2015 Jeep Renegade Safety Report

The 2015 Jeep Renegade presents a mixed safety picture, with significant concerns stemming from numerous owner complaints, particularly regarding the powertrain and engine, despite a lack of specific NHTSA crash test ratings. With 509 total complaints, including 8 crashes, 8 fires, and 1 injury, there's a clear pattern of mechanical and electrical issues. The most frequently reported problems revolve around the POWER TRAIN (91 complaints) and ENGINE (74 complaints), often describing unexpected shifts to neutral, stalling, and engine failures, some leading to complete engine replacement. This aligns with one of the four recalls, specifically concerning the 9-speed automatic transmission unexpectedly shifting to neutral, increasing crash risk. Recall history for the 2015 Renegade includes four distinct campaigns. Beyond the transmission recall, there was a critical cybersecurity recall addressing a software vulnerability that could allow unauthorized remote control of vehicle systems. Other recalls involved trailer hitch separation due to insufficient fasteners and aftermarket rear control arm brackets that could lead to axle movement. While NHTSA did not provide specific crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover are all N/A), the high volume of complaints related to fundamental operational components like the engine and transmission, coupled with recalls addressing critical safety functions, suggests potential safety vulnerabilities. Common complaint patterns include sudden loss of power, stalling, hard shifting, and engine oil consumption leading to internal damage. Electrical system issues are also prevalent, with 36 complaints, often manifesting as airbag light malfunctions, tail light failures due to fried circuit boards, and infotainment system blackouts. The combination of powertrain reliability issues, electrical glitches, and the cybersecurity vulnerability highlights areas where the vehicle's safety could be compromised, even without direct crash test data.

Our recommendation: Given the high volume of powertrain and engine complaints, multiple safety recalls, and lack of NHTSA crash test ratings, prospective buyers should proceed with caution and prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, specifically checking for transmission, engine, and electrical system health, and ensuring all recalls have been addressed.