Since 1974, Jeep has been introducing its Cherokee, a mid-size SUV, to the market. A powerful performance and advanced technologies made it popular in the future. The Jeep Cherokee is primarily known for its off-road capabilities and its versatile design based on Jeep’s heritage.
Jeep Cherokee offers a high level of performance as well as comfort with its comfortable designs and modern technologies. A first-generation Jeep Cherokee was introduced in 1974, and a fourth-generation Jeep Cherokee debuted in 2014.
While Jeep Cherokees perform well, some of their model years have been recalled and have received poor ratings from customers. The following avoidable model years are complained about for a variety of reasons if you are thinking about buying a Jeep Cherokee.
The Jeep Cherokee had its worst years from 2014 to 2019 based on recall numbers, counted problems, reliability ratings, and customer reviews.
In the same way that other car brands can be ranked from best to worst year models, Jeep Cherokee can be ranked as well. In light of these factors, 2010-11, 2018, 2020, and 2021 are the best model years for the Jeep Cherokee.
According to reliability ratings, problem counts, consumer reviews, and recall numbers, we have discussed the worst and best years of the Jeep Cherokee.
In case you’re interested in other Jeep model years, we compiled a list of some of their best and worst years.
5 Jeep Cherokee Years to Avoid Buying
Whenever possible, it is advisable to avoid the worst years of the selected vehicle model before purchasing it. In contrast to other brands, hardly any manufacturer manufactures all its models without mechanical issues, faulty parts, or disturbing conditions.
Be aware of the avoidable model year of the brand you choose before making a purchase. In 2014, Jeep Cherokee introduced its 4th generation of SUVs, which are regarded as its most modern versions. The Jeep Cherokee has the following model years that are significantly worse:
2014 Jeep Cherokee
In 2014, the Jeep Cherokee experienced some mechanical problems, making it one of its most problematic years. It still experiences transmission shifting problems despite having a V6 engine that performs well. Due to its first-generation status, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee has some drawbacks, including engine failures, transmission issues, lack of interior space, and faulty mechanisms.
2015 Jeep Cherokee
For different electrical problems and battery draining issues, the Jeep Cherokee model year 2015 is less reliable than the 2014 Jeep Cherokee. During an accident or dangerous situation, it may leak oil and suffer from faulty parts. The worst part is that repairing those damaged parts is extremely expensive. The throttle position sensor fails to function properly, which results in engine starting problems and speeding issues.
2016 Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee has experienced another bad year with transmission issues, including rough gear shifting, failed transmissions, and shifting problems. Despite improvements in the 2014 and 2015 year models, it still has problems with software and sensors. Consequently, transmissions fail and gear shifting becomes difficult in driving and parking modes. Owners of the 2016 Jeep Cherokee have reported problems with alternators, airbags, infotainment systems, and visibility.
2017 Jeep Cherokee
As with the 2016 Jeep Cherokee model year, the 2017 Jeep Cherokee is plagued by almost the same issues. Owners often experience transmission problems, including rough shifting, irregular shifting, strange noises during shifting, and sometimes the engine will not start. Heavy and large SUVs can be difficult to handle by the engine, so the engine often cannot perform properly.
2019 Jeep Cherokee
2019 Jeep Cherokees are known for their gear-changing problems, engine failures, suspension failures, strange engine noises, and engine software problems. Occasionally, the engine shuts off suddenly and cannot be restarted. The cost of repairing those problematic modules may be very high due to these issues. This is why you should avoid buying a 2019 Jeep Cherokee.
Jeep Cherokee Reliability
There is no doubt that the Jeep Cherokee is among the most reliable SUVs of the Jeep brand. A majority of 4th generation year models are reliable, but there are years in the range that are less reliable than others. The reliability ratings are published by a number of sources, based on some factors and research.
We can see the following table that acknowledges Jeep Cherokee reliability ratings from sources such as RepairPal, Edmunds, and J.D. Power:
| Years | RepairPal (Out of 5) | Owner Reviews (Out of 5) | J.D. Power (Out of 100) |
| 2014 | 4 | 3.1 | 71 |
| 2015 | 4 | 2.6 | 72 |
| 2016 | 4 | 3.5 | 80 |
| 2017 | 4 | 3.5 | 79 |
| 2018 | 4 | 3.6 | 82 |
| 2019 | 4 | 3.5 | 80 |
| 2020 | 4 | 4.2 | 82 |
| 2021 | 4 | 4.3 | 80 |
| 2022 | Not Rated | Not Rated | Not Rated |
There is no doubt that the worst-year Jeep Cherokees have fewer reliability ratings, while the best-year Jeep Cherokees have the highest ratings.
Jeep Cherokee Problem Counts by Years
The number of problems that have occurred in the model years needs to be acknowledged, because it clarifies the performance of the model year. Getting an overview of the common and frequent problems and issues as well as the severity of the problems is important if you want to know about the worst or avoidable Jeep Cherokee years. In addition to the reliability ratings, it is also helpful to have a look at the problem counts.
Furthermore, if you count problems, you can identify the years that are more problematic and those that are less problematic. The Jeep Cherokee has been listed on the following list by reliable sources such as NHSTA and CarComplaints, which detail the number of problems reported about it.
| Years | Complaints Number (NHSTA.Gov) | Complaints Number (CarComplaints.Com) |
| 2014 | 2240* | 735 |
| 2015 | 1195* | 714 |
| 2016 | 269 | 260 |
| 2017 | 284 | 128 |
| 2018 | 676 | 35 |
| 2019 | 676* | 148 |
| 2020 | 116 | 17 |
| 2021 | 61 | 05 |
| 2022 | 01 | 00 |
N.B.: The (*) marks indicate years with significant problems that require expensive repairs.
As a result of the severity and frequency of problems, the list shows the worst years to avoid. Moreover, it helps to identify less problematic years with fewer problems and a lower severity.
5 Most Common Problems with Jeep Cherokee
Jeep Cherokees generally face a number of problems and issues. It is the worst-year Jeep Cherokee models that have the most complaints about these problems. Among the most common problems found in most models, there are five that are more severe and frequent:
1. Major Transmission Issues
A transmission problem is the most common problem that is hard to fix and costs a lot of money. In most cases, transmission failures, rough shifting, engine shutdowns, stalled engines, software module issues, and engine stalled are the main reasons for serious damage to your vehicle. According to CarComplaints.com, the Jeep Cherokee’s worst problem category is the overall transmission problem.
2. Faulty Throttle Position Sensor
A RepairPal survey found that about 50 users reported throttle position sensor problems. There is a drivability issue with this problem, including difficulty starting up and accelerating. In the event that the throttle position sensor fails, the throttle body parts must be replaced, or the sensor may have to be replaced in order to eliminate the problems caused by it.
3. Noises and Oil Leakage
In some cases, weird noises may be heard from an engine due to an issue with the fuel system. A leaking fuel tank causes an unpleasant odor inside the car, which also contributes to rough shifting and engine problems. There is also transmission junk to deal with. When the fuel tank is leaked or defective, and cannot be filled properly, noises are made by the engine. The durability and longevity of a car are negatively affected by fluid leakage.
4. Electrical System Issues
Electrical system problems include suspension, alternator, ignition, wiring harness, control module, software, and other components that are causing the vehicle to fail. There have been a number of recalls for the 2014 and 2019 year models due to electrical system issues. It is possible for these components to cease working while the car is in driving mode and cause the car to fail to function.
5. Interior Accessories Issues
In addition to faulty GPS systems, radios, battery gauges, locking mechanisms, transmission lights, airbags, and other interior accessories, drained batteries are often the cause of malfunctioning interior accessories. In addition to the heater and air conditioner, electrical problems also affect them. The NHTSA and CarComplaints have received numerous complaints regarding these components. A number of recalls have been conducted to resolve these problems.
The extreme use of the vehicle may also cause other problems, such as drivetrain problems, battery problems, brake problems, light problems, exhaust system problems, and others. In terms of severity and frequency, transmission and engine problems are the most prevalent and expensive Jeep Cherokee problems.
Jeep Cherokee Recalls by Year
A recall may be issued by the NHTSA or the vehicle manufacturer due to various faulty components. Many of the recalls for Jeep Cherokee were issued during the worst year of the model’s life. Manufacturers and other organizations also issued several recalls for Jeep Cherokee.
As listed below, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued recalls for these model years:
| Years | Recall Numbers (NHSTA) | Problematic Components |
| 2014 | 13 | Power liftgate module (2), Power transfer unit, Transmission clutch, Cruise control (2), Fire extinguisher, Seat fasteners, Transmission shift, windshield wipers, Radio software securities, Side curtain airbag, Rear shock absorbers |
| 2015 | 11 | Power liftgate module (3), Power transfer unit, Cruise control, Fire extinguisher, Seat fasteners, Transmission shift, air conditioning hose, radio software securities, Side curtain airbag. |
| 2016 | 9 | Power liftgate module (2), drive power, power transfer unit, cruise control, fire extinguisher, seat fasteners, left front half shaft, right front half shaft |
| 2017 | 5 | Steering rack gear, airbag acceleration sensor, passenger seat mounting bolts, instrument cluster, transmission calibration, voltage regulator, rear brake caliper pistons, transmission weld, Cylinder/camshaft. |
| 2018 | 6 | Voltage regulator, half shaft bearing cage, cruise control, fuel leak, oil pump failure, Label/FMVSS 1 |
| 2019 | 9 | Steering rack gear, airbag acceleration sensor, passenger seat mounting bolts, instrument cluster, transmission calibration, voltage regulator, rear brake calliper pistons, transmission weld, Cylinder/camshaft. |
| 2020 | 2 | Display/FMVSS 111, steering rack gear. |
| 2021 | 3 | Side curtain airbag/FMVSS 214,226; transmission oil cooler hose, front lower control arms. |
| 2022 | 2 | Side curtain airbag/FMVSS 214,226; turn signal/FMVSS 108. |
4 Best Years of Jeep Cherokee
Following our discussion of the worst or avoidable Jeep Cherokee years, let us now acknowledge the best Jeep Cherokee years. These are the most reliable and best Jeep Cherokee years based on reliability ratings, problem counts, consumers’ reviews, and safety ratings:
2010 Jeep Cherokee
Jeep Cherokee 2010 is well-known for its off-road performance as well as its excellent fuel economy.
Hemi-V8 engines are well known for their horsepower, which made this year’s engines quite durable. There are several positive reviews of this model year on safety, reliability, and owner satisfaction.
2011 Jeep Cherokee
The 2011 Jeep Cherokee provides a great combination of appearance and comfort. There is a completely new design and renovation this year which makes it very attractive and comfortable. There is more positive feedback from owners about this year’s model, and it drives very well.
2018 Jeep Cherokee
There are numerous features that make the 2018 Jeep Cherokee stand out, including a user-friendly interior system and a powerful V6 engine that provides outstanding off-road performance. According to Edmunds, the 2018 Jeep Cherokee scores 8 out of 10 in expert ratings. In addition to its good driving and comfort ratings, the model has a good interior and utility rating.
2020 Jeep Cherokee
In terms of reliability and safety ratings, this is the most reliable and least problematic year to pick. Because of the lightweight design and V6 engine, it is perfect for driving off-road. The product has a stylish, user-friendly design, making it versatile and prone to fewer recalls within NHTSA and other organizations.
The Jeep Cherokee has been comparatively less expensive to maintain and repair these days, allowing it to be more attractive to consumers. In the past few decades, the manufacturer has been able to deliver many high-tech features with flawless finishes, which explains why these years have received very few recalls.
How Many Miles Can a Jeep Cherokee Last?
A Jeep Cherokee of the latest generation can travel 100,000 miles up to 175,000 miles before reaching 200,000 miles. Keeping it well and following proper guidelines will help it reach its maximum limit. It is not uncommon for some of the latest models to have higher mileage than the average.
With the right maintenance and equipment, a Jeep Cherokee with a V6 engine should last for 18 to 24 years without experiencing any major problems. In modern Jeep Cherokees, mileage is reduced because of engine problems and rough usage. Several previous generations of model years could last for a conservative amount of time.
Are Jeep Cherokee Reliable?
There are not a lot of repairs to be done on the Jeep Cherokee, so the annual maintenance expenses are not higher than the annual ownership costs.
Some Jeep Cherokee owners may not find the overall average maintenance costs too high, regardless of their model year.
Most of the problems associated with the worst model years are engine problems and mechanical problems, which make these SUVs less reliable. Some of the model years work exceptionally well and are much more reliable than the remainder, with fewer issues, greater durability, and higher performance.
According to the reliability profile of this SUV, Cherokee is ranked 9th out of 26 brands. In terms of reliability, the Jeep Cherokee is one of the most reliable SUVs from the Jeep brand, due to the lack of frequent problems and issues it faces.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Jeep Grand Cherokee Years to Avoid
Which model years of the Jeep Grand Cherokee are recommended to avoid?
Jeep Grand Cherokee model year between 2011 and 2014 is the most recommended to avoid. Maintenance and repair costs are likely to be higher during these years due to mechanical problems and complaints.
What were the central issues reported with the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
There were significant problems with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, which caused difficulties starting the engine. The TIPM issue was serious enough to spark a class-action lawsuit, as were interior styling and electrical wiring.
What recalls were issued for the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and why?
As a result of TIPM failure, the fuel pump was recalled in 2011, the central brake booster rusted, creating braking issues, and short circuits in the wires for the sun visors created potential fire hazards.
What are considered the most reliable Jeep Grand Cherokee model years?
It is generally accepted that 1998, 1999, 2005, 2017, and 2018 are the most reliable Jeep Grand Cherokee model years. The cars of this era are known for their strong on- and off-road capabilities, strong engines, balanced fuel economy, and modern amenities.