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2021 Jeep Gladiator problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2021 Jeep Gladiator has been recalled for and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 8safety recalls
- 292owner complaints
- 7crash reports
- 3fire reports
- 7injuries reported
292 complaints, against an average of 117 for the other 6 Jeep Gladiator model years.
Every Jeep Gladiator model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?
The components named most often in the 292 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2021 Jeep Gladiator owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 292 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why does my 2021 Jeep Gladiator stall, lose power or shut off while driving?21 owners · 7.2% · Recall 24V572000
- Why do the headlights or taillights fail on my 2021 Jeep Gladiator?12 owners · 4.1%
- Why does my 2021 Jeep Gladiator vibrate or shake while driving?11 owners · 3.8%
- Why does the power steering fail or feel heavy on my 2021 Jeep Gladiator?10 owners · 3.4% · Recall 26V363000
- Why won't my 2021 Jeep Gladiator start?9 owners · 3.1%
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2021 Jeep Gladiator?9 owners · 3.1%
Has the 2021 Jeep Gladiator been recalled?
8 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Steering: Hydraulic Power Assist: PumpPark outside Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Jeep Wrangler, Wrangler 4XE, and Jeep Gladiator vehicles. The electric hydraulic power steering pump wiring may overheat and cause a vehicle fire, even when the vehicle is parked with the ignition in the "Off" position.
Risk: A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures, until their vehicle is repaired. Dealers will inspect and replace the wiring and electric hydraulic power steering pump, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 9, 2026. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 21D. The Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 11, 2026.
Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/Panel Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Jeep Gladiator and 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The instrument panel cluster may experience an internal short circuit and fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."
Risk: An instrument panel that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the instrument panel cluster, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between October 3, 2024, and January 23, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 30B.
Power Train: Manual Transmission: Control Module: Software Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator vehicles that were previously remedied under NHTSA recall number 23V-116. The software for the powertrain control module may cause an engine stall, which can result in a loss of drive power.
Risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 92B. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 23V-116 will need to have the new remedy completed.
Fuel System, Diesel: Delivery: Fuel Pump Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler, Gladiator, and 2022-2023 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with a 3.0L diesel engine. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail.
Risk: Fuel pump failure can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the HPFP and replace additional fuel system components, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 17, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 01A.
Power Train: Clutch Assembly Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Jeep Wrangler, and 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.
Risk: Overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the clutch assembly and update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed from November 16, 2023 through July 25, 2024. Owners may contact (FCA US, LLC) customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 19A. This recall expands and replaces previous recall 21V-028. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 21V-028 will need to have the new remedy completed.
Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery: Fuel Pump Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Jeep Wrangler, Ram 1500, and 2021-2022 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail, causing an engine stall.
Risk: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the HPFP and inspect and replace additional fuel system components, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 17, 2023. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Z96.
Back Over Prevention: Display Function Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Jeep Wrangler, RAM 1500 and 2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles. A radio software error may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 6, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA, LLC's number for this recall is Z86.
Power Train: Clutch Assembly Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Jeep Wrangler and 2020-2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.
Risk: Overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will add software to reduce engine torque capability when clutch assembly temperatures rise to a level that may damage the inner pressure plate, free of charge." FCA has ordered a stop sale for the affected vehicles as of February 25, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 4, 2021.
Is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
EU Safety GateFriction can cause the clutch pressure plate to overheat, which can lead the pressure plate to break unexpectedly.The breaking of a pressure plate can form cracks or holes in the transmission housing, from which heated debris can escape. Heated debris expelled from the transmission mounting can come into contact with a source of ignition in the vehicle or in the surroundings, which can cause a fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Other; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe clutch pressure plate may overheat, resulting in an increased risk of fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
What do 2021 Jeep Gladiator owners report?
12 of the 292 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
While I was driving home with 2 of my boys, the instrument cluster malfunctioned and went completely blank while driving. I had a mechanic check the vehicle and the fuses were/are working fine. He stated that he found issues online about Jeep Gladiators from this model year having issues with the instrument cluster suddenly going blank due to a parts issue. There is an active recall for this issue, but my truck is not included. When I called Jeep Customer Care, I was told that NHTSA was responsible for which VIN #'s were included. They also facetiously stated that if I had any issues with that…
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated that two years ago the vehicle was taken to a dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V116000 (Power Train); to prevent the clutch from overheating. However, the failure started after the vehicle was repaired under the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving, there was smoke coming from under the hood. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer to be diagnosed; however, the dealer was unable to perform the inspection or confirm the failure due to the age and…
My Transmission is skipping on 3rd gear ratio code and reverse is getting stuck with only 70,000 2021 and i was the only owner.
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH on uneven road surfaces, the vehicle experienced violent shaking in the front end and the steering wheel. The contact stated that the vibration reoccurred while depressing the brake pedal and ceased after the vehicle had decelerated. The failure was associated with the death wobble. A diagnostic test was performed at a dealer, and an estimate for the repair was provided; however, the vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was…
Truck failed to find gear shuddered lost speed in traffic while going up a hill. Limp mode was initiated. This is a known manufacturers defect with a tsb applied against the known issue. Issue is widespread when researched but not made known by the manufacturer of the truck. Dealership refusing repair under goodwill due to truck being out of mileage by 5000miles. Symptoms started prior to exiting warranty but due to no communication by dealership or manufacturer unit was not brought in for repair prior. Repeat this is a known defect that is being ignored by manufacturer.
I am experiencing the "Jeep Death Wobble" which occurs intermittently after hitting any road imperfections i.e. uneven road surface connections, potholes, or rumble strips, causing a violent and sudden shaking of the steering wheel at highway speeds. I feel like the wheels are going to fall off it shakes so bad!!! I either have to slow down to under 45 mph or less, or come to a complete stop in order for it to stop wobbling. This does not happen on smooth road surfaces. I have a stock 2021 Jeep Gladiator which I bought brand new the end of 2020. Whenever this happens, I need to get off the…
Front brake caliper(s) was seizing up causing smoking and a burning smell. Vehicle was also pulling to the right when braking. Brake fluid or something like it coated the front drivers side wheel. Took vehicle back to dealership where vehicle was purchased new. Vehicle is still under warranty/extended warranties. The dealer did inspect and found front calipers to be seizing up causing excessive wear on brake pads and rotors. They did replace both front calipers but not the brake hoses. They also replaced and charged me for new brake pads and rotors. Not even a week later, I called the dealer…
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V363000 (Steering). The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the vehicle was inspected, and the contact was informed that the vehicle had passed the inspection. The contact was advised to continue to park the vehicle away from the residence. The contact was confused. The contact asked the dealer why the vehicle was still considered a fire risk. No explanation was provided. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact had not experienced a failure.
The dealership says it cannot be repaired until 2027 due to parts not being available for the fire recall on this jeep. I cannot ensure my safety or others with this issue.
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle started losing motive power. The contact stated that there were several unknown warnings illuminated, and the instrument cluster had started flashing on and off. The contact stated that the vehicle slowed down while depressing the accelerator pedal and continued to lose motive power. The contact stated that a warning flashed on the instrument cluster to "Pull Over" and that "Vehicle Was Going to Shutdown". The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn to the…
I am writing regarding my 2021 Jeep Gladiator Mojave, which recently suffered engine damage due to a faulty head gasket. I understand the vehicle is approximately 5,000 miles over the 60,000-mile warranty; however, I believe this issue should not be my financial responsibility given the circumstances. At around 60,000 miles, I brought my Jeep in for a full service and inspection to ensure it was in top condition. I was informed at that time that everything looked fine and that there were no issues to address. Since then, I’ve continued to maintain the vehicle properly and drive it with care…
There is an active parts recall for some Gladiators, Recall 26A, for the right rear axle shaft. This part on my vehicle has been failing for over 6 months. The ABS system, Traction Control, and 4WD system have active fault codes, preventing these systems from working as intended. In the last month, this problem has become unsafe due to 3 separate incidents where the traction control has triggered during normal driving conditions, causing the vehicle to become inoperable. In each of these incidents, I was travelling in a straight line, on dry roads, when the traction control system activated…
2021 Jeep Gladiator: questions owners ask
Is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 292 complaints with NHTSA about the 2021 Jeep Gladiator; the most common categories were steering (94, 32.2%), power train (71, 24.3%), engine (53, 18.2%). There are 8 safety recalls. 7 complaints mention a crash, 3 mention a fire, 7 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?
Across 292 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are steering (32.2% of complaints), power train (24.3% of complaints), engine (18.2% of complaints), electrical system (15.8% of complaints), suspension (14% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2021 Jeep Gladiator have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 8 recalls for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator; the most recent (campaign 26V363000, 2026-06-04) concerns Steering: Hydraulic Power Assist: Pump. 1 recall carries a "do not drive" or "park outside" warning from the manufacturer. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why does my 2021 Jeep Gladiator stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
21 of the 292 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator (7.2%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. 2 related recalls exist: campaign 24V572000 (power train: manual transmission: control module: software). The fix: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. One owner wrote: "While driving yesterday vehicle lost power steering and almost cause a crash. Upon talking to multiple shops and online researching we all came to a conclusion it was the can bus board (controller area network) shops stated this is a very know problem with…" (NHTSA complaint 11709988, January 2026). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why do the headlights or taillights fail on my 2021 Jeep Gladiator?
12 of the 292 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator (4.1%) describe headlights, taillights or brake lights failing or condensation in the lamps. One owner wrote: "On 12-13-23 I hit an 8 point buck going 55mph head on between the 2 headlights doing 15k in damage.. airbags did not deploy. On 4-11-26 I was hit by a drunk driver head on." (NHTSA complaint 11732127, April 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2021 Jeep Gladiator vibrate or shake while driving?
11 of the 292 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator (3.8%) describe vibration or shaking while driving. One owner wrote: "At speeds of 45-70mph the Jeep randomly begins a violent shaking of the steering wheel/tires/suspension components. The Jeep is completely stock and the tires have been rotated and rebalanced which did not assist in resolving the issue." (NHTSA complaint 11580339, March 2024). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does the power steering fail or feel heavy on my 2021 Jeep Gladiator?
10 of the 292 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator (3.4%) describe power steering failing, locking up or turning heavy. A related recall exists: campaign 26V363000 (steering: hydraulic power assist: pump). The fix: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures, until their vehicle is repaired. One owner wrote: "While driving yesterday vehicle lost power steering and almost cause a crash. Upon talking to multiple shops and online researching we all came to a conclusion it was the can bus board (controller area network) shops stated this is a very know problem with…" (NHTSA complaint 11709988, January 2026). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why won't my 2021 Jeep Gladiator start?
9 of the 292 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator (3.1%) describe the car failing to start. One owner wrote: "Hi - So my 2021 Jeep gladiator has 2 batteries. The battery that controls the auto start-stop system failed (while driving)." (NHTSA complaint 11664396, June 2025). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2021 Jeep Gladiator?
9 of the 292 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator (3.1%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "Engine light came on, vehicle went into limp mode. Transmission would not shift any higher than 3rd gear and kept slipping while on interstate! Was almost hit by several 18 wheelers!" (NHTSA complaint 11743537, June 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own Gladiator
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2021 only; combines NHTSA's entries for GLADIATOR and GLADIATOR DIESEL.