2003 Jeep Wrangler

98 federal complaints (130 component records) · 0 recall campaigns on file · 49 service bulletins
See all 41 model years of the Jeep Wrangler →
Engine
2.4L 4-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
4WD/AWD
EPA economy
16 city / 18 hwy
Federal complaints
98
Recall campaigns
0
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Power train
25
Suspension
18
Steering
15
Fuel system
11
Brakes
10
Electrical system
9
Engine & cooling
7
Air bags
7
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 26 complaints01 years old: 12 complaints2 years old: 9 complaints3 years old: 6 complaints4 years old: 7 complaints5 years old: 5 complaints56 years old: 4 complaints7 years old: 5 complaints8 years old: 4 complaints9 years old: 1 complaints10 years old: 2 complaints1011 years old: 4 complaints12 years old: 3 complaints13 years old: 2 complaints14 years old: 1 complaints15 years old: 0 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 3 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 3 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 97 of 98 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 24 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 15 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 10 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 9 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 4 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 3 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 2 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 4 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 0 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 0 complaints200,000+ miles: 1 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 72 of 98 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Power train

25 complaint records
"AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, PLACING IT IN DRIVE IT WILL GO A FEW FEET AND THEN IT WON'T MOVE. THE DEALER IS UNABLE TO FIND THE DEFECT. *NM..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse power train parts in the directory →

Suspension

18 complaint records1 crash report
"WHILE DRIVING ON UNEVEN SURFACE AT ANY SPEED VEHICLE WOULD SHAKE FROM THE FRONT SUSPENSION. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse suspension parts in the directory →

Steering

15 complaint records2 crash reports
"STEERING SHIMMIED AT 45 MPH UNABLE TO CONTROL VEHICLE THE SAME EXACT SCENARIO AS IN ALL THE OTHER COMPLAINTS LISTED HERE ABOUT THE STEERING SHIMMY. *AK..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse steering parts in the directory →

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
101232
Oct 2024
Power TrainPlate - Planetary
9004275
Jul 2020
Electrical SystemKEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms.
S2025000005
Jun 2020
Electrical SystemMalfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Illumination. Diagnostic Trouble Codes P0407 ? EGR Sensor B Circuit Low, or P0408 ? EGR Sensor B Circuit High Set
23-015-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentDisinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19
08-049-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentCharging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
Show 44 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
D-20-02 Rev. A
Mar 2020
EquipmentDIPAP Requirements - Addition of Jeep Wrangler (JL/JK) and Jeep Gladiator (JT) Hard Top and Targa Top Panel Replacements - All Dealers (Rev. A)
31-006-19
Nov 2019
StructureRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
31-003-19
Nov 2019
EquipmentUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
31-005-19
Nov 2019
EquipmentUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
3100619
Nov 2019
StructureRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
3100319
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
3100519
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
R2118796A
Feb 2016
Engine And Engine CoolingValve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
9003215
Feb 2015
Engine And Engine CoolingPart Description: 5.7L Long Block Issue Description: This 5.7L Long Block Assembly is compatible with both EGR and Non-EGR applications. An EGR Block-Off Plate (53032739AA) must be ordered when installing this Long Block Assembly in a Non-EGR application.
9003192
Dec 2014
WheelsPart Description: wheel hub cap Issue Description: This hubcap is installed directly to the wheel using screws; PN 00154236. This part is not currently listed in the catalog
9002849
Sep 2014
EquipmentPart Description: Insulator on Lever Assy Manual Valve - Valve Body - RWD Transmission Issue Description: The manual valve insulator, attaching rivet and instruction sheet are now available as a kit. If the insulator requires replacement please order kit 68253161AA.
9002519
Mar 2013
Equipment82212076, 82203694 - Fabric Cleaner This "fabric cleaner" is not intended for sale in California, the otc states (Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington dc), and some ladco states (Illinois,...
1900306
Aug 2006
SteeringSTEERING SHIMMY. *TT
2301006
Feb 2006
StructurePRIMARY DOOR WEATHERSTRIP WATER LEAK AT A-PILLAR BELT LINE. *TT
2100903
Oct 2005
Power TrainAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DIAGNOSTIC TEARDOWN PROCEDURE. VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING THE 2004 RAM TRUCK, DURANGO, SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, CHEROKEE, VISION, NEON, AND VOYAGER. *TT *SC
2401305
Aug 2005
EquipmentAIR CONDITIONING (A/C) COOLING COIL ODOR. *TT
2101005
Apr 2005
Power TrainSPARK KNOCK OR POWERTRAIN RATTLE-LIKE SOUND FROM TRANSFER CASE SHIFTER AREA. *TT
2100905
Mar 2005
Electrical SystemMIL (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP) ILLUMINATION FOR DTC'S (DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES) P0750, P0755, P0760, P0765, P0846, P0871 OR P0841. 2004-2005 JEEP CHEROKEE AND 2005 CHRYSLER 300/MAGNUM *SC
0801505
Mar 2005
Power TrainPOWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE INITIALIZATION. *SC
2100405
Jan 2005
Power TrainTRANSMISSION DELAY ENGAGEMENT. *EH
10182004
Oct 2004
Power TrainAFTER INSTALLING THE TRANSMISSION APPLY RTV TO THE ADAPTER SLOT. *EH
2100804
Oct 2004
Electrical SystemMALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATION -DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P1776 SOLENOID SWITCH VALVE LATCHED IN LR POSITION. *MJ THIS BULLETIN REPLACES 21-008-04 DATED JUNE 1, 2004. *TT
0901004
Oct 2004
Engine And Engine CoolingDIRT AND DEBRIS ACCUMULATION AT REAR MAIN SEAL. *TT
0200102
Aug 2004
SuspensionSPECIAL BALL JOINT, ALLOWS ADJUSTMENT TO CASTER AND CAMBER ANGLES. *SLC THIS BULLETIN REPLACES 02-001-02 DATED 06/10/02. ALSO TO INCLUDE 2005 JEEP WRANGLER. *TT
2100503
May 2004
Power TrainDELAYED OR TEMPORARY LOSS OF TRANSMISSION ENGAGEMENT AFTER INITIAL START UP ON VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING THE 2004 PACIFICA, SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, SEBRING SEDAN, INTREPID AND 2003 SX2.0. *TT *MJ
2100304
Mar 2004
Power TrainNV-241 TRANSFER CASE FLUID SEEPAGE FROM AREA OF REAR OUTPUT SHAFT RETAINER. *TT
0900704
Mar 2004
Engine And Engine CoolingIRREGULAR ENGINE SNAPPING SOUND. *TT
2300504
Mar 2004
StructureSOFT TOP ZIPPER CLEANER AND LUBRICANT - FOR DIFFICULT TO OPERATE WINDOW ZIPPERS. *TT
0803403
Mar 2004
Electrical SystemNEW SPARK PLUG FOR 2.4L ENGINE. *MJ
0802703
Sep 2003
Electrical SystemCLUTCH PEDAL POSITION SWITCH MAKES CLICK-LIKE SOUND WHEN CLUTCH PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. *TT
1803103
Sep 2003
Engine And Engine Cooling4.0L ROUGH ENGINE IDLE AFTER RESTART FOLLOWING A HOT SOAK. *TT
2400703
Aug 2003
EquipmentHVAC DRIVE WATER LEAKS UNDER PASSENGER SIDE FRONT CARPET. *TT
2100603A
Aug 2003
Power TrainTRANSMISSION HARSH 4-3 DOWNSHIFT. *TT
2100703
Aug 2003
Power TrainNEW FASTENERS TO PREVENT POSSIBLE 42RLE TRANSMISSION FLUID WEEPAGE. *TT
0600203
Aug 2003
Power TrainCLUTCH SLIPPING. 2004 CHEROKEE INCLUDED. *TT
0900303
Aug 2003
Engine And Engine Cooling4.0L MULTIPLE CYLINDER MISFIRE. *TT
2100503A
Aug 2003
Power TrainDELAYED OR TEMPORARY LOSS OF TRANSMISSION ENGAGEMENT AFTER INITIAL START UP ON VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING THE 2004 PACIFICA, SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, SEBRING SEDAN, INTREPID AND 2003 SX2.0. *TT
2100603
Jun 2003
Power TrainTRANSMISSION HARSH 4-3 DOWNSHIFT ON VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING THE 2004 PACIFICA, SEBRING, INTREPID AND 2003 SX2.0. *TT
03011
May 2003
Service BrakesANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) G-SWITCH HARNESS CONNECTOR MAY BE INCORRECTLY WIRED. *TT
02023
Dec 2002
Engine And Engine Cooling4.0L CRANKSHAFT BURR. *TT
02017A
Oct 2002
Power TrainNV3550 MANUAL TRANSMISSION MAY HAVE SUSPECT THIRD GEAR WELD. THIS SUPPLEMENT REPLACES 02-017 DATED SEPTEMBER 23, 2002. *TT
10023
Oct 2002
Power TrainDOWEL PIN HAS BEEN ADDED TO THE NV241 OUTPUT SHAFT TO MATE WITH A NOTCH ADDED TO THE VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR TONE WHEEL. SERVICE INFORMATION TUNEUPS. *TT
02011
Aug 2002
Fuel SystemTHIS RAPID RESPONSE STATES THAT 403 SUSPECT VEHICLES MAY HAVE TWO ENGINE ELECTRICAL HARNESS FUEL INJECTOR CONNECTORS THAT MAY BE CONNECTED TO THE WRONG INJECTOR. *TT
1802002
Jun 2002
Unknown Or OtherFLASH PROGRAMMING FAILURE RECOVERY. *SLC

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Drive it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
  2. Find the roughest road nearby.Clunks over bumps, a droning hum that changes when the car leans, or a corner that sits low are this vehicle's suspension complaints. Wheel bearings and control arm bushings lead the parts list.
  3. Drive one straight highway stretch and one slow parking lot.Wander or a shimmy over bumps at speed, and heavy or dropped assist at low speed, are the two faces of this vehicle's steering cluster. A clunk on turn-in points at the linkage.
  4. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Jeep Wrangler →