2019 Jeep Renegade Safety Report

The 2019 Jeep Renegade presents a mixed safety picture, with notable concerns primarily revolving around its electrical system and airbag functionality, despite decent crash test performance. NHTSA has recorded 76 total complaints, including 8 crashes and 4 injuries, but no fatalities or fires. A significant portion of these complaints, 15 out of 76, are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, often specifically concerning the Uconnect infotainment screen and its impact on critical safety features like the backup camera. This is a recurring theme in owner complaints, with many reporting the screen going black or glitching, rendering the backup camera and other controls inoperable. Recall history further highlights airbag system vulnerabilities. There are four recalls for the 2019 Renegade, with three directly addressing airbag issues. These include recalls for a seat belt buckle switch sensor potentially preventing front seat airbag deployment (NHTSA Campaign Number 24V510000), an incorrectly calibrated Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) that could lead to improper airbag deployment in a frontal crash, and incorrect software in the ORC module disabling passive safety features. These recalls are critical as they directly impact occupant protection in the event of a collision, aligning with some owner complaints about airbags not deploying in crashes. In terms of crash test performance, the 2019 Jeep Renegade received a 4-star rating for both Frontal Crash and Rollover tests from NHTSA. An overall safety rating is not available. While these ratings suggest reasonable performance in specific crash scenarios, the high number of electrical system complaints impacting the backup camera and the multiple airbag-related recalls indicate potential real-world safety compromises that may not be fully captured by crash tests alone. The combination of electrical system failures affecting driver visibility and control, alongside documented airbag system flaws, suggests that while the vehicle performs adequately in controlled crash tests, its reliability of safety features in daily operation is a significant concern.

Our recommendation: Given the persistent electrical system failures impacting critical safety features like the backup camera and multiple airbag-related recalls, potential buyers should ensure all recalls have been addressed and thoroughly test the infotainment system and backup camera functionality before purchase.