MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Jeep Renegade Safety

NHTSA safety across every Jeep Renegade model year we cover.

Across the 5 model years of the Jeep Renegade we cover (2019 to 2023), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2023 at 78 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2020 at 68. 13 recalls have been issued across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial ◆ Reviewed against NHTSA data ◆ 2026-10-01

The Jeep Renegade is a subcompact SUV that slots below the Compass in Jeep's lineup, targeting urban drivers and younger buyers who want trail-capable styling in a city-friendly footprint. Sold in both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, it competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market. From model years 2019 through 2023, its safety record deserves a close, honest look before you sign.

The 2019 to 2023 Jeep Renegade presents a middling safety profile; prospective buyers should approach with full awareness of its documented performance. The rollover rating, a 3 out of 5, stands out as a particular concern, given the subcompact SUV's inherent higher center of gravity. While frontal and side protection achieve a respectable 4 out of 5 stars in the best-performing model years, the rollover risk warrants careful consideration. The NHTSA Safety Index for this generation culminates at 78 out of 100 for the 2023 model year, placing it in the Average band. This score is neither alarming nor particularly reassuring, especially when compared to segment rivals. Earlier model years registered in the Below Average band, underscoring the importance of manufacturing year in the Renegade's safety assessment. Its recall record is elevated for the class, with 13 recalls issued across the five model years. This volume necessitates a thorough VIN-specific check through the NHTSA database before any purchase. Owner complaints, totaling 245, add further detail. Among these, 23 are associated with crashes and 17 allege injuries. While unverified, these figures are significant enough to merit consideration by any cautious buyer. For those prioritizing safety within this generation, the 2023 model year offers the strongest starting point.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally find the Jeep Renegade charming and distinctive in a segment full of lookalike crossovers, praising its optional off-road capability and strong brand identity. However, they tend to note that it lags behind segment leaders in refinement and that its overall value proposition requires scrutiny when stacked against newer, more polished competitors.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • The rollover rating of 3 out of 5 stars is the weakest link in the Renegade's crash-test profile - a direct consequence of the model's taller, narrower subcompact SUV proportions, and a number that should factor heavily into your decision.
  • Thirteen recalls across the 2019 to 2023 model years is a high count for this segment. Always run the specific VIN through NHTSA's recall database to confirm that any open recalls have been remedied before you buy.
  • Safety scores improved notably by the 2023 model year, which reached a 78 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index. If you are shopping within this generation, prioritizing the most recent model year gives you the best safety baseline the Renegade offers.
  • The 245 owner complaints on file include 23 associated with crashes and 17 alleged injuries. These are unverified allegations, but the volume and nature of those reports suggest real-world concerns worth discussing with a trusted mechanic during a pre-purchase inspection.

Safety Index by year

Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Jeep Renegade with 4 recalls.

BY YEARRenegade by model year

Other Jeep models