The Jeep Compass is a versatile, reliable, compact SUV perfect for both city driving and weekend adventures. It’s supposed to provide smooth rides, modern tech, and off-road capability, all wrapped up in a stylish design. However, the reality is that some owners have a Jeep Compass that spends more time in the shop than it does on the road.
For these owners, the Jeep Compass feels more like a curse than a car. Imagine repeated stalling, transmission issues, electrical failures, and any other problem you can think of plaguing your vehicle.
Fortunately, the California Lemon Law has made life easy for lemon owners. It entitles you to a refund, replacement, or cash settlement for your Jeep Lemon. In this article, we’ll go into detail about the common defects affecting Compass vehicles and the basics of the Jeep Lemon Law.
Common Jeep Compass Defects Reported By Several Owners
Unknown to many owners, the Jeep Compass is notorious for serious defects. These defects usually affect the car’s safety, use, and even market value. The worst part is that it can take several visits to the dealership to fix the issue, and sometimes that’s still not enough. Below are a few of the more common defects:
Sudden Engine Stalling
Commonly called the death stall, one of the most alarming issues with the Jeep Compass is random stalling while driving. The common complaint is that drivers will be on the freeway when the engine shuts off without warning. Of course, you can imagine the panic when this leaves them stranded and vulnerable to accidents.
Some things to note with this issue:
- Some Compass owners report their engine dies at stoplights, while others experience complete shutdowns at high speeds
- The problem is often linked to a faulty throttle body, a defective fuel system, or a failing alternator
- Even after multiple repairs, some Jeeps continue stalling, making the vehicle dangerous and unreliable
All Around Transmission Issues
Jeep Compass models are notorious for transmission troubles, including rough shifting that makes rides feel jerky. Some also experience slipping gears, slow or hesitant acceleration, or even grinding noises indicative of serious internal damage.
The major problem is that many Compass models come with Jeep’s problematic 9-speed automatic transmission. If you’re familiar with it, this transmission has been criticized for its poor performance and durability. No wonder many Jeep owners frequently complain about car troubles.
Electrical System Malfunctions
For a vehicle that advertises modern technology, the Compass has plenty of frustrating electrical issues. Common problems include touchscreen freezing or blacking out, rear camera failure, random warning lights, and malfunctioning power windows and locks. These problems might seem minor, but if they keep returning without a way to fix them, they could support a Jeep Lemon Law buyback claim.
Faulty Start-Stop System
The Jeep Compass comes with a start-stop system meant to save fuel, but for several owners, it causes more trouble than benefits:
- Some drivers report that the engine won’t restart after stopping, leaving them stuck at intersections
- Others say the ESS warning light constantly appears, even when the system is turned off
Unreliable Battery & Charging System
Another common problem is frequent battery failure. Owners have experienced dead batteries within the first year of ownership along with alternator issues, resulting in a Jeep that refuses to start. These issues often prevent the battery from charging properly, leading to purchasing a brand new battery that won’t last.
A vehicle that won’t start or constantly loses power isn’t just frustrating, it’s a major reliability issue. If your Compass has these problems, keep track of all repairs, as they could strengthen your Lemon Law case.
Does Your Jeep Compass Qualify as a Lemon?
To qualify under California Lemon Law, your Compass must meet these requirements:
- The defect must be significant. If your Jeep’s problem affects its safety, value, or function, you may have a case.
- Jeep or a certified Jeep dealership must have attempted to fix the issue multiple times
- The problem must persist despite repairs. If Jeep “fixes” the issue, but it keeps coming back, your vehicle might be a lemon.
Solution to Your Compass Issues: Filing a Jeep Lemon Law Claim
If your Compass meets the above criteria, follow these steps to start your Jeep buyback process:
Gather Your Evidence
It’s important to have physical proof that your vehicle is a lemon. By this, we mean any document that shows your car is plagued with defects. Make sure to do the following to ensure your case is as strong as possible:
- Keep all repair invoices and work orders. These documents should list the date, mileage, reported issue, and attempted fix.
- Track the number of repair attempts. The more times Jeep fails to fix your SUV, the stronger your case.
- Write a personal log. Note every time your Compass breaks down, including dates, locations, and what happened.
Notify Jeep
When you have sufficient evidence, send a formal Lemon Law demand letter to Jeep’s corporate office. Include your vehicle details, repair history, and a demand for a Jeep buyback program or replacement.
Be Ready for Pushback
After receiving your letter, Jeep will likely offer a low settlement or try to deny your claim. If they refuse to cooperate, it’s time to consult a Lemon Law attorney. Don’t worry about the potential costs, because California requires Jeep to cover your legal fees if you win.
Why Compass Owners Shouldn’t Ignore the 2018 Jeep Compass Lemon Law
If you own a Compass with repeated issues, ignoring the Lemon Law could mean dealing with endless frustration. Too many Compass owners report serious defects that make their vehicles unreliable and dangerous. Instead of putting up with constant repairs, you have legal rights under California’s Lemon Law.
By taking action, you could qualify for a refund, replacement, or cash compensation. The key is documenting every repair attempt and notifying Jeep of the ongoing problems. If the manufacturer can’t resolve the issue, a Lemon Lawyer can help you fight for what you deserve at no cost to you.
Don’t let your defective Compass be a drain on your time and money. If your Jeep keeps breaking down despite multiple repairs, it might be time to explore your legal options.
Leave Your Lemon Where It Belongs
Your Jeep Compass should be taking you places rather than trapping you in a loop of endless repairs. If this is the case, don’t wait for the next breakdown. Take action under the Jeep Wrangler Lemon Law now. Document everything, stay persistent, and remain confident as you pursue resolution.
The key is to contact legal counsel when you’re not sure what to do next, or if you get pushback on your claim. Who better to call than Quill & Arrow LLP? Their lemon lawyers are the best at securing a replacement, cash compensation, or initiating the Jeep buy back program on your behalf. Schedule a consultation today and get the ball rolling.