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: power train
629 reports, newest first. Show all
Power train, Jun 27, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while accelerating from 0 to 35 MPH, there was a humming and clicking sound coming from the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The mechanic determined a failure with the front power transfer unit that caused damages to the rear drive shaft. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 52,100.
Power train, May 27, 2022
2016 cherokee Limited 4WD - large warning flashing on and off “4WD unavailable service required” on the screen followed by small warning light “SVC 4W Drive “ that stays consistent while driving. Car started to have less pull when accelerating and tires were not gripping nor had same traction as normal. At first it didn’t seem anything was wrong, but at higher speeds, especially on turn or going ip hill more noticeable on dirt or rain, the tires are heard spinning as the car made an effort to accelerate at its normal power. Within a few days, i got a an appointment for a diagnostic with a certified jeep dealer and they confirm a problem with a faulty power transfer unit. They said it would cost $3600 to fix. Tne diagnostic was $190 The warning light turns on within 3 to 5 minutes of driving and at first it would go off but now stays on. I am not able to accelerate without slowing down significantly when i need to during highway speeds and can’t make turns without worrying it will skid or going a different direction, so I have to keep a strong grip on the steering wheel to have control. I have not repaired it due to the excessive cost. This jeep has been very well taken care of. I am the second owner and It only has a little over 60k miles in 6 yrs. A jeep Cherokee limited 4W Drive is built for rigor and better for this to happen on 60k miles. Currently my vehicle had no recalls and find no records of the PTU - or any part of the powertrain being replaced as of today. I love my Jeep and this is disappointing, but more shocked by this malfunction.
Power train, May 23, 2022
On 9/14/21 was driving on highway and car started having a loud noise and brought car to Five Star Jeep in Macon GA. The PTO Unit was broken and I had to have it repaired there - that took 1 month. A second time on 5/5/22, when driving the car on a main road it started making a loud noise again and I was unable to steer or drive the car. Pulled off onto the shoulder and waited for AAA to come and tow vehicle to Jeep dealership. Luckily I was at a light when this happened or I could have hit a person or other car or they could have hot me. Car was towed to Paulding County GA Jeep dealership who confirmed it was the PTU failure and rear diff feels like its binding up from PTU failure while driving. I am dealing with Joseph Drupiewski at Paulding Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, 1245 Old Griffin Rd, Dallas, GA 30157, (770) 406-6926. His cell is 770-599-7541. This is the 2nd time this has happened. I have read online that there is a recall for this on Jeeps. NHTSA campaign numbers: The recall for the 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee is 20V343. FCA’s own number for this recall is W47. The recall for the PTUs sold for use in Jeep Cherokees is 20E037, and FCA’s own number for this is W48. There were sporadic warning messages on the car which would say "4 Wheel drive overheated, temporarily unavailable". I never used 4 wheel drive. It was popping on and off over a few days,
Power train, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, May 19, 2022
No messages were displayed when any issues occured. The back hatch stops working randomly. Whether your trying to open or close the back hatch, it will not operate by any of the interior push buttons or by using the key fob. I have to manually pull the hatch open &/or closed. I had a technician see this happen as well. I've had numerous times where my Jeep will be shifting & it lags a little bit and then causes a loud bang & jolt when it shifts to the next gear. I only drive approximately 6,000 miles/year. Any resolution to these issues would be greatly appreciated, Amy
Power train, Apr 30, 2022
PTU has failed. Dealer says 3k replacement cost. My contention is current recall is not broad enough if other Jeep products have same issue. It should be expanded to include all PTUs with same defect.
Power train, Apr 29, 2022
Some times when starting from full stop vechile losses power . believe drivetrain failure. Have no conyrol until it reingauges usually less than a minute.if I had to get out of the way of something that would be dange r ous .It happens about once or twice a month.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Apr 5, 2022
The "Service Shifter" warning came on and the transmission started slipping. If the transmission goes out while myself or kids are on the highway it not only could endanger us, but others as well. I have had this looked at by an independent shop and all it says that there is a bulletin on it.
Power train, Engine, Mar 22, 2022
This Jeep has stalled while on the road several times, more than once almost causing an accident. I have finally figured out that the engine uses more oil than a normal engine should, it does not inform the driver of low oil, and shuts off once the oil is below a certain point. This vehicle is extremely dangerous to be on any road and likely already caused numerous accidents. Please do something!!!!!
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 18, 2022
All of a sudden you are driving and the vehicle wants to shut off like it's getting gas got cut off and it will Buck back and forth like a transmission issue Then all of a Sudden it kicked back in and you continue to drive as Normal but if you're at a stop and you go to take off it could be very dangerous if it stalls out on you
Power train, Mar 11, 2022
Meticulously maintained vehicle, had PTU failure at 112,000 miles. No warning lights, started getting loud hum and immediately got in for service.
Power train, Mar 3, 2022
The transmission began making grinding noises and was losing power. Dealer informed me today it is the ptu that needs replaced at a cost of $4000
Power train, Other or unspecified, Feb 22, 2022
The svc 4wd light would come on mostly in the cold weather then would go away. every time we had maintenance and mentioned it to the dealership we were told if it was not on while in the shop they could not do anything for it. I was driving and making a left hand turn when the svc 4wd and check engine light came on and the drive train lost power. I was luckily going down hill so I was able to coast and pull over.The engine and the electronics was still in but would not drive. After pulling over I turned the car off and back on and the car worked ok. We had an appointment for the dealer and we were informed the PTU needed to be replaced. Upon looking it up online this part has been recalled on the same make model and year as my vehicle but not my specific vin #.
Power train, Feb 12, 2022
Took Jeep in for recalls in 2021 for Powertrain software update (TCM module and PCM module) & and safety recall in regards to PTU. Received a call from my mechanic today in regards to issues regarding codes for these things. I had noticed that since I had took my car in a year ago my Jeep just did not seem the same. Never thought anything of it until I needed my brakes changed now and wanted someone else who I actually could trust to take a look.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Feb 9, 2022
Car will slow down, steering wheel will lock, and message "Shift to P then Shift to desired gear" will pop up. Car will take a minute to start up again and problem reoccurs.
Power train, Feb 8, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the vehicle stalled inadvertently. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road but he could not park as the gear shifter would not move. The contact waited until the vehicle came to a complete stop. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to continue to drive the vehicle, however the failure reoccurred twice while driving. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the service shifter had failed. The warning message "service shifter" had remained illuminated. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the failure was a known defect .The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist because the VIN was not included in a recall related to the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000
Power train, Feb 1, 2022
Bolts broke off of the ptu on my current 2016 jeep Cherokee trail hawk. Extremely unsafe to drive. Dealer I will to do the repairs because and I quote “ is not on the recall batch for the issues listed” please keep in mind I’ve done the necessary research and the extent of the repairs needed falls exactly with the recall placed in on 06/2020. Please your guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Power train, Electrical system, Jan 21, 2022
Service shifter light continues to come on
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Jan 14, 2022
I was driving home doing 65/70 when my dash lights came on, all of the shifter lights came on, and a service light started beeping to service the shifter. Leaving me stranded without a car. $600 for the parts plus labor and fees, I was able to get a new shifter replaced, and I am hoping this never happens again!
Power train, Jan 12, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact noticed that the service four-wheel drive warning light was illuminated continuously. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the power transfer unit needed to be replaced. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V343000 (Power Train). The approximate failure mileage was 63,000.
Power train, Dec 6, 2021
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at 50 MPH, the vehicle began to rigorously vibrate while the 4-wheel drive warning light flashed on the instrument panel. Due to the failure, the contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was initially diagnosed with a defective drive shaft unit which was repaired; however, upon a test drive, the failure persisted. The mechanic then discovered that the PTU (Power Transfer Unit) was the cause of the failure. The contact then discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V343000 (Power Train) which he linked to the failure. The manufacturer was then notified of the failure and informed him that his vehicle was not included in the recall. The contact filed a case with the manufacturer. The vehicle had yet to be repaired and remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 42,300.
Power train, Nov 29, 2021
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, the service 4-wheel drive warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the PTU (Power Transfer Unit) replaced however, the vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V343000 (Power Train) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was 108,041.
Power train, Nov 28, 2021
Transmission problems that happen about twice a year. With no warning the transmission service will appear and the car will abruptly slow to a speed of 35 or less no matter how fast you are moving. On the turnpike one time it went from 70mph to 35 and luckily no one was behind me. Every time this happens I am told something different for what is wrong.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Nov 20, 2021
4wheel drive light came on. Said it was a power transfer unit problem. It has been recalled but doesn’t show for my car. It will cost me o ver $2000 and it has been recalled. I need help to have this repair covered.
Power train, Nov 16, 2021
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle lost motive power. A bystander checked underneath the vehicle while the gear shifter was in PARK, but the vehicle rolled backward. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and diagnosed with power transfer unit (PTU) failure. The dealer replaced the PTU. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V343000 (Power Train) however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was 88,245.
Power train, Nov 15, 2021
Around 35-45 MPH it shifts hard. After it shifts hard it acts like there is no power when hitting the accelerator. This incident only happens every so often not every time it hits 35-45 MPH. Has been taken to dealership to diagnose and they can’t re create the issue so we are always sent on our way. The vehicle has over 100,000 miles on it so I assume it’s not the adaptive learning for the transmission. The shifting problem also throws no codes. The fluid is fine and no metal in the fluid. I do not know what to do. I have read where thousands of people have this issue with the Cherokee and have gone to lengths of replacing the transmission or having it rebuilt and the issues still persist.