Jeeps are supposed to represent durability, off-road capability and great all-weather handling. Unfortunately for thousands of Jeep Patriot owners, they're afraid to drive their cars in the rain. There have been numerous reports of leaks from the roof, sunroof, dome lights, rear hatch, firewall and side doors.

How Big of a Problem is It?

Some uniformed people might say "what, are you afraid of a little water"? But Patriot owners know how severe and annoying this problem can be. Take Brode, from Rawlings, MD for example. In June of 2008 he published a complaint and posted pictures to CarComplaints.com about what appears to be a waterfall from his front dome light:

Had this to the dealer over 5 times now and no there's no fix. It keeps blowing out lights in the dome light, the wiring must be effected somehow. They don't believe me; they cant find anything.

It's hard to ignore these pictures; when posted to Facebook most people couldn't believe what they were seeing. It looks like a water-dispensing dome light — hidden feature or terrible engineering?

1. Dome Light Leak 2008 Jeep Patriot
2. Roof Leak 2008 Jeep Patriot

Jeep Water Leak Recall?

Currently there is no recall from Jeep, but if your Jeep is having this problem and is still under warranty take it into a dealer immediately and keep going back until the problem is solved. Assuming it is warranty work, they should offer you another car while they make the repairs to you're satisfaction. Do not sign-off on the repairs until you are 100% satisfied. Many Patriot owners have claimed they've had the problem come back a week later and had to bring the car back to the shop. Also, any other electrical damage should be repaired or replaced; Don't cave in and demand these repairs.

Other Actions You Can Take to Get Your Voice Heard

This step is crucial. Don't just complain on forums; The sites below actually manage your complaint in ways that allow useful statistics and they report dangerous trends to the authorities. Law firms often contact these sites for help with Class Action lawsuits. Make sure to file your complaint on all three sites, we can't stress that enough.

1. Step 1: File Your Complaint at CarComplaints.com

   CarComplaints.com is a free resource dedicated to uncovering car problem trends and informing the consumer. File Your Complaint

2. Step 2: Notify the Center for Auto Safety

   The Center for Auto Safety is an organization that informs consumers about auto safety issues. Notify the CAS

3. Step 3: Report a Safety Concern to the NHTSA

   The NHTSA directs highway safety and has the authority to force recalls to be issued following investigations. Report Your Concern

Have Your Say

Let us know if you've experienced this problem, know of a potential fix or just want to voice how frustrated you are:

Owner Testimonials

I just discovered my Jeep 2008 Jeep Patriot has a huge water leak through the roof after a night on rain September 21st, 2008 . I first discovered the leak from water dripping from the map lights on the morning of September 22nd. I pulled out of my parking space and heard a hug swooshing sound in the roof, then huge swishing around in in the DASH BOARD. Then I turned on the heat, and water STARTED SPATTERING OUT OF THE VENTS!! The carpet is soaked. I worry even if they can “FIX” the problem, I will have mold / and or rust.

Brian Murray at LemonLaw.com