The Jatco CVT used in the Dodge Caliber and early Jeep Patriot/Compass models (primarily the JF011E and later JF016E) is known for overheating, shuddering, whining, belt slip, and early failure. These transmissions often enter limp mode during highway driving or hill climbs due to thermal overload.
Legal activity includes limited class action filings and extended warranty programs in certain model years, though not a large, unified lawsuit. Many failures occurred outside warranty, leading to high replacement costs.
| Year(s) | Make | Model | Should Purchase? | Reason | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 | Jeep | Patriot | Not Suggested | Overheating and shuddering under load |
Transmission: Jatco CVT – JF011E Known for thermal overload and limp mode Some extended warranty coverage in select years |
|
| 2015 2016 | Jeep | Patriot | Not Suggested | Shudder and early wear |
Transmission: Jatco CVT – JF016E Updated unit but still prone to overheating Reports of early belt/pulley wear |
|
| 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 | Jeep | Compass | Not Suggested | Whine, shudder, and early failure |
Transmission: Jatco CVT – JF011E Frequent overheating on long grades Some class action activity noted |
|
| 2015 2016 | Jeep | Compass | Not Suggested | Shudder and delayed engagement |
Transmission: Jatco CVT – JF016E Still prone to thermal issues Software updates only partially effective |
|
| 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 | Dodge | Caliber | Not Suggested | Overheating and whining noise |
Transmission: Jatco CVT – JF011E Known for early belt/pulley wear Extended warranty offered for some years |
|
| 2012 | Dodge | Caliber (late production) | Not Suggested | Shudder and early failure |
Transmission: Jatco CVT – JF016E Slightly updated but still problematic Failure rates remain high |
The Jatco CVT units (JF011E and JF016E) used in the Jeep Patriot, Jeep Compass, and Dodge Caliber are known for overheating, shuddering, whining, and early failure. While some extended warranties and limited class actions exist, long-term reliability remains inconsistent. Buyers should proceed with Not Suggested and verify service history.