The Jeep Compass is a true 4×4 SUV you can drive through any road, and it’s built for all seasons. On a closer look, it looks like the Grand Cherokee, but of course, it is different.
Typically of Jeep SUVs, the Compass is a sturdy ride – it was supposed to be discontinued after the 2016 model, but a newly redesigned model debuted in 2017.
There are different models of the Jeep Compass; however, some model years are not worth buying, especially as used. So, what are those Jeep Compass years to avoid, and why should you do so?
The 2007 Jeep Compass caused a lot of problems to its owners, insomuch that it is flagged as the worst Jeep Compass year. But there’s more, which we’ll discuss in this article!
Jeep Compass Overview
Jeep Compass is a compact crossover SUV you can trust to last up to 250,000 miles if maintained properly. It is a sturdy ride, built for the most challenging terrains; hence, equipped with a robust computerized 4×4 powertrain for ultra-efficient performance.
Typically of Jeep SUVs, the Compass offers decent space for passengers and cargo. There have been many redesigns to the first Jeep Compass appearance in 2006; the newest 2022 Jeep Compass looks almost different from the 2006 model, but of course, you’ll love the new design.
There are several editions of the Jeep Compass, including a PHEV model/edition. Also, the Jeep Compass has several engine and powertrain options to choose from depending on the model year you’re buying.
Well, with much said already, let’s show you the Jeep Compass years to skip in the market.
See Also: Jeep Wrangler Alternatives
Jeep Compass Years To Avoid and Why
Apparently, not all Jeep Compass are built equally. These model years mentioned below are flagged as the “worst” because they are linked with several owner-reported complaints.
- 2007 Jeep Compass
- 2008 Jeep Compass
- 2011 Jeep Compass
- 2012 Jeep Compass
- 2014 Jeep Compass
- 2018 Jeep Compass
Among the commonly reported problems for the Jeep Compass models made in the indicated years above are TIPM failure, CVT failure, critical electrical system issues, suspension problems, different engine components failure, and brake problems.
Below is a more detailed explanation of these faults.
Common Jeep Compass Problems
These issues explained here are the major problems Jeep Compass owners face, as compiled by CarComplaints and NHTSA reports.
1. TIPM Failure
- Affected Models: Mostly reported for the 2007 model year
The TIPM is a central system that controls all the electrical components in a Jeep Compass. Its failure would cause several electrical components of your vehicle to start malfunctioning, and you may also see many dashboard lights come on.
Well, following the reports by Jeep Compass owners regarding TIPM failure, the issue typically occurs after 100,000 miles, and it costs an average of $1,500 to fix. TIPM stands for Totally Integrated Power Module.
2. Engine Problems
- Affected Models: Mostly reported for 2018, 2017, 2012, and 2007 model years
The Jeep Compass made in the years above is linked with several engine problems such as stalling, shutting down while driving, and too much oil consumption.
There are a few other reported engine faults for some other Jeep Compass years, but the issues weren’t as severe as these ones. These problems are reported to typically occur within the 90k – 110k miles range, and the average repair cost is $2,500.
3. Transmission and Suspension Faults
- Affected Models: Mostly reported for the 2012, 2011, and 2008 model years
A high number of complaints were raised for 2012, 2011, and 2008 Jeep Compass SUVs regarding the suspension and transmission system. The indicated issues include CVT failure due to overheating, suspension control arm/bushing failure, and tie-rod end failure.
Some owners allege that they’ve changed the tie rod ends up to four times, and they keep failing. Fixing the tie rod issue costs around $500, and fixing the transmission issues costs an average of $1,700. The issues typically occur around the 80k mile range.
4. Brake Failure
- Affected Models: Mostly reported for the 2012, 2014, and 2018 model years
It seems like the brake system on some Jeep Compass models is fragile and/or not properly installed. Owners of 2012, 2014, and 2018 Jeep Compass models allege that the brake grinds loudly, squeals, and dynamic brake makes the car drive slowly.
These reported brake issues typically occur before 30k miles, which makes it more suspicious to be a factory fault. Sadly, there is no predictable repair cost for Jeep Compass brake issues, but expect to spend above $500 in most cases.
Best Jeep Compass Years To Buy
As we’ve discussed the worst model years to avoid for the Jeep Compass SUV, here are the “considerable” years to buy.
These model years have a low number of complaints, and they have higher reliability ratings too. If you find a great deal for Jeep Compass made in the years mentioned below, grab it.
- 2008 Jeep Compass
- 2010 Jeep Compass
- 2013 Jeep Compass
- 2015 Jeep Compass
- 2016 Jeep Compass
- 2017 Jeep Compass
- 2019 Jeep Compass
- 2020 Jeep Compass
- 2022 Jeep Compass
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Jeep Compasses Have a Lot Of Problems?
Every car has its unique problems. For the Jeep Compass, it’s mainly TIPM failure, suspension issues, and transmission/engine failure. However, these problems were only reported for a few model years; there are Jeep Compass models that are almost “flawless.”
Is Jeep Compass Reliable?
The Jeep Compass manages to obtain a minimum 78 out of 100 reliability score on J.D. Power for all its model years. Particularly, the 2022 model takes home an 80 out of 100 rating on J.D. Power, while on RepairPal, it enjoys a warm 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability score. Yes, the Jeep Compass SUV is a reliable ride.
Does Jeep Compass Cost So Much To Maintain?
No. The Jeep Compass is fairly cheap to maintain compared with other SUVs in its compact crossover category. RepairPal states that it costs an average of $526 to maintain a Jeep Compass annually – for the first five service years. This is slightly above the industry’s average of $521 for compact SUVs.
See Also: Worst 7.3 Power Stroke Years To Avoid
Summary
So, explained here are the Jeep Compass years to avoid and why you should do so. Also, this article lists the “best” Jeep Compass model years to confidently choose from, especially if you’re looking to buy a used model.
The problems listed in this article were curled from the multiple complaints submitted by Jeep Compass owners on CarComplaints. Notwithstanding, the Jeep Compass is a superb ride built for adventures and off-road tours – a clinical SUV you’d get to love.