Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Jeep Compass
The 2016 Jeep Compass has notable complaints regarding the engine and electrical system, with 293 filed complaints. There is one recall concerning engine stalling due to sensor issues, but overall complaint data is limited. Buyers should focus on these areas when inspecting the vehicle and test driving it.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Jeep Compass has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 293 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #16V907000 Crankshaft Sensor May Fail Causing Engine Stall NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 135 complaints
- Electrical System 62 complaints
- Unknown or Other 47 complaints
- Power Train 44 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 30 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 26 complaints
Of the 293 complaints on file, 9 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 293 complaints, owners report 15 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Intermittent stalling
How to check: Inspect crankshaft and camshaft sensor connections for stability.
General electrical issues
How to check: Check all electrical systems and look for flickering lights.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or sputtering sounds.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for warning lights on the dashboard.
Red flag: Check engine or other warning lights.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor for engine stalling or hesitation.
Red flag: Engine stalls or hesitates.
- 04
Sharp turns
What to check: Steering response and stability.
Red flag: Loose or unresponsive steering.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth acceleration and power delivery.
Red flag: Lag or difficulty accelerating.
- 06
Full stop
What to check: Smoothness of brake application.
Red flag: Grinding or squeaking brakes.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the recall been addressed?
- Any recent engine repairs?
- When was the last electrical system check?
- Service records available?
- Ever experienced engine stalling?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Full service history
- Vehicle Title
- Maintenance receipts
- Owner's manual
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Jeep Compass at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2016 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.