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2020 Jeep Compass Review: Comfortable Small SUV With Improved Reliability From Earlier Years

Rating: 4.73
Based on 80 Owner Reviews â–¶
Drew B | March 31, 2025
The 2020 Jeep Compass is a compact crossover SUV, slotting between the Renegade and Cherokee in Jeep's lineup. Introduced as a replacement for the Patriot and Liberty, the Compass has been around since 2007. Key trims for the 2020 model year include Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk. New, it ranged roughly from $22,000 to $32,000. It's popular for its Jeep styling, available off-road capability, and user-friendly infotainment system.
The Good

The 2020 Jeep Compass offers appealing Jeep styling and available 4x4 capability for off-road adventures (emotional). Its user-friendly infotainment and comfortable seats make it practical for daily commutes. While not a performance leader, it offers reasonable fuel efficiency for its class and decent value for money.

The Bad

The 2020 Jeep Compass is known for its somewhat underpowered engine and sluggish acceleration. The transmission can sometimes feel hesitant. Reliability has been a concern for some owners. The interior materials, while aesthetically pleasing, may not be the highest quality. Also, watch out for electrical issues reported by some owners.

2020 Jeep Compass: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 2.4L I4 MultiAir engine
  • Horsepower: 180 hp @ 6,400 rpm
  • Fuel Economy (MPG):
    • FWD: 22 city / 31 highway
    • 4x4: 22 city / 30 highway
  • 0-60 Times: Around 9.3 - 10 seconds (estimated)
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs (when properly equipped)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Sport: 16-inch wheels, Uconnect 4 with 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, Bluetooth, rearview camera.
    • Latitude: Adds alloy wheels, automatic headlights, fog lights, keyless entry, upgraded cloth upholstery.
    • Limited: Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8.4-inch touchscreen, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start, and chrome exterior trim.
    • Trailhawk: Designed for off-road with standard four-wheel drive, increased ground clearance, skid plates, tow hooks, and off-road suspension. Features unique styling elements.

Note: Fuel economy figures can vary based on driving conditions and options. 0-60 times are estimates based on available information.

2020 Jeep Compass Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2020
Make Jeep
Model Compass
Trim -
Style -
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City TOLEDO
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 5000 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.6 6
Engine Size 3.6L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 6 Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System Standard
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2020 Jeep Compass Have?

The 2020 Jeep Compass has faced several reliability concerns reported by owners. Some of the frequently reported problems include transmission issues such as hesitant shifting and rough gear changes. Engine problems, like excessive oil consumption, have also been noted. Electrical problems, ranging from infotainment glitches to malfunctioning sensors, are another area of concern.
Several recalls have affected the 2020 Jeep Compass, addressing issues such as potential fuel leaks, faulty rearview cameras, and malfunctioning airbags. These recalls are essential to address for safety and performance reasons.
Long-term reliability is a significant consideration. RepairPal gives the Jeep Compass a reliability rating that is below average for compact SUVs. Consumer Reports data also suggests below-average predicted reliability. Potential buyers should thoroughly research repair histories, check for outstanding recalls, and consider extended warranties for added protection. It's always advisable to obtain a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.

How long will the 2020 Jeep Compass last?

With regular maintenance, a 2020 Jeep Compass can reasonably be expected to last 150,000 to 200,000 miles, translating to roughly 10-13 years of service for the average driver. However, long-term durability is tied to diligent maintenance habits. Weaknesses often emerge in the transmission and electrical systems over time. Timely fluid changes, addressing any warning lights promptly, and avoiding aggressive driving can significantly extend its lifespan. Rust can also be a factor in colder climates with road salt exposure; regular washing and waxing can help mitigate this.
Positive Owner Reviews
JR
Great little SUV, nice options as good as a more expensive luxury car. Smooth ride and very comfortable. I'd recommend this Jeep to anyone wanting a smaller SUV
Lisa
Great driving experience with this truck but not good on gas Basically use my car to commute from home to work and groceries shopping And taking my mom To her appointments
Jodlou
I didn't think I'd ever love an SUV like I did my cars until I drove this one. I love the state of art everything! It's also quite sharp looking too.
Negative Owner Reviews
Disappointed
Terrible. Needed new Motor at 56k miles. Not a smooth ride. Now throwing random check engine lights every other week. In the shop constantly. Gonna trade once it gets out of the shop.
Pety
I purchased the car in January 2020, the transmission went out in August 2020, can not repair this transmission, they do not sell parts you have to purchase a new transmission, took it to the dealer, they contacted Chrysler directly, would not help pay for any of it since I had it such a short time, dealer thought they may give me some reimbursement told me nothing they could do! I ended up paying out of pocket 4,800, and that was from a discount at the dealership, if your looking for a car you can repair the transmission if it goes bad, do not purchase this car!

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2020 Jeep Compass features the Uconnect infotainment system, generally praised for its user-friendliness. Standard tech includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offer an 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation.
Driver-assistance features: A rearview camera is standard. Available options include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
Safety Features: Standard safety features include multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and traction control.
Crash-Test Ratings: The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the 2020 Jeep Compass an overall safety rating of four out of five stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave it generally good ratings in crash tests, with some variations depending on specific tests. Some trims with specific headlights may have received lower headlight ratings. It's crucial to check the specific IIHS ratings for the exact configuration you are considering.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Diamond Black Crystal Pearl-Coat
Granite Crystal Metallic Clear-Coat
Jazz Blue Pearl-Coat
Laser Blue Pearl-Coat
Olive Green Pearl-Coat
Redline Pearl-Coat
Spitfire Orange Clear-Coat
Sting-Gray Clear-Coat
Velvet Red Pearl-Coat
White Clear-Coat
Ivory Tri-Coat
Billet Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Bright White Clearcoat
Mojave Sand Clear Coat
Hydro Blue Pearl Coat
Interior Colors
Black
Black/Ski Gray
Black/Ruby Red
Ski Gray/Sting Gray
Light Frost Beige/Black

2020 Jeep Compass Prices and Market Value

The 2020 Jeep Compass had a starting MSRP around $22,000, reaching over $32,000 for higher trims. Current used market prices typically range from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim. Depreciation is moderate for this class. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, trim level (Trailhawk models tend to hold value better), and whether it has desirable options like 4x4 or advanced safety features. A clean title and a comprehensive service history also significantly boost resale value.

2020 Jeep Compass Cost of Ownership

The 2020 Jeep Compass falls in the mid-range for ownership costs. Insurance premiums are typically average for a compact SUV. Fuel costs are reasonable given its fuel economy. Maintenance can be moderate, but potential repairs, particularly related to the transmission and electrical systems, can increase long-term costs. Overall, it's neither the most economical nor the most costly to own, but budgeting for potential repairs is wise.

2020 Jeep Compass Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2020 Jeep Compass Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2020 Jeep Compass Recalls & Defects

Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:linkages
Recall date 2020-04-09
Recall no. 20v208000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2019-2020 RAM 1500, 1500 Classic and Jeep Compass Vehicles. THE Windshield Wiper ARM or Arms MAY Loosen, Possibly Causing THE Wipers TO NOT Operate Properly and Reduce THE Driver's Visibility IN Certain Weather Conditions.
Consequence Reduced Visibility Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Tighten THE Wiper Nuts, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 27, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS W25.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2020 Jeep Compass Insurance

Insurance for a 2020 Jeep Compass is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2020 Jeep Compass Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2020 Jeep Compass competes with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Subaru Crosstrek. In terms of performance, it lags behind the CR-V and CX-5. Feature-wise, it offers a competitive infotainment system, but the RAV4 and CR-V have more standard driver-assistance features. Reliability is where the Compass falls short compared to the Honda and Toyota. The Subaru Crosstrek offers better off-road capability at a similar price point and has better reliability ratings.
In terms of price, the Compass is generally competitive, but its value proposition is diminished by its reliability concerns. Alternatives to consider include:
  • Honda CR-V: Excellent reliability and practicality.
  • Toyota RAV4: Strong reliability and fuel efficiency.
  • Mazda CX-5: More engaging driving experience.
  • Subaru Crosstrek: Superior off-road capability and standard AWD.
If reliability is a primary concern, the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 would be better choices.

Ranks #1253 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1253 2020 Jeep Compass (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2020 Jeep Compass a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2020 Jeep Compass is ideal for buyers who prioritize Jeep styling and available off-road capability in a compact SUV. It's worth buying if you're aware of its potential reliability issues and are willing to accept them. A used 2020 Compass, particularly a Trailhawk model, might be a good option if you can find one with a well-documented service history and a pre-purchase inspection. Consider purchasing an extended warranty for added peace of mind. If reliability is your top priority, explore alternatives like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 instead.

2020 Jeep Compass Owner Reviews

4.73
Consumer Rating, Based on 80 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Disappointed on August 13, 2024

Terrible.

Terrible. Needed new Motor at 56k miles. Not a smooth ride. Now throwing random check engine lights every other week. In the shop constantly. Gonna trade once it gets out of the shop.

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Sue F on June 9, 2023

2020 Jeep Compass

I purchased my Jeep in August 2020. Had the rack & pinion, intermediate shaft and sway bar links replaced in April 2022. The right sway bar link needs to be replaced again!

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JR on November 30, 2022

Very Nice Small SUV

Great little SUV, nice options as good as a more expensive luxury car. Smooth ride and very comfortable. I'd recommend this Jeep to anyone wanting a smaller SUV

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Lisa on April 10, 2022

Good car

Great driving experience with this truck but not good on gas Basically use my car to commute from home to work and groceries shopping And taking my mom To her appointments

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Jodlou on May 7, 2021

First SUV

I didn't think I'd ever love an SUV like I did my cars until I drove this one. I love the state of art everything! It's also quite sharp looking too.

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Pety on March 31, 2021

Terrible purchase

I purchased the car in January 2020, the transmission went out in August 2020, can not repair this transmission, they do not sell parts you have to purchase a new transmission, took it to the dealer, they contacted Chrysler directly, would not help pay for any of it since I had it such a short time, dealer thought they may give me some reimbursement told me nothing they could do! I ended up paying out of pocket 4,800, and that was from a discount at the dealership, if your looking for a car you can repair the transmission if it goes bad, do not purchase this car!

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Teegee on March 25, 2021

I just picked it up today

So far only having it for 3 hours it's pretty good. Like the color, drives nice and handles okay. Thank you for your service. This is my second purchase and look forward to future purchases.

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TIGERSURF HAWAII on March 20, 2021

JEEP COMPASS 2.4 L TRAILHAWK LOOKS GOOD CHECK OIL

JEEP COMPASS 2.4 L TRAILHAWK CHECK OIL DIPSTICK EVERY GASOLINE STOP CARRY A QUART FULL PENNZOIL SYNTHETIC 0W - 20W POUR IN 1 QUART LOW ALWAYS CHECK OIL DIPSTICK YOU WILL HAVE NO ENGINE PROBLEMS 4 CYL RUNS *HOT* ALWAYS PUT IN OIL UP TO TOP OF OIL DIPSTICK HASHMARKS YOU ARE A JEEP GUY JEEPS ARE FOR GIRLS. JEEP ENGINES MADE IN SALTILLO MEX. BY BRAZIL TUPY CASTING FOUNDRY ARE MADE TO BURN OIL PLUS OPERATE VALVE TRAIN PISTON SQUIRTERS 1 QUART EVERY 750 MILES IS NORMAL. GREAT IN RENO NV MT ROSE HWY 9,000 FEET DEEP SNOWSTORM UP STEEP HILL CURVES PLUS DOWNHILL NO WHEELS SLIP A SUBARU WENT IN THE DITCH STUCK ALL NIGHT ACROSS DOUBLE YELLOW LINE WRONG SIDE OF ROAD THIS TRAILHAWK IS REAL 4WD UNDERNEATH FOR DRY ROADS HWY 395 SPEED 70 MPH TURN OFF CENTER 4WD. 59 MPH UP STEEP SPOONER SUMMIT HWY 50 FROM CARSON CITY TRANSMISSION SMOOTH NO JERKS FEELS STRONG 4 CYL MOTOR GOOD AROUND SHARP HIGH SPEED CORNERS FOR GIRLS AT THE WHEEL LIKE JAN AND DEAN LITTLE OLD LADY FROM PASADENA WHITE GLOVES AND FLOWER GARDENIA WHO CANT KEEP HER FOOT OFF THE ACCELERATOR. NO WHEELS SLIP DOWNHILL STEEP MT ROSE IN DEEP SNOWSTORM BRIGHT HEADLIGHTS AT MIDNIGHT VERY SAFE CAR WINDSHIELD WIPERS WIPE RAIN SNOW OFF GOOD. ON A VOLVO MY WIPERS WENT OUT CANT SEE SAME FOR PORSCHE 911. INTERIOR IS ROOMY LOOKS FEELS GOOD RUGGED MATERIAL LET RAIN SNOW COME IN CLEAN OUT DOGHAIR INSIDE WITH GARDEN HOSE. DO NOT BELIEVE NEGATIVE REVIEWS FROM CITY-BOY COMPLAINERS BUT YES NO HELP FROM JEEP CHRYSLER DEALERS UNDER WARRANTY 60,000 MILES POWERTRAIN YOU HAVE *NO WARRANTY* A SALES TRICK ONLY. TAKE CARE OF 2.4 L ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK LEVEL TO TOP OF HASHMARKS. OIL IS A JEEP CARPART NUMBER YOU CAR LADY CARRY 1 QUART I OWN PORSCHE 911 27 YEARS SERIOUS CAR ALWAYS PUT IN NEW OIL CAR MOTORS BURN 1 QUART OIL EVERY 750 MILES CHANGE NEW OIL AND FILTER 3,000 MILES FOR HAPPY. NEW 2021 ENGINES DEMAND A LOT FROM MOTOROIL INTERNALLY DESIGNED THIS WAY THE RINGS AND OVERHEAD CAM VALVETRAIN DIRECT INJECTION ARE HARD ON OIL KEEP YOURS CLEAN. OIL IS LIKE GASOLINE YOU CONSUME OIL IN YOUR OLD 2.4 L SMOKE-HOLE JUNKYARD LANDFILL GREASE MOTORS. YOU MUST BUY CHANGE NEW OXYGEN SENSORS NOT FOR SMOG-SMOKE BUT FOR ENGINE PERFORMANCE IN THE DIGITAL COMPUTER BOX CHRYSLER IS NOT BOSCH. YOU CANT CHEAT ON NOT BUYING NEW OXYGEN SENSORS YOU WONT RUN THE MEX. MOTOR RIGHT. AT ENGINE 20,000 MILES GO TO PENNZOIL FULL SYNTHETIC 5W - 30W OIL AND FILL OIL TO TOP OF HASHMARKS ON OIL DIPSTICK ALWAYS LADY WIPE DIPSTICK OFF ON YOUR DRESS I USE MY BOXER SHORTS. GAS MPG IS AVERAGE 25 MPG AT 70 MPH ROAD WASH THE DUST OFF PAINT LESS DRAG. HIGH DRIVER POSITION IS GOOD FOR LADYS TO SEE OVER 18-WHEELER PETERBILTS. CHANGE NEW SPARKPLUGS 20,000 MILES BETTER FIRING THIS IS A MEXICAN TACO JEEP MOTORS WHY CANT THEY MAKE THEM BETTER UP HERE IN THE USA AT FACTORY ? THE JEEP COMPASS TRAILHAWK MAY BE THE BEST NO. 1 CAR MADE IN THE WORLD TODAY AND I DONT LIKE FIAT MEX. CHRYSLER JEEP TUPY BRAZIL THEY USE OLD GREEN SAND CASTLE INVESTMENT CAST MOTOR BLOCKS MODEL MOLDS WHEN YOU POUR IN 1,500 DEGREES F MOLTEN ALUMINUM Y0U GET GREEN SAND MODELS MOTORBLOCK COMBUSTION CARBON BLACK IN YOUR SAND CASTINGS JEEP DONT GIVE YOU NEW CLEAN VIRGIN SAND FORD SAND IS BLACK COMBUSTION DIRTY LIKE JEEP MEX. SALTILLO MOTORS AT TUPY. JEEP NORTH AMERICA MARKET SHARE WILL SOON BEAT ALL OF FORD AT 14 PERCENT. MEXICO JEEP TUPY BRAZIL BEATS HONDA TOKYO SOMETHINGS WRONG THERE I SURF HAWAII BIG WAVES WITH LITTLE JAPS THEY LIKE FORD MUSTANG USA. MOST EXPENSIVE PART OF A CAR IS CAR DESIGN ITS *LOOKS* JEEP DESIGN IS NO. 1 WORLD THE FIAT CHRYSLER ITALY BOYS REALLY DID IT 007 GRILLE. GOOD MOVIE IS COCA-COLA BOTTLE THE GODS MUST BE CRAZY WHERE JEEP IS THE ANTI-CHRIST UP A TREE WITH THE BLONDE GIRL. OLD PAINT IS OKAY LET IT ROT AND PEEL IN SUN ITS A CHEAP JEEP PART OF THE URBAN COWBOY RODEO DRIVE CHANEL NO. 5 PERFUME SHOPPE LOOK FOR GIRLS. JEEP BEATS SUBARU. ONLY CAR THAT BEATS A JEEP IS AN OLD RUST FORD CROWN VICTORIA FORD 460 CU. IN. V - 8 POLICE MOTOR WITH AN AUTOMATIC IN SNOW BLIZZARD AT MIDNIGHT CLIMB UNDER IT PUT ON CHAINS GET WET AND DIRTY YOU ARE A CAR GUY BLACK TAR ASPHALT IN MY PORSCHE 911 I NEVER DID IT PORSCHE SEATS ARE HORRIBLE LONG DRIVES CRIPPLE YOU RIDE A WHEELCHAIR. VOLVO HAS BEST NO. 1 WORLD FRONT DRIVER SEATS GOOD TO SIT YOUR LOWER BACK LUMBAR IN THE DOCTORS OFFICE WAITING ROOM THE JEEP WEIGHS HEAVY LOTS OF 4WD DRIVE METAL. *LEARN HOW* TO POWER BRAKE PEDAL SMOOTH OR RUIN YOUR ROTORS PADS EARLY DONT JERK STOP. ELECTRIC OK WIRES THIN

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Tim on March 12, 2021

Best car ever

Better than I expected. Love it! Has great gas mileage. Nice leather interior. Never owned a compass jeep. Will buy another one! Best car I have ever had!

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FMF RECON on February 1, 2021

New Jeep 4x4

Perform for family commuting off reading fishing and camping. Perfect for desert riding and mountain climbing and driving to and from work also. Will keep for 10 plus years.

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Drew B

Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma