Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2014 Jeep Compass
The 2014 Jeep Compass has moderate recall and complaint issues, mainly focusing on the engine and safety systems. The recall data suggests potential engine stalling and airbag or seatbelt failures due to electrical issues. While concerns exist, they are relatively specific, and a careful inspection may ensure a reliable purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2014 Jeep Compass has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 308 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #16V668000 Air Bags/Seat Belt Pretensioners may be Disabled NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V552000 Loss of Oil Pressure may result in Engine Stall NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 91 complaints
- Engine 91 complaints
- Seat Belts 53 complaints
- Unknown or Other 37 complaints
- Electrical System 36 complaints
- Power Train 35 complaints
Of the 308 complaints on file, 20 report a crash and 7 a fire; across all 308 complaints, owners report 25 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Oil pressure loss
How to check: Check engine oil levels and signs of leaks.
Airbag deployment failure
How to check: Verify airbag warning light functions.
Seatbelt pretensioner failure
How to check: Inspect seatbelt response and locking.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Monitor dashboard warnings.
Red flag: Persistent engine or airbag warnings
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check for smooth acceleration.
Red flag: Hesitation or stalling
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Assess engine response and stability.
Red flag: Loss of power or misfires
- 05
Braking
What to check: Feel for soft or unresponsive brakes.
Red flag: Vibration or lack of stopping power
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the OCR module been replaced?
- Are there any unresolved recalls?
- Any issues with the engine oil pressure?
- Has the vehicle experienced any airbag faults?
- How often has the vehicle been serviced?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service history reports
- Accident history report
- Ownership title document
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2014 Jeep Compass at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2014 Jeep Compass? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.