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2021 Jeep Gladiator Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 9, 2026·Ryan Davis·4 Critical Recalls
2021 Jeep Gladiator Report

Overall Score

5.9/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • Multiple critical recalls exist, including for the high-pressure fuel pump and steering pump wiring, the latter posing a fire risk.
  • Confirm all outstanding recalls, especially those for the fuel system and steering pump, have been completed by a qualified technician.
  • While consumer complaints are low, a high TSB count indicates potential for dealer-addressed issues.
  • The 3.6L V6 engine and 4-wheel drive provide capable performance, but fuel costs are average.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Jeep Gladiator

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator blends the iconic Jeep off-road prowess with the utility of a pickup truck. This model year, however, comes with a notable number of recalls, including critical issues with the fuel system and steering pump wiring. While consumer complaints are low, a high TSB count suggests potential underlying issues are being managed through dealer service bulletins. Its 3.6L V6 engine paired with a 4-wheel drive system offers robust performance for off-road adventures and hauling, but buyers should anticipate average fuel economy and be diligent about pre-purchase inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls have been issued for the high-pressure fuel pump, indicating a potential for failure. This can lead to engine stalling, leaving the vehicle inoperable.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls10
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
19
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
22
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.9/ 10

Practicality

3.6/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Off-road enthusiasts seeking a capable 4x4 pickup with Jeep's renowned trail credentials.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing bulletproof reliability and minimal ownership concerns.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Jeep Gladiator Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Manual/Standard
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Pickup
EPA Combined MPG
19

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Manual Transmission Clutch Assembly Issues

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering)

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
10 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator is 7.9/10. Reliability score is 7.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 10. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.6/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator is 5.9/10. Overall score is 5.9/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 3.6/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Jeep Gladiator?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: High-Pressure Fuel Pump (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?▾

Base MSRP is $34,960.

What engine is in the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2021 Jeep Gladiator use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator, transmission is Manual/Standard. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?▾

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?▾

10 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Jeep Gladiator?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Jeep Gladiator use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual/Standard.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?▾

NHTSA ratings: Frontal 4/5 • Rollover 3/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Jeep Gladiator?▾

This model year has 10 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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