PROBLEM GUIDE
Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.
Last updated March 2026
541
complaints filed for the 2008 model year
2007–2012
Model years affected
$290 – $980
Typical repair cost, by problem
Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.
Tell us what's happening and get a preliminary diagnosis, typical cost range, and trusted shops near you.
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Start my diagnosis →Check engine light, surging idle, hesitation
Check engine light: On
Throttle position sensor failures producing a surging idle and hesitation. A TPS fault reliably triggers a check-engine light.
Poor gas mileage
Check engine light: On
An oxygen sensor failure (a shorted rear bank 1 sensor in our documented case) producing poor gas mileage. A failed O2 sensor reliably triggers a check-engine light.
Hiccuping or hesitation at specific speeds
Check engine light: On
EGR valve issues producing hiccuping or hesitation at specific speeds. An EGR fault typically triggers a check-engine light.
Not detailed beyond the named fault in our source sample
Check engine light: On
A fuel pump failure at 120,000 miles. A fuel delivery fault like this typically triggers a check-engine light.
Faulty ignition switch; loose gas cap triggering check engine light
Check engine light: On
Faulty ignition switches and loose gas caps, the latter reliably triggering a check-engine light on its own.
Various, throughout the engine's lifespan
Check engine light: On
Knock sensor and oil pressure sensor failures reported across the engine's lifespan. These sensor faults typically trigger a check-engine light.
Sudden engine shutdown while driving, accompanied by loss of power steering and power brake assist
Check engine light: Off
NHTSA complaints describe sudden engine shutdowns while driving with accompanying loss of power steering and brake assist. Not confirmed as recall-covered.
Engine performance problems, stalling, or failure to start, traced to a failed crankshaft position or angle sensor
Check engine light: On
Engine performance problems, stalling, or failure to start, traced to a failed crankshaft position or angle sensor. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 428 owner reports on file.
Poor shift quality, addressed by confirming the latest TCM software and correct transmission fluid
Check engine light: Off
Poor shift quality, addressed by confirming the latest TCM software and correct transmission fluid. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 171 owner reports on file.
Speakers stop producing sound
Check engine light: Off
Speakers stop producing sound. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 94 owner reports on file.
Intermittent cylinder misfires causing rough acceleration and poor fuel economy
Check engine light: On
Intermittent cylinder misfires causing rough acceleration and poor fuel economy. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 28 owner reports on file.
Alternator failure, addressed by an improved replacement alternator
Check engine light: Off
Alternator failure, addressed by an improved replacement alternator. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 23 owner reports on file.
This generation has a confirmed valve cover gasket/alternator recall (Campaign 976) — but the repair reportedly doesn't always hold, with leaks recurring after service. Also confirmed: service brakes (Campaign 21V936000), exterior lighting (Campaign 13V113000), airbags (Campaign 11V472000), and an underbody corrosion coverage program (Campaign 947 — check your eligibility before assuming coverage). Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.
This generation has a confirmed recall for a valve cover gasket leak that can damage the alternator and cause stalling — but multiple owners report the recall repair itself doesn't reliably hold, with leaks recurring after service. Separately, NHTSA data describes engine stalling paired with loss of power steering and brakes — the same combination is also reported on the Jeep Patriot.