2017 Jeep Patriot Safety Report

2017 Jeep Patriot: Average Crash Ratings, Zero Recalls, but Significant Owner Complaints on Power Train and Active Head Restraints

58Complaints
0Recalls
★★★★☆Safety Rating
45/100Reliability Score
7Crash Reports
1Fire Reports
10Injuries
Most reported components: Power Train (9)Unknown Or Other (6)Engine (4)Seats (3)Seat Belts (3)Air Bags,Seats,Unknown Or Other (2)Electrical System,Engine (2)Air Bags,Vehicle Speed Control,Service Brakes (2)Steering (2)Service Brakes, Hydraulic (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Jeep Patriot

The 2017 Jeep Patriot presents a mixed safety picture, with a notable number of owner complaints despite average crash test ratings and no recalls. NHTSA recorded 58 total complaints, including 7 crashes, 1 fire, and 10 injuries. The vehicle received an Overall 4-star safety rating from NHTSA, with a 3-star rating for Frontal crash and Rollover, but a strong 5-star rating for Side crash. However, the complaint data reveals significant concerns, particularly around the power train and active head restraints. Common complaint patterns include numerous issues with the CVT transmission, described as 'bucking,' 'hesitating,' 'jerking,' and 'slipping,' with some failures occurring at relatively low mileage (e.g., 43,000 miles, 120,000 miles). Another prevalent and concerning issue is the spontaneous deployment of the active head restraints (AHR) without an accident, leading to injuries such as neck pain, TBI diagnoses, and spinal issues, as reported in multiple complaints. Electrical system malfunctions, throttle body failures causing stalling and loss of acceleration, and water leaks from the sunroof/map lights are also frequently cited. Despite these recurring issues, there have been no recalls issued for the 2017 Jeep Patriot, which is unusual given the nature and frequency of some reported problems, especially those related to safety-critical components like the power train and active head restraints. The crash test performance, while not stellar in frontal and rollover categories, is offset by the excellent side-impact rating. However, the real-world complaint data suggests potential reliability and safety gaps not fully captured by the recall system or standard crash tests, particularly concerning component failures that can lead to loss of control or unexpected injury.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Jeep Patriot 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 2017 Jeep Patriot

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Jeep Patriot:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Cvt Transmission Failure/Malfunction
Owners report the CVT transmission bucking, hesitating, jerking, slipping, and failing, sometimes leading to loss of power or complete failure at various mileages.		 High Common 30000-120000 miles
Active Head Restraint (Ahr) Spontaneous Deployment
Headrests deploy without impact or accident, causing injuries such as neck pain, TBI, and spinal issues to occupants.		 High Common under 100000 miles
Throttle Body Failure/Engine Stalling
Vehicle loses ability to accelerate, stalls while driving, or enters 'limp mode,' often attributed to a defective throttle body or computer glitch.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Electrical System Malfunctions
Persistent electrical issues, including sensor lights, vehicle jolting, and general malfunctions, sometimes shortly after purchase.		 Medium Occasional 18000+ miles
Sunroof/Map Light Water Leaks
Water leaks from the sunroof and map light area, dripping onto occupants and vehicle controls, potentially causing electrical damage and distraction.		 Medium Occasional unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Jeep Patriot:

Power Train 15% of complaints

Frequent complaints about CVT transmission issues, including jerking, slipping, hesitation, and complete failure.

Seats 5% of complaints

Multiple reports of active head restraints deploying spontaneously without an accident, causing injury.

Engine 6% of complaints

Issues include stalling, loss of acceleration, check engine lights, and overheating, often linked to throttle body or computer problems.

Electrical System 3% of complaints

Persistent electrical malfunctions, sensor light activations, and starting issues.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic 1% of complaints

Brake pedal failing to respond, sticking, or causing wheel lock-up, leading to crashes.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Jeep Patriot

Is the 2017 Jeep Patriot safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Jeep Patriot received an Overall 4-star safety rating, with 5 stars for side impact but only 3 stars for frontal and rollover. However, owner complaints highlight significant safety concerns not reflected in recalls, particularly regarding spontaneous active head restraint deployment causing injuries, and power train issues leading to loss of control or stalling.

What are common problems with the 2017 Jeep Patriot?

The most reported issues for the 2017 Jeep Patriot include CVT transmission malfunctions (9 complaints), spontaneous deployment of active head restraints (multiple complaints under SEATS and AIR BAGS,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER), engine stalling or loss of power (4 complaints), and various electrical system problems (2 complaints). Water leaks from the sunroof/map lights are also frequently mentioned.

Are there any recalls for the 2017 Jeep Patriot?

No, according to NHTSA data, there are currently no recalls issued for the 2017 Jeep Patriot, despite a notable number of owner complaints detailing potentially serious safety defects.

How does the 2017 Jeep Patriot perform in crash tests?

The 2017 Jeep Patriot received an Overall 4-star safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 3 stars in the Frontal crash test, 5 stars in the Side crash test, and 3 stars in the Rollover resistance test.

What should I look out for if buying a used 2017 Jeep Patriot?

If considering a used 2017 Jeep Patriot, pay close attention to the transmission's performance for any signs of jerking, hesitation, or slipping. Also, inquire about any history of active head restraint deployment, engine stalling, or electrical issues. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to check for these known problems.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the numerous owner complaints regarding critical components like the CVT transmission and active head restraints, proceed with caution. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on these known issues is essential, and consider an extended warranty for powertrain coverage.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Jeep Patriot

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Jeep Patriot. The data includes 58 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 7 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 10 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Jeep Patriot an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 3 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 3 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

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.