The Jeep Patriot is a compact SUV that was produced for the 2007 – 2017 model years.
It’s a reasonable choice for those seeking an affordable off-roader with classic Jeep boxy styling.
In this article, we’ll uncover its best and worst years…
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Jeep Patriot Are:
The best Jeep Patriot model years are 2017, 2013 and 2010. The worst model years of the Patriot are 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2009, 2008 and 2007. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Jeep Patriot?
2017 Jeep Patriot
Despite not receiving a full redesign since its inception in 2007, the 2017 model is still the number one choice.
It is the latest and most reliable model year ever produced.
It’s available in a choice of two 4-cylinder engines (2.0-liter and 2.4-liter) and a trio of transmissions.
Owners praised this model for being more than capable off-road and for its nifty features such as the optional flip-down tailgate speakers.
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
- JD Power: 76 / 100
2017 Patriot, Edmunds review:
“We have owned the Patriot for over a year. Having last owned a Grand Cherokee, the Patriot does not ride as smooth or quiet, but it is satisfactory. Handling and braking are superb. The 2.4 liter has plenty of power for passing. Mileage is consistently around 26 mpg…”
2013 Jeep Patriot
The 2013 Liberty was one of the best models simply because it did not have anywhere near as many issues as many of the other model years.
Despite not being a favorite with professional auto reviewers, many owners were more than satisfied with this vehicle.
Owners praised its looks and noted it’s a pleasure to drive and comfortable to travel in.
It comes with big, easy-to-read gauges and intuitive controls in true Jeep fashion.
No major changes were implemented for the 2013 Patriot.
- Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
- JD Power: 78 / 100
2013 Patriot, Edmunds review:
“We decided we needed something better on gas and with a closed back end to haul things out of the weather. 4 wheel drive is a must since we live on a farm and do get snow in our part of Kentucky often enough. We’ve put nearly 20k on it in the year we’ve had it and love it. Has had no issues and like every owner says, don’t listen to the magazine and professional reviews. This thing is a great vehicle and value for the money.”
2010 Jeep Patriot
The 2010 Jeep Patriot is another safer option, having received a fraction of the complaints other models years did.
It shares the same platform as the Compass although it is more a traditional Jeep vehicle geared towards off-roading.
This model may be old but it’s still a nimble off-roader that makes for a comfortable daily driver.
The 2010 Patriot had a set of changes specifically for the Patriot Sport 4×2.
This included an optional 2-liter four-cylinder engine that was pairable with a five-speed manual transmission, as well as active head restraints.
- Edmunds: 4.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2010 Patriot, Edmunds review:
“I purchased my 2010 patriot sport in November of 2010 with about 13k on it. it was a rental vehicle. I have put 90k on it in 5 years. This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. I regret not upgrading to leather seats, sunroof, etc. but I’d buy another patriot without hesitation…”
Consumer Scores For Best Jeep Patriot Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2017 Jeep Patriot | 3.6 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 | 76 / 100 |
| 2013 Jeep Patriot | 3.7 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
| 2010 Jeep Patriot | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
Related: 11 Best & Worst Jeep Liberty Years (With Facts & Stats)
What Are The Worst Years For The Jeep Patriot?
2016 and 2015 Jeep Patriot
Engine stalling whilst driving was the biggest issue encountered by owners of the 2016 and 2015 Patriot. This was often attributed to crankshaft position sensor failure.
Here’s what the owners had to say:
“Like many other Jeep Patriot owners, I have experienced driving down the road when out of nowhere, the car dies!”
“Vehicle will stall at any speed without warning when letting go of gas pedal. Check engine light will come on once out of every 3-4 stalls with an engine code pointing to crankshaft position sensor. VIN is not part of recall group however experiencing identical symptoms.“
- The 2016 Patriot had a total of 54 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 567 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
- The 2015 Patriot had a total of 71 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 416 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Water leaking into cabin
- Will not accelerate when driving
- Brakes squeaking
- Faulty TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module)
2014 Jeep Patriot
The 2014 Patriot is statistically the most problematic model year produced. Its engine and powertrain were plagued by issues.
Reports indicated electronic throttle body failure, sudden engine shutdown, and speed limitation (only up to 30 miles per hour, also known as limp mode).
Here’s what one owner had to say:
“My Patriot keeps shutting down on and off while driving. It is really unsafe, I did some research and there are multiple complaints since 2014 from other people about the same problem. The steering wheel won’t even move when this happened. I believe this is a manufacturing issue and I am reporting it.”
Owners also widely reported that the headrest airbag deployed unexpectedly.
The 2014 Patriot had a total of 99 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 828 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Transmission overheating
- Water leaking into interior
- Sunroof leaks
2012 Jeep Patriot
The powertrain was the biggest sources of migraines for owners of the 2012 Patriot.
Numerous owners reported issues with the intake manifold, clutch, catalytic converter and electronic throttle control.
The most common symptom was engine stalling whilst driving.
Owners also reported overheating of the transmission, as described by one owner below:
“Transmission overheated the first summer I had the vehicle. Had it checked at the dealer several times, but they said they couldn’t find any codes. Had the transmission serviced, but the problem remained. Typically overheats at temperatures above 70 F and speeds at 70 mph or above. Stopping and idling in neutral for about 5 to 10 minutes allows me to continue, a real pain on long trips. Have had it overheat at least 10 times now.”
The 2012 Patriot had a total of 79 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 525 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Transmission failure
- Faulty TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module)
- Engine stalled
2011 Jeep Patriot
Engine jerking, stalling, and knocking were the most frequent ailments of the 2011 Patriot.
Numerous owners handed in reports related to engine problems.
Owners reported the vehicle would sputter, stall, and that the steering would lock up.
This model also received a large number of complaints due to substantial subframe rust.
The 2011 Patriot had a total of 87 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 456 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Transmission overheats
- Engine failure
- Sunroof leaks
2009 Jeep Patriot
Suspension rust was the most severe issue for many owners of the 2009 Patriot. The rust was so bad in many instances, the vehicle was not deemed not safe to drive.
Here’s what one owner had to say:
“The front and rear cross bars are severely rusted. My mechanic told me this is rust is not common wear and tear, but a poorly made or chosen part by my manufacturer, Jeep / Chrysler.”
Water leaking was another common complaint, owners described water coming in through the sunroof and dome lights.
This was allegedly attributed to a drain tube that could not drain quickly enough.
The 2009 Patriot had a total of 125 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 399 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- High-pitched whine coming from the transmission
- Water leaking into interior
- Engine cradle has rusted through
Related: 5 Best & Worst Jeep Commander Years (NHTSA Stats)
2008 and 2007 Jeep Patriot
The 2008 and 2007 Jeep Patriots were plagued by suspension issues and stalling after the vehicle had been filled with gas.
The suspension issues often caused the lower control arm to fail – owners reported having to replace these on several occasions.
Here’s one owners report:
“Severe vibration when braking in front end of vehicle, worse when braking downhill. Had to have both front control arm/ball joint assemblies replaced, along with the left outer tie rod end. Checked the Jeep customer web site and found many similar incidents reported by other owners.”
Engine stalling post refueling was also a widespread issue, as described by one owner below:
“After filling up at the gas station, started to drive and after a few minutes the car sputtered and stalled. Started car again and the stalling happened again. After these 2 incidents the car was fine until next fill up. This has been going on for a few years.”
The 2008 Patriot had a total of 174 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 647 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Sunroof leaks
- Stalling
- Water leaks into interior
- Transmission failure
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 Jeep Patriot | 9 | 63 |
| 2016 Jeep Patriot | 54 | 567 |
| 2015 Jeep Patriot | 71 | 416 |
| 2014 Jeep Patriot | 99 | 828 |
| 2013 Jeep Patriot | 42 | 165 |
| 2012 Jeep Patriot | 79 | 525 |
| 2011 Jeep Patriot | 87 | 456 |
| 2010 Jeep Patriot | 64 | 268 |
| 2009 Jeep Patriot | 125 | 399 |
| 2008 Jeep Patriot | 174 | 647 |
| 2007 Jeep Patriot | 49 | 380 |
What Problems Do Jeep Patriot Have?
- Engine stalls, dies while driving
- Water leaks into interior
- Transmission overheats
- Sunroof leaks
- Transmission failure
- High-pitched whine coming from the transmission
- Engine cradle has rusted through
- Faulty TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module)
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Jeep Patriot?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Ford Escape | 8.6 | $16,121 – $19,841 | City: 20 – 23 /Highway: 27 – 30 |
| Honda CR-V | 8.6 | $21,983 – $26,549 | City: 25 – 28 /Highway: 31 – 34 |
| Hyundai Tucson | 8.6 | $17,401 – $20,905 | City: 21 – 26 /Highway: 26 – 32 |
| Kia Sportage | 8.6 | $17,552 – $21,779 | City: 20 – 23 /Highway: 23 – 30 |
| Mazda CX-5 | 8.6 | $20,196 – $22,449 | City: 23 – 24 /Highway: 29 – 31 |
| GMC Terrain | 8.4 | $15,627 – $22,762 | City: 16 – 21 /Highway: 23 – 31 |
| Chevrolet Equinox | 8.3 | $15,283 – $19,676 | City: 16 – 21 /Highway: 23 – 31 |
| Volkswagen Tiguan | 8.3 | $16,981 – $20,159 | City: 20 /Highway: 24 |
| Nissan Rogue | 8.1 | $16,947 – $21,602 | City: 25 – 26 /Highway: 32 – 33 |
| Subaru Forester | 7.8 | $18,670 – $24,220 | City: 22 – 26 /Highway: 27 – 32 |
| Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | 7.8 | $24,284 – $27,569 | City: 34 /Highway: 30 |
| Nissan Rogue Hybrid | 7.7 | $17,673 – $22,655 | City: 31 – 33 /Highway: 34 – 35 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 7.7 | $21,296 – $26,463 | City: 22 – 23 /Highway: 29 – 30 |
| Jeep Cherokee | 7.6 | $17,596 – $24,803 | City: 18 – 21 /Highway: 24 – 30 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander | 7.3 | $16,694 – $21,182 | City: 20 – 25 /Highway: 27 – 30 |
| Jeep Compass | 7.0 | $14,942 – $21,879 | City: 20 – 23 /Highway: 23 – 32 |
| Jeep Wrangler | 7.0 | $23,612 – $21,879 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Jeep Patriot | 6.3 | $14,907 – $18,070 | City: 20 – 23 /Highway: 23 – 30 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 25 Best & Worst Jeep Wrangler Years (With Facts & Stats)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/jeep/patriot
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/jeep/patriot
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Jeep/Patriot/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/jeep/patriot/
https://www.edmunds.com/jeep/patriot/2017/review/
https://www.kbb.com/jeep/patriot/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2016/jeep/patriot
