Problems · by component

2016 Jeep Wrangler power train problems

74 owner complaints to NHTSA about the 2016 Jeep Wrangler cite power train, 16% of all 462 complaints for this model year.

Complaints
74
16% of all complaints
Crashes
0
Reported by owners
Fires
0
Reported by owners
Injuries
0
Reported by owners
01 —Owner reports

What owners say about the power train

Verbatim from NHTSA complaints, newest first
“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.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Sep 13, 2026Steering, Suspension, Power trainODI 11763902
“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.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jul 9, 2026Power trainODI 11749312
“Unsafe Vehicle, Unresolved Mechanical Failures – Serious Safety Concern On [XXX], I purchased a Jeep (VIN: [XXX] ) from Whipple Auto Sales. Since the purchase, the vehicle has experienced repeated mechanical failures that have created serious safety concerns. Approximately two weeks after purchase, the dealership replaced a fuel injector due to performance issues. About one month later, the vehicle began showing sensor codes and experienced sudden power loss while driving. On [XXX] the vehicle completely shut off while I was traveling on the highway, placing my safety at significant risk. The dealership initially stated that the key required reprogramming. However, after keeping the vehicle for approximately one month, they were still unable to repair the issue. The dealership later claimed the problem was related to the powertrain. Without resolving the issue or providing proper notice, they returned the vehicle to my residence in worse condition than when it was left with them. At this time, the vehicle is unsafe and unreliable, and I cannot confidently operate it. This situation demonstrates a lack of proper repair, accountability, and resolution. I am…”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Feb 17, 2026Power train, Electrical system, EngineODI 11718635
“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. I was nearly rear-ended twice before finally being able to exit with a left turn. The engine light came on soon after this happened.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jun 22, 2025Power trainODI 11668416
“Driver had 50,000 miles maintenance service scheduled when the engine light went on a week prior to the service date. Therefore she asked the mechanic to do a diagnostic check on engine and mechanic at the Jeep dealership reported list of problems which solutions found which include: Replace Thermostat and holding Replace Vacuum Pump Replacing U-Joint Replacing All Ball Joints Replacing Front Axle Seals Replacing Both Shocks Replacing Engine Oil cooler Driver has been working from home for 6 years and the wrangler is driven on weekends and never done off roading. Jeep was purchased new in 2016.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Feb 9, 2025Suspension, Power train, EngineODI 11641574
“2016 Jeep JK 3.6l v6 Symptoms brake warning light,abs warning light, traction control warning light on. Cruise control will not function with the above warning lights. Diagnosis: faulty abs module per obd2. Additional problem is the unavailability from Chrysler for the replacement part which affects many Jeep model years. This is a common complaint with Jeep owners. Chrysler contacted with no resolution. 05”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jul 5, 2024Power train, Vehicle speed control, Service brakesODI 11599295

Showing 6 of 74 reports. Read every report on NHTSA.gov.

Data from NHTSA Complaints API (owner reports, unverified) · synced Nov 3, 2026NHTSA vehicle page

Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.