2020 Jeep Gladiator Engine Problems

Intake lifters seizing and or rockers needle bearings failing resulting in camshaft lope damage

Engine failure due to coolant leak: in December, 2025, vehicle was towed to dealership due to overheating engine. While driving home from work, Vehicle was exhibiting engine overheating including temperature warning lights, temperature gauge fluctuating from normal to extremely high, a strange sound coming from the front of the vehicle (almost like a fan was not working) and running rough, like a diesel idle. I immediately pulled the vehicle off to the side of the road & shut it off. (Fortunately engine didn’t seize or exhibit these symptoms while I was on the highway just minutes before) I called dealership & they said it needed to be towed in. After having my vehicle for 10 days, Dealership stated thermostat needed to be replaced. Vehicle then exhibited same symptoms a few weeks later along with a check engine light, vehicle is returned to dealership. Dealership NOW tells me they’ve “seen enough of these to know that it’s most likely going to need a left side cylinder head” due to coolant leak into the engine. I am now aware there have been multiple reports to NHTSA for similar issues and that a service bulletin has been issued to the dealerships for this very reason: its a KNOWN issue with no recall in sight. Jeep at this juncture, acknowledging it’s a problem, REFUSES to assist with very costly repair, instead suggesting I should report to NHTSA.

My vehicle has a 3.6 pentastar engine. Around 75,000 miles the check engine light came on. I took it to the dealership to run diagnostics and find the problem. After completing the diagnostics the service tech informed me that is was an issue related to a TSB 09-011-25. This is a major manufacturing issue that causes engine failure. My engine needs to be replaced. This issue affects many vehicles in the Stellantis lineup and should be a recall. They have not made any effort to inform customers of this issue to have it inspected

My jeep has 140,000 mile engine oil has been changed on time every time. And the engine has cylinders that are missing and it's using antifreeze and riddles like a diesel from time to time. I looked it up and it seems to be a common problem with these engine and there has not been a recall for this. But funny thing is they make a repair kit for this issue. Why has this not been recalled yet it's on all the jeep forms. Even wright ups of fires after a while of driving in this condition.

To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to formally report a serious mechanical issue involving my 2020 Jeep Gladiator (VIN: [XXX] rienced a complete and unexpected engine lock-up. The vehicle is now undrivable and presents both a functional and potential safety concern. Prior to this failure, there were no warning signs—no engine misfires, loss of power, burning smells, or dashboard warning lights. The incident occurred suddenly and without any preceding symptoms. I am aware of several issues affecting this model year, including: Recall 21V-028 – Involving clutch overheating and potential fire risk in manual transmission vehicles TSB 18-024-21 – Pertaining to PCM software updates and camshaft replacement due to engine misfire (P0300) While I understand that technical service bulletins do not carry the same weight as recalls, the combination of TSB-related concerns and my complete engine failure raises questions about broader mechanical reliability and consumer safety. I have reached out to the dealership (Napleton’s River Oaks CDJR) to request evaluation and warranty support under the 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage. However, I am also submitting this report to the NHTSA for documentation and investigation purposes, in the event this issue reflects a larger pattern affecting other vehicles of the same make and model. I respectfully request that the NHTSA review this case and consider whether further investigation is warranted, particularly if other consumers report similar issues. Please feel free to contact me if additional information or documentation is needed. I can be reached at [XXX] or [XXX] k y [XXX] n t [XXX] ely, [XXX] Vehicle: 2020 Jeep Gladi [XXX] ] INFORMATION REDACTED [XXX] ] INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C [XXX] ATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

To Whom It May Concern, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally report a serious mechanical failure involving my 2020 Jeep Gladiator (VIN: [XXX] ), which recently experienced a complete engine lock-up without any prior warning signs. The vehicle is now inoperable. Given the severity of the issue, I am requesting a thorough review under the manufacturer’s 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, as well as an investigation into any applicable recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) that may relate to this failure. For your reference, I am aware of the following known issues tied to this vehicle model: Recall 21V-028 – Clutch overheating and potential fire risk (manual transmission) TSB 18-024-21 – PCM software update and possible camshaft replacement (associated with Code: P0300) Notably, my vehicle exhibited no prior symptoms—such as loss of power, engine misfires, dashboard warnings, or burning odors—prior to the engine failure. I respectfully request NHTSA’s assistance in confirming: Whether my vehicle is currently subject to any open recalls or safety investigations Whether this type of engine failure has been reported by other 2020 Jeep Gladiator owners What recourse is available to owners under federal warranty or safety defect protections if the dealership is unable or unwilling to resolve the issue I can be reached directly at [XXX] or via email at [XXX] . I appreciate your time and urgent attention to this matter and hope we can find a swift and fair resolution. Sincerely, [XXX] VIN: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

I was never notified of Recall Y68 for my vehicle by Jeep or FCA, despite federal requirements that recall notices be sent by mail or electronic communication. I only became aware of the recall after my independent mechanic (Jay’s Auto Care, Kirkland WA) diagnosed a cylinder misfire and confirmed engine damage, and advised me to take the vehicle to Jeep. On June 26, 2025, I brought the vehicle to Rairdon’s Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Kirkland and reported the misfire, with documentation from my mechanic confirming engine damage. While the dealer performed the PCM update under Recall Y68, they refused to address the misfire and instructed me to wait until the check engine light returned before they would act further. On [XXX], when the fault reappeared, I returned immediately to the dealer. I was then told the repair would not be covered due to the time elapsed since my first visit. Jeep corporate was contacted (Case #[XXX]) but has failed to provide any resolution or even respond to my written request. As of August 2025, Jeep’s lack of recall notification, the dealer’s refusal to address a documented engine defect, and Jeep’s non-response have forced me to purchase and install a replacement engine at my own expense through my independent mechanic. Safety Concern: •The vehicle suffered continued drivability issues while waiting for Jeep’s required “re-trigger,” risking further engine damage. •Driving with a compromised engine presents safety hazards, including sudden stalling or loss of power. •Jeep’s failure to notify me of the recall and subsequent refusal to address the misfire left me with no safe or reasonable alternative. Requested Outcome: I am requesting NHTSA’s assistance in ensuring Jeep/FCA: 1.Properly documents whether notification for Recall Y68 was ever sent to me. 2.Provides reimbursement or goodwill coverage for the cost of the replacement engine and labor. 3.Reviews whether dealer handling of this recall complied with FCA/Fed recall INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Driving down the highway at normal rate of speed, the engine light came on and then started blinking and I loss power in the engine. After about 10-15 seconds, the engine light went off and the engine regained power. A few minutes later, the same thing occurred. In the mornings when the engine was cold, the engine would sputter when idling and the check engine light would come on. The dealership mechanics found the problem to be the cam shaft lobe being scored causing piston #5 to misfire. The dealership told me that there are 12,000 backlogged requests for this part. In other words, there is a known defect in the cam shaft. The price of repair is over $4000. This needs to be a mandatory recall by the manufacturer!! 12,000 back logged requests for this part? Really? This is a safet issues because of the engine power loss while driving down the highway. My truck was in the shop at the dealership for 41 days. Ridiculous.

Oil cooler leaking

The oil pump failed at 23,000 miles, then while traveling on [XXX] in New York, the engine failed at 48,000 miles. Fortunately we exited the freeway before a catastrophic failure could occur. The dealer was contacted and I was informed not to drive the vehicle, but to have it towed to the dealership. At the dealership they found the engine had a severe knock and informed me a complete new engine was needed. The engine was never taken apart for inspection, as they mentioned it would be at my expense, that of an additional $1800.00. The cost for engine replacement was $11916.16. If the engine seized on the freeway, a disaster could have occurred. Dealership stating the oil changes were over their recommendations. Four dealerships were contacted and all had different oil change intervals. Dealership stated the North East is a "severe service" area. The other three Chrysler dealerships never heard of this. Also the oil I ran was Amsoil full synthetic with the oil manufacturer recommending up to 12,000 miles oil change intervals, this dealer states 4,500 miles. Other dealers state "go by the book" of 7,500 to 10,000 miles, one states 6,000 miles, another states 6,500 mile intervals. A little long winded story, point being an engine failure traveling at highway speed could have caused severe, possibly life threatening results. My complaint is on the oil pump failure causing this problem, I base my case revolving around the oil pump failure causing engine oil starvation. The dealer states the engine was still getting oil. The oil pump is a two stage pump, low stage-40 PSI, high stage 80PSI. The high stage of the pump failed, not supplying enough oil to the top of the engine. If 40PSI was sufficient to maintain this engine, Chrysler would not have spent millions of dollars to develop a high pressure stage in this pump. Thank you for your consideration in this case. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The contact owns a 2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, they would smell a burning odor coming from the clutch. The local dealer was contacted but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated the vehicle caught on fire after being driven for a while. The contact exited the vehicle and the fire department extinguished the flames. No injuries were sustained. A fire report and police report were filed however no information was not available. The contact stated the vehicle was towed to another dealer where it was diagnosed that the clutch needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 12,000.

Inside the engine the rocker arm is making a ticking noise all the time and is rubbing against the shaft. My safety is at risk because the engine could fail at any moment while driving. This is an ongoing problem with these engines; 3.6 liter pentastar engines. There were no warning lamps prior to this failure.

Error Codes P0300, 301,305, 420. Driving on the interstate I got the CEL light. One point during driving when the 420 code came in vehicle went into limp mode and speed was greatly reduced in 70 mph traffic. Luckily I was able to get to the side of the road so no accident happened. Researched the issue and changed ignition coil packs and plugs. Upon restarting vehicle got the P0300 coda again. More research done and found the bulletin from FCA for the repair. Took to dealership and they refreshed. Picked up from dealership and threw the code instantly. Took to another dealership and now they are saying it is because of aftermarket coil packs and plugs. This is a big issue with JEEP and they are not trying to fix anything.

I have had this vehicle in the shop more times than it has been on the road. It originally started with the auto start stop sensor. They told me to turn that off. They did an update. And it kept happening over and over again where it would cut itself off and I couldn’t get it restarted. The fix worked for maybe a month and it started all over again. Now the engine light is on I can be doing 30 miles an hour down the middle of town and it dies even with the auto start stop turned off. The steering is so loose that you have to fight it all the time to keep it in the road. The engine light is on and stays on. And it sounds like a scraping when the vehicle is in motion but the tires have clearance and no issues with their clearance. Checked under the vehicle nothing is under the vehicle. This vehicle has never been off road. I believe it qualifies as a lemon.

I HAVE HAD THE JEEP GLADIATOR SINCE NOVEMBER 2019 AND IT HAS HAD MULTIPLE ENGINE ISSUES ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS LEADING UP TO WHAT I WAS TOLD WAS "BLOWN HEAD GASKETS". IT STARTED AFTER JUST A FEW MONTHS WITH LESS THAN 1000 MILES WITH THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMING ON. THE ENGINE WOULD ALSO RUN ROUGH. THEY BELIEVED IT WAS BAD FUEL. AT APPROXIMATELY 8 MONTHS THE SAME THING HAPPENED AT AROUND 3500 MILES. THIS TIME THE SAID IT WAS A BAD CYLINDER. NOW AT 14 MONTHS AND AT AROUND 8000 MILES MY HIGH TEMP LIGHT CAME ON OUT OF NO WHERE AND SMOKE APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD. I HAD PREVIOUSLY JOKED WITH THEM THAT THEY HAD JUST DISABLED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AS THAT NEVER CAME ON. I WAS ONLY GOING ABOUT 20 MILES PER HOUR AND PULLED INTO A GAS STATION. MEGEE MOTORS HAS FULL RECORDS OF THE ISSUES.

ON MY 2020 JEEP GLADIATOR RUBICON ESS AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AT 249 MILES. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CODE WAS P0300 MULTIPLE CYLINDER MISFIRE. TOOK IT TO THE DEALER MONROE DODGE AND THEY REPLACED THE BATTERY FOR ESS AND DID A RECOMMENDED PCM FLASH FOR THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. I PULLED OUT OF THE DEALERSHIP AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS IMMEDIATELY BACK ON FOLLOWED BY ESS LIGHT. DEALER IMMEDIATELY HOOKED UP THE SCANNER AND THEY SAID THE P0300 MULTIPLE CYLINDER MISFIRE IS BACK ON. DEALER IS SAYING THEY HAVE TO TEAR INTO THE ENGINE. THIS SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEM WITH THESE VEHICLES THAT NHTSA SHOULD INVESTIGATE FOR MANUFACTURING DEFECT. SEEMS TO BE ONLY WITH THE ENGINES MADE IN SALTILLO SOUTH ENGINE PLANT IN MEXICO.

STARTING AT JUST OVER 100 MILES MY VEHICLE STARTED DISPLAYING A ELECTRONIC START/STOP SYSTEMS ERRORS AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ONE. THE CEL WAS CAUSED BY ENGINE MISFIRES AND SHOW CODE P0300. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT FCA WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND IT WAS WELL KNOW, BUT NO FIX IS AVAILABLE. THE MISFIRES CAUSE ENGINE STUMBLE AND INABILITY TO ACCELERATE AS EXPECTED WHEN PULLING OUT OR CROSSING ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THE NHTSA MAY WANT TO INVESTIGATE AS FCA DOES NOT HAVE AN ANSWER. THIS MAY BE A DEFECT IN MANUFACTURING OR SOFTWARE AND SEEMS TO BE LEADING TO OUTRIGHT ENGINE FAILURES FOR MODELS WITH MORE MILES. PHOTO ATTACHED SHOWING THE DASHBOARD WARNINGS THAT CONTINUE TO OCCUR.

AUTO START/STOP UNAVAILABLE WARNING LIGHT ON COLD START. ROUGH ENGINE IDLE UNTIL UP TO TEMPERATURE. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON NEXT COLD START. CODE P0300 (MULTIPLE CYLINDER MISFIRE). THIS HAD HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES. THIS IS MY THIRD TIME TAKING IT IN AND NOW THEY ARE TEARING DOWN THE ENGINE ON A TRUCK WITH 1000 MILES ON IT. EVERY OCCURANCE WAS COLD START ON ENGINE AND AFTER PUTTING TRUCK INTO GEAR AT LOW SPEED.

2020 JEEP GLADIATOR AT 1760 MILES NUMEROUS AUTO START STOP FAILURES WITH CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND P300 CODE (ENGINE MISFIRE). TOOK TO THE DEALER AND WAS TOLD BAD GAS AND THEY RESET THE CODE. AT 1900 MILES AFTER NUMEROUS AUTO STOP START FAILURES CHECK ENGINE LIGHT BACK ON WITH NOTICEABLE MISFIRES ON COLD START. DEALER CHANGED COILS AND PLUGS. AT 2300 MILES CHECK ENGINE LIGHT BACK ON WITH NOTICEABLE MISFIRES. DEALER CHANGED EGR VALVE AND DID A SOFTWARE UPDATE. AT 2850 MILES CHECK ENGINE LIGHT BACK ON. DEALER DID ANOTHER SOFTWARE UPDATE. 2 DAYS AND 50 MILES LATER CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON WITH NOTICEABLE MISFIRES. CURRENTLY AT THE DEALER FOR 10 DAYS LATER WITH NO FIX IN SIGHT. MANY GLADIATORS HAVE THIS MISFIRE PROBLEM.

MULTIPLE CYLINDER MISFIRES. ENGINE RUNNING WITH VEHICLE IN MOTION. FIRST OCCURRENCE AT 160 MILES ON BRAND NEW VEHICLE. CHECK ENGINE CAME ON AND AUTO STOP/START WARNING MESSAGES AND LIGHT APPEARED. TOOK TO DEALER. THEY CLEARED ENGINE MISFIRE CODE AND MADE NO REPAIR. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND AUTO STOP/START LIGHT CAME BACK ON WHEN UNDERWAY ON SAME DAY THAT VEHICLE WAS PICKED UP FROM DEALERSHIP. TOOK BACK TO DEALERSHIP. SAID IT WAS MULTI CYLINDER ENGINE MISFIRE. NO DIAGNOSIS OF CAUSE DETERMINED NOR REPAIR PLAN IDENTIFIED. VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN DEALERSHIP SHOP ALMOST FIVE WEEKS NOW WITH NO PLAN FOR REMEDYING THE SITUATION. JEEP GLADIATOR FORUM INCLUDES REPORTS FROM OVER 30 SIMILAR SITUATIONS WITH VEHICLES OUT OF SERVICE. RESPONSE FROM FCA VIRTUALLY NONEXISTENT. *TR