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2016 Jeep Wrangler problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2016 Jeep Wrangler has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 5safety recalls
- 462owner complaints
- 28crash reports
- 15fire reports
- 28%fail the UK MOT
462 complaints, against an average of 637 for the other 14 Jeep Wrangler model years.
Every Jeep Wrangler model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2016 Jeep Wrangler?
The components named most often in the 462 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2016 Jeep Wrangler owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 462 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why are the ABS and stability control lights on in my 2016 Jeep Wrangler?87 owners · 18.8%
- Why does my 2016 Jeep Wrangler stall, lose power or shut off while driving?42 owners · 9.1%
- Why is the airbag light on in my 2016 Jeep Wrangler?28 owners · 6.1% · Recall 24V196000
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Jeep Wrangler?14 owners · 3%
Has the 2016 Jeep Wrangler been recalled?
5 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Air Bags: Frontal: Driver Clockspring/Spiral Cassette Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain right hand drive 2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Debris contamination may cause the clockspring to fail, preventing the driver's air bag from deploying in a crash.
Risk: An air bag that does not deploy in a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will replace the clockspring, steering wheel back cover, and steering column shrouds, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 27B.
Seat Belts: Front: Anchorage Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2011-2018 Jeep Wrangler right hand drive vehicles. The driver's seat belt buckle mounting strap may fracture and separate from the seat frame.
Risk: A separated or severed seat belt buckle strap will result in an inoperable seat belt, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Fix: FCA US will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's seat belt buckle, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed November 19, 2019. Owners will received a second letter and the recall began March 26, 2020. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is VA6.
Air Bags: Frontal: Passenger Side: Inflator ModuleDo not drive Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2010 Dodge Ram 3500, Ram 4500/5500, 2010-2011 Dodge Dakota, 2010-2014 Dodge Challenger, 2010-2015 Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300, and 2010-2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
Fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair is complete. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began February 4, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V01.
Air Bags: Frontal: Sensor/Control Module-Inactive Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Jeep Wrangler vehicles manufactured June 16, 2015, to August 14, 2016. In certain crash conditions, the front impact sensor wiring may be pulled until it detaches before a signal can be received by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC).
Risk: If the ORC module does not receive a signal from the front impact sensor, both frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reroute the front impact sensor wiring and relocate the impact sensor branch, free of charge. The recall began on November 10, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S76.
Air Bags: Frontal: Driver Side: Inflator Module Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Right Hand Drive Jeep Wrangler vehicles manufactured February 16, 2010, to May 2, 2016. The clockspring assembly may become contaminated with dust and cause the air bag circuit to fail.
Risk: Failure of the air bag circuit may prevent the driver's frontal air bag from deploying in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the clockspring, wheel back cover, and column shroud, free of charge. The recall began on August 11, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S40.
Is the 2016 Jeep Wrangler 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.
UK DVSAPassenger airbag inflator
Risk: Passenger air bag may deploy incorrectly if activated.
Fix: Replace the passenger air bag inflator.
UK DVSAJeep Wrangler 2016 (JK) Airbag clockspring
Risk: On certain vehicles the steering wheel airbag clock spring may have been built with a design that can allow dust or dirt to enter the mechanism when exposed to certain environmental conditions.
Fix: Replacement of the steering wheel airbag clock spring.
UK DVSAAirbag and/or pretensioner may fail to deploy in a collision
Risk: The front impact sensor wire(s) may become detached during a crash event before the impact signal is recorded by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). This may affect deployment of airbags and/or operation of pretensioners.
Fix: On affected vehicles the existing front end module wiring harness must be modified then routed and secured to a new location.
UK DVSAAirbag circuit may be compromised
Risk: The driver' s airbag clockspring may ingest dust. This may cause the airbag warning light to illuminate. It may also affect the air bag operation in the event of a collision.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace the air bag clock spring steering wheel back cover and steering column shrouds.
EU Safety GateThe structure of the airbag could rupture if it deploys, leading to fragmentation of the airbag parts.These small parts could be projected towards the driver/occupants, potentially causing serious or even fatal injuries.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Request to stop driving; Date of entry into force: 30/07/2025
EU Safety GateA defect in the gas generator of the passenger airbag may cause uncontrolled inflation when the airbag is activated.As a result, small metal particles can be released, increasing the risk of injury to the occupants.
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
EU Safety GateIn the event of a crash, the front impact sensor wiring may be pulled until it detaches before a signal can be received by the Occupant…Years estimatedIn the event of a crash, the front impact sensor wiring may be pulled until it detaches before a signal can be received by the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC). If the ORC module does not receive a signal from the front impact sensor, both frontal air bags and the seat belt pre-tensioners will not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Distributor; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe springs within the clutch pedal position switch that prevents the vehicle from starting unless the clutch pedal is pushed down may…Years estimatedThe springs within the clutch pedal position switch that prevents the vehicle from starting unless the clutch pedal is pushed down may break. As a result, the engine may start without the clutch pedal being pushed down causing the vehicle to move unexpectedly.
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: 27/01/2016
How often does the 2016 Jeep Wrangler fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2016, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2016 Jeep Wrangler owners report?
12 of the 462 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.
Vehicle reflects a code of C2200. It is due to a faulty ABS module that controls the antilock brake system, traction w and cruise control. The remedy is to replace the part (part number 68259556AD). This part has been on national back order for several years now with no anticipated date of release. The manufacturer has Indicated it will not be made. This is a safety item that not only affects the performance of the vehicle but limits it resale value. Numerous vehicles from 2011-2017 models have been affected.
When I was coming to a stop at a stoplight, my vehicle started to violently wobble almost having me to loose control. I was unable to slow down when pressing the brakes and almost hit vehicles in front of me.this has happened numerous times and I have had my tires rotated and alignment done just recently.
ABS Control Module stopped working with several warning lights showing on dash display. After 12 months the dealer is unable to supply a replacment part or a possible date when a new part might be available.
The ABS module on my jeep has failed. I've been put on a list to get a replacement part but have been on the list for 10 months with no indication of when my parts order will be fulfilled. The failed ABS module caused the BRAKE, ABS and TCS warning lights to be on. I am driving a vehicle under unsafe conditions and the manufacturer does not care.
The ABS control module has internal problem which shuts down the module. Results of the module shut down includes: -The stability and traction systems are offline. -A failure in the ABS module or hydraulic unit. -Cruise Control inoperable. -The module no longer modulates brake pressure, which can result in brakes locking. Currently, Mopar has stopped production of this item, so there is no method to replace a failed or non-working module with an original part.
I was driving down the road in a snow storm when all of a sudden the vehicle started swirling all over the road. I pulled over and looked underneath and something was hanging down. I had no choice but to drive it slow less than 10mph to make it home as it was also making a hard jumping. Once there I had my mechanic come look at it and the drive shaft was busted. I am extremely luck that this happened during a snow storm because if not I may have rolled the vehicle as the steering was greatly affected.
My 2016 Jeep Wrangler will buck and jerk when on the highway. I’ll be going a steady speed, not changing speed. I feel the car slow down and stomp on the gas but it goes all the way to the floor and nothing happens. When I try to go into the break down lane, the steering wheel locks up and won’t turn. Usually I take the key out then put it back in the ignition and it starts no problem. Recently, the engine has been stalling when I put the key back in the ignition. I usually have to take the key out and sit on the side of the highway for 5 minutes before starting it up with no problem. This has…
ABS module reported to dealer in February, 2025..They said was safe to drive. Then April 2025 the module went out.-Part has been on backorder since March 2025. It was taken to Key Chrysler Dodge Jeep in Marianna in March 2025. Jeep would not steer properly, the brakes were not normal and all the warning lights on dash were on. I could not drive. .
Anti-Lock Brake System stopped working rendering the car inoperable. The first incident: about 5 years ago the ABS engaged the brakes while driving almost causing a collision. This incident occurred in Guaynabo, PR. After this incident the ABS Module stopped working but the car was still operable. A week ago the PCM lost communication with the ABS module bringing the car into "limp mode" (stuck in 3rd gear until y did not longer engaged the transmission. Also the speedometer stopped working.) This happened while driving on a Sunday on busy road. This has been a common issue with Jeep Wranglers…
I recently got into an accident in my 2016 Jeep Wrangler. My airbags never deployed however. Also my buttons on the left side of my steering wheel do not work and my horn does not work. After realizing all this I believe it is an issue with the clock spring. I did research and found in 2024 there was a recall for the clock spring but only in the RHD model. My car is a LHD model but it seems the same issue has occurred and my clock spring failed.
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Wrangler. The contact recently replaced the windshield wiper motor due to a failure of the intermittent speed settings not functioning properly. The contact stated that after replacing the wiper motor, the contact was only able to use the wipers on the fast speed setting. An independent mechanic informed the contact that the vehicle was taken to the shop for repair, or he could replace the wiper blade switch on the steering column. The contact repaired the vehicle himself. The contact stated that after the repair was completed, while driving out of the driveway at…
MY DAUGHTER HAD HER RIGHT HAND PINKY FINGER TOP SEMI AMPTUATED WITH A TUFT FRACTURE WITH THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR OF THE STRIKER AND LATCH. THIS HAPPENED ON JAN 2019 AND WE PAID OVER 10K IN MEDICAL BILLS AND HER PINKY IS DISFIGURED. WE HAVEN'T REACH OUT TO LAWYERS BUT WE DO SEE A FLAW WITH THE STRIKER AND DOOR SETUP WITH THE 4 DOOR JEEPS THAT A REDESIGN OR COVER WOULD HELP. THE ISSUE IS ANY BOOSTER SEAT OR CHILD CAR SEAT PUTS A TODDLER OR KIDS HAND/FINGERS AT RISK WHICH FALL WITHIN 1-2 INCHES FROM THE BRACKET OF THE DOOR OF THE ARM REST OF MOST MAJOR BRAND SEATS. THIS SITS LEVEL TO THE STRIKER…
2016 Jeep Wrangler: questions owners ask
Is the 2016 Jeep Wrangler reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 462 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Jeep Wrangler; the most common categories were service brakes (137, 29.7%), engine (88, 19%), air bags (77, 16.7%). There are 5 safety recalls. 28 complaints mention a crash, 15 mention a fire, 38 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Jeep Wrangler?
Across 462 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are service brakes (29.7% of complaints), engine (19% of complaints), air bags (16.7% of complaints), power train (16% of complaints), electrical system (12.3% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2016 Jeep Wrangler have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 5 recalls for the 2016 Jeep Wrangler; the most recent (campaign 24V196000, 2024-03-14) concerns Air Bags: Frontal: Driver Clockspring/Spiral Cassette. 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 are the ABS and stability control lights on in my 2016 Jeep Wrangler?
87 of the 462 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Jeep Wrangler (18.8%) describe ABS, traction or stability control warnings or faults. One owner wrote: "The ABS module on my jeep has failed. I've been put on a list to get a replacement part but have been on the list for 10 months with no indication of when my parts order will be fulfilled." (NHTSA complaint 11759082, August 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 2016 Jeep Wrangler stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
42 of the 462 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Jeep Wrangler (9.1%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "Oil Cooler leaking after multiple replacements causing engine stall while driving and lots of burning and smoke potentially leading to fire." (NHTSA complaint 11651227, March 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 airbag light on in my 2016 Jeep Wrangler?
28 of the 462 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Jeep Wrangler (6.1%) describe airbag warning lights or airbag faults. 4 related recalls exist: campaign 24V196000 (air bags: frontal: driver clockspring/spiral cassette). The fix: Dealers will replace the clockspring, steering wheel back cover, and steering column shrouds, free of charge. One owner wrote: "My wife was involved in an injury accident 12/02/2023 due to failure of the ABS Module not activating and the Air bag system not deploying. She was cut off by a hit and run driver." (NHTSA complaint 11502244, January 2023). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Jeep Wrangler?
14 of the 462 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Jeep Wrangler (3%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "After I made a left turn onto a four-lane highway, the transmission stuck in first gear and I wasn't able to get over to the shoulder because of traffic passing on the right side." (NHTSA complaint 11668416, 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.
Check your own Wrangler
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), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2016 only.