In this ultimate guide, we will explore the best and worst Jeep Patriot model years, breaking down the features, reliability, and owner feedback for each generation.
Using a combination of extensive research and reliable data sources, including NHTSA, Edmunds, and J.D. Power, we have compiled a detailed review. Our goal is to offer a lens into the Jeep Patriot’s performance, owner satisfaction, safety, and other defining features.
Dive deeper to discover the pivotal highs and lows that have shaped the Jeep Patriot’s reputation over the years, helping you differentiate the best models from those with challenges.
Let’s dive right in.
Table of ContentsShow
Jeep Patriot Generations
Launched in 2006, the Jeep Patriot swiftly marked its territory among compact SUVs. Designed for adventurers on a budget, it promised Jeep’s iconic off-road capabilities merged seamlessly with contemporary design and modern amenities, all at an attractive price.
For clarity and easy reference, we’ve summarized the Jeep Patriot’s model years in the following table.
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 1st generation (MK74) | 2007-2017 |
It’s essential to dive deep into these generations, as the evolution of vehicles over periods can reveal significant shifts. Such changes, both subtle and prominent, can greatly affect consumer choices, especially when specifics like technology, safety, or performance are top priorities.
Jeep Patriot Best, Neutral and Worst Years
When categorizing Jeep Patriot’s model years as the best, neutral, or worst, our analysis is holistic. We consider multiple aspects, such as:
- Owner-reported reliability (surveys)
- Annual maintenance costs
- Safety ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability scores
- Consumer Reports owner satisfaction scores
- NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints
- Edmunds owner ratings
- JD Power owner ratings
- Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings
- VehicleHistory owner ratings
- Cars.com owner ratings
The following graph presents a comprehensive visualization, combining scores from the aforementioned sources, to depict a clear overview.
Subsequently, we’ve tabulated our findings, giving you a swift breakdown of the best, neutral, and worst years for the Jeep Patriot.
| Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 2013 | 2007 2009 2010 | 2008 2011 2012 2014 2015 2016 |
Neutral years refer to those model years that neither particularly shine in excellence nor falter significantly. They exhibit a balanced mix of pros and cons without extreme deviations.
Certain factors, like NHTSA recalls, have a negative influence on our ratings. A high number of complaints or recalls usually indicates a dip in a vehicle’s reliability, subsequently lowering its score in our assessment.
Now, let’s dive into the specifications of the best, neutral, and worst years to give you a deeper understanding.
Best & Worst Years for Jeep Patriot 1st Generation (2007-2017)
The 1st Generation Jeep Patriot, which made its debut in 2006 with the 2007 model year, presented a fresh take on the SUV, blending traditional Jeep aesthetics with modern design elements. Over its production span, the model saw years of acclaim and periods of critique.
The Best Years: 2017, 2013
Both the 2013 and 2017 Jeep Patriots are heralded for their performance, technological advancements, and reliability.
The 2013 model year was notable for its introduction of the enhanced 2.4L engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, marking a departure from the CVT transmissions of earlier models.
This provided drivers with a more refined and responsive driving experience, eliminating some of the transmission complaints from the past.
On the technological front, Jeep equipped these models with the Uconnect infotainment system. Its intuitive user interface, coupled with crisp graphics, was a major selling point.
Alongside these advancements, Jeep did not neglect safety. Standardized features, including electronic stability control and brake assist, ensured that the vehicle was not only fun to drive but also safe.
While these models were not without their issues, the sheer volume of positive feedback and the decreased frequency of major issues led to their classification as the “best” years.
The Neutral Years: 2007, 2009, 2010
Being the launch year of the Patriot, 2007 showcased Jeep’s efforts to provide a well-rounded SUV at an affordable price. Available in both a 2.0L and 2.4L engine variant, the 2007 model aimed to offer a blend of performance and efficiency.
Jeep attempted to modernize the SUV with features such as remote keyless entry and the option for Bluetooth connectivity.
But, being its inaugural year, the vehicle had its shortcomings. One of the most reported issues was the engine stalling after refueling. The 2009 and 2010 models sought to address the criticisms of the prior year.
Although they came with updated technology and added safety features, these vehicles still bore traces of prior year issues, albeit at a reduced frequency. Hence, while improved, these model years find themselves in the “neutral” category.
The Worst Years: 2008, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016
2008 brought with it a slew of problems, inheriting the engine stalling issue of 2007, while adding to the list with transmission overheating and premature suspension rusting.
The subsequent years, 2011 and 2012, did little to restore faith. The 2011 model year was plagued by airbag and electrical system glitches, even prompting a significant recall over a potential steering column defect affecting roughly 11000 different vehicles.
Matters worsened in 2012 with an escalated rate of engine and fuel system complications, culminating in a sizable recall covering more than 20000 Jeep Patriot vehicles manufactured October 18, 2011, through May 7, 2012.
The mid-2010s, particularly 2014 to 2016, were marked by persistent and severe issues ranging from airbag failures to engine malfunctions.
For instance, the 2014 model came under scrutiny due to the potential for a short circuit in the Occupant Restraint Control module. Chrysler issued a recall of nearly 1.5 million different vehicles including 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot models as the short circuit may prevent the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags from deploying in the event of a crash. Several accidents with serious injuries were reported in the NHTSA.
Similarly, the 2015 and 2016 models experienced significant recalls for power steering and crankshaft sensor failures, respectively.
This consistent stretch of issues, combined with negative feedback on platforms like Edmunds and J.D. Power, especially regarding transmission, makes these the less favorable years for Patriot.
See NHTSA 2008, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016 Jeep Patriot recalls and complaints.
Jeep Patriot Average Resale Values
Here’s a graph detailing the average resale values of Jeep Patriot models over the years, offering a definitive insight into its depreciation trends.
Conclusion
Navigating the Jeep Patriot’s journey has been enlightening. For potential buyers, the 2017 and 2013 models stand out as exceptional choices given their notable enhancements and fewer issues.
For those of you who’ve owned a Jeep Patriot, which model year did you have, and how was your experience with it in terms of reliability and performance?
Your own experiences are invaluable to our community. Please share your insights in the comments below.
