Jeep Cherokee Years to Avoid
We analyzed 10122 owner complaints and 68 safety recalls registered with the NHTSA to determine which Jeep Cherokee model years are lemons and which are safe to purchase.
Years to Avoid
Model year 2014 had the highest spike in defects, particularly in powertrain & transmission.
Best Years to Buy
Significantly lower defect frequency, few recalls, and refined mechanicals.
Powertrain & Transmission
The #1 source of driver complaints on this vehicle. Inspect this subsystem thoroughly during pre-purchase inspection.
Jeep Cherokee Complaints & Defects by Model Year
Official consumer safety reports filed with the NHTSA. Click any year for the complete breakdown.
Jeep Cherokee Model Year Comparison Table
Detailed breakdown by model year showing complaint totals, safety recalls, and reliability verdicts.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Defect Score | Verdict | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 Jeep Cherokee | 2650 | 13 | 100/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2015 Jeep Cherokee | 1794 | 11 | 100/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2016 Jeep Cherokee | 1413 | 9 | 100/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2017 Jeep Cherokee | 1338 | 6 | 100/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2018 Jeep Cherokee | 688 | 7 | 100/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2019 Jeep Cherokee | 1673 | 11 | 100/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2020 Jeep Cherokee | 334 | 3 | 100/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2021 Jeep Cherokee | 177 | 4 | 85/100 | Year to Avoid | Report → |
| 2022 Jeep Cherokee | 52 | 3 | 30/100 | Exercise Caution | Report → |
| 2023 Jeep Cherokee | 3 | 1 | 8/100 | Safe to Buy | Report → |
Buying a Used Jeep Cherokee: Key Reliability Insights
What are the Jeep Cherokee years to avoid?
Based on official NHTSA safety defect data, the Jeep Cherokee model years to avoid are 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021. These years exhibit significantly higher rates of owner complaints, recurring powertrain & transmission issues, and federal safety recalls.
What is the best year to buy for a used Jeep Cherokee?
The most reliable used model year for the Jeep Cherokee is 2023 (as well as 2023), which recorded the lowest defect score and minimal safety recalls on record.
What are the most common problems with the Jeep Cherokee?
The most frequently reported component issues for the Jeep Cherokee are Powertrain & Transmission, Electrical System, Unknown Or Other. Owners reported premature component wear and software calibration glitches to federal investigators.
How many total recalls have been issued for the Jeep Cherokee?
Between 2014 and 2023, the NHTSA has published 68 safety recall campaigns and recorded 10122 official owner complaints for the Jeep Cherokee.