2005 Jeep Wrangler: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2005 Jeep Wrangler: 1 recall, 650 owner complaints and up to 17 mpg combined.

Recalls
1 vehicle recall from the manufacturer, plus 1 equipment/tire recall that can apply. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Transmission & drivetrain Vehicle recall #05V460000 · 2005 · 256,409 vehicles
What's wrong: On certain pickup trucks, sport utility and passenger vehicles equipped with 42rle automatic transmissions, the cup plug that retains the park pawl anchor shaft May be improperly installed. If the shaft moves out of position, the vehicle May not be able to achieve 'park' position.
Why it matters: If this occurs and the parking brake is not applied, the vehicle May roll away and cause a crash without warning.
The fix: Dealers will inspect the transmissions and install a bracket to ensure the park pawl anchor shaft is retained in the proper position. The recall began on November 28, 2005.
1 aftermarket equipment / tire recall replacement parts sold to fit this car, not the car itself
Brakes (hydraulic) Equipment recall #06E022000 · 2006 · 7,440 vehicles
What's wrong: Certain aftermarket brake hydraulic master cylinders sold as replacement brake cylinders for certain Ford, daimlerchrysler, and Jeep passenger vehicles. These brake cylinders were sold under the brand names of napa, raybestos, aimco, ac delco, carquest, bendix, and wagner. Only products that were manufactured from July 27, 2005 through January 17, 2006 (date codes 0529 through 0602) are subject to this recall. When…
Why it matters: Loss of brake fluid can lead to a decrease in brake line pressure and an increase in stopping distance, which can result in a vehicle crash.
The fix: Affinia (brake parts, Inc.) will replace the subject brake hydraulic master cylinders free of charge. The recall began on March 20, 2006. Owners can contact affina group customer service at 1-800-323-0354.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 9 mention a fire, 15 injuries and 2 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Fuel system (346): the most common themes are stalls / loses power (70), fire / smoke (37).
- Fuel & propulsion (99): the most common themes are stalls / loses power (25), fire / smoke (10).
- Steering (58): the most common themes are steering problems (39), noise or vibration (4).
- Suspension (51): the most common themes are steering problems (30), noise or vibration (5).
The 2005 Jeep Wrangler has 650 owner complaints, ranking #11 of 37 Wrangler model years for complaints (1.5× the average Wrangler year). Complaints peaked in 2011 (155 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 5 years old, at a median of 50,000 miles. Neighboring years: 2004 (192 complaints, 1 recalls), 2006 (730 complaints, 3 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4 L 4-cyl | Manual 6-spd | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive | 16 | 19 | 17 | Regular |
| 4.0 L 6-cyl | Manual 6-spd | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive | 13 | 17 | 15 | Regular |
| 4.0 L 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive | 13 | 16 | 14 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2005 Jeep Wrangler.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
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FAQ
Does the 2005 Jeep Wrangler have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 vehicle recall for the 2005 Jeep Wrangler, plus 1 equipment or tire recalls that can apply. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2005 Jeep Wrangler problems?
Owners have filed 650 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are fuel system (346), fuel & propulsion (99), steering (58).
What gas mileage does the 2005 Jeep Wrangler get?
EPA ratings run up to 17 mpg combined (2.4 L, Manual 6-spd), across 3 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2005 Jeep Wrangler repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.