2018 Jeep Wrangler: brake failure

Filed Oct 14, 2026 · Brakes · FL

My 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon developed an abnormal braking condition in which the vehicle felt as though the brakes were being applied without driver input, particularly when releasing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle experienced noticeable resistance and deceleration consistent with the brakes remaining partially engaged. An authorized Jeep dealership inspected the vehicle at approximately 53,542 miles and determined that both front brake calipers, both front brake hoses, brake pads, and rotors required replacement, along with a brake fluid exchange. I spoke directly with the repair technician, who stated that the failure could have originated from either the brake hoses or the calipers but could not conclusively determine which component initially failed. The dealership provided a written repair estimate documenting the required repairs. The availability of the removed components for inspection has not yet been determined. This condition presents a significant safety risk. Brakes that remain engaged can generate excessive heat, potentially causing brake failure, unpredictable deceleration, or loss of vehicle control, endangering the driver, passengers, and other motorists. The primary symptom was the sensation of unintended braking when releasing the accelerator. No brake-specific warning lights or messages have been reported. I am aware of other the federal safety agency complaints involving 2018 Jeep Wranglers describing internally restricted front brake hoses causing calipers to remain engaged. The symptoms and necessary repairs appear similar. Given the relatively low mileage and the potential for a serious safety failure, I request that the federal safety agency investigate whether premature brake hose or caliper failures represent a recurring safety defect affecting 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL vehicles.

Filed Aug 15, 2026 · Brakes · KY

2018 Jeep Wangler JK experienced a brake failure due to a rusted collapsed right front brake line. Vehicle is one owner with 29,855 miles at time of repair on 08/05/26. Repaired by independent service center. Garage kept for the first 6 of 8 years of ownership, never operated off road, and no accidents. Parked in a covered car port for last two years when not in use. This is a well maintained, daily driver vehicle driven by a 79 year old male.

Filed Sep 4, 2025 · Brakes, Steering · OH

The primary component that failed is the brake caliper, which caused a dragging brake, overheating, and visible smoke after a brake pad replacement. This is a defect in a critical safety system, not routine wear and tear. The caliper failure, combined with rapid deterioration of the pads within only seven months of purchase, makes clear that the Jeep was sold to me with preexisting and undisclosed defects. The defective caliper and removed parts remain available for inspection. My safety and the safety of others were directly at risk. A dragging brake drastically reduces stopping ability, can cause sudden brake failure, and creates a fire hazard when smoke and heat build up. These risks make the vehicle unsafe for road use. In addition, there is a well-documented steering defect known as the “death wobble.” Some sources classify this under a recall, while others describe it as covered only by an extended warranty. This inconsistency has prevented me from obtaining clear assistance despite the serious safety implications. The issue has been reproduced and confirmed by a certified Jeep dealership. I have service records, dealer inspection notes, and photos documenting the condition, including metal-on-metal wear, dragging brake, and resulting smoke. The vehicle has been inspected by dealership technicians and is also under review with FCA, who have assigned a claim number. When I initially sought assistance, I was told the failures were “wear and tear.” That is inaccurate, as no reasonable consumer could cause this level of brake and steering deterioration in such a short period. I have been forced to pay out-of-pocket for defects clearly present at the time of sale, even though Carvana, SilverRock, and FCA denied responsibility. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, consumers are protected when vehicles are sold with hidden defects, regardless of warranty status. This Jeep was sold in unsafe condition. The caliper failure and death wobble are preexisting hazards

Filed Aug 8, 2025 · Electrical · PA

My car randomly illuminates every light on the dashboard and my speedometer will say zero mph and I lose all power steering and have to put my car into neutral and roll to a stop because my brakes won’t work either. Then I cannot turn off the ignition or accessory. Check engine light is on and my car starts but there are no brakes or power steering. Thankful my kids were not in the car!

Filed Jul 2, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · CT · crash

The check engine light came on in my car. I was waiting for the dealer to call me to fix it for the 3rd time. I was on my way home when every electrical option on the vehicle turned on- wipers, lights, dash lights, brake- which caused the car to brake- then it turned off and I had no brakes, the car had no steering, it accelerated and I went off the road.

Filed Jun 20, 2022 · Driver assistance, Steering · NY

While driving at low speed in heavy rain vehicle lost power steering, engine service light, anti lock brake failure, skid control. Had to remove vehicle from roadway and restart engine, which corrected steering failure. Engine service light remained on. Vehicle is garaged. After being in garage for 24hrs engine service went out. Contacted dealer and was given appointment. Recommended not drive vehicle until service. Vehicle has 18,000 miles on it. Was told by dealer that battery failed which is tired into the crawl feature of the of the Rubicon 2.0 liter engine with crawl electric motor. Also told that there were many service bulletins.

Filed Mar 22, 2019 · Driver assistance, Electrical · 6,950 miles · NY

I was driving at 45 miles per hour when my service shifter light went off. Within 1 minute I lost my power steering, and brakes. My car locked into gear and I lost all ability to accelerate. At that point the car started dinging and prompting every code in the car. Sway bar engagement, rear electronics, fuel low, tire pressure, change oil.....I can't remember every one. When I got my car to stop I could not get the car to turn off and all of the fans were blowing on high along with the motor reeving. I finally got it to turn off and called for a tow. The repair shop told me the car had thrown over 100 codes but none were active. They kept my jeep for 10 days and told me they took it apart and checked everything. I was told because no issues were current they could not find a problem though.I picked it up and not 8 miles down the road the same exact thing happened. This time however I was in heavy traffic where I was almost hit and because I had no brakes or power steering I almost hit a person walking. Thank god I was able to avoid all of that and get pulled over to safety. It is currently in the shop again.

Filed Jan 8, 2019 · Brakes · 16,000 miles · NC · crash · 1 injury

"takata recall" - while coming off the interstate, I started braking because vehicles were stopped at the top of the exit ramp to turn onto the overpass (highway). The vehicle would not stop. On three separate times the brakes did not function proper. They would not grip. Felt light hydro-plaining or like they would not lock. The vehicle had more than enough distance to stop and I was braking before I left the interstate. On the third try, the brakes failed again, causing an accident. My son was in the vehicle and kept asking why we were not slowing down and stopping. The vehicle did slow down, but not enough or in enough time. *dt