Jeep Renegade: A Closer Look at its Safety Ratings

Sandy B
Mar 5, 2021

Blue 2020 Jeep Renegade From Front-Driver Side

Before you buy that Jeep Renegade, pre-owned or new, you have to think about how safe it is for your family and your needs. Safety ratings are just as important as things like powertrain performance and fuel economy, of course, but for a subcompact SUV, they can be critical factors.

How safe is a Jeep Renegade?

The 2020 Jeep Renegade received a 4-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA and a mostly “Good” rating in crashworthiness from IIHS. Combined with a 4.39-Owner Star rating at Vehicle History and you have an overall good vehicle when it comes to safety.

As you think about those ratings, keep in mind safety ratings like these don’t provide the full picture. To help you, we’re breaking down the details here, uncovering safety features on the Renegade, and making it easy for you to make the right buying decision for your family.

2020 Jeep Renegade Crash Test Results

Crash test results are a solid bit of insight into how well the vehicle will perform when it comes to collisions. These leading organizations work to uncover risks, enabling manufacturers to build stronger, safer cars. Here’s how the 2020 Jeep Renegade stacks up in these results.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Test Results

The IIHS notes a few concerns when it comes to the safety of the 2020 Renegade. In Crashworthiness, most areas check the “Good” rating, which is the highest possible. There is concern, though, about the passenger side overlap test, which earned just an “Acceptable” rating.

Also noted were concerns with the crash avoidance testing and mitigation related to the headlights. The vehicle received only an “Acceptable” rating for their standard features, but some trims only received a “Marginal” or “Poor” rating here.

Also notable, the IIHS only gave this vehicle an “Acceptable” rating for the LATCH child seat anchor system’s ease of use. It did receive a “Superior” rating in relation to the front crash prevention test in vehicle-to-vehicle accidents.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Test Results

The NHTSA gave the 2020 Jeep Renegade a 4-Star Overall Safety Rating, which is lower than its competition. The Overall Front Star Rating was only 4 stars, marked down by both the results of the front driver side and front passenger side vehicle tests.

The Side Crash Rating is also only a 4-Star with concerns in the Rear Passenger test that could put passengers at risk in side collisions. Even worse, the Jeep Renegade only received a 3-Star rating in Rollover, due to the 22.8% rollover risk the NHTSA determined.

2020 Jeep Renegade Available Safety Tech

Drivers buying a newer Jeep Renegade have access to some superior driver-assistance tech. These features are available – though not always standard- on the Jeep lineup. Here’s what you’ll find on the 2020 Jeep Renegade.

Adaptive Cruise Control

The Adaptive Cruise Control feature helps you to maintain the proper distance from the car in front of you while traveling at high speeds. It will slow down the car if that distance (which is pre-determined) changes.

Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection

Jeep lumps these two features, which actually do two things, into one. The Blind Spot Monitoring allows you to know when there is someone in the adjacent lane to you that could be hard to see.

The Rear Cross Path Detection gives you the ability to back out without being struck by a passing car. Both of these features work well to reduce the risk of collisions.

Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking

Car Collision Detection System

In situations where you’re driving and there’s a high potential for you to collide with a person, another car, or another object, this feature goes to work. It warns you audible and visually. It then applies the brake to slow the car down.

In situations where you don’t react fast enough, this feature can stop the car by applying the full brake force. It does this only in emergencies.

LaneSense Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist

This feature works to keep you in the marked lanes on the roadway. It does this by alerting you through audible and visual warnings if you start to drift. If you don’t respond, it can ease your car back into the right lane. It also keeps you from going off the side of the road.

Here’s What Other People Also Ask about the 2020 Jeep Renegade

Safety is top of the mind, but there are many questions buyers often have about their vehicles that need to be answered as well. Here’s some insight.

Is the Jeep Renegade a safe vehicle?

By comparison to the competition, including other models from this manufacturer, there are some concerns about safety. While the vehicle does have solid features and ample tech, some drivers may want to be leery about the Renegade’s overall safety.

What are typical problems with the Jeep Renegade?

Some model years, notably the 2017 model year, have problems with the engine, transmission, and the vehicle’s electrical system. Recalls and repairs have helped to minimize this. Newer models also do not have as many concerns with the powertrain.

Are there recalls on the Jeep Renegade?

Over the years of its production, there have been some noted recalls. For the 2020 model year, there are two recalls as of November of 2020. One relates to the back over protection (yes, that’s a key safety feature!) and to the brakes. Jeep has issued repairs for these recalls.

Will the Jeep Renegade last for a long time?

There are owners who report maintaining this car well for many years. Some also note having racked up 150,000 to 200,000 miles on the car without any major repair needs. Good maintenance plays a big role in this.

Thinking About Buying a Pre-Owned Jeep Renegade? Use This Data to Make the Safe Decision

With data partnerships with companies such as Ipsos, NHTSA, and IIHS, we’ve got you covered. You’ll find all of the info you need in our free tool. All you have to do is look up the 2020 Jeep Renegade’s Vehicle History to get all of the details before you buy.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Susan Bobo on June 24, 2021
2017 Renegade - Noise since purchase 2 yrs ago. Cant get fixed.
I purchased a 2017 Renegade two years ago and have had it two different dealerships numerous times. Noise that no cause can be found and now am being told it 'may be the tires and I should spend $800 (on sale) to eliminate that possibility. At time it sounds like the motor is going to explode but I have been told by a friend that it sounds like wheel bearings. Dealership won't check bearings unless I eliminate tire issue first.
accountCircle Batoul Y on June 15, 2021
Sleek vehicle, comfortable 2020 jeep renegade.
The jeep renegade is a wonderful car, it is a four cylinder vehicle but it really has a get up and go. The audio system is nice and it is equipped with Sirius XM and OnStar. The issues that I have with the car is the OnStar capability does not work and for some reason the hotspot is not working. The front seats are very spacious but unfortunately the back seats are made for younger kids as there is not very much leg room.
accountCircle Kimberly J on July 16, 2021
Apple carplay feature on my 2020 jeep renegade.
The only problems I have had it with my apple carplay. It does not always work when my phone is plugged in. It will not accept a radio station I try to find and sometimes voice text does not work. Other times it’ll jump around from feature to feature. I got this car partly because of apple carplay, so this is important to me.
accountCircle Jamie L on May 30, 2021
2020 Jeep Renegade with safety and great specs to keep you driving.
One downfall is that it is poor on gas, but it is great for off road driving. Updated with CarPlay and Sirius radio. All seats are leather and great for comfort and cleaning. Great quality features for safety because it includes blind spot warning lights, mirror dims oncoming lights and brights from cars behind you.
accountCircle Chrissy S on April 27, 2021
2020 issues. Fob is ok, like the old way better.
The only problem I have had was a month into having it something in the starter and fob messed up. Had to take it back to the dealer for 3 days for them to find it. Sometimes the car will not start and wants me to start it with the fob but mine is not that fancy. Also the emergency break button is very touchy.
accountCircle Emmanuel A on April 27, 2021
2020 renegade drives well, touchscreen needs work.
The vehicle drives fine, but the touch screen does not feel cohesive, and some features do not work. For example, we've tried to favorite specific stations or have the jeep auto-tune to them when turning on. It does not work. We've also tried reading over the manual and went step-by-step for this. Nothing.
accountCircle Victoria A on May 4, 2021
Bikini jeep renegade 2020 latitude thoughts and feelings.
Overall the car is built like a tank! It feels super safe and strong. It looks smaller on the outside but once you are on the inside you have a lot of room and space. One thing that is annoying is that there is no sunroof it was an additional coast that truthfully was not worth the added expense.
accountCircle Claudia C on April 29, 2021
2020 Renegade - Fun to drive and worth the cost!
No problems noted yet. Only complaint is that the gas tank is quite small for the size of the vehicle so I have to fill up the tank more often than I'd like. But I love driving the car. Lots of cool features, including apple CarPlay so I can plug my phone in and use it more safely while I drive.
accountCircle Julea M on May 30, 2021
2015 jeep renegade buyers beware, engine problems eminent.
Currently I have 40,327 miles and had a major repair at 37,000 miles. There was high oil consumption and the engine overheated after 10 mins max so I had to stop. I was told it was a piston problem to the tune of a $2,300 dollar repair. This was in 2019, I have low miles and this was a bummer.
accountCircle Kimberly J on July 9, 2021
The best thing is how it performs off road. The 2015 Jeep Renegade climbs well.
I have had a lot of problems with it being a new car. The cooling fan seized up around 30, 000 miles. It has self locked with keys in the engine. The ignition seized up when we were out of town, resulting in extra costs for us. I would like to have seen a bigger gas tank then 12 gallons.
accountCircle Lara R on March 12, 2021
2015 Renegade: Small SUV with a lot of pep and pleasure!
I have driven it for 7 months with only two issues at 66,000 miles: Replaced the battery, and the door locks stopped working. I researched and found a reset button on the touchscreen radio/media center. Otherwise, I have really enjoyed driving it!
accountCircle Matt C on August 7, 2021
Love my 2020 jeep renegade; it is great!
My jeep renegade is a reliable vehicle with many practical features for safety and a number of features for entertainment as well. It is a more compact SUV but still is good for bad driving conditions when a 4x4 is necessary.
accountCircle Frankie C on September 21, 2021
First impressions of jeep renegade 2020.
The interior is nice, safety features are modern. The handling and driving feels stiff and top-heavy. I like the appearance of the jeep, although I did not expect it to be so small compared to other compact SUVs.
accountCircle Adam C on June 25, 2021
The seats are extremely soft and comfy in my 2020 renegade.
The only thing that I have a problem with is the fact that you cannot do a remote start. Other than that it is the perfect vehicle to take on vacation. The ride is smooth and time passes by quickly.
accountCircle Richard R on April 9, 2021
I love my 2020 jeep renegade
The jeep renegade is an amazing car, it is spacious with a lot of room for multiple outdoor events with the family. I love that it is ability to perform high levels of speed and still feel safe.
accountCircle Tommy wells on April 7, 2021
I got stuck with a 2017 lemon
I've had nothing but problems with my 2017 renegade trail hawk latest being wiring issues fuse box under hood got fire and melted 70 thousand miles and still owe 19 grand on it so disappointed.
accountCircle Fernanda L on September 19, 2021
Most 2015 Jeep Renegades need the radiator fan replaced after 30,000 miles
I like that it's very small and cute. It also has a lot of hidden Jeep logos around it. I dislike that the back seat is small and does not fit my daughter's car seat well.
accountCircle Charity H on August 24, 2021
2020 renegade is smooth and safe ride for the whole family.
My jeep renegade is extremely comfortable and stylish. I feel it keeps me and my family safe on the road. It has all the features I need for a smooth, reliable ride.
accountCircle Terri R on July 9, 2021
2015 Renegade never been stuck.
Have gotten 50, 000 miles on original tires. Has very good traction in the snow. Not the best gas mileage for SUVs. Jeep service is very expensive at the dealer.
accountCircle Britney D on March 15, 2021
I absolutely love my new 2020 jeep renegade!
My least favorite thing is, the backseat is to small for car seats. Other than that I have no problem with it, also it has pretty much automatic everything.
accountCircle Jacqueline N on June 13, 2021
2020 Renegade - Sporty look, interior/exterior give me confidence in the safety of my vehicle.
Looks nice and feels safe and secure. Sits just right, high enough to feel safe, but easy to get into. Smooth riding vehicle, nice design inside as well.
accountCircle Megan M on March 12, 2021
I'd recommend a newer model over the 2015 Renegade
It has had a few very serious issues including needing a new transmission after only under 50,000 miles.
accountCircle Samantha M on June 2, 2021
New 2020 renegade, drives like a jeep but convince of an SUV.
My new jeep renegade limited is awesome! No issues to report so far. The lane departure is a huge help!
accountCircle Krystal F on April 10, 2021
2015 Jeep Renegade latitude Manual transmission. Handles well in mi winters.
My clutch failed with only 11, 000 miles on the car. Warranty was great covered everything.
accountCircle Sarah D on July 13, 2021
2020 jeep renegade review.
The only issue has been poor gas mileage.
avatar Sandy B
Sandy B. has written for The New York Times, Cleveland Magazine, and many online publications. She long-ago ditched the minivan life for the off-roading Ford Explorer (and hoping to restore a Shelby Mustang!)
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