The Jeep Patriot is a compact crossover SUV with exceptional features. However, it is not an off-roader, although it has an off-road package. Like all Jeeps, the Jeep Patriot also has its problems that interested buyers should know about. But what are the common Jeep Patriot problems?
Common Jeep Patriot problems include engine issues, electrical problems, transmission issues, failed throttle body, ball joints failure, TIPM failure, premature CVT failure, rust, and much more. Note that these issues vary from one Jeep Patriot model year to another.
However, transmission and engine problems can be found in almost all Jeep Patriot model years. So, before buying a quality used Jeep Patriot, you should know some of the common problems that you will face along the way.
What are the common problems of the Jeep Patriot?
Water leaking into the cabin
One of the common problems that every Jeep Patriot comes with is water leaking into the cabin. The leak normally happens from the dome light in the rear of the SUV. The main issue that causes the rear to leak is the rear washer hose leakage. Additionally, if the rubber ring around the rear washer hose becomes loose, it starts to leak.
Transmission problems
Aside from having water leaking into the cabin, the Jeep Patriot also faces several challenges with its transmission system. For instance, the CVT might fail, the check engine light comes on, the engine stalling, the car making whining noises, and much more. Note that transmission problems are common on the 2008 Jeep Patriot model.
Engine issues
Jeep Patriot also faces various engine problems. For instance, the car may experience slow-to-shift automatic transmission and the engine may hesitate when accelerating from the spotlight. Other common engine problems include engine cutting out while driving at low speeds, difficulty starting the car, and much more.
Electrical problems
The main cause of electrical problems in the Jeep Patriot is corroded wires. Most of the electrical problems that Jeep Patriot users have reported are connected to corroded ground wire connections. One of the main wires that get corroded is the rail near the alternator. Replace the corroded wires for a smooth operation.
Rust on exterior body panels
Another common problem that Jeep Patriot owners should be ready to face is rust on the subframe. This is a serious problem and usually occurs between 80,000 and 100,000 miles. When your Jeep Patriot develops this issue, you should be ready to spend as fixing it is quite costly.
Premature CVT failure
The Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) in the Jeep Patriot fails early. Some of the signs of a failed CVT transmission are acceleration problems, whining noises, and overheating warnings. Several Jeep Patriot owners have been very disappointed as this problem occurs as early as 40 miles.
TIPM failure
When the Totally Integrated Power Module or TIPM fails in the Jeep Patriot, the fuel pump may not work properly. This may make the car not start, the battery goes bad, and the engine stall. So, it’s important to fix the TIPM quickly so that your car runs smoothly.
Ball joints failure
This problem is common to Jeep Patriot users that drive the car off-road. If the ball joints have failed, you will hear a knocking noise emanating from the front suspension when you drive over speed bumps or around corners. You will be forced to replace the bad ball joints.
Failed throttle body
If the throttle body fails on your Jeep Patriot, you will see the throttle control warning light come on. The best way to deal with this problem is to replace the bad throttle body with a new one. Besides, this problem is common in the 2007 to 2010 Jeep Patriot model years,
A bad alternator decoupler pulley
Jeep Patriot users should also be ready to deal with a bad alternator decoupler pulley. But unlike other issues on this list, fixing the bad alternator is easy as it doesn’t require any special tools. It is also cheap to fix. Some of the signs of a bad alternator decoupler pulley are whining or rattling noise and charging system issues.
FAQ
Is Jeep Patriot a reliable car?
Yes, Jeep Patriot is a reliable car. According to many reliability agencies, Jeep Patriot comes with above-average reliability, which is exceptional. Besides, Jeep Patriot doesn’t record many problems like most of its competitors. You may have to visit the mechanic only 3 times a year, which is average.
How long does the Jeep Patriot last?
The Jeep Patriot is a durable SUV. However, the longevity of the car will depend on how well the user maintains it. Also, how the car is driven plays a crucial role in how long it will last. Nonetheless, with proper car and maintenance, the Jeep Patriot should last over 200,000 miles.
Is the Jeep Patriot expensive to maintain?
No, the Jeep Patriot is not expensive to maintain. On average, it takes about $596 to maintain a Jeep Patriot annually. This is slightly above average reliability for SUVs as they have an average annual maintenance cost of about $575. However, this car is cheaper to maintain than most of its competitors.
What is the least reliable Jeep Patriot model year?
The least reliable Jeep Patriot model year is the 2008 model. It is followed closely by the 2009 and 2014 Jeep Patriot model years. Some of the common problems of the 2008 Jeep Patriot model year are car stalling when the air conditioner is running, steering wheel responding poorly, engine cutting out, and brake problems.
What is the most common problem with Jeep Patriot?
Most Jeep Patriot owners have complained about transmission problems. So, if you intend to purchase a used Jeep Patriot, you should expect to have transmission issues. Most transmission problems on the Jeep patriot come from a faulty transmission. In other cases, the issue may come up as a result of bad brakes or tie rods.
Summary
The Jeep Patriot is one of the finest Jeep SUVs. However, like most Jeep modes, the Jeep Patriot also came with several problems as we have mentioned above. Nonetheless, with proper care and maintenance, the Jeep Patriot can last for several miles and won’t need serious repairs.
Overall, the Jeep Patriot is a reliable car that is also cheap to maintain, when compared to most of its competitors. And since this car is no longer in production, ensure to purchase a car that has been well maintained and conduct a thorough inspection before getting one.