Jeep Renegade Years to Avoid and The Best Years

Jeep Renegade Years To Avoid – Are you in the market for a reliable and capable adventure vehicle? Look no further than the Jeep Renegade, a compact SUV that promises off-road prowess and urban versatility. However, like any other car model, not all years of the Jeep Renegade have been created equal.

It’s essential to be well-informed before making a purchase to ensure you select a model that will serve you well for years to come.

In this article, we will delve into the Jeep Renegade’s history and highlight the years to avoid, allowing you to make an informed decision and embark on your next thrilling journey with confidence.

The Jeep Renegade, with its distinctive rugged design and Jeep’s legendary off-road capabilities, has gained popularity among adventure seekers and urban dwellers alike.

Introduced in 2014, the Renegade quickly became a favorite choice for those craving a compact SUV with an adventurous spirit.

However, not all years of the Jeep Renegade have enjoyed the same level of reliability and performance.

While the model has evolved over time, it’s important to be aware of specific years that may present potential issues.

By understanding the worst years of the Jeep Renegade, you can avoid potential headaches and ensure a smooth ownership experience.

Jeep Renegade Years To Avoid

With its rugged design and renowned off-road capabilities, it has become a popular choice among adventure enthusiasts. However, not all model years of the Jeep Renegade are created equal.

We will explore the Jeep Renegade years to avoid, shedding light on the worst years that have been plagued with various issues.

By understanding these problematic years, you can make an informed decision and ensure a hassle-free ownership experience.

So, equip yourself with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision, and set out on your next journey with the peace of mind that comes from choosing the right year of the Jeep Renegade.

Let’s delve into the details and discover the Jeep Renegade years you should steer clear of.

2015 Jeep Renegade: A Troubled Beginning

The 2015 Jeep Renegade stands out as the worst year to avoid. Car Complaints even awarded it the infamous “Beware of the Clunker Award” due to numerous complaints about this relatively new model.

The most prevalent issue reported by owners is the check engine light coming on, often around 21,000 miles.

While the light may go out on its own, the occurrence raises concerns for such a new vehicle.

Repairs for this problem can cost approximately $1,640. Another prevalent issue with the 2015 Renegade is the transmission.

Many owners experienced a range of transmission problems, including hard shifts, extended shift timings, jerking, unresponsiveness, and hesitations, even at low mileage.

2016 Jeep Renegade: Quality and Traction Control Concerns

The 2016 Jeep Renegade, while not as problematic as its predecessor still has reliability issues to consider. Over 600 NHTSA complaints have been filed regarding this model year.

One notable problem is with the premium Beats audio system, a $695 upgrade. Many owners expressed disappointment with the system’s quality, finding it subpar or even terrible.

Additionally, a significant issue was the traction control system activating on its own during turns, causing the vehicle to almost come to a complete stop.

Such a problem occurring on a practically brand-new Renegade with an average mileage of 7,000 is unacceptable.

2017 Jeep Renegade: Engine and Electrical Troubles

The 2017 Jeep Renegade continues the trend of being one of the worst years to avoid. With over 700 complaints and three recalls, it presents various reliability concerns. The primary complaint revolves around engine problems.

Owners have reported engine stalling while driving, as well as knocking or rattling noises emanating from the engine.

Electrical issues are also prevalent in the 2017 Renegade, ranging from malfunctioning radios and spotty navigation systems to multiple indicator lights activating.

In most cases, these electrical problems can be resolved with a simple software update.

2018 Jeep Renegade: Reliability Concerns Persist

Although the 2018 Jeep Renegade fares slightly better in terms of overall issues, it still has notable reliability concerns. Excessive oil consumption is a prevalent problem reported by many drivers, leading to engine stalling at a relatively low mileage of 16,000 miles.

While this issue may not affect every 2018 Renegade, it is worth considering before making a purchase.

Additionally, there is a single report of clutch failure, wherein the clutch plate disintegrated in the housing, rendering the vehicle inoperable.

Best Year for Jeep Renegade

Here, we will explore the best years for the Jeep Renegade, highlighting the most reliable options to ensure a satisfying ownership experience.

Out of the available eight years, the 2019 and 2020 Jeep Renegade models have consistently proven themselves with a stellar track record.

By investing in one of these years, you can maximize the value of your money and enjoy a subcompact SUV that performs admirably while minimizing potential issues.

Let’s dive into the details and uncover why the 2019 and 2020 Jeep Renegade models are the best choices.

2019 Jeep Renegade: The Value Proposition

When it comes to buying a used 2019 Jeep Renegade, we highly recommend opting for the Limited and Trailhawk trims to truly make the most of your experience. While the base models may offer lower price tags, they do not provide the same value for the segment.

The Limited and Trailhawk trims, on the other hand, come equipped with additional features, personality, and enhanced off-road performance, making them worthwhile investments.

Many buyers are paying around $28,000 to $29,000 for a used Limited or Trailhawk Renegade, which provides a compelling value proposition in terms of the overall driving experience.

2020 Jeep Renegade: A Winning Formula

By the 2020 iteration, Jeep had refined the Renegade to offer an exceptional driving experience. The 2020 Renegade impresses with its spacious cabin, comfortable ride quality, and top-notch off-roading capabilities.

In terms of reliability, the 2020 Renegade delivers and has been rated 80 out of 100 for Quality and Reliability by J.D. Power.

It stands as a testament to Jeep’s commitment to continuous improvement. While the 2020 Renegade may have underwhelming performance in terms of acceleration and fuel economy, its overall reliability and features make it a top contender.

Depending on the trim level, buyers can expect to pay around $20,078 to $28,422 for a used 2020 Renegade, offering an attractive price range for a reliable and versatile subcompact SUV.

## Comparing the Renegade Across the Board

While the 2019 and 2020 Jeep Renegade models stand out as the best years, it’s also essential to assess the Renegade’s overall reliability and compare it to its competitors.

The Renegade has established itself as a formidable contender in the subcompact SUV segment, offering a unique blend of ruggedness and urban versatility.

With its proven track record for reliability, the Renegade has garnered a loyal fan base.

By investing in a used 2019 or 2020 Jeep Renegade, you can enjoy the benefits of a reliable subcompact SUV without compromising on performance or value.

Jeep Renegade Problems

The Jeep Renegade, overall, is a relatively reliable SUV with a solid reputation. However, like any vehicle, it is not immune to problems.

In this section, we will explore common issues faced by Jeep Renegade owners, shedding light on potential concerns that prospective buyers should be aware of.

From excessive oil consumption to transmission problems, we will delve into these problems, providing valuable insights and possible solutions.

By understanding the common issues associated with the Jeep Renegade, you can make an informed decision and ensure a smoother ownership experience.

Let’s delve into the details and uncover the common problems faced by Jeep Renegade owners.

1. Excessive Oil Consumption: A Design Flaw

One prevalent problem reported by owners of the Jeep Renegade is excessive oil consumption, primarily affecting models powered by the 2.4L Tigershark 4-cylinder engine.

The design flaw lies in the defective piston rings, allowing oil to penetrate the rings and leading to increased oil consumption.

While there is no documented fix for this particular issue, it is essential to monitor oil levels regularly and maintain proper maintenance intervals.

Seeking assistance from a trusted mechanic or contacting a Jeep dealership may provide additional guidance on managing this problem effectively.

2. Excessive Emissions: Failing Emission Tests

Another issue that has been reported by some Renegade owners is excessive emissions, resulting in failed emission tests. Unfortunately, a documented fix for this specific problem has not been widely available.

If you encounter this issue, it is advisable to consult a certified technician who specializes in emissions systems.

They may be able to diagnose the cause of the excessive emissions and provide potential solutions or recommendations for resolving the problem.

3. Random Vehicle Shutoff: An Unpredictable Concern

Owners of the 2015 Jeep Renegade have raised concerns about random vehicle shutoffs. Some drivers have experienced their Renegade shutting off intermittently, even while driving, creating potentially dangerous situations.

Despite these reports, technicians have found no apparent issues with the Renegade SUV, making this problem particularly perplexing.

If you encounter this problem, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and contact a qualified mechanic or Jeep dealership immediately.

They can conduct a thorough inspection and diagnostic testing to identify any underlying issues that may be causing the random shutoffs.

4. Transmission Problems: Shifting and Engagement Issues

No discussion of vehicle problems would be complete without addressing transmission issues. The Jeep Renegade’s automatic transmission has been prone to various problems, including hard shifts and delayed transmission engagements.

These issues have led to a lawsuit against Chrysler, resulting in a settlement with the affected complainants.

If you experience transmission-related problems with your Renegade, it is advisable to consult a qualified transmission specialist or contact your local Jeep dealership.

They can provide guidance on potential solutions, including software updates, repairs, or component replacements.

Is The Jeep Renegade Worth It?

The Jeep Renegade is a popular choice from the Jeep brand, but it’s important to consider its reliability and potential repairs. While it may look appealing, it has a reputation for being less reliable, which can result in expensive repairs and constant issues.

Ultimately, the decision of whether it’s worth it depends on your personal preferences and tolerance for potential problems.

If you want the best Jeep Renegade available, it’s recommended to choose one of the more dependable years.

How many years will a Jeep Renegade last?

A Jeep Renegade can typically last between 7 to 10 years or around 100,000 to 150,000 miles (240,000 km). Proper maintenance and adherence to the recommended service intervals can help extend the lifespan of your Jeep Renegade.

Are Jeep Renegades Reliable?

The Jeep Renegade, unfortunately, has a reputation for being less reliable. It has a predicted reliability rating of 2.5/5 from J.D. Power, placing it in the middle of the pack compared to other subcompact vehicles.

According to RepairPal, the Jeep Renegade has a reliability score of 4/5, ranking it fourth out of seven other subcompact vehicles.

While it’s not the most reliable choice, it’s always advisable to seek multiple opinions and conduct thorough research before making a final decision.

Are Jeep Renegades high maintenance?

Maintaining a Jeep Renegade can be relatively expensive compared to the industry average for popular SUV models. Over the first 10 years of service, it is estimated to cost around $10,083 for maintenance and repairs.

There is also a 31.13% chance of a major repair being required during that time. It’s important to budget for ongoing maintenance and potential repairs to ensure the longevity of your vehicle.

Do Renegades hold their value?

Jeep Renegades tend to depreciate around 32% after 5 years, with a 5-year resale value of $20,858. It’s important to note that depreciation rates can vary based on factors such as mileage, condition, and market demand.

While Renegades do experience some depreciation, they can still retain a reasonable resale value compared to other vehicles in their class.

Conclusion

When it comes to the Jeep Renegade, it’s crucial to consider the vehicle’s reliability, maintenance costs, and potential issues before making a decision. While the Renegade has its strengths, such as its stylish appearance and off-road capabilities, it also has some drawbacks.

The Jeep Renegade has been known to have reliability issues, with a middling rating compared to other subcompact vehicles.

Additionally, maintenance and repair costs can be higher than the industry average, and there is a chance of major repairs being required.

To ensure a more positive ownership experience, it’s recommended to avoid certain Jeep Renegade model years that have been associated with common issues.

By being aware of the Jeep Renegade years to avoid, such as those mentioned earlier, potential buyers can make more informed decisions and mitigate the risk of encountering significant problems down the road.

By taking these factors into account and avoiding problematic years, you can increase your chances of enjoying a more reliable and satisfying ownership experience with your Jeep Renegade.

Understanding the common issues, reliability concerns, maintenance costs, and the Jeep Renegade years to avoid is crucial when considering this popular compact SUV. By making an informed decision, you can find a Jeep Renegade that meets your expectations and provides a dependable and enjoyable driving experience.

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