MODEL
Jeep Wrangler
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 MotorCaliber safety picture for the 2019-2023 Jeep Wrangler is, to put it plainly, one of the weakest we track in the SUV segment. The best NHTSA Safety Index recorded across these model years is a 54 out of 100, placing it firmly in the Weak band. Crash-test performance reflects the inherent structural compromises of a body-on-frame, removable-door design: the strongest frontal result on record is 4 out of 5 stars, a respectable showing, but the rollover rating sits at just 3 out of 5 stars, which is a serious concern given the Wrangler's tall, narrow stance and high center of gravity. Side-impact ratings were not recorded, leaving a meaningful gap in the safety picture. The recall count across these five model years is 65, and notably, 10 of those are park-outside or do-not-drive campaigns, the most serious category NHTSA issues. That figure demands attention. Owner complaints total 2,882, including 68 alleged crashes, 61 alleged fires, and 41 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but the fire complaint volume in particular warrants careful scrutiny. The honest bottom line: the Wrangler is a purpose-built off-roader with a loyal audience, but its federal safety profile is genuinely below average for the SUV class. Buyers should enter this purchase with clear eyes.
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.