Throttlebook

2018 Jeep Wrangler

The 2018 Jeep Wrangler earns a poor Throttlebook Ownership Score of 39/100. Expect about $44,826 to own it for five years, or $747 a month. NHTSA lists 14 recall campaigns that may apply, so check the exact VIN at nhtsa.gov before you buy. Owners have filed 1,829 complaints.

Recalls
14
Complaints
1,829
5-yr cost
$45k
MPG (EPA)
18
0
Poor
Ownership Score

2018 Jeep Wrangler vs nearby years

Compare this year with the model years next to it on the same hub.

Looking at a specific Wrangler?

Paste its VIN for the exact trim, recalls that may apply, and a Fits / Stretch / Not yet verdict for your budget. Free.

14 recalls may apply

For the 2018 Jeep Wrangler. NHTSA matches recalls by model and year — confirm by VIN.

  • What's wrong: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The front track bar brackets may be improperly welded, which can cause the bracket to separate from the frame, reducing steering capability.

    Risk: An unexpected reduction in steering ability, can increase the risk of a crash.

    Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and repair the track bar bracket welds, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is UA5.

Check recalls for this exact VIN at NHTSA

Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.

5-year cost to own

Estimated $14,500 price, 20% down, 11.19% APR for 60 months (Experian avg.), 12,000 mi/yr.

$44,826
$747/month · $0.75/mile
Depreciation$3,748
Insurance (national avg.)$12,000
Fuel / charging$11,165
Maintenance$8,050
Repairs$4,000
Loan interest$3,993
Taxes & fees$1,870

Estimate, not financial advice. How we calculate.

Owner complaints & safety

What real owners reported to NHTSA for this model year.

1,829 complaints22 involved a crash26 involved a fire
  • Steering1117
  • Suspension343
  • Electrical System269
  • Unknown Or Other212
  • Power Train178
  • Engine100

Complaint counts scale with how many were sold; compare against similar models.

NHTSA crash-test stars
Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover
Not rated

What to check on a used 2018 Jeep Wrangler

Ordered by what owners of this model year reported most. Reports are not proof of a defect.

  • Steering
    • Does the car drift or pull on a straight road?
    • Turn the wheel lock to lock and listen for clunks or whines.
  • Suspension
    • Press down on each corner: it should settle once, not bounce.
    • Listen for clunks over bumps.
  • Engine and transmission
    • Cold start: listen for knocking, ticking or rough running.
    • Shifts should be smooth with no slipping or jerking.

If anything in a safety area feels wrong (brakes, steering, airbags, tires), stop driving and get it inspected before you buy or drive it further. Paste a VIN above for the full printable checklist.

Common 2018 Jeep Wrangler problems

Cheaper alternatives

FAQ

Is the 2018 Jeep Wrangler a good car to buy?
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler earns a poor Throttlebook Ownership Score of 39/100. Expect about $44,826 to own it for five years, or $747 a month. NHTSA lists 14 recall campaigns that may apply, so check the exact VIN at nhtsa.gov before you buy. Owners have filed 1,829 complaints.
Does the 2018 Jeep Wrangler have recalls?
NHTSA lists 14 recall campaigns for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler, including Structure › Frame And Members; Power Train › Clutch Assembly; Seat Belts › Front › Anchorage. Recalls are matched by model year, so check your exact VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
What are the most common 2018 Jeep Wrangler problems?
Owners filed 1,829 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are steering (1117), suspension (343), electrical system (269), power train (178).
How much does a 2018 Jeep Wrangler cost to own for 5 years?
About $44,826 over 5 years ($747/month) at an estimated $14,500 purchase price and 12,000 miles a year, including depreciation, insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs, loan interest and taxes. Run a VIN report to personalize it.

Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP ratings; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data refreshed weekly. Complaint counts scale with sales volume.