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: other or unspecified
313 reports, newest first. Show all
Other or unspecified, Jul 29, 2022
Vehicle stalled out while driving
Other or unspecified, Jun 27, 2022
4WD service light on. Diagnostic and servicing reveals blocked PTU. There is a recall for it, but it’s VIN specific and my Jeep is not covered.
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
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, May 14, 2022
Our jeep started displaying and error stating "vehicle needs to be stopped to shift" and after this error would display the engine would cut off. We took it to the dealership and we were told that the shifter bezel needed to be replaced. It was replaced in March. We we driving our car again on 5/8/22 and error code said "service shifter now" so we went back to the dealership and they are saying the shifter needs replaced a second time.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Apr 24, 2022
Car drives when it wants, stops when it wants, all lights on dash come on
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 #.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Feb 7, 2022
Driving down the highway the service shifter just pops up
Other or unspecified, Engine, Dec 29, 2021
I purchased this jeep in 2018, the service shifter light came on the car shutdown in the middle of the road while my daughter was driving she was able to get into a parking lot. We had the bezel and wiring harness replaced in January 2019, right after this happened. I now have the jeep and the shifter service light will randomly come on along with the service transmission light. When this happens the transmission will not engage and I have to make my way to the side of the road and put it in park and then the transmission will engage again.
Other or unspecified, Dec 23, 2021
I purchased my 2016 Jeep Cherokee in 2018 and within 3 months my service shifter light came on. I had it fixed by the dealership. 6 months later it happened again and I was told it was most likely a faulty part used the first time. Since then I have had the shifter console and wiring inside replaced a total of 4 more times, luckily up until this point was covered under my extended warranty. However my warranty expires in January of 2022 and the service shift light just came on again for what will now be the 7th time. Once my warranty is over, I will not be able to cover the $500 each time twice a year to have it fixed. I have seem dozens and dozens of people report on this issue and nothing has been done. It has also caused my transmission to slip or multiple occasions as well as hesitate when accelerating.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Dec 21, 2021
service shifter light went on and off for about a month. then one day went over a speed bump. and ever since then the message doesnt go away. ive cleared the codes had it flashed change fuses. and nothing. EVeryone has the same complaints about it and jeep dealerships dont take it serious. its a problem when i can see the speedometer or fuel range. or any other lights or warnings becuase that message wont go away.
Other or unspecified, Dec 14, 2021
Jeep has a system in the vehicle through Mopar that allows the owner to use an app to remote start the vehicle, track where the vehicle is located, track maintenance issues. This system also allows the driver to talk to text which is a safety feature of the vehicle. Cellular providers are no longer going to support the 3G chip in the vehicle and Jeep states they are unable to update a single chip in the vehicle hence disabling this safety feature. This is a HUGE concern.
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.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Nov 12, 2021
This car has been stopping in the middle of the road basically since I got it. I bring it in and it breaks down over and over. Most recently in front of my house on a very busy street with 18 wheelers. I do not feel safe in this vehicle.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Nov 10, 2021
Transfer case is not working it says blockage I see alot of of recalls for this piece and I want want to report it for my car as faulty aswell. also now the timing change has to be replaced. This jeep has had multiple issues going on since I have had it for almost 3 years it will be three years in Feb 2022
Other or unspecified, Nov 9, 2021
Service shifter light will come on when I ship from PRND and sometimes like when I am in a car wash in Nuetral I can't get it to shift
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Nov 2, 2021
*SERVICE SHIFTER POP UP* I've had my 2016 Jeep Cherokee for about 4 years and every few months it pops up with SERVICE SHIFTER on my dash and the shifter lights up. I have talked to my local Jeep dealership, where I purchased this vehicle, and they brushed it off. After reading forums, this can be a HUGE safety hazard and could cause an accident or even worse, kill somebody!! Jeep should be held responsible and this should be considered a recall because alot of people have complained about this SERVICE SHIFTER popup. At times, I am scared to drive my vehicle after these episodes happen because I fear I am going to get into a car accident.
Other or unspecified, Aug 9, 2021, fire
I had my car parked in a public parking garage for a few hours, and it suddenly caught on fire on the backside of the car. There were no warning lights or anything like that before hand. The whole back of the car is burned and the cars on either side of me were damaged as well. The fire department had to come put the fire out. I don't know for sure, but it sure seems like it might have been the same Power Liftgate short circuit issue that the 2014-2015 Jeep Cherokees got recalled for (https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2015/RCRIT-15V393-6798.pdf)
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Aug 3, 2021
shifter park.. car cuts off when car is idle.
Other or unspecified, Aug 2, 2021
Shifter service light came on, made an appointment with the dealer, they did a diagnostic test, said battery was bad and said he really didn't think the shifter needed replacing. The battery was replaced and about 6 weeks later, the light came on again, and after reading some forums, it looks like this is a rather common probably with jeeps, so why is this not a recall? It also seems like the problem doesn't even go away after having the shifter kit replaced.
Other or unspecified, Jun 22, 2021
I keep getting a "shifter service" when I start my vehicle and even when I stop my vehicle. I have to turn the car on and then back on sometimes twice before it will stop. This started about 3 years after I bought the car and has been getting worse every since. I feel this is a safety issue because you cannot see the odometer when driving and have know idead how fast your might be going. You do not always have a place to pull over to turn your car off and back on. THIS NEEDS TO BE A RECALL! I have read hundreds of blogs where this is happening on this jeep type from years 2014 through 2019.
Power train, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jun 15, 2021
For the past couple of weeks I’ve been noticing the car does not react when I press the gas… like there’s a delay In catching speed.., like stalling, last night the “service shifter” light came on and all the PRN&D lights are on and I’m scared for my kids and my safety.
Other or unspecified, Jun 11, 2021
The shifter lights blink and turn red while at a stop light. The car would not run. I had to turn off and on again. This happened several times. Sometimes the shifter lights blink at night and the battery gets drained.
Other or unspecified, Jun 7, 2021
sense my Fiance bought the vehicle this vehicle has been having issues the Battery has been replace for no reason it die , than when you are driving in a parking tends to shut off or it will pull hard , the recent incident was me in the intersection and as I was turning the vehicle stop and wouldn't pick up speed and it took like 10 seconds to be able to work again and and once in a while it will pull as you are driving , the last incident was today the start /stop system give me a Orage light saying is unavailable , We bough the vehicle back in 2018 and sense than the problem has been mile , the vehicle has less than 100k miles to be working like than and sense it has been acting more and more now , I'm starting to be afraid for my safety and my kids safety . and is important to know about this issue .
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, May 29, 2021
The "service shifter" warning come on. And all of the lights go on on the shifter for example Park Neutral, Drive. I had this problem a couple of years ago and the dealer replaced the shifter assembly and harness. Now the same problem is happening. After shutting off the engine the message disperses but comes back on after a few minutes. Now I'm afraid that I'll have to pay for the repair because the car has 48,000 miles on it and out of warranty. Is there a recall on this problem?
Other or unspecified, Apr 14, 2021
I BROUGHT JEEP TO DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT POWER TRANSFER UNIT HAS GONE BAD AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. OTHER 2104-2017 JEEP CHEROKEES HAVE HAD A RECALL ON THIS UNIT BUT MY VIN DOES NOT SHOW A RECALL IN PLACE. DID THEY PUT IN A DIFFERENT PTU IN MY CAR THAN THE OTHER 67,248 JEEPS? CAR SHIFTS I TO 2WD OR 4WD DRIVE BY ITSELF