Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Jeep Gladiator
The 2021 Jeep Gladiator is a truck that earns a Carivo score of 6.9/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.0/10, while Safety at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional truck — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability stands out at 9.0/10. The Gladiator nameplate has earned that score through its track record and a comparatively clean recall sheet. Safety is a notable gap at 6.6/10 in our scoring — below what the best in segment deliver. Check the official NHTSA ratings for the trim you're considering before deciding.
Few rivals match it for performance: 9.0/10. Expect handling and power delivery that make this one of the more entertaining trucks to actually drive. Technology scores 6.8/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $36,427–$44,753, 16 MPG, seating 5, the Jeep Gladiator sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. At 7.5/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Verdict: The 2021 Jeep Gladiator sits in the middle of the field. Until its technology and safety scores improve, stronger options exist at this price. Worth a look if it fits a specific need; otherwise use our compare tool against the segment leaders first.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Trucks
The 2021 Jeep Gladiator ranks #457 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 11% of the segment. Its 6.9/10 overall score is 0.5 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $36,427 starting price sits close to the segment's median of $35,138.
$0 — 8 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Gladiator Year Should You Buy?
Across the Gladiator model years we've scored, the 2021 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 16 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
NHTSA Recalls — 2021 Jeep Gladiator (8 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Power train / Clutch assembly 28/01/2021 · 21V028000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Jeep Wrangler and 2020-2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.
Back over prevention / Display function 25/08/2022 · 22V638000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Jeep Wrangler, RAM 1500 and 2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles. A radio software error may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal…
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Jeep Wrangler, Ram 1500, and 2021-2022 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail, causing an engine stall.
Power train / Clutch assembly 23/02/2023 · 23V116000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Jeep Wrangler, and 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Wrangler, Gladiator, and 2022-2023 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with a 3.0L diesel engine. The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) may fail.
Showing 5 of 8 campaigns — see the full list on NHTSA's site.
Own a 2021 Jeep Gladiator that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2021 Jeep Gladiator
Is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator reliable?
We rate the 2021 Jeep Gladiator's reliability 9.0/10 — one of the stronger records in its class. It has 8 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2021 Jeep Gladiator have?
8 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator worth buying?
It scores 6.9/10 overall, ranking #457 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 11% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2021 Jeep Gladiator cost?
The 2021 Jeep Gladiator starts at $36,427 and ranges up to $44,753 across trims (MSRP when new). At 16 MPG, expect roughly $3,281/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Gladiator years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 7 Gladiator model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.0/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2021 Jeep Gladiator have?
The documented issues for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Power train, Back over prevention, Fuel system, gasoline, Fuel system, diesel (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Jeep Gladiator
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More Jeep Reviews
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