The 2016 Jeep Compass is a popular compact crossover SUV that has a fair share of reliability concerns. Common problems include engines stalling, transmissions overheating, and malfunctioning electrical components.
Key Points
- The 2016 Jeep Compass has a sole recall and 187 complaints on file with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a relatively low number considering this car sold nearly 90,000 units in 2016.
- The NHTSA currently has two open airbag-related investigations due to overstress of an airbag electrical component and the rupture of airbag inflators.
- Various electrical issues have been reported, with the engine stalling while driving being the most concerning.
- Several transmission problems, such as overheating and leading to engine stall, have prompted many owner complaints.
- Despite not having an alarming number of recalls and complaints, the 2016 Jeep Compass is a poor choice if you’re looking for a used compact SUV.
Multiple Engine Stall Problems Triggered the 2016 Compass’ Single Recall
Considering that the 2016 Jeep Compass has been on the road for about seven years, the vehicle’s sole recall, two investigations, and less than 200 owner complaints registered with the NHTSA are not alarming. But its small number of problems prompted safety concerns.
For instance, the 2016 model’s crankshaft or camshaft sensor on some vehicles could function intermittently, resulting in the engine stalling.
And although this faulty component is not exclusive to the 2016 Compass, as some owners of newer models have complained about this, 2016 has been the only model year that prompted a recall.
In December 2016, Chrysler recalled 42,231 vehicles of different models from its 2016 lineup, due to a defective crankshaft positioning sensor.
If the crankshaft sensor fails, it could cause difficulty starting the vehicle or create dangerous situations like engine stalling, which increases the risk of a crash.
Since Chrysler promptly addressed this problem, there have been no further related recalls on later Compass models.
Nearly 200 Owners of 2016 Compasses Have Complained About Failing Transmission and Engine Power Loss
Almost half of the 2016 Jeep Compass’ 187 complaints reported to the NHTSA cover engine problems. Owners have reported loss of power, the car shutting off while driving, and being unable to restart again because of a faulty crankshaft positioning sensor or the transmission failing.
Sometimes, when the engine has failed, drivers claim they did not see any warning messages or lights on the car. However, other owners reported that the “check engine light’ alert came on after the vehicle died.
The transmission is another powertrain component 2016 Compass owners have complained about. The most common symptoms of the transmission failing include the transmission overheating, rough shifting, or the vehicle jerking and stalling.
Two Open Investigations Cover Defective Airbag Components in the 2016 Compass
In 2019, the NHTSA opened an investigation that is currently ongoing, focusing on the car’s airbag control unit (ACU) due to a defective electronic component.
The ACU senses a vehicle crash to determine whether airbag deployment is required and, if so, deploys the appropriate airbags and other supplemental restraints.
A failure of this component may affect the proper operation of the ACU and consequently prevent deployment of the airbags and devices.
A second open investigation covering defective airbags started in December 2021 due to a rupture of a desiccated airbag inflator.
According to the NHTSA, after prolonged exposure to high-temperature cycles and humidity, airbag inflators using a specific propellant can degrade and cause the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited.
This rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, causing severe or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants.
Transmission Problems Such as Shuddering are a Common Issue Reported to Compass Owner Forums
On the My Jeep Compass forum, owners report experiencing surging because of the CVT transmission, sometimes caused by a clogged cooler return filter. Others describe problems with the CVT transmission range sensor causing shifting problems.
Another owner discusses on Jeep Garage how his Compass shudders when accelerating, and it happens at all speeds.
Several drivers turned to City-Data to rant about their experience in the 2016 Compass. Some claim the car struggles to accelerate and complain about the CVT and the questionable quality of interior materials.
Likewise, a handful of 2016 Compass owners have headed over to Car Complaints to share the transmission problems they’ve experienced.
Owners report the transmission making loud whining and grinding noises while driving and slipping gears. Other reports cover slow acceleration and stutters, and transmission failure.
Although Not Necessarily Problematic, You’ll Be Better off Avoiding the 2016 Jeep Compass
Even though the number of issues is not as extensive on the 2016 Compass, the safety risks along with poor resale value will have you looking at the Compass’ competitors.
The Compass’ weak engine, firm ride, and cheap cabin materials make it a less desirable vehicle compared to other SUVs in its segment.
So, if you’re in the market for a Compass, consider more reliable options, such as the 2016 Honda CR-V and 2016 Hyundai Tucson.
Photos: Stellantis
