MODEL
Jeep Wrangler Safety
NHTSA safety across every Jeep Wrangler model year we cover.
Across the 5 model years of the Jeep Wrangler we cover (2019 to 2023), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2023 at 54 on the NHTSA Safety Index. 65 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic body-on-frame SUV that sits at the heart of the off-road segment, aimed squarely at adventure-focused buyers who prioritize trail capability and open-air freedom over everyday refinement. Spanning model years 2019 through 2023, the Wrangler carries a devoted following, but shoppers considering one owe it to themselves to look hard at what the federal safety data actually says before signing anything.
The 2019-2023 Jeep Wrangler presents one of the weakest safety profiles we track in the SUV segment. Its highest NHTSA Safety Index score across these model years is 54 out of 100, placing it in the Weak band. The vehicle's structural design, including its body-on-frame construction and removable doors, impacts its crash-test performance. While frontal crash tests achieved a respectable 4 out of 5 stars, the rollover rating is a concerning 3 out of 5 stars, which is consistent with the Wrangler's tall stance and high center of gravity. No side-impact ratings were recorded, leaving a significant gap in the overall safety assessment. The recall record for these five model years is substantial, with 65 total recalls. Of particular note are 10 park-outside or do-not-drive campaigns, representing the most serious category issued by NHTSA. This high number of critical recalls is a significant factor. Owner complaints total 2,882, including allegations of 68 crashes, 61 fires, and 41 injuries. While these are unverified claims, the volume of fire complaints warrants close scrutiny. The federal safety data indicates a profile genuinely below average for the SUV class.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally celebrate the Wrangler's unmatched off-road capability, its open-air versatility, and the strong sense of identity it delivers. Most acknowledge, however, that on-road ride quality and everyday practicality trail the broader SUV segment. The tradeoffs inherent to its purpose-built design are widely noted as real and meaningful for buyers who prioritize daily commuting comfort or conventional safety benchmarks.
- The Wrangler's best NHTSA Safety Index across 2019-2023 is just 54 out of 100, landing in the Weak band. That is a below-average result for the SUV class and reflects the structural and design tradeoffs built into this platform.
- Ten of the 65 recalls issued across these model years are classified as park-outside or do-not-drive campaigns, the most urgent level of recall action NHTSA can issue. Verify that any specific vehicle you are considering has had all open recalls completed before purchase.
- The rollover star rating of 3 out of 5 is a meaningful red flag. The Wrangler's tall, narrow, body-on-frame architecture gives it a higher rollover risk than most modern SUVs, and this should factor into any safety-focused buying decision.
- Owner complaints include 61 alleged fire incidents across the covered model years. These are unverified allegations, but the volume is notable. Prospective buyers should search the NHTSA complaints database for their specific model year and investigate any open technical service bulletins related to fire or electrical issues.
Most-recalled year on record: 2022 Jeep Wrangler with 15 recalls.