The Jeep Wrangler is famous for its rugged looks and off-road skills. But many buyers and owners ask: Is the Jeep Wrangler a safe car? Safety matters, whether you drive on highways or rocky trails.
In this article, you’ll learn how the Wrangler compares to other SUVs, what safety features it has, and what real crash data says. We’ll cover different models, key differences, and what to watch out for before buying or driving a Jeep Wrangler.
It Tipped Over. Twice.
The biggest issue with the current JL generation isn’t a score at all; it’s a specific test result. In IIHS’s driver-side small overlap front test, which mimics clipping a tree or a pole with the corner of your bumper, both the 2019 and 2022 four-door Wranglers tipped onto their side after impact.
Jeep made structural changes to the truck between those two test years, and it happened again anyway. No other vehicle IIHS has run through this test has done that.
To Jeep’s credit, the Wrangler didn’t actually bomb the metrics IIHS normally grades on. The safety cage held its shape, and the restraints kept the dummy under control, though there was real injury risk shown to the driver’s left leg and foot, and the side airbag that’s supposed to protect the head and torso never deployed.
The bigger concern is that IIHS admits its own scoring criteria weren’t built to fully capture: a vehicle rolling onto its side introduces an ejection risk on top of everything else, and that risk is worse on a truck whose doors and roof are meant to come off in the first place.
Because Jeep hasn’t resubmitted the Wrangler for a fresh small-overlap test since 2022, that result is basically frozen, carried forward as an incomplete “marginal” rating.
IIHS has said it probably won’t bother retesting until Jeep makes a structural change aimed squarely at fixing the tipping behavior, not just tweaking the frame around it.
Safety Ratings And Crash Test Data
The Jeep Wrangler has been tested by major safety organizations. Results are mixed, and understanding them is important.
| Model Year | NHTSA Overall Rating | IIHS Crashworthiness | Side Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 JL | 4/5 stars | Marginal | Poor |
| 2017 JK | 3/5 stars | Acceptable | Poor |
| 2010 TJ | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| 2023 JL | 4/5 stars | Marginal | Marginal |
The JL generation (2018–present) improved over the older JK model (2007–2018), but still scores lower than many modern SUVs. The TJ and earlier Wranglers were rarely tested with full crash data.
What Do These Ratings Mean?
- NHTSA uses a 5-star system. Most Wranglers get 3–4 stars, not perfect.
- IIHS focuses on crashworthiness. Wranglers often score “Marginal” or “Poor” in side impacts.
- Most Wranglers lack strong roof or side protection compared to crossovers.
Key Safety Features
Modern Jeep Wranglers include several important safety features:
- Airbags: Front airbags are standard, but side airbags may be missing in older models.
- Electronic Stability Control: Helps prevent rollovers. Standard since 2007.
- Anti-lock Brakes (ABS): Improves braking and control.
- Traction Control: Helps on slippery surfaces.
- Rearview Camera: Standard since 2018.
- Blind Spot Monitoring: Available in newer trims.
However, some features are only found in higher trims or recent years. For example, the JL Sahara and Rubicon trims offer more advanced driver aids than base Sport models.
Wrangler Vs Other SUVs: Safety Comparison
How does the Jeep Wrangler compare to other popular SUVs? Here’s a quick look:
| Vehicle | NHTSA Rating | IIHS Rating | Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Wrangler JL | 4/5 | Marginal | Basic + Optional |
| Toyota 4Runner | 4/5 | Acceptable | Basic + Optional |
| Honda CR-V | 5/5 | Good | Advanced Standard |
| Ford Bronco | 5/5 | Good | Advanced Standard |
The Wrangler scores lower than the Ford Bronco and Honda CR-V in crash tests and standard safety features. However, it matches the Toyota 4Runner in many areas. This is mainly due to its body-on-frame design and removable doors/roof, which make it less sturdy in certain crashes.
Platform Differences: JK, JL, TJ, XJ, WK, WL
Understanding the Wrangler generations helps explain safety differences:
- TJ (1997–2006): Few safety features. No stability control, basic airbags.
- JK (2007–2018): Added stability control and ABS. Still lacks advanced driver aids.
- JL (2018–present): Better crash structure, more airbags, rearview camera, optional driver aids.
Other Jeep platforms:
- XJ (Cherokee, 1984–2001): Older tech, basic safety.
- WK/WL (Grand Cherokee, 2005–present): Much safer, more driver aids, better crash scores.
If safety is your main concern, a newer JL Wrangler or a Grand Cherokee (WK/WL) is a smarter choice.
Real-world Safety: Rollovers And Off-road Risks
Wranglers have a tall, narrow stance. This makes them more likely to roll over than most crossovers:
- Rollover risk is about 18% in severe crashes (NHTSA data).
- Driving off-road increases risk, especially with lifted suspension and big tires.
- Removing doors or roof lowers side protection.
Many owners miss this: modifying your Wrangler can make it less safe. Lift kits, large tires, or removing parts may affect stability and airbag function.
Tips For Making Your Wrangler Safer
Want to boost your Wrangler’s safety? Here’s how:
- Choose newer models: JL versions have more safety features.
- Keep doors and roof on: They provide extra protection.
- Check tires and suspension: Avoid extreme lifts.
- Add side airbags: Some aftermarket kits exist.
- Drive carefully off-road: Avoid steep slopes and rough terrain.
Two insights many beginners miss:
- Modifications can affect crash sensors and airbags.
- Towing heavy loads with a Wrangler increases instability; the JL’s max tow is 3,500 lbs for 4-door, less for 2-door.
Buying Advice: Safety Considerations
When shopping for a Wrangler, keep these tips in mind:
- Trim level matters: Sahara and Rubicon trims offer more safety options.
- Model year is key: JL (2018+) is safer than JK (2007–2017) or TJ (1997–2006).
- Check compatibility: Some features, like blind spot monitors, are only in certain trims.
- Inspect airbags: Used Wranglers may have missing or damaged airbags.
Don’t skip a careful inspection and test drive. Ask for crash history and maintenance records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Jeep Wrangler Safe For Families?
Wrangler’s safety is lower than many crossovers. The JL model is best for families, but side impact protection is weaker than rivals like the CR-V.
Does Removing The Roof Or Doors Affect Safety?
Yes. Removing doors or the roof lowers side crash protection and may affect airbag function.
Which Wrangler Model Is The Safest?
The JL (2018 present) is the safest Wrangler. It has more airbags, stronger structure, and better crash ratings.
Are Jeep Wranglers Prone To Rollovers?
Wranglers have a higher rollover risk due to their tall design. Electronic stability control helps, but careful driving is important.
Can I Add Extra Safety Features To An Older Wrangler?
Some features can be added, like side airbags or backup cameras. But advanced systems (lane keep, collision warning) are hard or impossible to retrofit.
Final Thoughts
The Jeep Wrangler is a unique vehicle. It’s built for adventure, not for maximum safety. If you want strong crash protection and lots of driver aids, look at newer JL Wranglers or other SUVs.
Always check model year, trim, and safety features before buying. Drive responsibly, especially off-road and after modifications. For more detailed safety information, see the IIHS official crash test results.
