2020 Jeep Cherokee Problems & Recalls
Comprehensive defect analysis based on official US Federal safety databases.
2020 Jeep Cherokee Top Failure Categories
Distribution of driver complaints across vehicle components according to federal taxonomy.
Official Safety Recalls for 2020 Jeep Cherokee (3)
Defect Summary: 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."
Safety Hazard: The lingering rearview image can distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.
Free Remedy: Chrysler has notified owners, and dealers will update the radio display software, free of charge. Optionally, owners can choose to remotely update their software via an Over-The-Air (OTA) update available as of May 1, 2020. The recall began April 27, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W30-W37.
Defect Summary: 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.
Safety Hazard: A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.
Free Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering gear, free of charge. The recall began October 24, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V99.
Defect Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.
Safety Hazard: A failed PTU may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Free Remedy: Dealers will update the Drivetrain Control Drivetrain Control Module, PTU, and Electronic Park Brake software, and replace the PTU, as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were mailed June 25, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy becomes available. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 40D. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 14, 2026.
Verified NHTSA Owner Complaints
Excerpts of actual incident reports submitted to the federal Office of Defects Investigation (ODI).
"While driving my 2020 Jeep Cherokee Limited (VIN: [XXX]), the “Service 4WD” warning light illuminated on the dashboard. The vehicle was taken to Garavel Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram ([XXX]) on XXX at 84,458 miles for diagnosis. The dealer scanned the vehicle and found active diagnostic trouble code C14A7-97 – PTU Motor – Component or System Operation Ob..."
"My 2020 JeepCherokee has been disabled at Jeff Wyler Springfield Jeep since 10/13 after suffering a drivetrain failure on 10/11.My vehicle exhibited a severe mechanical grinding noise,locking front wheels,& a 'Service 4WD' warning light while driving, un-commanded engagement of snow mode,& of the e-brake upon parking. Upon inspection 10/14,the tech..."
"The contact owns a 2020 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the message "Service 4WD" was displayed with an audible alarm and an abnormal whirling sound coming from the transmission. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic and was diagnosed with PTU failure. The vehicle was later taken to the local dealer who con..."
"2020 Jeep Cherokee Limited Service 4-wheel drive came on. Taken to dealer (Hillsborough Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram) 2000 NC-86, Hillsborough, NC 27278 who confirmed a PTU failure. Part is on backorder; no other dealerships have the part."
"2 weeks ago my vehicle broke down while driving due to a failed PTU, I went to accelerate at a stop sign my vehicle moved about an inch and then my vehicle would not move any further my engine just revved, four-wheel drive warning lights came on and then my car kept putting itself in park mode. Both a professional transmission shop and dealership ..."