2016 Jeep Wrangler Safety Report

The 2016 Jeep Wrangler presents a mixed safety picture, with significant concerns stemming from its braking system and a history of airbag-related recalls. With 434 total complaints, 28 crashes, 15 fires, and 38 injuries reported to NHTSA, there are clear areas of concern. The vehicle received a '3' for rollover safety, which is below average, and no frontal or side crash test ratings are available, making a comprehensive assessment of its crashworthiness difficult. The high number of complaints related to 'SERVICE BRAKES' (56) and 'AIR BAGS' (51) are particularly alarming, especially given the multiple recalls addressing airbag malfunctions. Common complaint patterns reveal a critical issue with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) module, with numerous owners reporting failures, warning lights, and a severe lack of replacement parts, leading to prolonged periods without ABS or traction control. This directly impacts braking performance and vehicle stability, increasing crash risk. Additionally, engine-related complaints (48) and power train issues (41) are prevalent, including reports of engine revving, stalling, and even fires, as evidenced by one complaint describing an engine compartment burning heavily. The 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' category also accounts for a significant number of complaints (27), suggesting a range of other unresolved issues. The recall history for the 2016 Jeep Wrangler is heavily concentrated on airbag systems, with four out of five recalls directly addressing various airbag components. These include issues with the driver's clockspring, passenger side inflator module, front impact sensor wiring, and the driver's frontal airbag inflator module. These recalls highlight a systemic problem with the vehicle's occupant protection systems, which, if not properly repaired, could lead to non-deployment in a crash and increased injury risk. Another recall addresses a potential fracture of the driver's seat belt buckle mounting strap, further underscoring concerns about occupant restraint integrity. The lack of comprehensive crash test data from NHTSA, combined with these recurring safety system failures, suggests that potential buyers should exercise caution and thoroughly investigate recall completion and ABS module status.

Our recommendation: Given the critical and widespread ABS module failures, numerous airbag recalls, and a below-average rollover rating, prospective buyers should proceed with extreme caution, verify all recalls have been completed, and thoroughly inspect the braking system for any ABS module issues.