Jeep Compass research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
Early Compasses are inexpensive and simple but feel dated, and 2011-2013 automatics use a CVT; 2014-2016 models mostly switched to a 6-speed automatic. The redesigned 2017 Compass is much nicer inside and adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 180-hp 2.4L four. The 2022 refresh brought a new interior and standard safety tech, and for 2023 a 200-hp turbo four, 8-speed automatic and standard 4x4 made it noticeably quicker. Trailhawk models are genuinely trail-capable.
Model years covered: 2011–2026. The U.S. Compass is still the second-generation model through 2026; verify 2025-2026 trims, packages and pricing against current Jeep data. A next-generation North American Compass is planned later in the decade.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Real off road ability in trailhawk form
- Available 4x4
- Compact easy to park size
- Smartphone integration 2017 and later
- Standard safety features 2022 and later
- Stronger turbo engine 2023 and later
- Low used prices for first generation
Things to know before you buy
- First generation CVT on 2011 2013 automatics
- 2017 is a redesign year with model overlap
- 2.4 liter oil consumption reports
- Slow acceleration before 2023
- 2022 refresh and 2023 turbo are key upgrades
- Rear seat and cargo smaller than leaders
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 1 (2007–2016)
The first-generation Compass (MK49) shared its platform and 2.0L/2.4L 'World' engines with the Patriot and Dodge Caliber. A 2011 refresh brought Grand Cherokee-style looks, a better interior and the Freedom Drive II off-road package. Automatics used a CVT through 2013; a conventional 6-speed automatic took over on most models for 2014, while Freedom Drive II kept a low-range CVT.
Buyer takeaway: Choose a 2014-2016 with the 6-speed automatic for the most conventional drive, inspect CVT models carefully, and expect basic refinement for a low price.
Generation 2 (2017–present)
The second-generation Compass (MP), shaped like a small Grand Cherokee, launched for 2017 with a 180-hp 2.4L Tigershark and 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic (front-drive) or 9-speed automatic (4x4). The 2022 refresh added a new interior, Uconnect 5 and standard driver aids; for 2023 a 200-hp 2.0L turbo, 8-speed automatic and standard 4x4 replaced the old powertrains. It remains on sale in the U.S. through 2026, with a next-generation model planned for Belvidere.
Buyer takeaway: For value, a 2017-2021 with good oil-level history works; the 2022 adds the better cabin and safety tech, and 2023+ turbo models are the best to drive. Pick a Trailhawk for trails.
Jeep Compass by model year
2026 Jeep Compass
The 2026 Compass continues the second-generation design in the U.S. with the 200-hp 2.0L turbo, 8-speed automatic and 4x4. Stellantis has said the next-generation North American Compass will be built at Belvidere, Illinois later in the decade. Verify 2026 trims, packages and pricing against current Jeep data.
- Engines: 2.0 liter turbo I4 200 hp 221 lb ft
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Jeep active drive 4x4; Active drive low 4x4 trailhawk
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Second generation continues in the US
- Next generation compass planned for belvidere later in the decade
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; Turbo and stop start operation; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Uconnect 5 screen and software; 4x4 system operation; Suspension and tires; Maintenance history.
2025 Jeep Compass
The 2025 Compass sold in the U.S. is still the second-generation model with the 200-hp 2.0L turbo, 8-speed automatic and 4x4; the all-new third-generation Compass launched in Europe first. Features vary by trim and package, so verify equipment against the window sticker or current Jeep data.
- Engines: 2.0 liter turbo I4 200 hp 221 lb ft
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Jeep active drive 4x4; Active drive low 4x4 trailhawk
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Continues second generation design in north america
- Trim and package updates verify with window sticker
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; Turbo and stop start operation; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Uconnect 5 screen and software; 4x4 system operation; Suspension and tires; Maintenance history.
2024 Jeep Compass
For 2024 the Compass became Jeep's entry-level model in North America after the Renegade was dropped. It continues with the 200-hp 2.0L turbo four, 8-speed automatic and standard 4x4, along with the refreshed interior and standard driver aids introduced for 2022. Trim content and packages vary, so confirm features by window sticker or VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter turbo I4 200 hp 221 lb ft
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Jeep active drive 4x4; Active drive low 4x4 trailhawk
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Becomes jeeps entry level model after renegade exits
- Continues with 2.0 liter turbo and 8 speed
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; Turbo and stop start operation; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Uconnect 5 screen and software; 4x4 system operation; Suspension and tires; Maintenance history.
2023 Jeep Compass
For 2023 the Compass switched to a 200-hp, 221 lb-ft 2.0L turbo four with an 8-speed automatic, replacing the 2.4L and both older automatics, and 4x4 became standard on U.S. models. The turbo's extra torque makes the Compass feel much quicker than earlier years. It keeps the 2022 interior and standard safety features, making 2023+ the best all-around used choice.
- Engines: 2.0 liter turbo I4 200 hp 221 lb ft
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Jeep active drive 4x4; Active drive low 4x4 trailhawk
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- New 2.0 liter turbo replaces the 2.4 liter
- 8 speed automatic replaces 6 and 9 speed
- 4x4 standard on all US models
- More torque and quicker acceleration
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; Turbo and stop start operation; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Uconnect 5 screen and software; 4x4 system operation; Suspension and tires; Maintenance history.
2022 Jeep Compass
The 2022 refresh gave the Compass a far nicer interior with an available 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen and over-the-air updates, plus standard forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The 2.4L is rated 177 hp, with a 6-speed automatic (front-drive) or 9-speed (4x4). It is the last year of the 2.4L.
- Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 177 hp 172 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic FWD; 9 speed automatic 4x4
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Jeep active drive 4x4; Active drive low 4x4 trailhawk
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Redesigned interior with 10 1 inch uconnect 5 screen
- Standard automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist
- Standard blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert
- Available highway assist
- Over the air software updates
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Uconnect 5 screen and software; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; 9 speed shift quality if 4x4; Suspension and tires; Maintenance history.
2021 Jeep Compass
The 2021 Compass is the last year before the big 2022 update, with the 180-hp 2.4L four and a choice of manual, 6-speed automatic or 9-speed automatic. An 80th Anniversary edition celebrated the brand. A 2021 can be a value alternative to a 2022 if you do not need the newer interior and screen.
- Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 180 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual select trims; 6 speed automatic FWD; 9 speed automatic 4x4
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Jeep active drive 4x4; Active drive low 4x4 trailhawk
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- 80th anniversary edition
- Last year of the original second generation interior
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; Driver assistance features by package; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; 9 speed shift quality if 4x4; Uconnect screen and smartphone connection; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Maintenance history.
2020 Jeep Compass
The 2020 Compass carries over the 180-hp 2.4L four with manual, 6-speed automatic or 9-speed automatic transmissions and front-drive or 4x4. It remains a good-value way to get a Jeep with real trail ability, but owners of 2.4L Compasses have reported oil consumption, so check the oil level and service history.
- Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 180 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual select trims; 6 speed automatic FWD; 9 speed automatic 4x4
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Jeep active drive 4x4; Active drive low 4x4 trailhawk
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Option package shuffles
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; Driver assistance features by package; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; 9 speed shift quality if 4x4; Uconnect screen and smartphone connection; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Maintenance history.
2019 Jeep Compass
The 2019 Compass continues with the 180-hp 2.4L Tigershark and the same three transmissions, with optional packages adding driver aids such as forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring on some trims. Because safety equipment varies widely by package, confirm what a specific Compass actually has.
- Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 180 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual select trims; 6 speed automatic FWD; 9 speed automatic 4x4
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Jeep active drive 4x4; Active drive low 4x4 trailhawk
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Additional option packages
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; Driver assistance features by package; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; 9 speed shift quality if 4x4; Uconnect screen and smartphone connection; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Maintenance history.
2018 Jeep Compass
The 2018 Compass carries over the redesigned model: a 180-hp 2.4L four with a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic (front-drive) or 9-speed automatic (4x4), in Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk trims. It offers more rugged credibility than most small crossovers, though acceleration is leisurely; test the 9-speed on 4x4 models.
- Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 180 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual select trims; 6 speed automatic FWD; 9 speed automatic 4x4
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Jeep active drive 4x4; Active drive low 4x4 trailhawk
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Trim and package shuffles
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; 9 speed shift quality if 4x4; Uconnect screen and smartphone connection; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Maintenance history.
2017 Jeep Compass
The all-new 2017 Compass looks like a shrunken Grand Cherokee and is far more refined than before. It uses a 180-hp 2.4L Tigershark four with a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic (front-drive) or a 9-speed automatic (4x4); the Trailhawk adds Active Drive Low and a raised suspension. Uconnect added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Some 2017s were the old-style Compass, so check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 180 hp 175 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual select trims; 6 speed automatic FWD; 9 speed automatic 4x4
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Jeep active drive 4x4; Active drive low 4x4 trailhawk
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- All new second generation shaped like a small grand cherokee
- New platform shared with jeep renegade
- Apple carplay and android auto on uconnect
- Trailhawk with active drive low
- Previous generation also sold as a 2017 model
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; 9 speed shift quality if 4x4; Uconnect screen and smartphone connection; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Suspension and tires; Maintenance history.
2016 Jeep Compass
The 2016 Compass is the last full year of the first-generation design, offered with the 158-hp 2.0L or 172-hp 2.4L and a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic (CVT on Freedom Drive II). A 75th Anniversary edition marked Jeep's birthday. It is a budget pick; the redesigned 2017 is a big step up in refinement and safety technology.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 158 hp 141 lb ft FWD only; 2.4 liter I4 172 hp 165 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; CVT with low range freedom drive ii
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Freedom drive i 4x4; Freedom drive ii 4x4 off road package
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- 75th anniversary special edition
- Last full year of the first generation design
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; 6 speed automatic shift quality; CVT operation if freedom drive ii; Suspension bushings struts and wheel bearings; Underbody and rust in salt states; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Maintenance history.
2015 Jeep Compass
The 2015 Compass carries over the 2014 updates: 158-hp 2.0L or 172-hp 2.4L engines, a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic, and a low-range CVT on Freedom Drive II models. It remains one of the least expensive Jeeps, with a basic interior and modest performance compared with newer compact SUVs.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 158 hp 141 lb ft FWD only; 2.4 liter I4 172 hp 165 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; CVT with low range freedom drive ii
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Freedom drive i 4x4; Freedom drive ii 4x4 off road package
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2014
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; 6 speed automatic shift quality; CVT operation if freedom drive ii; Suspension bushings struts and wheel bearings; Underbody and rust in salt states; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Maintenance history.
2014 Jeep Compass
For 2014 a conventional 6-speed automatic replaced the CVT on most Compasses, which makes these later cars feel more natural to drive and is the main reason to prefer 2014-2016. Engines stay the 158-hp 2.0L and 172-hp 2.4L. Freedom Drive II off-road models keep a CVT with a low-range mode, so confirm the transmission by VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 158 hp 141 lb ft FWD only; 2.4 liter I4 172 hp 165 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; CVT with low range freedom drive ii
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Freedom drive i 4x4; Freedom drive ii 4x4 off road package
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Conventional 6 speed automatic replaces CVT on most models
- Freedom drive ii keeps its low range CVT
- Refreshed interior trim and options
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; 6 speed automatic shift quality; CVT operation if freedom drive ii; Suspension bushings struts and wheel bearings; Underbody and rust in salt states; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Maintenance history.
2013 Jeep Compass
The 2013 Compass is mechanically the same as 2011-2012: 158-hp 2.0L or 172-hp 2.4L engines with a 5-speed manual or CVT. It is the last year the CVT was the standard automatic choice. Buyers who want a conventional automatic should look at 2014-2016 models instead.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 158 hp 141 lb ft FWD only; 2.4 liter I4 172 hp 165 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable; CVT with low range freedom drive ii
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Freedom drive i 4x4; Freedom drive ii 4x4 off road package
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Last year the CVT was the main automatic
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; CVT operation whine and hesitation if equipped; CVT fluid service records; Suspension bushings struts and wheel bearings; Underbody and rust in salt states; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Maintenance history.
2012 Jeep Compass
The 2012 Compass carries over the refreshed 2011 design: a 158-hp 2.0L or 172-hp 2.4L four-cylinder, a 5-speed manual or CVT, and front-wheel drive, Freedom Drive I 4x4 or the trail-rated Freedom Drive II package. It shares its platform and engines with the Jeep Patriot and is best for buyers who want a low price and light-duty 4x4.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 158 hp 141 lb ft FWD only; 2.4 liter I4 172 hp 165 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable; CVT with low range freedom drive ii
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Freedom drive i 4x4; Freedom drive ii 4x4 off road package
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2011
- Trim and option package shuffles
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; CVT operation whine and hesitation if equipped; CVT fluid service records; Suspension bushings struts and wheel bearings; Underbody and rust in salt states; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Maintenance history.
2011 Jeep Compass
The 2011 Compass got a major makeover with a Grand Cherokee-inspired nose, a nicer interior and retuned suspension. Engines are a 158-hp 2.0L four (front-drive only) and a 172-hp 2.4L four, with a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic. The new Freedom Drive II package adds a low-range CVT setting, skid plates and extra ground clearance for light off-roading. It is an inexpensive small SUV, but the CVT needs a careful test drive.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 158 hp 141 lb ft FWD only; 2.4 liter I4 172 hp 165 lb ft
- Transmissions: 5 speed manual; CVT continuously variable; CVT with low range freedom drive ii
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Freedom drive i 4x4; Freedom drive ii 4x4 off road package
- Body style: 5 door compact SUV
What changed:
- Grand cherokee style front end and new grille
- Upgraded interior materials
- Freedom drive ii off road package with low range CVT
- Revised suspension tuning
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine transmission and 4x4 system by VIN; CVT operation whine and hesitation if equipped; CVT fluid service records; Suspension bushings struts and wheel bearings; Underbody and rust in salt states; 4x4 system operation if equipped; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- First-Generation CVT Operation and Overheating (2011–2016)
2011-2013 automatic Compasses, and Freedom Drive II models through 2016, use a CVT. These units are known for whine, hesitation, and reduced power when hot (for example, towing or long climbs). A healthy one is smooth; fluid service history helps.
What to do: Test drive a CVT Compass carefully, including a hill climb, and ask for fluid-service records. - 2.4L Tigershark Oil Consumption (2017–2022)
The 2.4L Tigershark used in 2017-2022 Compasses was part of a settled class action and many owner complaints alleging excessive oil consumption, with some reports of stalling when oil runs low. Not every engine is affected, but the oil level should be checked regularly.
What to do: Check the oil level and service records on a 2017-2022 Compass. - 9-Speed Automatic Shift Quality on 4x4 Models (2017–2022)
2017-2022 4x4 Compasses use a 9-speed automatic that some owners describe as hesitant or abrupt, especially at low speeds. Software updates have been issued for some drivability concerns; confirm by VIN with a dealer.
What to do: Test the 9-speed in stop-and-go driving and check service history. - 2.0L Turbo, Stop-Start and 8-Speed Check (2023 and Later) (2023–2026)
2023 and later Compasses use a 200-hp 2.0L turbo with direct injection and stop-start, paired with an 8-speed automatic. A newer used Compass may still have factory warranty; check for warnings and software updates.
What to do: Scan for codes and confirm remaining factory warranty on a 2023+ Compass. - Suspension Wear and Underbody Corrosion (Older Models) (2011–2026)
Older Compasses, especially 2011-2016 models, often show worn struts, control-arm bushings, wheel bearings and underbody rust in road-salt regions as they age.
What to do: Have the underbody and suspension inspected on lift, especially in salt-belt states. - Compass Generation, 2017 Overlap and Patriot Disambiguation (2011–2026)
First-generation Compasses (2011-2016) share their platform and engines with the Jeep Patriot. The redesigned Compass arrived as a 2017 model, but some 2017-model-year Compasses are the older design. Engines changed again for 2023 (2.4L to 2.0L turbo), so decode the VIN.
What to do: Confirm generation, engine and transmission before comparing prices.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, build date, engine, transmission, drivetrain, equipment and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls and completed remedies.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Jeep Patriot
- Jeep Renegade
- Jeep Cherokee
- Subaru Crosstrek
- Subaru Forester
- Ford Bronco Sport
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota RAV4
- Hyundai Tucson
- Mazda CX-5
Questions this guide answers
- Which generation is this Jeep Compass?
- Does this Compass have a CVT or a conventional automatic?
- Is this 2017 Compass the new or old design?
- What engine does this Compass have?
- What changed with the 2022 refresh and the 2023 turbo engine?
- Does the 2.4L Compass burn oil?
- Is the Compass Trailhawk good off-road?
- How is the Compass related to the Patriot and Renegade?
- What recalls should I check by VIN?
- What similar SUVs should I consider?