2013 Jeep Compass 2.4L Petrol · NL63 AEC

The 2.4-litre petrol engine in this Compass is a relatively thirsty unit, with real-world fuel economy typically in the high 20s to low 30s mpg depending on driving style. Insurance for a 2013 Jeep Compass tends to sit in groups 18 to 22, placing it in the mid-to-upper range for a family SUV of this size. Road tax (VED) for a petrol vehicle registered before April 2017 with an engine over 1.5 litres is calculated on the pre-2017 CO2 bands, so budget accordingly and check the exact figure against current DVLA records.

Maintenance costs on this generation of Compass are noticeably higher than for mainstream family SUVs. Parts such as brake discs, suspension arms, and shock absorbers tend to be more expensive than equivalent Ford or Vauxhall components, partly due to lower parts availability in the UK aftermarket. A full set of tyres, brakes, or rear shocks could easily run into four figures at a main dealer, though independent specialists and online parts suppliers can bring this down considerably.

Estimated annual running costs, covering fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance such as an annual service and tyres, would typically fall in the region of £1,800 to £2,200 for a vehicle of this age and mileage. This is higher than many rivals and worth factoring into any purchase decision.

Begin with a thorough inspection of the suspension, since this is where the 2024 MOT raised the most concerns. With the vehicle on a ramp, check the radius arm bushes for movement, the rear shock absorbers for any oil seepage beyond the 'light misting' previously noted, and the front suspension arms and ball joints — the nearside front ball joint dust cover was flagged as severely deteriorated in both 2022 and 2024. Any play in the ball joint itself would warrant immediate attention. Also inspect the rear tyres closely, as deep cracks were noted around the outer tread in 2024.

Next, examine the braking system in detail. The 2024 test recorded badly corroded front inner brake discs and worn inner brake pads on both sides. Even though the 2025 and 2026 tests were clean, brake discs can deteriorate quickly on a vehicle that sees regular use. Check disc thickness, look for lipping around the edges, and verify that the brake fluid has been changed within the last two to three years. The handbrake should also be tested on an incline, as rear brake adjusters on the Compass can seize if unused.

Finally, pay attention to the areas not directly visible in the MOT data. Check for oil leaks from the 2.4-litre World Engine, which is known to weep from the front and rear crankshaft seals on higher-mileage examples. Inspect the condition of the exhaust system, particularly the rear silencer which can corrode, and verify that all warning lights on the dashboard illuminate and extinguish correctly on ignition. The 2.4 petrol engine is also worth listening to on a cold start for any timing chain rattle, which would indicate a stretched chain.