Jeep Wrangler Tips Over During the 2022 IIHS Crash Test

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler was recently put to the test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It is one of the most sought-after SUVs due to its utmost off-road capability. However, it is a shame that it tipped over during the recent IIHS crash test.

Let's take a closer look at the test results and see what went wrong with the Jeep Wrangler.

How does the IIHS crash test works?

The IIHS is an independent, nonprofit educational and scientific organization. It checks the crashworthiness by undergoing the vehicle in various tests. It needs to purchase the models to assess certain vehicles just like an ordinary consumer. The organization buys the SUVs, cars, and pickup trucks they evaluate directly from dealers.

Some automobiles are tested at the request of the manufacturer, so particular models may not be a part of the institute's regular testing schedule. Since IIHS typically purchase the vehicles it evaluates, the manufacturer will reimburse the expenses.

When it comes to safety, the IIHS tests evaluate two aspects—crashworthiness and the vehicle's technology. The crashworthiness shows how effectively a particular car, pickup, or SUV protects the driver and passengers in the event of a crash. It is vital, especially when the vehicle is involved in a road accident that led to a collision.

Furthermore, the agency tests out the vehicle's crash avoidance and mitigation. Automakers include various safety tech features in their models. These can prevent a crash or lessen the severity of the impact.

How did IIHS test the Wrangler?

Part of the previous generation is the 2015 model year of the Wrangler, but it did not roll over in the crash test. Jeep had conducted private testing in 2020, wherein the 2019 model did not tip over. Unfortunately, it flipped in an audit crash test by the IIHS. It was not a proud moment for the brand because it was the first time any vehicle had tipped over in the driver-side small overlap crash test.

Recently, the IIHS subjected the latest Wrangler model to various tests, including the assessment of the driver-side small overlap. The technicians used a dummy and drove the SUV at 40 mph. A part of the test is to ram the rammed of the SUV into a five-foot-tall barrier. Unexpectedly, it flipped. However, it is unsurprising as it was not the first time Jeep Wrangler toppled over during a crash test.

The same scenario happened a few years back. In 2020, the Wrangler's 2019 model tumbled as it hit the barrier. The result of the crash test made the headlines of many automotive blogs and magazines. By the initial impact, the Jeep Wrangler did a comparable job of protecting the passenger compartment. However, it's not as effective as the rival Bronco.

The IIHS also tested Ford's popular SUV in 2020. The Bronco remained upright, unlike the Wrangler, which was lifted and flipped onto its side when it hit the barrier. The Bronco kept the passenger cell intact and all four wheels on the ground, which earned a "Good" rating.

Because of what happened in 2019, Stellantis has pushed some changes to the front structure of the Wrangler Unlimited. It is an effort to receive a better score by not falling over in the small overlap crash of the IIHS.

Another instance of rollover occurred after Jeep requested a modified second test. According to IIHS, even though the manufacturer made structural modifications, it still did not eliminate the issue.

2022 crash test on Wrangler

For the recent crash test—the roof was removed, the windows were opened, and the doors remained attached for the 2022 four-door Wrangler. During the test, a crash test dummy occupant on the driver's side was placed to monitor the driver's safety. The organization did not include a dummy seated on the passenger side.

Even though Jeep has tried to do some modifications to the Wrangler, it still was not enough for its 2022 model year. The changes did not work to mitigate rollover risk for the famous off-road SUV.

Based on the test, the safety cage surrounding the driver held the structure well. The restraints also effectively controlled the movement of the dummy. However, the test indicated a significant risk of injury to the left leg and foot of the driver.

Moreover, the combination of the head and torso side airbag did not deploy during the collision with the barrier. These factors were not enough to warrant a good rating. Since the side airbag intended to protect the torso and head failed to deploy, the test presented a serious risk to the driver's leg. When the Wrangler tipped onto its side, it showed an additional risk of injury beyond the standard criteria intended to measure by the IIHS.

It is also pointed out in the report of the IIHS that the convertible Wrangler puts occupants at greater risk of injury. If a crash occurs, the Wrangler poses a higher risk of ejection because its roof and doors are removable. The driver and passengers are more vulnerable to the dangers of a partial rollover. They are more likely to be ejected from the SUV if the significant parts and Jeep accessories are not present.

The "Marginal" safety rating of the 2022 Jeep Wrangler in the said crash test category means that it is automatically disqualified as one of the "Top Safety Picks." The IIHS ratings vary from Good, Acceptable, Marginal, to Poor. For vehicles to get into the Top Safety Pick list, they must earn a minimum "Good" rating in different crash test categories.

Improving the reliability

Putting aftermarket accessories for your Wrangler can increase its reliability, primarily when you base it on your usual way of driving. Installing dependable aftermarket products can help you pull the Jeep out of tricky situations.

If you live in an urban area, you might not need as much off-roading equipment. Nerf bars or running boards, seat covers, all-weather floor mats, and other accessories can improve the vehicle for daily driving. You can focus on comfort and convenience features to help your daily driving.

However, if you frequently go off-road, you should consider Jeep parts and accessories that will improve its capability. You can add skid plates, rock sliders, additional LED light accessories, recovery gear, and more. There are a lot of Jeep accessories that can help you get unstuck when you encounter obstacles.

Wrap up

Jeep Wrangler has failed the IIHS crash test due to its high risk of injury in a rollover. The IIHS did not give a good score to the Jeep Wrangler, but due to its excellent off-road capability, it is still one of the best-selling SUVs in the market.

Would-be buyers and existing owners must keep in mind that the Wrangler is a convertible SUV, which means that it has a higher risk of ejection. To avoid this, make sure that you and your passengers are always buckled up. Despite the low score on the crash test, safety will depend on how the drivers will operate their vehicles on the road. The safest way to drive is to focus on the road. You may also increase the reliability by adding some dependable aftermarket products.