NHTSA FEDERAL EVIDENCE AUDITAudited: 2026-08-25

2021 Jeep Gladiator Common Problems & Defect Telemetry

Authoritative defect intelligence synthesized from 288 verified NHTSA owner complaints, 8 federal safety recalls, and interquartile failure mileage telemetry.

Data Grade: HIGH54 Odometer Verified EntriesMethodology
Executive AI Defect Summary

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator receives a 3.3/10 MazicBay Reliability Index based on 288 verified NHTSA federal complaints and 8 safety recalls. The primary reported failure mode is Electric Power Steering Assist & Suspension Noise Reports with a median failure point at 15,900 miles (IQR: 9,37523,917 mi). Out-of-warranty repairs benchmark at $450 – $1,400 .

2021 Jeep GladiatorNear-Luxury2021
DLC Port: Under driver dash near left knee kick panel

*Representative vehicle platform imagery. Body styling varies across generations.

MazicBay Reliability Index
3.3 / 10

41.1 complaints / 10k sold

NHTSA Owner Complaints
288

Verified US federal records

Safety Severity Grade
Critical Risk

Crash, fire & stall audit

Federal Safety Recalls
8

8 Active / Free Remedies

Switch Gladiator Model Year (2014–2025)
Defect Clustering

Top Reported Problem Clusters (7)

Ranked by NHTSA Complaint Frequency
#1 STEERING & SUSPENSIONCritical Severity86% Match Confidence

Electric Power Steering Assist & Suspension Noise Reports

123
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):15,900 milesIQR: 9,37523,917 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$450 – $1,400 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Sudden loss of electric power steering assist
  • Steering wheel pull or highway wander
  • Clunking / knocking noise over bumps
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11757024 • Filed: 08/14/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH on uneven road surfaces, the vehicle experienced violent shaking in the front end and the steering wheel. The contact stated that the vibration reoccurred while depressing the br...

ODI #11753502 • Filed: 07/29/2026

I am experiencing the "Jeep Death Wobble" which occurs intermittently after hitting any road imperfections i.e. uneven road surface connections, potholes, or rumble strips, causing a violent and sudden shaking of the steering wheel at highway speeds. I feel like the wheels are...

ODI #11752079 • Filed: 07/22/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V363000 (Steering). The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the vehicle was inspected, and the contact was informed that the vehicle had passed the inspection. The contact was...

#2 TRANSMISSION & DRIVETRAINCritical Severity86% Match Confidence

Transmission Hesitation, Hard Shifting & Slipping Reports

88
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):9,250 milesIQR: 5,00013,775 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$1,400 – $3,800 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Hard gear shifts / delayed engagement into Drive/Reverse
  • Transmission shudder / jerking under acceleration
  • Transmission slipping between gears
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11756306 • Filed: 08/11/2026Odometer: 5,000 mi

Truck failed to find gear shuddered lost speed in traffic while going up a hill. Limp mode was initiated. This is a known manufacturers defect with a tsb applied against the known issue. Issue is widespread when researched but not made known by the manufacturer of the truck. D...

ODI #11750672 • Filed: 07/15/2026

2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport S equipped with 6 speed manual transmission purchased from Landers Jeep in Little Rock Ar. Vehicle required the A-19 clutch recall. Recall was completed and I took ownership 6/17/2025. I returned the vehicle within the first week of ownership due to t...

ODI #11748859 • Filed: 07/07/2026

Engine oil light came on. Inspected at Tom Obrien Jeep for low oil pressure. Technician found that one of the oil sprayers was not bolted onto block, screw was there and tight, sprayer was in oil pan. It was incorrectly assembled. Jeep would not warranty due to lack of oil cha...

#3 ENGINE & COOLINGCritical Severity82% Match Confidence

Engine Stalling, Oil Consumption & Cooling Defect Reports

84
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):20,000 milesIQR: 9,17523,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$950 – $3,200 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Engine sudden stall / hesitation while driving
  • Abnormal oil burning / consumption
  • Check Engine Light (MIL) flashing
  • Engine overheating / coolant loss
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11749747 • Filed: 07/11/2026

The vehicle was bought in CA and hasn't had any issues till about after 3-4 yrs later. 1) Adaptive cruise control / emergency braking system / forward collision notification will occassionally state "not availble/unavailable" or "visibility" is not available and to clean winds...

ODI #11748859 • Filed: 07/07/2026

Engine oil light came on. Inspected at Tom Obrien Jeep for low oil pressure. Technician found that one of the oil sprayers was not bolted onto block, screw was there and tight, sprayer was in oil pan. It was incorrectly assembled. Jeep would not warranty due to lack of oil cha...

ODI #11743537 • Filed: 06/11/2026

Engine light came on, vehicle went into limp mode. Transmission would not shift any higher than 3rd gear and kept slipping while on interstate! Was almost hit by several 18 wheelers! Jeep dealership said our vin is not part of the service bulletin but they did get the P0733 co...

#4 BRAKING SYSTEM & ABSCritical Severity70% Match Confidence

Service Brakes, ABS Actuator & Master Cylinder Reports

59
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):18,000 milesIQR: 9,50021,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$350 – $1,100 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Spongy or hard brake pedal travel
  • ABS / Brake warning light illuminated
  • Extended stopping distance / pedal vibration
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11757024 • Filed: 08/14/2026

The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH on uneven road surfaces, the vehicle experienced violent shaking in the front end and the steering wheel. The contact stated that the vibration reoccurred while depressing the br...

ODI #11753476 • Filed: 07/29/2026

Front brake caliper(s) was seizing up causing smoking and a burning smell. Vehicle was also pulling to the right when braking. Brake fluid or something like it coated the front drivers side wheel. Took vehicle back to dealership where vehicle was purchased new. Vehicle is stil...

ODI #11753502 • Filed: 07/29/2026

I am experiencing the "Jeep Death Wobble" which occurs intermittently after hitting any road imperfections i.e. uneven road surface connections, potholes, or rumble strips, causing a violent and sudden shaking of the steering wheel at highway speeds. I feel like the wheels are...

#5 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM & BATTERYCritical Severity86% Match Confidence

Electrical Parasitic Drain, Infotainment & Harness Reports

55
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):21,833 milesIQR: 11,52526,917 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$280 – $850 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Unexplained battery drain after sitting overnight
  • Infotainment display / instrument cluster blackouts
  • Accessory malfunction / alternator fault warnings
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11748534 • Filed: 07/06/2026

7/5/2026. Driving home on the highway the Jeep went into limp mode and shut down. The Fault flashed on the screen for about 15 seconds (Throttle Body Falut) Problem is there is no warning when it happens. It just shuts down. This creates a "REALLY SERIOUS HAZZARD" This time it...

ODI #11747747 • Filed: 07/01/2026

The dealership says it cannot be repaired until 2027 due to parts not being available for the fire recall on this jeep. I cannot ensure my safety or others with this issue.

ODI #11745242 • Filed: 06/19/2026

own a 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland, VIN .... My vehicle is affected by a safety recall involving the power steering wiring and potential fire risk. I have been advised that parts may not be available until September. I am concerned about the safety of my vehicle and would like...

#6 FUEL SYSTEM & INJECTIONCritical Severity78% Match Confidence

Fuel Pump Pressure Loss & Fuel Delivery Defect Reports

21
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):55,000 milesIQR: 35,00075,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$650 – $1,250 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Sudden loss of propulsion power at highway speeds
  • Extended engine cranking / failure to restart
  • Fuel odor near fuel tank / engine bay
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11749747 • Filed: 07/11/2026

The vehicle was bought in CA and hasn't had any issues till about after 3-4 yrs later. 1) Adaptive cruise control / emergency braking system / forward collision notification will occassionally state "not availble/unavailable" or "visibility" is not available and to clean winds...

ODI #11662417 • Filed: 05/21/2025

The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle would hesitate to start. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump, the fuel in...

ODI #11626150 • Filed: 11/19/2024

The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the DEF tank message was displayed, notifying the contact to “See the Dealer”. Additionally, there was a message indicating 200 miles were remaining before the vehicle would fail to start. The veh...

#7 AIRBAGS & SAFETY RESTRAINTSCritical Severity70% Match Confidence

Airbag Occupant Detection & Inflator Defect Reports

16
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):9,700 milesIQR: 9,7009,700 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$400 – $1,200 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • SRS Airbag warning lamp illuminated
  • Passenger occupant classification sensor failure
  • Seat belt retractor lockup
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11732127 • Filed: 04/18/2026

On 12-13-23 I hit an 8 point buck going 55mph head on between the 2 headlights doing 15k in damage.. airbags did not deploy. On 4-11-26 I was hit by a drunk driver head on. I was going 33mph, he was going much faster in a Polaris rzr hit me on the driver side tearing off my ti...

ODI #11723578 • Filed: 03/11/2026

Description of the Safety Issue I am submitting this complaint to report a serious seat belt safety incident involving entrapment and inability to self‑release, which required emergency intervention. While parked, my daughter as a passenger in my Jeep Gladiator, became tangled...

ODI #11641183 • Filed: 02/06/2025

The contact owned a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated that while the vehicle was stopped at a corner, another vehicle was speeding and crashed into the front driver's side quarter panel. The impact pushed the vehicle forward, causing the front driver's wheel to swipe a t...

Safety Enforcement

Official NHTSA Safety Recalls (8)

100% Free Dealer Repair
NHTSA Campaign #21V028000Reported: 28/01/2021

POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Jeep Wrangler and 2020-2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.

Safety Consequence: Overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will add software to reduce engine torque capability when clutch assembly temperatures rise to a level that may damage the inner pressure plate, free of charge." FCA has ordered a stop sale for the affected vehicles as of February 25, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 4, 2021.
NHTSA Campaign #22V638000Reported: 25/08/2022

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Jeep Wrangler, RAM 1500 and 2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles. A radio software error may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Safety Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 6, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA, LLC's number for this recall is Z86.
NHTSA Campaign #22V767000Reported: 13/10/2022

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Jeep Wrangler, Ram 1500, and 2021-2022 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail, causing an engine stall.

Safety Consequence: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will replace the HPFP and inspect and replace additional fuel system components, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 17, 2023. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Z96.
NHTSA Campaign #23V116000Reported: 23/02/2023

POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Jeep Wrangler, and 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.

Safety Consequence: Overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will replace the clutch assembly and update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed from November 16, 2023 through July 25, 2024. Owners may contact (FCA US, LLC) customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 19A. This recall expands and replaces previous recall 21V-028. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 21V-028 will need to have the new remedy completed.
NHTSA Campaign #23V263000Reported: 13/04/2023

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler, Gladiator, and 2022-2023 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with a 3.0L diesel engine. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail.

Safety Consequence: Fuel pump failure can result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will replace the HPFP and replace additional fuel system components, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 17, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 01A.
NHTSA Campaign #24V572000Reported: 01/08/2024

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator vehicles that were previously remedied under NHTSA recall number 23V-116. The software for the powertrain control module may cause an engine stall, which can result in a loss of drive power.

Safety Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 15, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 92B. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 23V-116 will need to have the new remedy completed.
NHTSA Campaign #24V652000Reported: 05/09/2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Jeep Gladiator and 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The instrument panel cluster may experience an internal short circuit and fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."

Safety Consequence: An instrument panel that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Dealers will replace the instrument panel cluster, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between October 3, 2024, and January 23, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 30B.
NHTSA Campaign #26V363000Reported: 04/06/2026

STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:PUMP

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Jeep Wrangler, Wrangler 4XE, and Jeep Gladiator vehicles. The electric hydraulic power steering pump wiring may overheat and cause a vehicle fire, even when the vehicle is parked with the ignition in the "Off" position.

Safety Consequence: A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
Manufacturer Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures, until their vehicle is repaired. Dealers will inspect and replace the wiring and electric hydraulic power steering pump, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 9, 2026. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 21D. The Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on June 11, 2026.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist for 2021 Jeep Gladiator

Before purchasing a used 2021 Jeep Gladiator, perform the following targeted inspections based on reported federal defect patterns:

1. Cold Start & Idle Diagnostics

Scan the OBD-II port under the dash for pending freeze-frame codes (e.g. P0300 misfires, P0087 fuel rail pressure, P0420 catalytic efficiency).

2. Transmission Shift Quality Audit

Test vehicle at low-speed stop-and-go and highway merges. Check for delayed reverse engagement or gear shift shudder between 2nd and 3rd gears.

3. Federal Recall Completion Check

Verify that all 8 NHTSA safety recall campaigns have been performed by an authorized dealership using the VIN.

4. Electrical & Infotainment Drain Check

Ensure the instrument cluster, center screen, and auxiliary charging ports operate with stable 12.0V–14.4V alternator voltage.

Frequently Answered Questions

Defect & Reliability Q&A: 2021 Jeep Gladiator

Is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator a reliable used car?

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator earns a 3.3/10 MazicBay Reliability Index based on 288 federal owner reports. Vehicles maintained under factory service schedules exhibit strong longevity past 150,000 miles.

What is the most frequent defect reported on the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?

The leading complaint category is Electric Power Steering Assist & Suspension Noise Reports, with a median failure point around 15,900 miles (IQR: 9,37523,917 mi).

Are there free recall repairs available for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?

Yes, the NHTSA records 8 safety recall campaign(s) for this model year. All safety recalls are performed 100% free of charge by authorized franchise dealerships regardless of vehicle warranty status.