2008 Jeep Compass
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2007 | 259 |
| 2008 | 93 |
| 2009 | 44 |
| 2010 | 71 |
| 2011 | 187 |
| 2012 | 184 |
| 2013 | 80 |
| 2014 | 306 |
| 2015 | 113 |
| 2016 | 292 |
| 2017 | 228 |
| 2018 | 936 |
| 2019 | 329 |
| 2020 | 139 |
| 2021 | 79 |
| 2022 | 221 |
| 2023 | 45 |
| 2024 | 52 |
| 2025 | 24 |
| 2026 | 3 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
33% of complaints: structure — 31 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing body and frame and members.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 JEEP COMPASS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180227
29% of complaints: suspension — 27 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing lower arm and front.
Show complaint excerpts
TOOK INTO HAVE FRONT END ALIGNMENT AND WAS TOLD BALL JOINTS AND TIE RODS WERE BAD. WAS WITHOUT VEHICLE FOR OVER 10 DAYS AND THE COST WAS $750.00. GOT VEHICLE BACK AND WITHIN A WEEK HEARD A RUBBING SOUND WHICH TURNS OUT TO BE BAD WHEEL BEARINGS.
NHTSA ODI report, 20131216
14% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 13 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL LITE COMES ON RANDOMLY WHEN STARTING OR DRIVING LOCKS THE CAR IN LIMP MODE THEN ABS LITE COMES ON AND THE CAR SHAKES TILL YOU STOP AND TURN IT OFF. WHEN THE CAR IS IN LIMP MODE YOU CAN ONLY GET THE RPM'S UP TO 2000.
NHTSA ODI report, 20140131
14% of complaints: engine — 13 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
WHEN FILLING THE GAS TANK ALL THE WAY UP. THE CAR LOCKED UP STEERING WAS UNCONTRALLOBLE BRAKES WERE LOCKING ON AND OFF LIKE JUMPING AND ALMOST HIT AN ONCOMING CAR.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190716
Also filed under SERVICE BRAKES
13% of complaints: power train — 12 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
The vehicle stalled when waiting for lights and at low speed turning after the fuel tank was filled up. Multiple incidents had happened. No warning sign before the incident happened.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240221
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2008 Jeep Compass — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for structure issues (31 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (27 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (13 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2008 Jeep Compass reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2008 Jeep Compass is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2008 Jeep Compass?
The most-reported component is structure, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2008 Jeep Compass have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.