The Jaguar F-Pace was a landmark vehicle for the brand — its first SUV — but the early model years carried serious engine, electrical, and build-quality issues that generated elevated complaint and crash rates. The 2017 F-Pace has 91 NHTSA complaints, far more than any other year, and an 8.3% crash-involvement rate that sits above the mainstream average. This guide uses NHTSA complaint data, recall records, and owner reports to rank every F-Pace year so you can buy with confidence.
For generations, engines, and ownership notes in one place, see the Jaguar F-Pace hub.
Related: Jaguar E-Pace years to avoid, Jaguar XF years to avoid.
At a glance
- Worst years
- 2017
- 2018
- Best years
- 2022
- 2023
- 2024
- Top failure
- Engine problems including stalling, loss of power, and fires (2017-2018 have the highest complaint and crash rates)
- Always do before buying
- Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall checker to confirm all open recalls are closed; on 2017-2018 cars, inspect the engine bay for oil leaks and test for power loss during highway driving
How we rated the best and worst Jaguar F-Pace years
The 2017 Jaguar F-Pace is the worst model year in the lineup, with 91 NHTSA complaints, 4 reported crashes, and 4 fires. The 2018 model follows with 50 complaints, 3 crashes, and 6 fires. Our ratings draw on NHTSA complaints and recalls, CarComplaints data, and owner reports.
NHTSA recorded 192 total complaints across 2017-2023 for the F-Pace, with an overall complaint rate of 12.8 per 1,000 vehicles. The 8.3% of complaints involving a crash sits above the roughly 4% mainstream average. Engine problems account for 51 complaints — the largest category. Our years to avoid methodology weighs complaint volume, crash involvement, and mileage at failure to produce the verdicts throughout this guide.
| Jaguar F-Pace Generation | Best Jaguar F-Pace Years | Worst Jaguar F-Pace Years |
|---|---|---|
| First generation (2017-2020) | 2020 | 2017, 2018 |
| First gen refreshed (2021-present) | 2022, 2023, 2024 | None |
Every Jaguar F-Pace model year ranked
The Jaguar F-Pace debuted in 2017 as Jaguar’s first SUV, featuring turbocharged four-cylinder and supercharged V6 engine options, all-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2021 refresh brought styling updates, the Pivi Pro infotainment system, and improved build quality.
| Model Year | Generation | Verdict | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 1st gen | Avoid | 91 complaints; 4 crashes; 4 fires; engine and electrical dominant |
| 2018 | 1st gen | Avoid | 50 complaints; 3 crashes; 6 fires; airbag complaints |
| 2019 | 1st gen | OK/Mixed | 21 complaints; 7 crashes; improved but still elevated risk |
| 2020 | 1st gen | OK/Mixed | 15 complaints; 2 crashes; lowest pre-refresh complaint count |
| 2021 | 1st gen (refreshed) | Best | 9 complaints; Pivi Pro infotainment; improved build quality |
| 2022 | 1st gen (refreshed) | Best | 4 complaints; mature platform; low complaint rate |
| 2023 | 1st gen (refreshed) | Best | 2 complaints; consistent reliability |
| 2024 | 1st gen (refreshed) | Best | Minimal complaints; J.D. Power 80/100 quality score |
Most common Jaguar F-Pace problems
Engine problems are the single largest complaint category for the F-Pace, with 51 NHTSA complaints and a 2% crash-involvement rate. Electrical system issues and steering problems round out the top three.
1. Engine stalling and power loss
The most commonly reported F-Pace problem is engine stalling or sudden loss of power, particularly on 2017-2018 models. Owners describe the engine cutting out at highway speeds with no warning, creating dangerous situations. Four fires were reported on 2017 models alone.
The Ingenium four-cylinder engine has been linked to oil consumption and premature failure on some early units. If buying a 2017-2018 with high mileage, request service records and verify no engine-related complaints have been filed on the VIN.
2. Oil filter housing leaks (2021-2024)
Jaguar recalled certain 2021-2024 F-Pace models because the plastic oil filter housing can prematurely crack under standard operating pressures, allowing engine oil to leak directly into the engine compartment. If the oil contacts hot exhaust components, it creates a fire hazard.
Dealers replace the filter housing, oil filter, and O-rings with reinforced components. Confirm this recall is closed before buying any 2021-2024 F-Pace.
3. Electrical system failures
Electrical gremlins plagued early F-Pace models, with complaints about the backup camera, sensors, dashboard displays, and brake system electronics. The 2017 model has the highest volume of electrical complaints.
4. Airbag deployment failures (2017-2018)
Some 2017-2018 owners reported that airbags failed to deploy in crashes — a serious safety defect. NHTSA complaint records show 8 victims in one 2018 airbag complaint alone. If buying these years, verify all airbag recalls are closed and consider the elevated risk.
5. Suspension and steering issues
Steering problems rank third in NHTSA complaints, with owners describing unpredictable behavior, excessive play, and electronic power steering failures. Suspension components have also drawn complaints for premature wear and noise.
Which Jaguar F-Pace years should you avoid?
The Jaguar F-Pace years to avoid are 2017 and 2018. The 2017 model has 91 NHTSA complaints, 4 crashes, and 4 fires — by far the worst record in the lineup. The 2018 model has 50 complaints, 3 crashes, and 6 fires. Both carry the heaviest burden of early-production engine and electrical issues.
| Jaguar F-Pace Generation | Model Years | Verdict | Main Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st gen (early) | 2017, 2018 | Worst | Engine failures, fires, airbag issues, electrical faults |
| 1st gen (late) | 2019, 2020 | OK/Mixed | Reduced complaints but still some crash-involvement signals |
| 1st gen (refreshed) | 2021-2024 | Best | Oil housing recall; otherwise low complaint rates |
Worst Jaguar F-Pace years: 2017, 2018
First-generation Jaguar F-Pace (2017-2018)
The 2017 Jaguar F-Pace accounts for nearly half of all complaints in the model’s history. Engine problems, electrical system failures, and airbag issues dominate the record. The 2018 model shows improvement but still carries an elevated fire risk with 6 reported fires.
If you must consider a 2017 or 2018, verify every recall is closed, request complete service records, and have an independent inspection performed before purchase.
What are the best Jaguar F-Pace years to buy?
The best Jaguar F-Pace years are 2022, 2023, and 2024. These refreshed models benefit from the Pivi Pro infotainment system, improved build quality, and significantly lower complaint rates. The 2024 model achieved an 80/100 J.D. Power quality and reliability score.
| Best Jaguar F-Pace Year | Why It's a Strong Buy |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 4 NHTSA complaints; mature refresh platform; Pivi Pro standard |
| 2023 | 2 complaints; consistent reliability; minor updates |
| 2024 | J.D. Power 80/100 score; refined powertrain; lowest risk overall |
Most reliable Jaguar F-Pace years: 2022, 2023, 2024
2024 Jaguar F-Pace
The 2024 F-Pace represents the most refined version of the platform. After eight years of production, Jaguar has worked through the electrical gremlins and engine vulnerabilities that plagued earlier years. J.D. Power rated it 80/100 for quality and reliability — a strong score for the brand.
Jaguar F-Pace pre-purchase checklist
Before buying any used Jaguar F-Pace, run through this model-specific checklist:
- Run the VIN through NHTSA’s recall checker. Confirm all recalls are closed, especially the 2021-2024 oil filter housing recall.
- On 2017-2018 cars, inspect the engine bay carefully. Look for oil leaks, burned wiring, or any signs of overheating. Test-drive at highway speeds and verify no power loss or stalling.
- Check airbag recall status on 2017-2018 models. Given the deployment failure complaints, confirm all airbag-related recalls are complete.
- Test the infotainment system on pre-2021 cars. The original system was prone to glitches; confirm all screens respond and connectivity works.
- Verify service records. Request complete maintenance history, especially for engine and transmission service.
- On 2021-2024 models, confirm the oil filter housing recall is closed. This is a fire-risk defect with a free dealer repair.
Better alternatives to consider
If the Jaguar F-Pace years in your budget fall on the avoid list, consider these alternatives:
- BMW X3 - a well-documented compact luxury SUV with a longer production run and clearer year-by-year reliability record
- Volvo XC60 - strong safety ratings, straightforward ownership, and a reliability profile that outperforms the F-Pace
- Audi Q5 - compact luxury SUV with stronger dealer network and parts availability
- Porsche Macan - a sportier alternative with a stronger reliability reputation
Is the Jaguar F-Pace worth buying?
Yes, the F-Pace is worth buying if you avoid the 2017 and 2018 model years. The 2022-2024 models offer dramatically improved reliability, and the 2024 represents the most refined version of the platform. The F-Pace delivers engaging driving dynamics and a distinctive British design.
RepairPal gives Jaguar as a brand a reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5.0, so budget accordingly for ownership costs. Run the VIN through NHTSA’s recall checker and verify complete service history before any purchase.