Jeep Cherokee problems
The Jeep Cherokee is a line of SUVs manufactured and marketed by Jeep over five generations.
Marketed initially as a variant of the Jeep Wagoneer, the Cherokee has evolved from a full-size SUV to one of the first compact SUVs and into its current generation as a crossover SUV.
Named after the Cherokee tribe of Native Americans in the United States, Jeep has used the nameplate in some capacity since late 1973 when American Motors Corporation introduced the 1974 model year line.
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Jeep Cherokee model years
Common Jeep Cherokee problems
The Jeep Cherokee has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to its engine and transmission.
One of the most prevalent issues is engine stalls, which have been reported in various model years, including the 2015 and 2019 Jeep Cherokee. In the 2019 model, the engine may suddenly shut down while the vehicle is in motion, potentially causing dangerous situations, especially in traffic. This problem is believed to be linked to the Cherokee's defective 9-speed transmission, which can also cause hard shifting, lurching, and wiring harness defects, leading to engine stalls or sudden shifts to neutral.
The 2014 and 2015 Jeep Cherokee models are particularly affected by transmission problems, with issues such as stuck gears, poor throttle response, rough coasting, delayed downshifting, erratic behavior, and even complete transmission failure reported as early as 70,000 miles.
Chrysler has issued recalls for certain 2014 Jeep Cherokee models due to a stuck transmission clutch, which may cause the transmission to shift to neutral unexpectedly, compromising safety on the road.
In addition to transmission issues, there have been complaints about the 2015 Jeep Cherokee's backup sensor alarm, which may beep unexpectedly and continuously until the engine is turned off for a while.
When purchasing a used Jeep Cherokee, it is essential to have it inspected by an independent mechanic familiar with FCA products and consider getting a good extended warranty that will cover possible repairs.
What is a common problem with a Jeep Cherokee?
A lot of drivers recommend older Cherokees because of the wide availability of aftermarket parts and simpler features that make repairs easier. Some of the common issues that plague the Jeep Cherokee include engine stalls, transmission problems, and transmission-related recalls.
What years should I avoid with the Jeep Cherokee?
Regardless of model, it's a good general rule to avoid model years with many customer complaints, mechanical difficulties, and expensive upkeep, just like any other product you buy. Grand Cherokee model years 2011 and 2014 are the most likely to have mechanical flaws and, therefore, some of the worst to buy.
Are jeeps Cherokee reliable?
We expect the 2023 Cherokee will have about average reliability when compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2021 and 2022 models, plus the Jeep brand scores.
Are Jeep Cherokees known for transmission problems?
The most dangerous transmission problem in the Jeep Cherokee is that it can shift into neutral without warning. The shift can cause the Jeep to abruptly lose power or allow it to roll away if it should be in “Park.” One owner stated that he brought his Cherokee in for service five times for this issue.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Jeep Cherokee years
We have researched Jeep problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Jeep Cherokee cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Jeep Cherokee model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Jeep Cherokee model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Jeep Cherokee years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Jeep Cherokee car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Jeep Cherokee , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Jeep Cherokee vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cherokee model years
A total of 1131 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cherokee model years
There were a total of 403 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Cherokee model years
There were a total of 850 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Cherokee model years
There were a total of 34 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 18364 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Jeep Cherokee . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Jeep Cherokee vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Jeep Cherokee 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-20
- VIN: 1C4PJMCS4EW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 3 times now my car has engaged it's own parking brake and I haven't been able to disengage it. The first and last time it engaged itself in a parking lot after I started my car. The first time I had it towed and the issue had resolved itself before the dealer had a chance to look and since they could not duplicate the issue they let it go. The second time I had it towed to my local mechanic who had to physically disconnect it and reconnect it to get it to disengage. The second time it happened while I was stopped at a stop sign. This third time it engaged at my sons parking school after I started the car. I had it towed to my local mechanic, he disconnected and reconnected and it keeps instantly re-engaging. This is an on-going issue and clearly if it engages itself while running (happened once) is a major safety concern.
Jeep Cherokee 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-18
- VIN: 1C4PJMCS1EW
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while coming to a stop, the vehicle stalled with no warning light illuminated. The contact also noticed that the electronic brake pedal became inoperable and would not engage. The vehicle was able to restart. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the PTU (power transfer unit) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000.
Jeep Cherokee 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-14
- VIN: 1C4PJMCS9EW
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: As of this date: Started about a year ago, when Jeep was over 150,000 miles. When accelerating to turn or from a stop sign or light, vehicle would stall, mimicking the feeling the vehicle ran out of gas. This occurred about once a month. Working at home and not driving my vehicle as much its hard to say if it would have occurred more often. Checked for any codes, none appeared. As I have recently started driving back in the office 3 days a week, the issue of stalling at any given time with no warning began occurring more often. Took it to trusted local service shop, they changed the purge valve pump and gas cap, as they were puzzled on the problem. Did not seem to matter if gas was full, half or under half. The issue occurred twice within 2 weeks. Service shop recommended taking to dealership. Jeep dealership are not aware of any similar issues. Which I found interesting as I researched and found massive posts from various jeep forums as well as this one. They capped off hose to charcoal canister, hoping that would help. And told me its a process of elimination at this point. The next evening it stalled again. I have now parked my vehicle as this has become a safety hazard. Stalling anywhere at any given moment could cause a tragic accident. will be contacting dealership to voice my concern. Hoping for a positive resolution.
Jeep Cherokee 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-08
- VIN: 1C4PJLAB0EW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that the transmission only shifted gear at 5,000 RPM’s. The contact stated that the failure had become progressively worse, causing the contact to become stranded on two separate occasions due to transmission failure. The local dealer was contacted; however, the contact was informed that there were no recalls on the VIN related to the failure and there would be no assistance provided. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 10,000.
Jeep Cherokee 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-05
- VIN: 1C4PJLAB6EW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Electronic parking brake came on when I started the vehicle and will not disengage, so the vehicle is stuck in a parking lot.
Jeep Cherokee 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 1C4PJMDXXLD
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I was going 35 miles per hour the car as i was driving started acting abnormally driving in a lagging jerky way and then states 4wd unavailable service soon. I looked up the issue which seems like a ptu defective part and it seems to be a pretty common issue that jeep cars are experiencing and having difficulty with while driving.
Jeep Cherokee 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 1C4PJLCB0HW
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: LIGHT ON CLUSTER APPEARS "SERVICE SHIFTER". THE LIGHT COMES ON RANDOMLEY. WILL APPEAR 5 TIMES IN ONE DAY AND NOT SHOW UP FOR MONTHS. I HAVE READ ON LINE THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH 2017 (AND OTHER YEAR MODELS). i HAVE TAKEN TO HAVE THIS WARNING LIGHT ADDRESSED BUT CAN NOT MAKE IT COME ON. AS I SAID, ITS RANDOM. WITHOUT LIGHT BEING ON REPAIR SHOP DOES NOT KNOW HOW TO ADDRESS IT. THIS "SERVICE SHIFTER LIGHT" HAS BEEN SHOWING UP FOR OVER 2 YEARS.
Jeep Cherokee 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 1C4PJMBS6EW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Hello my front passenger suspension bolts sheared due to over torque condition. My mechanic said he believes there was something related to this, but it is a serious safety issue. I checked the Stellantis bc and NHTSA Recall site and found nothing. My front drive train is bent and I can’t imagine the risk it out my wife and daughters. Could have snapped on the highway and killed them, and potentially others, in an accident.
Jeep Cherokee 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1C4PJLCB6KD
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Engine off, lost power steering and brakes. Gave me an error on the dash something about not being able to shift. Have 2 kids
Jeep Cherokee 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1C4PJMBS1GW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that the “Service 4WD” warning light was illuminated. While driving approximately 45 MPH and decelerating, the vehicle suddenly stalled from the transmission independently shifting into neutral(N) and failing to release. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed and determined that the transfer case (PTU) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and opened a case regarding the failure. The manufacturer confirmed there was no recall on the VIN the failure. The failure mileage was 49,000.
Jeep Cherokee 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1C4PJLCB9FW
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: UNKNOWN Over the past year, my vehicle has unexpectedly stalled on the highway while traveling at high speeds. This alarming situation has occurred multiple times, leaving me and my passengers in precarious circumstances. Luckily I have been able to avoid hitting other vehicles while moving to the roadside. I believe these incidents are linked to a manufacturing defect within the transmission system, a concern for many Jeep Cherokee owners. For instance, numerous reports on forums like Jeep Forum and NHTSA's website detail similar experiences, with owners describing sudden stalls and transmission issues resulting in dangerous situations. I originally brought my vehicle in on June 21, 2023, where a diagnostic was performed. Jeep recommended repairing the cooling system and changing additional parts, which we did with our trusted mechanic at a cost of $972.37. Unfortunately, the problem of stalling persists. We took the car to the Jeep Dealership and now on October 24, 2024, Jeep has sent me a list of repairs needed totally $9516 to again supposedly fix the issue of the car stalling while driving. The 2015 Jeep Cherokee should now be on the road. I feel strongly that the car should be recalled. Regardless of the fact that the car is no longer under warranty, I have maintained the car with proper maintenence and this should not be happening to any car.
Jeep Cherokee 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1C4PJMBS4FW
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Hi, There are numbers of recalls and 3 of the recalls came back. I got engine light with the codes U0402 Implausible Data Received From TCM U0164 Lost Communication With HVAC Control Module TCM BCM and PCM needs to be reprogrammed or replaced. Also car is accelerating while cruise control is set. Fca satisfaction notice - R01 Fca recall - S55 Nhtsa recall - 16V - 529 Fca recall - U63 Nhtsa recall - 18V - 332 These 3 recalls need to be redone. Thanks
Jeep Cherokee 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1C4PJMBS5GW
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While driving the Vehicle the gear attempted to go into 4WD by itself. I pulled over and at that time I could not shift the car into drive or park. I believe the transmission or gear shift is having an issue. No warning lights go on the dashboard and it will stall while driving on the highway which caused an extreme safety hazard.
Jeep Cherokee 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1C4PJMCS2EW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The PTU on my 2014 Jeep Cherokee failed and was replaced. The attached documents were sent to Stellantis as a “reimbursement request”, was denied per the attached 10/17 email from Jeep Customer Care. As evidenced by numerous online complaints as well as NHTSA Recalls and class action lawsuits, replacement of the PTU was the result of a faulty design and safety concerns. The Stellantis refusal of my claim for reimbursement is unacceptable. What assistance can NHTSA provide to resolve this matter? Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jeep Cherokee 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 1C4PJMDX0LD
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while the vehicle was receiving an oil change and inspection, the contact was informed that the lug nuts were swollen. The contact was informed that the lug nuts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with 18 swollen lug nuts. The contact was informed that the lug nuts needed to be replaced. The lug nuts were replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 46,900.
Latest 5 recalls Jeep Cherokee
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 212 recalls for different components of the Jeep Cherokee.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Jeep Cherokee 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-08
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the right-side curtain air bag may prevent the air bag from deploying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will secure the connector, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 71B.
- Model: Jeep Cherokee 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-07-08
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the right-side curtain air bag may prevent the air bag from deploying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will secure the connector, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 71B.
- Model: Jeep Cherokee 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-28
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis)
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The turn signal self-canceling feature may not function properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: Turn signals that do not function properly may fail to indicate the driver's intention to change vehicle direction, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the steering column control module as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 8, 2024. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 24B.
- Model: Jeep Cherokee 2014
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING: REAR COMPARTMENT/TRUNK
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a power liftgate. An electrical short in the power liftgate module may lead to a vehicle fire with the ignition on or off.
- Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will relocate the power liftgate module and add a water shield. In addition, dealers will inspect for corrosion and replace the module and electrical connectors, if necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 1, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 49A. This recall supersedes recalls 15V-393 and 15V-826. Vehicles repaired under the prior recalls will still need to have the new remedy performed.
- Model: Jeep Cherokee 2016
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-11
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING: REAR COMPARTMENT/TRUNK
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a power liftgate. An electrical short in the power liftgate module may lead to a vehicle fire with the ignition on or off.
- Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will relocate the power liftgate module and add a water shield. In addition, dealers will inspect for corrosion and replace the module and electrical connectors, if necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 1, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 49A. This recall supersedes recalls 15V-393 and 15V-826. Vehicles repaired under the prior recalls will still need to have the new remedy performed.
Latest negative Jeep Cherokee car reviews
Latest positive Jeep Cherokee car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2017
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I recently went on a 600 mile round trip and was able to get 35 miles per gallon! I also wanted to mention how much I love the Bluetooth and backup camera features - they're absolutely wonderful.
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Vehicle year: 2001
Hi there! It's great to hear that you're a fellow Cherokee enthusiast! I also own a 2001 Cherokee Classic, which is my second Cherokee. Back in 1994, I bought my first Cherokee when rumors started circulating that Chrysler was going to discontinue the model. It's such a shame that they did, but I'm glad to hear that your family also appreciates the classic, well-built, and dependable nature of the Cherokee. The visibility and 4x4 ability are also fantastic features that make it such a joy to drive. Thanks for sharing your love for this amazing vehicle!
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Vehicle year: 2018
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your 2018 Jeep Cherokee Overland! It sounds like you made a great choice with all the amazing features it has, like the panoramic sunroof, 3.2 Engine, fog lights, and leather seats. While it's a shame that it doesn't have a CD player, it's still fully loaded and I'm sure you're having a great time driving it!
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Vehicle year: 2020
Great driving....great looking..very nice suv...love my 2020!
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Vehicle year: 2021
You'll enjoy a comfortable ride with this vehicle. While there is some road noise, the climate controls are easy to use and trouble-free. The gas mileage is quite good, and the sound system is quite pleasant and easy to adjust. Although there is no CD player, I use a portable CD player and it works great.
Are you having problems with your Jeep Cherokee?
Mekhi Jacobs 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 1999
This vehicle has some significant issues, including constant 'Death Wobble' and aggravating Crank Position Sensor problems that can cause no-start issues. However, with proper maintenance and repairs, these issues can be resolved and the vehicle can perform well.
Michel Fadel 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 2000
I bought my Jeep Cherokee six years ago when it had 73,000 miles on it. I absolutely loved the freedom it gave me to go anywhere, on or off the road. Unfortunately, I started experiencing some issues when it hit 100,000 miles. The A/C stopped working and despite multiple trips to the auto shop, I eventually gave up on having it fixed. Then, to make matters worse, the heater stopped working too! Over the past two years, I've had to replace two radiators and even blew a head. Despite all of this, I don't believe that these issues are a result of the build quality. Rather, I think that the previous owner didn't take proper care of the vehicle.
Stanley Johns 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 2021
I have owned my Jeep for only two years, and yet I have already had to replace the battery on 8/15/2023. Unfortunately, the battery is already draining again as of 9/25/2023. Despite being a brand new car at the time of purchase, this issue is clearly a cause for concern.
Mohammad Luettgen 2024-11-15
Vehicle year: 2018
I am disappointed with the discolorations on my brand new car that cannot be removed by the dealer. These blotchy marks seem to appear more frequently during the summer months when the sun is shining. They are present in various locations and appear to be a permanent issue that cannot be fixed by the dealer's service rubbing compound. I was surprised to see the same issue on another car in the showroom. Unfortunately, I did not receive any assistance from the dealer regarding this matter. As a result, I cannot recommend the Cherokee to anyone at this time.
Delbert Kuhlman 2024-11-15
Vehicle year: 2019
If you're considering purchasing this car, I would strongly advise against it. Our experience with it has been extremely disappointing. Despite having only 2800 miles on the odometer, we are already looking to trade it in. The acceleration is poor, and we are only getting 13 miles to the gallon, which is very low for a 4 cylinder car. In fact, it's the worst vehicle I've ever owned, and I've had some bad experiences in the past. I want to be clear that I don't just dislike this car, I really can't stand it. I hope this information helps you make an informed decision about your purchase.