The Jeep Renegade, introduced in 2015, aimed to capture a younger, more urban audience for the Jeep brand. With its quirky styling and surprising off-road capability for its size, it quickly gained popularity. However, not all Renegade years are created equal. This guide will help you navigate the model years, highlighting the best choices and those to potentially avoid based on reliability, features, and overall value.
Jeep Renegade: Model Year Breakdown
| Model Year | Key Features & Improvements | Potential Issues & Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | First model year, available with 1.4L turbo or 2.4L naturally aspirated engine, Uconnect infotainment system. | Early production issues, potential transmission problems (especially with the 9-speed automatic), some electrical glitches. |
| 2016 | Minor trim level adjustments. | Continued reports of transmission issues, some reports of engine stalling. |
| 2017 | Available with BeatsAudio sound system. | Transmission issues persist, reports of oil consumption in some engines. |
| 2018 | Introduced a new rearview camera as standard. | Similar issues to previous years, particularly transmission and oil consumption. |
| 2019 | Significant refresh with updated front and rear styling, new 1.3L turbocharged engine available, updated Uconnect system. | Some reports of the new 1.3L engine experiencing issues, although less common than previous transmission problems. |
| 2020 | Minor trim adjustments. | Continued reports of issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission in some models. |
| 2021 | Jeepster Edition introduced. | Fewer reported issues compared to earlier models, but still potential for transmission glitches. |
| 2022 | 80th Anniversary Edition available, some minor feature changes. | Overall improved reliability, but potential for minor electrical issues remains. |
| 2023 | Limited changes from 2022. | The most reliable model year thus far, but still worth a thorough inspection before purchase. |
| 2024 | Continuation of the 2023 model, with potential for minor updates. | Too early to definitively assess long-term reliability, but expected to be similar to 2023. |
Detailed Explanations
2015: As the inaugural year, the 2015 Jeep Renegade introduced a fresh, youthful design to the Jeep lineup. It offered a choice between a fuel-efficient 1.4-liter turbocharged engine and a more powerful 2.4-liter naturally aspirated engine. The Uconnect infotainment system was a key feature, providing connectivity and entertainment. However, being a first-year model, it was prone to early production issues that can affect long-term reliability.
2016: The 2016 model year brought some minor adjustments to the trim levels, offering slightly different equipment packages. While the core vehicle remained the same, the improvements were incremental. Unfortunately, the reliability concerns from the 2015 model persisted.
2017: The 2017 Renegade introduced the option for a premium BeatsAudio sound system, appealing to audiophiles. However, this addition didn't address the underlying mechanical problems. The transmission issues and oil consumption remained problematic, making it a less desirable choice compared to later models.
2018: A standard rearview camera became a welcome addition in 2018, enhancing safety and convenience. Despite this improvement, the fundamental issues that plagued previous years continued to surface. Potential buyers should be aware of the risk of transmission and engine problems.
2019: The 2019 model year marked a significant refresh for the Jeep Renegade. It received updated front and rear styling, giving it a more modern appearance. A new 1.3-liter turbocharged engine became available, offering a blend of performance and fuel efficiency. The Uconnect system was also updated. While the new engine showed promise, some initial reports indicated potential issues, though less prevalent than the previous transmission concerns.
2020: The 2020 model year saw minor adjustments to the trim levels, but no major mechanical changes. The 9-speed automatic transmission continued to be a source of frustration for some owners, with reports of rough shifting and hesitation.
2021: The Jeepster Edition was introduced in 2021, adding a unique visual flair to the Renegade lineup. More importantly, this year saw a noticeable improvement in overall reliability compared to the earlier years. While not completely problem-free, the frequency of major issues decreased.
2022: The 2022 model year celebrated Jeep's 80th anniversary with a special edition, featuring unique styling cues. The reliability continued to improve, making it a more attractive option for buyers seeking a used Renegade. However, minor electrical issues were still reported on occasion.
2023: The 2023 Jeep Renegade saw limited changes from the previous year. It's considered the most reliable model year to date, benefiting from several years of refinements and improvements. While it's not immune to potential problems, the likelihood of encountering major issues is significantly lower.
2024: The 2024 model year represents a continuation of the 2023 model, with the potential for minor updates. It's too early to definitively assess its long-term reliability, but it's expected to be similar to the 2023 model, offering a relatively trouble-free ownership experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Jeep Renegade year is the most reliable? The 2023 model year is generally considered the most reliable Jeep Renegade, benefiting from years of improvements and refinements.
What are the most common problems with Jeep Renegades? The most common problems, particularly in older models, involve the 9-speed automatic transmission, oil consumption, and some electrical glitches.
Is the 1.4L turbo engine reliable? The 1.4L turbo engine is generally considered reliable, but it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes, to prevent issues.
Is the 2.4L engine better than the 1.3L turbo? The 2.4L engine is more powerful but less fuel-efficient than the 1.3L turbo. The 1.3L turbo offers a good balance of performance and efficiency, but some initial reports of issues exist.
Should I buy a used Jeep Renegade with the 9-speed transmission? If considering a used Renegade with the 9-speed transmission, research the specific model year and have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic.
What should I look for when buying a used Jeep Renegade? When buying a used Jeep Renegade, check for transmission smoothness, engine oil level and condition, and any signs of electrical issues. Also, review the vehicle's maintenance history.
Are Jeep Renegades expensive to maintain? Jeep Renegades can be moderately expensive to maintain, especially if they experience transmission or engine problems. Regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs.
Do Jeep Renegades hold their value well? Jeep Renegades do not hold their value as well as some other vehicles in their class, but this can make them a more affordable option on the used market.
Is the Jeep Renegade a good off-road vehicle? The Trailhawk trim of the Jeep Renegade offers impressive off-road capability for its size, thanks to its advanced 4x4 system and increased ground clearance.
What is the Uconnect system in the Jeep Renegade? Uconnect is the infotainment system in the Jeep Renegade, providing features like navigation, smartphone integration, and entertainment options.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Jeep Renegade model year can significantly impact your ownership experience. While the earlier years (2015-2018) are more affordable, they come with a higher risk of transmission and engine issues. The 2019 refresh brought improvements, but the 2021-2023 models offer the best balance of features and reliability. The 2023 model year is the most reliable to date. When buying a used Renegade, always perform a thorough inspection and research the vehicle's history to make an informed decision.