The Good
The 2010 Jeep Compass offered the practical advantage of being an affordable entry into the SUV market with decent fuel economy for its class and versatile cargo space. Emotionally, it appealed with its iconic Jeep branding and available 4x4, suggesting adventure and a rugged aesthetic without the full cost or bulk of larger off-road vehicles. Its compact size was also a plus for city driving.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2010 Jeep Compass include frequent issues with its Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), a noisy and underpowered base engine, and a generally unrefined ride. Owners often reported a cabin filled with cheap plastics and excessive road noise. Reliability ratings are typically below average, making pre-purchase inspections crucial.
2010 Jeep Compass: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
• 2.0-liter DOHC 16V I4 (FWD only): 158 horsepower, 141 lb-ft of torque.
• 2.4-liter DOHC 16V I4 (FWD or 4WD): 172 horsepower, 165 lb-ft of torque. - Horsepower:
• 2.0L: 158 hp
• 2.4L: 172 hp - Fuel Economy (EPA estimates):
• 2.0L FWD Manual: 23 city/29 highway MPG
• 2.0L FWD CVT: 23 city/27 highway MPG
• 2.4L FWD Manual: 23 city/28 highway MPG
• 2.4L FWD CVT: 21 city/27 highway MPG
• 2.4L 4WD Manual: 22 city/27 highway MPG
• 2.4L 4WD CVT: 21 city/24 highway MPG - 0-60 Times:
• 2.0L FWD CVT: Approximately 10.5-11 seconds.
• 2.4L FWD/4WD Manual/CVT: Approximately 9.5-10 seconds. - Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs (with the 2.4L engine and proper towing package).
- Trim-Level Features:
• Sport: The base trim included 16-inch steel wheels, roof rails, fog lights, manual windows, manual door locks, manual mirrors, air conditioning, a CD stereo with an auxiliary jack, and cloth upholstery. Optional features included power accessories and cruise control.
• Limited: Built on the Sport's features, the Limited added 17-inch alloy wheels, power windows and door locks, heated power mirrors, cruise control, body-color exterior trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, SiriusXM satellite radio, and often came with heated front seats and available leather upholstery. Both trims offered optional Freedom Drive I (full-time 4WD) or the more capable Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package (which included a CVT with low-range simulation, skid plates, all-terrain tires, and increased ground clearance).
2010 Jeep Compass Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2010 |
Make | Jeep |
Model | Compass |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
Category | Jeep Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | United States |
Manufacturing City | BELVIDERE |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | - |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2.4L L4 |
Engine Size | 2.4L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | - |
Transmission Type | - |
Transmission Speeds | - |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2010 Jeep Compass Have?
Beyond the transmission, suspension components are another common source of complaints. Premature wear of ball joints, tie rods, and bushings can lead to clunking noises, poor handling, and the need for expensive repairs. Electrical issues are also noted, with reports ranging from malfunctioning power windows and intermittent radio operation to various sensor failures, including O2 and ABS sensors.
Engine oil leaks, particularly from the oil filter housing or valve cover gaskets, are not uncommon on the 2.4L "World Engine". The HVAC system can also present problems, such as blower motor failures, AC compressor issues, or blend door malfunctions affecting temperature control. The interior quality, characterized by hard plastics and less-than-stellar fit and finish, often leads to rattles and trim pieces breaking over time.
While the 2010 model year had fewer widespread recalls compared to some other Chrysler/Jeep vehicles of the era, it's always prudent to check specific VINs for any open recalls. One recall affecting some vehicles of this generation involved a potential brake booster check valve issue that could lead to a loss of brake assist or vehicle speed control. Overall, consumer reliability ratings for the 2010 Compass are generally below average, meaning potential buyers should be prepared for more frequent and potentially costly repairs than with some competitors.
How long will the 2010 Jeep Compass last?
Over time, owners should anticipate wear and tear on suspension components like ball joints and bushings. Electrical gremlins and interior trim degradation are also common. Rust can become a significant issue in regions with road salt, affecting body panels and undercarriage components. Therefore, while the engine can be robust, the ancillary systems and particularly the transmission significantly impact its long-term durability and cost-effectiveness.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent for the 2010 Compass. It lacked modern aids such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or a rearview camera, which are now standard on most new vehicles. Its safety suite, however, was respectable for its segment and era. Standard safety features included Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), anti-lock brakes (ABS), front multi-stage airbags, and side curtain airbags that provided protection for both front and rear occupants.
Crash-test ratings provide a good indication of its passive safety:
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration):
• Frontal Crash: 4 out of 5 stars (Driver and Passenger)
• Side Crash: 5 out of 5 stars (Front and Rear Seat)
• Rollover: 3 out of 5 stars (for both FWD and 4WD models) - IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety):
• Moderate Overlap Front: "Good"
• Side: "Good"
• Roof Strength: "Marginal"
• Head Restraints & Seats: "Good"
What Colors Options are Available?
2010 Jeep Compass Prices and Market Value
The Compass has experienced significant depreciation, more so than many rivals. Its initial lower price point, coupled with perceived quality issues and average reliability, contributed to this rapid value loss. Factors severely affecting its resale value include high mileage, the operational status and history of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), evidence of neglected maintenance, and any signs of rust or major mechanical problems. Models with the 2.4L engine and 4WD tend to hold slightly more value, but overall, it's not a vehicle known for strong resale.
2010 Jeep Compass Cost of Ownership
Routine maintenance is relatively inexpensive. However, the vehicle can become costly to own long-term due to potential major repairs. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a known weak point, and a replacement or rebuild can be extremely expensive, often exceeding the vehicle's market value. Other common repairs include suspension components and electrical issues. Therefore, while initial costs might be low, the 2010 Compass is generally considered a potentially costly vehicle to own over the long haul if significant mechanical issues, especially with the CVT, arise.
2010 Jeep Compass Fuel Efficiency
2010 Jeep Compass Safety Rating
NHTSA
2010 Jeep Compass Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:side/Window
Seat Belts
Electrical System:software
AIR Bags
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Seat Belts:pretensioner
2010 Jeep Compass Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2010 Jeep Compass Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
In terms of performance, the Compass was often criticized. Its base 2.0L engine was underpowered, and while the 2.4L offered more adequate power, the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) often made both engines feel less responsive and noisier than competitors' powertrains, which typically featured more refined conventional automatic transmissions. While the Compass offered available 4WD with the Freedom Drive II package, giving it a slight edge in light off-road capability, rivals generally provided a more comfortable and engaging on-road driving experience.
Features in the Compass were decent for its price point but often felt less refined than Japanese competitors. While optional tech like the MyGIG infotainment system was available, the interior quality lagged, utilizing more hard plastics. Many rivals, particularly the CR-V and RAV4, offered more ergonomic designs and often better standard feature sets or more appealing optional packages.
Reliability is where the Compass significantly struggled against its peers. It generally received below-average ratings, primarily due to the notorious CVT issues, suspension component wear, and various electrical gremlins. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 were, and remain, benchmarks for reliability in this class, known for their trouble-free long-term ownership. The Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage of the same vintage typically offered comparable or often superior reliability to the Compass.
Regarding price, the Compass was often among the most affordable options when new, and this trend continues in the used market. Its lower used price reflects its depreciation, reliability concerns, and less desirable brand perception compared to its Japanese rivals.
Recommended Alternatives:
- Better Alternatives (Reliability/Refinement): For superior long-term reliability, better driving dynamics, and stronger resale value, the 2007-2011 Honda CR-V and the 2006-2012 Toyota RAV4 are consistently excellent choices. They offer more refined powertrains and a higher likelihood of trouble-free ownership.
- Similar Alternatives (Affordability/Features): If budget is paramount but reliability is still a concern, consider the 2008-2012 Ford Escape (with the V6 if available for more power) or the 2005-2009 Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. These often represent better value propositions in the used market with potentially fewer major headaches than the Compass, especially if they have traditional automatic transmissions.
Final Verdict: Is the 2010 Jeep Compass a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
As a used vehicle, buying a 2010 Compass can be a gamble. It is arguably only "worth buying" under very specific conditions: if the purchase price is exceptionally low, if a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic (especially of the CVT) confirms no imminent issues, and if you are prepared for potential significant repair costs down the line. It's a poor choice for those seeking a trouble-free, long-term ownership experience. If considering one, opt for the 2.4L engine and be extremely cautious about any CVT transmission that shows signs of trouble or lacks a thorough service history. The Sport trim offers basic transport, while the Limited adds comfort but doesn't escape the core mechanical concerns.