Look — Jeep's brake story is well-documented in the NHTSA file, and it ain't pretty. 1,814 complaints across 81 year-model entries from 2005 to 2024. Not a small number. 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee leads the list, but the same issue shows up across multiple years on the same platform. 18 fire reports on the federal record — not common in this category but documented and worth weight. Repair cost runs around $450 on average — relatively low for an aggregated category. Across the 722 complaints reporting odometer mileage, the median failure lands at about 47,213 miles. Pulsing, grinding, soft pedal — none of those should sit more than a week. Brake problems compound fast on a vehicle already on the list.
Jeep brakes problems
1,814 owner complaints filed with NHTSA against Jeep vehicles for brakes issues. 13 active recall campaigns. See brakes across all makes →
Worst-affected Jeep model-years for brakes Top 25 by complaint volume
Active recalls — Jeep brakes 12 on file
On certain vehicles, the antilock brake system (ABS) control module software may cause the rear brakes to lock up during certain braking conditions
This could result in a loss of vehicle control and cause a crash without warning.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles manufactured December 9, 2015, to January 14, 2016
A cracked brake caliper may lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increase the risk of a crash.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X vehicles
A cracked right rear brake caliper can fail, reducing braking performance and increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles
If the brake booster shield was not installed properly, the vehicle's braking ability may be reduced, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler Group, LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured January 8, 2013, through August 20, 2013
A loss of ABS and ESC function reduces the driver's ability to control the vehicle. Drivers would not be warned of brake system failures or any other failures which would be illuminated on the dashboard display. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
On certain sport utility vehicles, the software programmed into the ABS electronic control module may allow a momentary delay in braking when coasting up a hill during certain conditions
This could cause a crash without warning.
Certain aftermarket brake hydraulic master cylinders sold as replacement brake cylinders for certain Ford, daimlerchrysler, and Jeep passenger vehicles
Loss of brake fluid can lead to a decrease in brake line pressure and an increase in stopping distance, which can result in a vehicle crash.
On certain sport utility vehicles, front brake calipers in a certain lot may have been manufactured from gray iron instead of ductile iron as designed and could fracture without warning
This would increase the vehicle's stopping distance and could cause a crash.
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2010 Chrysler sebring; Dodge avenger and nitro; Jeep liberty, commander and grand cherokee; and model year 2009-2010 Dodge Ram truck
This could result in brake failure without warning which could cause a crash.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan and Jeep Compass, 2018 Dodge Journey, and 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles
A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles
A vehicle that starts and shifts out of Park without applying the brake pedal can result in vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash without prior warning and/or injury to others outside of the vehicle.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles
A vehicle that can be started and shifted out of Park without applying the brake pedal can result in a vehicle rollaway. Disabled ABS and ESC systems can reduce vehicle handling and control in certain driving situations. Brake lights that incorrectly illuminate can fail to properly indicate the driver's intention to following traffic. Any of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Common questions
How many Jeep brakes complaints are on file with NHTSA?
1,814 complaints across 81 model-year entries from 2005 to 2024. 13 active recall campaigns cover brakes issues across the Jeep lineup.
Which Jeep model has the most brakes complaints?
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee leads with 233 complaints in this category. Next: 2012 Grand Cherokee (208) and 2013 Grand Cherokee (100).
What does it cost to fix Jeep brakes problems?
Independent shops average $450 for brakes repairs across the Jeep lineup. Dealer pricing tends to run twenty to forty percent higher. Specific cost depends on the failure mode and parts availability.
Are there Jeep brakes recalls?
Yes — 12 active recall campaigns cover brakes on Jeep vehicles. Recall fixes are free regardless of mileage or warranty status. The list below shows current campaigns with their NHTSA numbers.