The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that has been in production since 1974. It is currently in its fifth generation, with the most recent Cherokee model being released for the 2022 model year. It’s important to note that the Jeep Cherokee shouldn’t be confused with its bigger brother, the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Jeep models are typically well-received by both critics and consumers, but there have been some years where the Cherokee has not lived up to expectations. Here are the five worst Jeep Cherokee years to avoid when shopping for a used Jeep Cherokee.
2014 Model Year Jeep Cherokee (5th Generation)
The 2014 Jeep Cherokee model year was one of the worst years to avoid for this vehicle. There were a number of complaints and recalls, including engine and transmission issues, as well as a brake fluid leakage issue. In addition, there were a number of customer satisfaction issues reported.
Chief among those complaints are transmission issues. In fact, nearly 1/3 of all complaints revolve around transmission problems. Other major issues include engine problems, brake problems, and interior accessory issues. In 2019, Jeep recalled more than 80,000 Cherokees from the 2014 model year due to a problem with the transmission shifting uncontrollably.
Overall, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee is a vehicle to avoid if possible. There are far better Cherokee model years to choose from if you’re in the market for a used Jeep.
2015 Model Year Jeep Cherokee (5th Generation)
The 2015 model year Jeep Cherokee was the 5th generation of the popular SUV. It featured a new, more modern design than its predecessors and came standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine.
However, this model year was also plagued with issues, including transmission problems, engine fires, and electrical issues. There are currently hundreds of complaints just for the transmission alone.
Additionally, Jeep issued a recall for the Power Liftgate totally integrated power module. This component would leak and cause fires in some instances.
Because of all these issues, the 2015 Jeep Cherokee is a year to avoid. If you’re considering a used Jeep Cherokee, be sure to check for recalls and do your research on any potential problems.
2016 Model Year Jeep Cherokee (5th Generation)
You might be noticing a trend here. So far, both the 2014 and 2015 Jeep Cherokee years have been among the worst Jeep Cherokees to buy. So it should come as no surprise that the 2016 model year is also one of the worst options. In fact, many experts consider it to be the worst Jeep Cherokee ever made.
The 2016 model year had numerous issues, recalls, and complaints. Nearly 250 complaints were filed with the NHTSA, and there were six safety recalls issued. Among the most serious of these recalls was one for a problem with the airbags.
Other issues involved the electrical wiring system. In some cases, this wiring could short circuit and cause a fire. There were also problems with the engine stalling and transmission shifting issues.
Accessories didn’t fare much better, either. From seat problems to powertrain issues, the 2016 Jeep Cherokee was plagued with problems from the start.
2017 Model Year Jeep Cherokee (5th Generation)
Jeep’s 2017 Cherokee featured a V6 engine with a choice of five trim levels. It came standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, and roof rails.
Inside, there was room for five passengers and cargo space totaled 24.6 cubic feet. Higher trims included a sunroof, leather seats, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
The Uconnect infotainment system was available with a 5-inch touchscreen, and it included features like Bluetooth, streaming audio, and SiriusXM satellite radio.
Common problems with the 2017 Cherokee include transmission issues and engine problems. Complaints also mention the infotainment system, specifically problems with the touchscreen. Many owners had issues with the HVAC system, as well.
There have been three recalls for the 2017 Cherokee due to issues with the electrical wiring system, rims, and airbags.
2019 Model Year Jeep Cherokee (5th Generation)
The 2019 model year Jeep Cherokee is a fifth generation SUV that was first introduced in 2014. It is available in both four-door and two-door body styles and features a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder or V6 engine. The vehicle also has a nine-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.
Like its predecessors, the 2019 Jeep Cherokee also had a number of issues, including transmission and engine problems, as well as drivetrain and interior accessory issues.
In addition, the Cherokee has been recalled nine times for various engine, braking, and transmission issues, among others. Consumer complaints about the 2019 Jeep Cherokee include poor fuel economy, uncomfortable seats, and excessive road noise.
Common Problems
The Jeep Cherokee has three common problems.
The first is transmission failure. This occurs mostly in many of the Jeep Cherokee years, most notably in 2014 and up. The second common problem is electrical failure. Many owners report electrical shorts and wiring issues. And the third common problem is ignition failure. The Cherokee might just not start all of a sudden. Given the frequency of these issues, it is no wonder that the Jeep Cherokee ranks so low in terms of reliability.
If you are in the market for a used Jeep Cherokee, be sure to avoid these model years. Instead, opt for a newer model that has addressed these issues. With proper maintenance, your Jeep Cherokee can be a great vehicle for many years to come.
Best Years to Look For
Not all model years are bad, and in the case of the Jeep Cherokee, there are some years you definitely want to look for if you’re set on buying one.The 2018 Jeep Cherokee is one of the better model years, as it features a powerful and efficient engine, a comfortable and stylish interior, and a wide range of safety features. Other good model years include the 2013 Jeep Cherokee and anything in the fourth generation.
