Suspension Related Problems of the 2020 Jeep Compass

Table 1 shows one common suspension related problems of the 2020 Jeep Compass.

Table 1. Suspension related problems of Jeep Compass

Problem Category Number of Problems
Suspension problems
4

Suspension problem #1

My 2020 Jeep Compass develops significant shaking and vibration when I apply the brakes while traveling above approximately 70 mph. The vibration affects the vehicle’s stability and makes me concerned about maintaining control and stopping safely at highway speeds. The vehicle was inspected and serviced by an authorized Jeep dealership after I reported the shaking. The dealership identified problems involving the inner tie rods and steering system. Before the repair, I specifically questioned whether the brake rotors could be contributing to the shaking. The dealership assured me that it was completely certain the problem had been corrected. The vehicle rides somewhat better following the repair, but the same high-speed braking vibration remains. The vehicle now has new tires, but the shaking continues. The problem occurs primarily when the brakes are applied at highway speed, which raises concerns involving the brake rotors, hubs, calipers, steering rack, tie rods, wheel bearings, or related suspension components. There are no warning lights before the shaking occurs. The vehicle and its components are available for inspection. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether recurring high-speed braking vibration, premature steering-component wear, or related brake and suspension problems constitute a safety defect in Jeep Compass vehicles.

Suspension problem #2

Within the first month of ownership I began hearing a noise from the right front of the vehicle consistent with a brake or suspension issue. I reported this to the selling dealer repeatedly during that first month; it was not resolved. The noise continued and worsened over the following year, eventually also affecting the right rear. At approximately 20,000 miles, an independent licensed inspection mechanic found that the right front inner tie rod required replacement due to significant wear, and the right rear wheel bearing also required replacement. The vehicle failed state safety inspection as a result of these findings. The mechanic noted the repair scope required disassembly of the steering column, indicating a defect beyond routine wear for the vehicle's age/mileage. Given that these are safety-critical steering and wheel components, the vehicle has been taken off the road entirely pending repair, out of concern that continued driving could result in loss of steering control. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. A written statement from the inspecting mechanic documenting these findings is available.

Suspension problem #3

While turning out of a parking lot, onto a side street, a suspension component failed without warning, causing the front axle to pull out of the transmission. The vehicle immediately became unsafe, as I was unable to turn the wheel (it wasn't connected) to get me out of the middle of the road. This was a sudden, catastrophic mechanical failure with no prior warning lights, messages, or symptoms. It had to be towed. I called a corporate phone number, to create a case number, and heard back from Jeep autonation immediately. The gentleman who spoke to me, was extremely rude, and told me this was a normal wear and tear situation, and just to "bring it in so they could get to fixing it. " I believe a full diagnostic report is necessary, and I'd like to know why this failed. I was on the highway just earlier the morning that this happened. This is a serious issue, to which I'm not getting any traction on. Unfortunately, it needs to be towed there, and I was told the tow would be $100, which I won't be paying, as this was a safety failure. I have also been renting a car for the last three weeks, when this happened. I'm out $1200 for that, and still have no answers. This failure created a significant safety risk to me and other drivers on the road. I am filing this report because the dealership and manufacturer have been unresponsive, and I am concerned this may be a defect that could affect other vehicles.

Suspension problem #4

The contact owns a 2020 Jeep Compass. The contact stated while reversing out of the driveway, the steering wheel was turned to the left and the sway bar link detached from the front driver’s side of the vehicle. The contact stated that the sway bar link was made of plastic. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to national automotive parts association auto parts and the contact was informed that the sway bar link on the front of the vehicle should be made of metal. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,870.


Suspension related problems in other Jeep Compass model year vehicles:



☘ Compass Service Bulletins
⚑ Compass Safety Recalls
☤ Compass Defect Investigations