IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2011 Jeep Compass (First Gen)

Major facelift aligning the Compass with the Grand Cherokee. Features a redesigned front clip, refined soft-touch cabin, retuned suspension, and a new Mercedes-sourced 2.2 CRD diesel engine.

What changed for 2011

  • •Substantial exterior restyle replacing twin round headlights with Grand Cherokee-inspired rectangular lamps and slim seven-slot grille
  • •Introduction of the Mercedes-Benz OM651 2.2-litre CRD turbo-diesel (136PS for 2WD, 163PS for 4WD) replacing the older VW 2.0 CRD
  • •Cabin upgrade introducing soft-touch door armrests, redesigned centre console, new three-spoke steering wheel, and improved sound insulation
  • •Retuned suspension with stiffer springs, revised rear sway bar, and upgraded dampers for reduced body lean on tarmac

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Premature wear and play in front lower wishbones, drop links, and track rod ends
  • !Subframe and rear suspension crossmember corrosion accelerated by road grime and winter road grit
  • !Headlamp aim misalignment or clouded polycarbonate headlamp covers reducing lighting intensity
  • !Diesel emissions test failures on 2.2 CRD models with clogged diesel particulate filters (DPF) from short urban trips
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 2011 Jeep Compass (First Gen)

  • The Mercedes-derived 2.2 CRD is significantly more refined and reliable than the earlier VW 2.0 unit, making it the preferred buy
  • Inspect the front and rear subframes thoroughly on a ramp for severe structural corrosion beneath underbody plastics
  • Test all power windows, central locking, and exterior lighting to verify the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) is healthy
  • Check the service history for regular fuel filter and oil changes using MB 229.51 specification oil on 2.2 CRD engines
2008–20102012–2015
Check a 2011 Jeep Compass (First Gen) by Registration