Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Jeep Compass
The 2018 Jeep Compass shows significant concern in the engine and electrical systems based on high complaint numbers. Six recall campaigns, especially on crucial components, add to the caution. Limited data on other issues suggests focusing on general checks instead of specific problem areas.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 Jeep Compass has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 948 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 #18V524000 Voltage Regulator may Fail and Cause Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V523000 Insufficient Coating on Rear Brake Caliper Pistons NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V279000 Lower Control Arm Separation NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V740000 Instrument Brightness not Adjustable/FMVSS 101 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V732000 Passenger Air Bag Assembly May Contain Loose Nuts NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V670000 Oil Pump Failure Causing Engine Stall NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 476 complaints
- Electrical System 380 complaints
- Unknown or Other 195 complaints
- Power Train 151 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 64 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 63 complaints
Of the 948 complaints on file, 28 report a crash and 5 a fire; across all 948 complaints, owners report 18 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Cracked oil pump housing
How to check: Inspect for any oil leaks or unusual noises.
Unstable instrument panel lighting
How to check: Verify that instrument panel brightness adjusts properly.
Rear brake caliper issues
How to check: Check rear brake performance and look for uneven wear.
Incorrectly welded control arms
How to check: Inspect front suspension for stability and unusual wear.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual engine sounds or warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Ensure smooth idling with no significant vibrations.
Red flag: Rough idling or shaking
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor brake response and steering feel.
Red flag: Delayed brake response
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth acceleration without engine noise.
Red flag: Hesitation or loud engine noise
- 05
During parking
What to check: Test steering for free movement and ease.
Red flag: Stiff or loose steering
- 06
Stopping
What to check: Evaluate braking performance in normal and hard stops.
Red flag: Spongy or unresponsive brakes
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the oil pump been inspected?
- Were any recalls addressed during your ownership?
- Any persistent electrical issues?
- How frequently were oil changes performed?
- Has the suspension been checked recently?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle recall repair history
- Complete service records
- Title and registration
- Warranty paperwork
- Oil change receipts
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Jeep Compass at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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