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2012 Jeep Compass

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Introduction to the 2012 Jeep Compass

The 2012 Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that offers a blend of ruggedness and practicality. It comes standard with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. Other engine options include a 2.4-liter inline-4 and a 3.2-liter V6. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Compass has a spacious interior and a versatile cargo area, making it a popular choice for families and active individuals.

Despite its positives, the Compass has faced criticism for its lackluster performance, poor fuel economy, and various reliability issues.

Engine

2.0-Liter Inline-4 Engine

  • Valve Spring Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of the valve springs can lead to broken springs and engine damage. Symptoms include engine misfires, reduced power, and a rattling noise from the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the affected valve springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Belt Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the timing belt can result in catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms include rough idling, engine stalling, and a loss of engine power.
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt and any related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.4-Liter Inline-4 Engine

  • Excessive Oil Consumption:
    • Description/Symptoms: Some vehicles experience excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Symptoms include a burning oil smell, leaks under the vehicle, and a loss of power.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the affected engine components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.2-Liter V6 Engine

  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: A faulty intake manifold gasket can result in vacuum leaks, causing engine performance issues. Symptoms include rough idling, decreased power, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Synchronizer Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged synchronizers make it difficult to shift gears smoothly. Symptoms include grinding noises, difficulty engaging gears, and a transmission that pops out of gear.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

  • Clutch Master Cylinder Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: A faulty clutch master cylinder can lead to a spongy or unresponsive clutch pedal. Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears and a high clutch pedal.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Torque Converter Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: A damaged torque converter can cause slipping gears, overheating, and a shuddering or vibration while driving. Symptoms may also include a loss of power and difficulty accelerating.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

  • Transmission Shuddering:
    • Description/Symptoms: A rough or shuddering transmission during acceleration or deceleration can indicate issues with the CVT. Symptoms may include vibration, hesitation, and a loss of power.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the CVT.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Strut Mount Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged front strut mounts can lead to a clunking noise when driving over bumps. Symptoms may also include a misaligned steering wheel and reduced handling performance.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty strut mounts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Suspension Sagging:
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension may sag prematurely, causing the vehicle to lean to one side or another. Symptoms may include uneven tire wear, poor handling, and a reduced ride height.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the affected suspension components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain:
    • Description/Symptoms: A parasitic drain on the battery can cause it to discharge prematurely, leading to a dead battery. Symptoms may include difficulty starting the vehicle, flickering lights, and a reduced battery life.
    • Solution: Find and repair the source of the electrical drain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: A faulty alternator can fail to adequately charge the battery, leading to a dead battery and electrical system problems. Symptoms may include a flickering or dim dashboard lights, a dead battery, and a warning light on the instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Replace the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sunroof Leaks:
    • Description/Symptoms: A leaking sunroof can allow water to enter the vehicle’s interior, causing water stains, mold, and electrical issues. Symptoms may include water dripping from the headliner, wet carpets, and a musty odor in the vehicle.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof seals or drainage system.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Radio Malfunction:
    • Description/Symptoms: The radio may experience problems with functionality, including intermittent reception, distorted sound, and a loss of power. Symptoms may also include a blank or unresponsive screen.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the radio.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • HVAC System Issues:
    • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system may include insufficient heating or cooling, a noisy blower motor, or a failure to circulate air properly. Symptoms may also include a musty odor in the vehicle.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the affected HVAC components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Jeep Compass has a range of issues affecting various components, including the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior. Some of the issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix, while others can be more severe and costly. Engine issues, in particular, can be a significant concern for owners. The severity and cost of the issues can vary depending on the specific problem, the extent of the damage, and the location of the repair.

Jeep, Compass
Jeep Compass 2012
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