What are the most commonly reported issues with the Jeep Cherokee?

The Jeep Cherokee is a versatile SUV known for its off-road capability, spacious interior, and rugged design. With a legacy dating back to its introduction in 1974, the Cherokee has evolved through several generations, appealing to adventure seekers and families alike. However, like any vehicle, the Jeep Cherokee has faced its share of common problems reported by drivers and owners.

While new and used Jeep Cherokee parts, such as a replacement gearbox, engine, or other components, can help you cut costs, they can also be relatively pricey to maintain in comparison to newer vehicles, so we’ll also give you an idea of maintenance costs and reliability.

Table of contents:

• What are the common faults of the Jeep Cherokee?
• Is the Jeep Cherokee reliable?
• Is the Jeep Cherokee expensive to run?
• Which are the best Jeep Cherokee years?

What are the common faults of the Jeep Cherokee?

The Jeep Cherokee has experienced several common issues across different model years. Here’s an overview of some key problem areas reported by drivers:

Doors

Door problems are particularly common in earlier Cherokee models. The 1984-2001 XJ Cherokee models are known for hinge issues, especially in two-door designs. A redesign of the hinge for 1998-2001 models helped, but problems have persisted. 

Many owners of 2014 Cherokee models have reported a clicking noise from the front door handle. This is caused by the handle rubbing against the door’s inner structure. To fix this, the handle may need to be removed, trimmed, or replaced. 

The door strap, which limits how far the door can open, can also seize up if it’s exposed to dirt and debris, particularly in XJ models where the inner wing design allows debris to enter.

Headlights

Headlight issues are commonly reported in the 2014-2019 Cherokee models. Some of these Cherokees, particularly those with halogen headlights, are prone to fogging problems. This occurs when the seal on the headlight unit fails, allowing moisture to enter. The problem is more noticeable in colder temperatures and can significantly reduce visibility when out on the road. 

The solution typically involves replacing the entire headlight unit, which can cost anywhere between £50 and a couple of hundred pounds. It’s worth noting that this issue specifically affects models with halogen lights, not those with HID (high-intensity discharge) lights.

Engine issues

Engine issues vary across different Cherokee generations. In the 2011-2014 models, misfire codes are more common in V6 engines, often indicating the need for new cylinder heads rather than actual misfires. 

Oil leaks are another recurring problem, especially in models with the 3.6-litre V6 engine. A common issue for 2014 Cherokees with a 3.2-litre engine is long starting times. However, it can often be fixed by replacing the camshaft position sensor. 

The 2014-2017 V6 models also experience issues with the 8-speed transmission, including shuddering and hard shifting. Jeep has addressed some of these problems with software updates and a transmission redesign in 2018.

Windshield leaks

Windshield leaks are a common problem in the XJ Cherokee models (1984-2001). This issue often occurs due to the vehicle’s body flexing over time, which can break the seal around the windshield. Water can then seep in and potentially cause rust on the flooring. 

A temporary fix involves resealing the windshield, but a more permanent solution might require installing a roll cage to stiffen the body and prevent flexing. 

This problem is particularly noticeable in XJs used for off-roading, as the extra stress on the vehicle can speed up the degradation or breaking of the windshield seal.

Is the Jeep Cherokee reliable?

The reliability of the Jeep Cherokee can vary depending on the generation and model year, as well as how well previous owners have taken care of it. Based on data from the 2021 and 2022 models, Consumer Reports suggests that the 2023 Cherokee should have about average reliability compared to other new cars.

However, WhatCar‘s reliability survey for used Jeep Cherokees from 2014 onward paints a different picture. The Cherokee ranked near the bottom in the large SUV class, with almost 43% of surveyed vehicles reporting faults, particularly in critical areas like the engine, engine electrics, and braking systems. Plus, Jeep landed 29th out of 32 manufacturers in reliability rankings, so while the new Cherokee might hold its own, potential buyers of used models should watch for some common issues.

Is the Jeep Cherokee expensive to run?

The Jeep Cherokee tends to be pricier to maintain compared to many other popular SUV models. Over its first ten years, you can expect maintenance and repair costs to reach around £10,607, which is about £2,357 more than the industry average for similar vehicles. 

There’s also a significant chance that you’ll face a major repair during that time. However, keeping up with routine servicing can help reduce costs and prevent minor issues from escalating into more significant, expensive problems.

Which are the best Jeep Cherokee years?

We’d suggest opting for a 2018 or 2020 Jeep Cherokee. These have fewer problems and have the highest owner ratings.

The 2018 Cherokee has updated styling and user-friendly technology, making it a strong choice for on-road and off-road use. The 2020 model also stands out for its range of engine options, advanced safety features, and overall versatility, appealing to families and adventure seekers alike.