2016 Jeep Cherokee
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 1,406 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 5th highest complaint count among 12 Cherokee model years with reports.
Of the 2016 reports, 37 involved a crash and 14 involved a fire. 27 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Electrical system, wiring, rear compartment/trunkPark outsideMay 11, 2023
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a power liftgate. An electrical short in the power liftgate module may lead to a vehicle fire with the ignition on or off.
A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will relocate the power liftgate module and add a water shield. In addition, dealers will inspect for corrosion and replace the module and electrical connectors, if necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 1, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 49A. This recall supersedes recalls 15V-393 and 15V-826. Vehicles repaired under the prior recalls will still need to have the new remedy performed.
Campaign 23V338000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmissionApr 27, 2023
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may become damaged and disengage the transmission and differential, resulting in a loss of drive power or loss of park function.
A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash. A loss of park function can cause an unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 11, 2023. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 45A. This recall expands previous recall number 20V-343.
Campaign 23V302000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, driveline, differential unitJun 11, 2020
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a two-speed Power Transfer Unit (PTU). Relative movement in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft may cause some input spline teeth to wear off, which may eventually cause a loss of engagement between the transmission and the differential inside the PTU. If this occurs, power cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission which results in a loss of drive while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the Park function while stationary.
A loss of drive can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning. A loss of the Park function can cause unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update that will maintain vehicle propulsion by engaging rear wheel drive and prevent rolling in Park by activating the electronic parking brake if a failed input spline occurs. This recall began July 14, 2020. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is W47.
Campaign 20V343000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiringMay 17, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Campaign 18V332000 on NHTSA.gov
EquipmentDec 21, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall is T82.
Campaign 17V824000 on NHTSA.gov
SeatsAug 10, 2016
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured July 29, 2013, to February 5, 2016. The seat fasteners on the first or second row seats may not have been tightened to the proper torque specification.
Loose fasteners may allow the seats to move, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupants in the event of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seats or seat sets, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during September 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall S63.
Campaign 16V590000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, axle assembly, axle shaftMay 11, 2016
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured September 30, 2015, to October 2, 2015. The left halfshaft may have been incorrectly manufactured causing it to fracture without warning.
A fractured halfshaft may disconnect from the drive axle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the left halfshaft, free of charge. The recall began on June 30, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler's customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall number is S38.
Campaign 16V287000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, axle assembly, axle shaftMay 11, 2016
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured October 3, 2015, to March 22, 2016. The right halfshaft may have been incorrectly manufactured causing it to fracture without warning.
A fractured halfshaft may disconnect from the drive axle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the right halfshaft, free of charge. The recall began on June 30, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler's customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall number is S39.
Campaign 16V284000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiring, rear compartment/trunkDec 9, 2015
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 18, 2015, to September 10, 2015 and equipped with the power liftgate option. In the affected vehicles, water may leak into the Power Liftgate Control Module and result in a high resistance short circuit.
A short circuit in the module increases the risk of a fire.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the module and connectors for corrosion, replacing the damaged components as necessary. The mastic shield will be removed and the module will be covered with a water shield. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on February 1, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R67. This recall is superseded by NHTSA recall 23V-338.
Campaign 15V826000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: electrical system
297 reports, newest first. Show all
Steering, Electrical system, Service brakes, Jan 23, 2025
My vehicle continues to sporadically lose power steering, power and braking. “4wd temporarily disabled” light keeps coming on but then goes off. I have taken to dealer and they say it doesn’t throw a code and there is nothing they can do. It’s a safety issue. Other Jeep Cherokee years and models keep getting recalled but not mine. Mine needs to be recalled. Very dangerous.has been happening increasingly more often in last two months.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Jan 14, 2025
While driving doe the highway the Dashboard lights go out and headlights turn off. Headlights and bulbs go out frequently. Rear license plate lights go out even after bulb replacement. Kicks cruise off while driving and shift gear control warning.
Electrical system, Structure, Jan 3, 2025
The outside body of the vehicle is leaking, which is causing the Park break module to short circuit. This is causing my vehicle to suddenly stop and lock up.This has happened three times so far.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Dec 31, 2024
Started hesitating and did it at random times. I had a tune up done and it continued. I thought it was the transmission and took it to the transmission shop and they didn’t find anything wrong with the transmission. Started losing power and hesitation became worse while in traffic. Now it’s hesitating while stopped at the traffic light and not accelerating when taking off from a complete stop and not accelerating while merging. I brought it to the dealership in Lakeport, Ca. 95453. When I brought it to them the start stop warning lights were lit up on the dash. The start stop feature is creating the problem. I’m being told by the dealership that they can’t disengage the start stop feature. This is a safety hazard and I’m concerned it’s going to create engine problems. Apparently it’s a nationwide issue. The start stop feature needs to be recalled and fixed.
Suspension, Power train, Electrical system, Dec 25, 2024
My car has 123,000 done everything by book. Been report issues for over yr. Car almost got my killed by not stopping, turning, jerking on Accelerating and decelerating when shifting. All my motor mounts, transmission mount busted , messed up suspension control arm, ball joints, struts , axle, brakes all once. Drained battery. Spent 4500. Then my service shifter just came on. So back at shop. This is insane my shifter should last life time of my car. Due to the damage of that it cause a downfall of front end issues. This is well known issues of Jeep 2016 but not mine for a recall. It has cost me thousands and should not be happening at 122,000 miles . Car is at dealership again now and i have rental so not sure what that will cost. This started 2/11 not codes just could tell already filed reports with you all. My brakes lasted years , rotors was changed 2/11 hoping it helped per papers already damaged due to all this other crap. I’m very upset my car shouldn’t be having all these issues at 122,000 we are 1 car family
Electrical system, Engine, Dec 10, 2024
On my 2016 jeep Cherokee limited my 4WD needs service along with my shifter popping up every now and then ref needing service … all lights turn red and flash… Code: C14A7 - 97 Ptu motor Obstructed or blocked Google shows recall but when I look it up it shows not on my model.. Why ? Miles :114000 I’m very disappointed.. will not recommend a Jeep again…
Electrical system, Service brakes, Engine, Dec 3, 2024
The thing died randomly and locked the steering wheel. Dealer can’t recreate the issue and said they cant fix it. I pay monthly on this thing that cant be fixed?
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 3, 2024
Vehicle lost power while in traffic was running weird jerking check engine light came on A! Light came on vehicle wouldn't stay running. Codes read Catalyst system efficiency. Recall u90 issues Recall u67 issues code p0430, p0300,p0175, p0174
Electrical system, Engine, Dec 2, 2024
IN EARLY 2022 THE VEHICLE JUST SHUTOFF WHILE I WAS ACTIVELY DRIVING. I COULDNT GET THE CAR TO NEUTRAL ONCE IT SHUT OFF AND HAD TO BE TOWED. BOOSTING DID NOT IMMEDIATELY RESOLVE THE ISSUE. BUT A DAY LATER THE CAR WOULD START AND THEN DRIVE FOR A WHILE AND JUST RANDOMLY SHUTOFF. I HAD BATTERY CHANGED, INCIDENT OCCURED AGAIN AND I HAD TO BE TOWED A COUPLE OF THE TIMES AND JUST DECIDED TO READ UP ON LINE IF ANYONE WAS HAVING SIMILAR ISSUES AND I CAME ACCROSS THIS ARTICLE BUT WHEN I ENTERED MY VIN NUMBER IT WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL EVEN THOUGH THE ISSUE I AM HAVING IS SIMILAR.
Electrical system, Nov 14, 2024
Instroment light come back on with all other lights ignition off. Runs battery down.
Power train, Electrical system, Nov 9, 2024
3-4 time this has happened and twice in the last 2 weeks my car just won’t turn over. I have to turn switch then put car in/out of park to get my car to start. For few months now I keep hearing vibrating, grinding noises when I go to slow down or stop. I thought it could be my left front axle so I changed it, pads and rotors. They didn’t even look bad when I changed them. The noises is coming from somewhere below driver side. With no lights coming on it’s hard to know and I can’t afford just pay 150 to look at it say who knows. My fear is it will die on my driving when it also goes up down with acceleration at times. I don’t understand why they don’t seem to do recalls on these 2016 Jeeps when clearly everybody’s having the same issues but they claim it’s not our models. My car is barely over 100,000 miles. This is literally my third complain in a year with the same issues.
Power train, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Oct 22, 2024
While driving the Vehicle the gear attempted to go into 4WD by itself. I pulled over and at that time I could not shift the car into drive or park. I believe the transmission or gear shift is having an issue. No warning lights go on the dashboard and it will stall while driving on the highway which caused an extreme safety hazard.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Sep 26, 2024
The Vehicle stops abrutly while moving and engages emergency parking break and powers down and activating needing to be shifted into park. Vehicle then will be shifted into park and shifted back into drive but will not move until vehicle is turned off and turned back on.
Electrical system, Sep 11, 2024
Stop Start Failure (replaced-filter and battery) Failed again same battery reason showing battery tested was fine. Still not working to date
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 3, 2024
On two occasions within 5 days while driving the vehicle, (the vehicle was in motion) it suddenly stopped and the would not accelerate making a whining noise as if the car was in Neutral. The dashboard then said to put the car in Park. or Shift to Park. I tried to turn off the vehicle and it didn't immediately want to restart, it was full of gas but sounded like it was empty. I was able to finally turn it on.
Electrical system, Structure, Jul 24, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the liftgate was unlocked; however. the liftgate failed to open as intended. The contact noticed a burning odor. The contact drove the vehicle for a short distance, and the liftgate opened with the door alarm and warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V338000 (Electrical System, Structure); however, the VIN was not associated with the recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.
Steering, Power train, Electrical system, Jul 6, 2024
The car is constantly overheating because a failure from the computer to start up the fan causing other issues with the coolant. Like bursting all the hoses and causing coolant leaks. Additionally a service shifter message came up on my screen and all the gears (p,r,n,d,l) light up with a red dot. This happens while I’m driving. I never know when the car is just going to stop or over heat in traffic because sometimes the fan starts and sometimes it doesn’t.
Steering, Power train, Electrical system, Jul 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the EPS warning light intermittently illuminated, and the odometer was flashing. The vehicle then lost motive power. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the cause of the failure could not be determined, and no error codes were retrieved. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V302000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Electrical system, Jun 22, 2024
Code P2504 and code P063A. Received these codes when I already have a new battery and car is only at 70k miles. Caused the vehicle to go in to lower saving mode in to a turn and almost hit other vehicles.
Power train, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Apr 28, 2024
i was sent an email saying my car was being recalled
Electrical system, Apr 8, 2024
The back lift gate will not open with key fob or by pushing the button at the bottom of the back door. The only way to open or close the back hatch is to manually lift the door and in turn manually close it as well. Completely random and unpredictable but happens quite frequently. I'm physically disabled and this has been very painful for for me to deal with it happens. There's never been any messages or warnings when this happens. I've had my jeep in for oil changes and other maintenance items, it will never do it while I'm trying to demonstrate this to the service representative.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Feb 28, 2024
The shifter causes an error whenever I shift into drive. An alert comes up on the dashboard making the dashboard inaccessible and the PRNDL lights up red. The alert says "service shifter."
Electrical system, Feb 25, 2024
Jeep gives a “service shifter” warning/notification and all the lights on the shifter are on. Can clear by turning the car off and back on but the notification will soon appear again after driving. Happens every 100-200 miles or if the car is turned on and off just a few times a day for daily use. Shifter was refusing to be put in park one of the times the notification came on, very scary if you are driving or attempting to park.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Feb 24, 2024
While driving the vehicle engine shuts off or goes neutral and I am unable to keep driving. A message pops up on the dash that says “Shift to P and then shift to desired gear.” Car does not drive after doing this. I have to restart engine twice, both times the engine is delayed to start making a loud running noise. This has happened multiple times while driving all while my young children were in the car on busy roads. I have been lucky not to have been in a major accident yet. I have taken my car into the shop multiple times but they do not know how to fix this. I’ve reported it to the local dealer, they are no help either. New battery, all fluids full, full tank, no warning before the car shuts off while driving. I’ve seen hundreds of posts from drivers of the same make and model have the same issue. I’m appalled there is no recall. This can be very fatal if not addressed.
Electrical system, Structure, Feb 20, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V338000 (Electrical System, Structure) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.