IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2007 Jeep Compass (First Gen)

UK launch of Jeep's first road-biased crossover, sharing its PM/MK platform with the Dodge Caliber. Sold with a 2.4-litre petrol or VW-sourced 2.0 CRD diesel and Freedom Drive I 4x4.

What changed for 2007

  • •Introduction of Chrysler PM/MK unibody platform featuring MacPherson front struts and multi-link rear suspension
  • •Freedom Drive I active full-time all-wheel drive with selectable electronically locking center coupling
  • •Powertrains comprise 2.4-litre World petrol (170PS) with 5-speed manual or Jatco CVT, and VW 2.0-litre Pumpe-Düse CRD turbo-diesel (140PS) with 6-speed manual
  • •Standard electronic safety kit includes Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Electronic Roll Mitigation, and side-curtain airbags

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Front lower control arm ball joints and rear trailing arm bushes developing excessive play under vehicle weight
  • !Corroded or pitted metal brake pipes and seized rear brake calipers exposed to UK road salt
  • !Fractured front coil springs and leaking shock absorbers caused by repeated impact with potholes and speed humps
  • !Excessive exhaust smoke or high particulate opacity on 2.0 CRD diesels from sooted EGR valves or failing injectors
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

TIPM (Electrical Brain) Failure

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) can fail, leading to erratic electrical behavior across the entire car.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Horn honking randomly, Headlights flickering or failing, Engine stalling while driving, Fuel pump won't shut off

What to Inspect:
  • Ensure all electrical functions work correctly and simultaneously
  • Check for signs of a "bypass cable" in the fuse box
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Suspension & Control Arm Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Front control arms, ball joints, and bushings wear out prematurely, often failing as early as 40,000 miles.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£600
Warning Signs:

Clunking noise over bumps, Vibration through steering wheel, Uneven tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Check MOT history for suspension advisories
  • Listen for knocks during the test drive
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Water Ingress (Sunroof & Roof Antenna)

ModerateBodywork & Rust

Sunroof drain tubes block and roof antenna seals fail, leading to water entering the cabin and headliner.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£400
Warning Signs:

Damp carpets, Water staining on headliner, Musty smell in cabin

What to Inspect:
  • Check for dampness in the front footwells
  • Look for water marks around the interior lights
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2007 Jeep Compass (First Gen)

  • Listen for distinct knocking or clunking from the front suspension when steering over road imperfections
  • Avoid the Jatco CVT automatic transmission due to poor refinement, high failure rates, and sluggish acceleration
  • Check passenger and driver footwells for damp carpets caused by blocked sunroof drain tubes and roof antenna grommets
  • On 2.0 CRD diesels, ensure the dual-mass flywheel does not chatter at idle or shudder under load in higher gears
2008–2010
Check a 2007 Jeep Compass (First Gen) by Registration