Jeep Cherokee research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Cherokee is a comfortable compact SUV that is more trail-capable than most rivals, especially in Trailhawk form with low range and a rear locker. Early years (2014-2018) have the distinctive split-headlight face, a 184-hp 2.4L or 271-hp V6, and a 9-speed automatic that needed many early software fixes. The 2019 refresh brought conventional styling and a strong 270-hp turbo four, and 2021-2023 models have standard automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. U.S. sales ended with the 2023 model year.

Model years covered: 2014–2023. The KL Cherokee ended with the 2023 model year (production ended February 2023); there are no 2011-2013 or 2024-2026 Cherokees in this record. Jeep has announced a new Cherokee; verify any newer model against current manufacturer data.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Real off road ability in trailhawk form
Available V6 with 4500 lb towing
Strong 2.0 liter turbo 2019 and later
Comfortable ride
Wide choice of 4x4 systems
Standard safety features 2021 and later
Attractive used pricing

Things to know before you buy

Early 9 speed software and replacement history
Ptu recall on some 2014 2017 4x4 models
2.4 liter oil consumption reports
2019 is a major refresh year
V6 ends after 2022
Rear seat and cargo smaller than class leaders
US cherokee discontinued after 2023
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 5 (2014–2023)

The KL Cherokee revived the nameplate for 2014 as a unibody crossover built in Toledo, Ohio and later Belvidere, Illinois. All use a 9-speed automatic. 2014-2018 models offer a 184-hp 2.4L four or 271-hp 3.2L V6 with the split-headlight styling; the 2019 refresh added conventional headlights, a lighter liftgate and a 270-hp 2.0L turbo. Standard driver aids arrived for 2021, the V6 ended after 2022, and production ended in February 2023.

Buyer takeaway: Budget shoppers can find good 2016-2018 Cherokees once 9-speed and PTU records are checked; 2019-2022 2.0T models are the best all-around picks, and 2021-2023 add standard safety features. Choose a Trailhawk for off-road use and a V6 for towing.

Jeep Cherokee by model year

2023 Jeep Cherokee

The 2023 Cherokee is the last of this generation; production at Belvidere, Illinois, ended in February 2023 after a short run. Only two 4x4 trims were offered: Altitude Lux with the 180-hp 2.4L, and Trailhawk with the 270-hp 2.0L turbo. The V6 was gone. Because so few were built, expect limited supply; parts and service remain available through Jeep dealers.

Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 180 hp; 2.0 liter turbo I4 270 hp 295 lb ft trailhawk only
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Four wheel drive altitude lux; Active drive lock 4x4 trailhawk
Body style: 5 door SUV

What changed:

Final US model year
Lineup cut to altitude lux and trailhawk
V6 dropped
4x4 standard on both trims
Production ended february 2023 after a short run

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and 4x4 system by VIN; 9 speed shift quality and software update history; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Power transfer unit leaks noise and 4x4 warnings if 4x4; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; Uconnect screen and software; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2022 Jeep Cherokee

The 2022 Cherokee added the Cherokee X trim with a factory lift, and the Trailhawk gained more standard content. It is the last year for the 271-hp 3.2L V6 (rated to tow 4,500 lb when properly equipped); the 180-hp 2.4L and 270-hp 2.0T continue with the 9-speed and the standard driver-assistance features added for 2021.

Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 180 hp 170 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 270 hp 295 lb ft; 3.2 liter pentastar V6 271 hp 239 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Active drive i 4x4; Active drive ii 4x4 with low range; Active drive lock 4x4 trailhawk
Body style: 5 door SUV

What changed:

New cherokee x trim with factory lift
Trailhawk gains power liftgate and more standard content
Last year of the 3.2 liter V6
Significant price increases

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and 4x4 system by VIN; 9 speed shift quality and software update history; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Towing equipment and hitch wear if V6; Power transfer unit leaks noise and 4x4 warnings if 4x4; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; Uconnect screen and software; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2021 Jeep Cherokee

For 2021 Jeep made blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, forward collision warning with automatic braking and lane-keep assist standard on every Cherokee, a big safety upgrade for used shoppers. The Latitude Lux became a full trim and an 80th Anniversary Edition was added. Engines remain the 2.4L, 270-hp 2.0T and 271-hp V6 with the 9-speed.

Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 180 hp 170 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 270 hp 295 lb ft; 3.2 liter pentastar V6 271 hp 239 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Active drive i 4x4; Active drive ii 4x4 with low range; Active drive lock 4x4 trailhawk
Body style: 5 door SUV

What changed:

Standard blind spot and rear cross path detection
Standard forward collision warning with automatic braking
Standard lane departure warning with lane keep assist
Latitude lux becomes a full trim
80th anniversary edition

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and 4x4 system by VIN; 9 speed shift quality and software update history; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Turbo and stop start operation if 2.0T; Power transfer unit leaks noise and 4x4 warnings if 4x4; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; Uconnect screen and software; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2020 Jeep Cherokee

The 2020 Cherokee carries over the refreshed design with the 180-hp 2.4L, 270-hp 2.0L turbo and 271-hp 3.2L V6, all with the 9-speed automatic. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard, and Jeep quietly trimmed the top Overland model from the lineup around this time. Turbo models offer the best mix of power and mpg.

Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 180 hp 170 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 270 hp 295 lb ft; 3.2 liter pentastar V6 271 hp 239 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Active drive i 4x4; Active drive ii 4x4 with low range; Active drive lock 4x4 trailhawk
Body style: 5 door SUV

What changed:

Apple carplay and android auto made standard
Overland trim phased out around this time

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and 4x4 system by VIN; 9 speed shift quality and software update history; Turbo and stop start operation if 2.0T; Power transfer unit leaks noise and 4x4 warnings if 4x4; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; Uconnect screen and software; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2019 Jeep Cherokee

The 2019 refresh dropped the controversial split-headlight face for a more conventional front end and added a new 270-hp, 295 lb-ft 2.0L turbo four with stop-start, now the strongest engine. The 2.4L (180 hp) and 3.2L V6 (271 hp) continue, all with the 9-speed. EPA ratings run about 23/31 mpg for a front-drive 2.0T and 22/31 for the 2.4L. A new liftgate, available hands-free, adds cargo room.

Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 180 hp 170 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 270 hp 295 lb ft; 3.2 liter pentastar V6 271 hp 239 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Active drive i 4x4; Active drive ii 4x4 with low range; Active drive lock 4x4 trailhawk
Body style: 5 door SUV

What changed:

New front styling with conventional headlights
New 2.0 liter turbo 270 hp option
Hands free power liftgate available
Redesigned liftgate and more cargo space

2018 Jeep Cherokee

The 2018 Cherokee is the last year of the original look, offered as Latitude, Latitude Plus, Limited, Overland and Trailhawk with the 184-hp 2.4L four or 271-hp 3.2L V6 and the 9-speed automatic. Changes were mostly equipment shuffles. A 2018 can be a value buy against the 2019 refresh if you do not need the new turbo engine.

Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 184 hp 171 lb ft; 3.2 liter pentastar V6 271 hp 239 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Active drive i 4x4; Active drive ii 4x4 with low range; Active drive lock 4x4 trailhawk
Body style: 5 door SUV

What changed:

Trim content shuffles ahead of refresh
Last year of the original split headlight styling

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and 4x4 system by VIN; 9 speed shift quality and software update history; Power transfer unit leaks noise and 4x4 warnings if 4x4; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; Uconnect screen and software; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2017 Jeep Cherokee

The 2017 Cherokee moved to Jeep's fourth-generation Uconnect with 7- and 8.4-inch touchscreens that add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, faster startup and sharper graphics (confirm the exact radio by VIN, since base models used smaller units). Mechanically it carries over the 184-hp 2.4L and 271-hp 3.2L V6 with the 9-speed automatic, so a 2017 delivers the original styling with modern phone integration.

Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 184 hp 171 lb ft; 3.2 liter pentastar V6 271 hp 239 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Active drive i 4x4; Active drive ii 4x4 with low range; Active drive lock 4x4 trailhawk
Body style: 5 door SUV

What changed:

Fourth generation uconnect 7 inch and 8 4 inch screens
Apple carplay and android auto on uconnect 4 screens

2016 Jeep Cherokee

For 2016 Jeep added the Overland, a luxury-focused top trim with Nappa leather, ventilated front seats, wood trim and an 8.4-inch navigation screen. Engines stay the 184-hp 2.4L four and 271-hp 3.2L V6 with the 9-speed automatic. By this year the 9-speed's software was more settled, making a 2016 a better bet than a 2014, though 4x4 models should still be checked for power-transfer-unit concerns.

Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 184 hp 171 lb ft; 3.2 liter pentastar V6 271 hp 239 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Active drive i 4x4; Active drive ii 4x4 with low range; Active drive lock 4x4 trailhawk
Body style: 5 door SUV

What changed:

New luxury overland trim added midyear
Nappa leather and 8 4 inch navigation on overland

2015 Jeep Cherokee

The 2015 Cherokee carries over the 184-hp 2.4L and 271-hp 3.2L V6 with the 9-speed automatic. Jeep kept refining the transmission's software, and cars built before March 2015 were among those eligible for transmission replacements. 2014-2015 Cherokees with the 8.4-inch Uconnect screen were part of the 2015 software recall that closed a remote-hacking vulnerability, so confirm that update was done.

Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 184 hp 171 lb ft; 3.2 liter pentastar V6 271 hp 239 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Active drive i 4x4; Active drive ii 4x4 with low range; Active drive lock 4x4 trailhawk
Body style: 5 door SUV

What changed:

9 speed software refinements continue
Uconnect 8 4a security update recall on affected cars

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and 4x4 system by VIN; 9 speed shift quality and software update history; Transmission replacement or reflash records 2014 2015; Power transfer unit leaks noise and 4x4 warnings if 4x4; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; Uconnect security update status; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

2014 Jeep Cherokee

The 2014 Cherokee brought the name back on an all-new car-based crossover with a 184-hp 2.4L four-cylinder or a 271-hp 3.2L V6, both with a 9-speed automatic. Front-drive 2.4L models are rated about 22/31 mpg city/highway. Three 4x4 systems were offered, including the Trailhawk's Active Drive Lock with a rear locker. Early 9-speeds received many software updates and some replacements, so check service records closely on a first-year truck.

Engines: 2.4 liter tigershark multiair I4 184 hp 171 lb ft; 3.2 liter pentastar V6 271 hp 239 lb ft
Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; Active drive i 4x4; Active drive ii 4x4 with low range; Active drive lock 4x4 trailhawk
Body style: 5 door SUV

What changed:

Nameplate returns as a unibody crossover
First 9 speed automatic in the segment
Three 4x4 systems active drive i ii and lock
Trailhawk off road trim with rear locker
Polarizing split headlight front styling

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and 4x4 system by VIN; 9 speed shift quality and software update history; Transmission replacement or reflash records 2014 2015; Power transfer unit leaks noise and 4x4 warnings if 4x4; Oil level and consumption on 2.4 liter; Uconnect screen and software; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Maintenance history.

Known issues and what to check

9-Speed Automatic Shift Quality, Software Updates and Recall (2014–2023)
Every Cherokee uses a 9-speed automatic. Early 2014-2015 trucks were known for rough, busy or delayed shifts; Jeep issued many software updates and replaced a number of transmissions in 2014 Cherokees and 2015 models built before March 2015. A 2019 recall also updated software on some 2014 V6 models for a valve that could let the transmission slip into neutral. Later years are generally more settled, but shift quality still matters on any example.
What to do: Confirm all transmission recalls and software updates are done and test drive in mixed traffic.
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) on Active Drive II and Active Drive Lock 4x4 (2014–2017)
Some 2014-2017 4x4 Cherokees with the two-speed power transfer unit (Active Drive II and Active Drive Lock) were recalled because worn splines could cut power to the front wheels or keep the vehicle from engaging Park, creating a rollaway risk. The remedy was a software update that warns the driver and can apply the parking brake. Owners have also reported PTU leaks, noise and failures across these years.
What to do: On a 4x4 Cherokee, make sure PTU recalls are complete and check for leaks and 4x4 warnings.
2.4L Tigershark Oil Consumption (2014–2023)
The 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder has been the subject of owner complaints and a consolidated, settled class action alleging excessive oil consumption from piston-ring design, with some reports of low oil leading to stalling. Not every engine is affected, but the oil level should be checked often.
What to do: On a 2.4L Cherokee, check the oil level, ask the owner about oil top-offs, and favor documented frequent oil changes.
Uconnect 8.4A Cybersecurity Software Recall (2014–2015)
In 2015 FCA recalled about 1.4 million vehicles, including 2014-2015 Cherokees with the 8.4-inch Uconnect screen, to update software after researchers showed a Cherokee could be controlled remotely. Most cars received the fix long ago, but the VIN should confirm it.
What to do: Confirm the Uconnect security update is shown as complete for the VIN.
2.0L Turbo and Stop-Start System Check (2019–2023)
The 270-hp 2.0L turbo uses direct injection, a turbocharger and engine stop-start with a secondary battery system. A healthy one is smooth and quick; check for stop-start warnings, battery faults and turbo-related codes.
What to do: Scan for codes and confirm stop-start works on a 2.0T Cherokee.
Cherokee Generation and Grand Cherokee Disambiguation (2014–2023)
This record covers the 2014-2023 KL Cherokee crossover. It is not the boxy 1984-2001 Cherokee (XJ), and the 2002-2012 Jeep sold here as the Liberty was a separate model. The Grand Cherokee is a larger, different SUV. Engines and 4x4 systems vary by year and trim, so decode the VIN.
What to do: Confirm the exact year, engine, 4x4 system and trim before comparing prices.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, build date, engine, 4x4 system, equipment and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls, including 9-speed software, power transfer unit and Uconnect campaigns that applied to some Cherokees.

Similar vehicles to consider

Questions this guide answers

Which engine does this Jeep Cherokee have?
What changed with the 2019 Cherokee refresh?
Are the early 9-speed transmission problems fixed on this Cherokee?
Does this Cherokee have the power transfer unit recall?
Which 4x4 system does this Cherokee have?
Does the 2.4L engine burn oil?
How much can a Cherokee tow?
Which Cherokee years have standard automatic emergency braking?
Why was the Cherokee discontinued after 2023?
What similar SUVs should I consider?