2021 Jeep Gladiator Safety Report
2021 Jeep Gladiator faces significant steering and powertrain issues, multiple recalls, and concerning fire risks.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator
Reliability Score
The 2021 Jeep Gladiator receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steering System Failure/Lock-Up Drivers report sudden loss of power steering or steering wheel lock-up, making the vehicle extremely difficult to control, often at highway speeds. This is a frequently reported issue, with 47 complaints specifically mentioning 'STEERING'. |
High | Common | 27000-40000 miles |
| Engine Stall/Loss Of Motive Power Multiple complaints describe the engine suddenly shutting down while driving, sometimes at highway speeds, leading to a complete loss of power. This is exacerbated by recalls for high-pressure fuel pump failure and powertrain control module software issues. |
High | Common | 26000-37000 miles |
| Clutch Overheating And Fracture (Manual Transmission) Recalls indicate the clutch pressure plate can overheat and fracture, increasing the risk of fire and debris falling onto the roadway. This is a critical safety concern for manual transmission models. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Instrument Panel Cluster Failure A recall addresses an internal short circuit in the instrument panel cluster, leading to a blank display and loss of critical safety information like speedometer and warning lights, increasing crash risk. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| High-Pressure Fuel Pump (Hpfp) Failure Recalls for both 3.0L diesel and gasoline engines indicate HPFP failure, which can cause an engine stall and increase the risk of a crash. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Rearview Camera Display Failure A radio software error can prevent the rearview image from displaying, reducing the driver's rear view and increasing the risk of a crash, as per a recall. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Third Brake Light (Chmtl) Failure Numerous complaints indicate the third brake light on the tailgate malfunctions due to a faulty circuit board, making the vehicle less visible when braking and potentially failing state inspections. |
Medium | Common | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Jeep Gladiator:
The most reported issue, with 47 complaints, involves sudden loss of power steering, steering lock-up, or 'death wobble' at speed, posing a significant safety hazard.
With 37 complaints, issues include engine stalls, transmission slipping, and manual transmission clutch failures, directly impacting vehicle driveability and safety.
8 complaints, plus 6 under 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE', relate to instrument cluster failures, battery issues (especially the auxiliary battery for start-stop), and electrical shorts in components like the heated steering wheel.
9 complaints, plus 9 under 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE', are linked to fuel pump failures and engine stalls, consistent with multiple recalls.
11 complaints, plus 13 under 'STEERING,SUSPENSION', describe issues like rear axle leaks and general suspension problems that can affect vehicle stability.
9 complaints specifically mention exterior lighting issues, primarily the failure of the third brake light (CHMTL).
8 complaints, plus 6 under 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE' and 9 under 'FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE', detail engine stalls, white smoke from the engine, and head gasket failures.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Jeep Gladiator
Is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator has significant safety concerns. It has 263 total complaints, including 7 crashes and 2 fires. Key issues include steering failures, engine stalls, and clutch problems, all of which have led to recalls. While frontal crash tests received 4 stars, the rollover rating is 3 stars, and overall/side ratings are unavailable, indicating potential vulnerabilities.
What are common problems with the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator are related to the STEERING system (47 complaints), including sudden loss of power steering and steering lock-up. POWER TRAIN issues (37 complaints), such as engine stalls and transmission problems, are also very common. Other frequent complaints involve the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FUEL SYSTEM, and EXTERIOR LIGHTING (specifically the third brake light).
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?
Yes, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator has 7 recalls. These address critical components such as the instrument panel cluster (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM), powertrain control module software (POWER TRAIN), high-pressure fuel pump (FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL/GASOLINE), clutch assembly (POWER TRAIN), and rearview camera display (BACK OVER PREVENTION).
How does the 2021 Jeep Gladiator perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Jeep Gladiator received a 4-star rating for frontal crash tests from NHTSA. Its rollover rating is 3 stars. However, overall and side impact ratings are not available, which means there's incomplete data on its full crashworthiness.
What are the fire risks associated with the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?
There are 2 reported fires for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator in the NHTSA complaints, with one explicitly described as an engine fire. Furthermore, a recall for manual transmission models warns that the clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture, increasing the risk of a fire. This indicates a notable fire risk, particularly for manual transmission variants.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of critical safety complaints, multiple recalls, and reported fires, potential buyers should proceed with caution and ensure all recalls have been addressed, and consider an extended warranty for powertrain and steering components.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Jeep Gladiator
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The data includes 263 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 7 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 7 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.