Photo: Mr.choppers / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Jeep Cherokee
SUV · Gas · 33 versions · owner report
Ranked #20 of 26 compact SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (180 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation.
7 problems reported (4 very frequent, 3 recurrent) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentSevere 9-speed automatic transmission problems
Including bad shifting, laggy downshifts (taking 2-3 seconds), clunking noises, loss of 4x4 capability, and widespread concerns about long-term reliability.
- Very frequentGeneral poor reliability and high repair frequency after 100,000 miles
Vehicles become unreliable, with multiple breakdowns and expensive repairs for components like starters, water pumps, and electrical systems.
- Very frequentRust on the undercarriage and body
A critical failure point that can compromise structural integrity.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- Very frequentPoor fuel economy
Typically around 17 MPG, especially in city driving.
- RecurrentPower Transfer Unit (PTU) failure
A specific, recurrent failure in the AWD system, sometimes attributed to tire wear, requiring replacement.
- RecurrentElectrical issues and parasitic battery drain
Causing dashboard glitches, system shutdowns, and required component replacement (e.g., PDC Assembly).
- RecurrentAge-related wear on steering and suspension components
Tie rods, ball joints, and bushings often need replacement around 100,000 miles.
The version owners recommend
For the XJ generation, models equipped with the 4.0L inline-six engine are universally recommended. For the KL generation, the Trailhawk trim is specifically highlighted as the best version for buyers seeking its unique off-road capabilities, praised for its full-time 4x4 system, mechanical rear locker, underbody armor, and comprehensive technology features. Other KL trims do not receive specific endorsement.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ford Bronco Sport, Honda Passport, Subaru Outback, Toyota 4Runner and Honda CR-V.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation. For the original XJ generation (produced until approximately 2001), sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with owners praising legendary reliability, mechanical simplicity, and rugged capability. The 4.0L inline-six engine is frequently cited as exceptionally durable, capable of reaching 250,000 to 300,000+ miles with proper maintenance. This generation is described as a practical, long-lasting vehicle that is easy to work on. In stark contrast, sentiment for the modern KL generation (2014 onward) is predominantly negative. It is widely criticized for severe and recurrent transmission problems, poor reliability beyond 100,000 miles, and a general lack of refinement. While the Trailhawk trim is acknowledged for its unique off-road hardware, the platform is otherwise viewed as an unreliable, unremarkable crossover with significant mechanical flaws. The consensus indicates deep satisfaction with well-maintained XJs and significant disappointment with KL models, particularly regarding long-term ownership.
Positioning vs competitors
The XJ Cherokee is positioned as a uniquely capable, simple, and reliable classic SUV with few direct modern competitors, often compared favorably to vintage Toyota trucks for durability. The KL Cherokee Trailhawk is noted as the most capable crossover in its class due to its true 4x4 system with a low range and rear locker, offering more serious off-road hardware than unibody competitors like the Ford Bronco Sport or Honda Passport. However, the standard KL models are positioned as inferior to mainstream competitors like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5 in terms of reliability, driving dynamics, and overall quality. It is frequently described as a forgettable vehicle that falls short of both its rugged heritage and the standards set by its segment rivals.
Recommended configurations
For XJ models: The 4.0L engine is mandatory. A thorough inspection for undercarriage rust is critical. Buyers should budget for immediate replacement of wear items like steering components, control arm bushings, and fluids if not recently serviced. For KL models: An extended warranty is strongly suggested if purchasing, specifically to cover the transmission and powertrain. The V6 engine is noted as the better powerplant option over the turbo four-cylinder, but it is still hampered by the problematic transmission.
General recommendations
The XJ Cherokee is recommended for enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and those seeking a simple, durable, and capable classic SUV, with the understanding that ongoing maintenance is required. It is suitable as a daily driver if one is prepared for its age-related needs and fuel economy (approximately 17 MPG). The KL Cherokee is not generally recommended. If considering one, it should only be purchased with a comprehensive extended warranty, heavily discounted, and with the expectation of potential major repairs, particularly transmission failure. It may be a short-term option for those specifically wanting the Trailhawk's off-road features at a lower price than a body-on-frame SUV. For all generations, a pre-purchase inspection is essential.
Remarks
Owner feedback clearly delineates two distinct vehicles sharing the Cherokee name. The XJ's reputation for reliability is contingent on maintenance and rust prevention; its age means ownership involves managing wear, not expecting modern convenience or safety. The KL's transmission issues (ZF 9HP/948TE) are a dominant and well-documented flaw that fundamentally undermines ownership satisfaction. Discussions suggest reliability for the KL is acceptable up to approximately 120,000 miles, after which major failures become common. The Trailhawk trim is a notable exception within the KL lineup, valued for its specific off-road hardware, but it does not escape the platform's broader reliability criticisms. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning over a decade.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2014. Years to avoid: 2019, 2014Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Jeep Cherokee years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 7 | 4 | power train |
| 2023 | 3 | 1 | power train |
| 2022 | 51 | 3 | power train |
| 2021 | 168 | 4 | power train |
| 2020 | 320 | 3 | power train |
| 2019 | 1,653 | 11 | power train |
| 2018 | 687 | 7 | power train |
| 2017 | 1,336 | 6 | power train |
| 2016 | 1,409 | 9 | power train |
| 2015 | 1,789 | 11 | power train |
| 2014 | 2,649 | 13 | power train |
| 2001 | 1,133 | 8 | service brakes |
| 2000 | 1,885 | 7 | service brakes |
| 1999 | 2,113 | 8 | service brakes |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices115 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2026 · exterior lighting:brake lightscampaign 26V059000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Jeep Wagoneer S, 2025-2026 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, Ram 4500 Cab Chassis, Ram 5500 Cab Chassis, and 2026 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. Due to an improperly designed trailer tow module, the trailer lights may fail to illuminate and the trailer brakes may fail.
2026 · electronic stability control (esc)campaign 26V223000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2026 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The brake system control module may fail to operate properly, which can cause a loss of anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC).
2026 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 26V531000
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2026 Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Gladiator, Jeep Compass, Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Jeep Grand Wagoneer L, Ram Promaster, Ram Promaster EV, Ram 1500, Ram 2500, Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid, Chrysler Voyager, and 2026-2027 Chrysler Pacifica and Dodge Charger vehicles. The rearview camera image may fail to display when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2026 · tires:pressure monitoring and regulating systemscampaign 26V559000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Jeep Wagoneer, 2024-2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, 2025 Jeep Wagoneer L, 2025-2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer L, and 2026 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. Due to a software error, the tire pressure monitoring system may fail to detect low tire pressure and/or fail to illuminate the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring System."
2023 · power traincampaign 26V290000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.
2022 · exterior lighting:turn signalcampaign 24V239000
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."
2022 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 24V516000
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."
2022 · power traincampaign 26V290000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.
2021 · power train:automatic transmission:cooler/radiator:hoses and fittingscampaign 21V310000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The transmission oil cooler hose may have been incorrectly cured, allowing transmission fluid to leak.
2021 · suspension:front:control arm:lower armcampaign 20V657000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee Latitude and Jeep Cherokee Limited vehicles. One or both of the front lower control arms may fracture while driving.
2021 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 24V516000
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."
2021 · power traincampaign 26V290000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.
2020 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 20V191000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Cherokee, 2019-2020 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Renegade and 2019 Dodge Challenger vehicles equipped with 8.4" or 12" radio displays. A software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
2020 · steering:rack and pinion:rackcampaign 19V637000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The steering rack gear may break, possibly causing a loss of steering control.
2020 · power traincampaign 26V290000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.
100 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: KM
1.6 Hybrid
Hybrid · 210 hp · AWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2025–2026