 2 minutes apart and the paper states that the vehicle passed at 5:08 then failed at 5:10 pm the same day. Not many vehicles tend to try again after passing and 2 minutes apart. I would have never bought a vehicle that not only has random foreign parts but a 2015 vehicle is also showing up under module information. I’ll never have recall information, and it seems that every system in the vehicle meant to warn or save me and my family when driving is compromised completely, yet somehow someone was allowed to pretend that I was buying a 2018 jeep Sahara unlimited with no record on carfax that what I am paying over 50 grand for with tax doesn’t just get bad gas and jump half the road when I hit a bump “because it’s a Jeep”. I should have been made aware that I was buying something scrapped, and that the odometer could be from any of them. I would like to receive a report of the form filed months after I purchased the vehicle and my entire jeep changed description and was no longer being monitored for safety. The IPC, BCM, TCM, and ECU aren’t properly communicating, and panels are all shifting.

NHTSA ODI 11677684