2022 Jeep Wagoneer Problems and Top Complaints

The 2022 Jeep Wagoneer is a newer SUV model that is reminiscent of days gone by. In fact, the automaker claims it is “the return of an American icon.” However, it doesn’t seem like the systems and equipment have kept up with the times since customers are complaining about the defective forward collision avoidance and malfunctioning powertrain.

Problems with Forward Collision Avoidance

Modern safety systems are designed to make the ride safer than ever, but they must work properly for that to happen.

This NHTSA review suggests the opposite is true with the Wagoneer. “The first instance I was pulling out of the driveway. When I got to the end I tried to turn my steering wheel and it was completely locked. The alert started going off to service the lane Assiatiance. I couldn’t move the tires at all. I turned the car off and re started it multiple times to try to get it to unlock. After about 5 times it unlocked but still said to service the lance assistance. Called dealership they made an appointment 2-3 weeks out to look at it. Two weeks later driving at 35-40mph alert goes off that brake system needs to be serviced the car kicked on the parking break within seconds and steering wheel locked. I had two children in the car. We feared for our lives. Once pulled over the car was kicked into 4wd low on top of all the other things. Called dealership and they sent me to voicemail. Didn’t return call for hours. After restarting the car multiple times I was able to drive it to the dealership. I could only imagine how bad this could have ended up. Still no word on what exactly happened. I’m currently in a loaner.”

Of course, the Wagoneer isn’t really concerned with anyone’s safety. Just look at NHTSA Campaign Number 21V873000. This recall states that there’s a software issue that disables the passenger, driver and knee air bags with no warning. Without the air bags, a collision could be very dangerous. In fact, customers might as well be driving the 1994 Wagoneer, because that’s the level of functional technology that is included.

Problems with the Powertrain

The powertrain is another vital system that is causing trouble on the road. With the defects, customers are starting to wonder what all of the hype is about.

Another NHTSA complaint says, “At around 800 miles several warning lights turn on regarding servicing 4WD system and the vehicle became stuck in 4LO. The rear differential and transfer case were shot already and was told from dealer the cause was a control module but they had no update or fix for the module yet. Vehicle was not able to be driven without further damage until repaired. Going on 3 weeks without brand new vehicle.”

A look at a few more recalls might reveal the condition of the 2022 Wagoneer. NHTSA Campaign Number 21V919000 states that the center seat in the second row is equipped with a recliner pull strap that prevents the seat from locking into position. Because of this defect, it’s unsafe to sit in this seat at all. Plus, NHTSA Campaign Number 21V00A000 shows that malfunctioning radio software can prevent the backup image from displaying on the screen. Without this view, drivers are backing up blindly. Considering all of the safety malfunctions with the Jeep Wagoneer, no one should be doing anything in this SUV without maximum visibility. With all of this information in hand, it’s easy to assume that the Wagoneer might not be around for long. In fact, maybe it shouldn’t have returned in the first place.

About the Author:

Brian Jones spent more than 20 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.

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