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
1,406 reports, newest first.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Sep 26, 2025
Took vehicle to Mechanic Shop as I kept smelling gas . Especially when I fill my tank with gas. At first I thought it was incidental but the smell was confirmed as the mechanic checked my car he discovered a gas leak from the GAS TANK! He said this is very unusual as the hose housed on the tank is built into the tank and this usually lasts the life of the car. How does something like this happen? No accidents, have not run over any sharp objects etc...
Power train, Sep 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at various speeds, the “Service 4-WD” warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the power transfer unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. In addition, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Sep 15, 2025
Vibrating issue and missing fire originating from engine. Intake camshaft broken and left cylinder head is damaged and needs replacement. This should not be happening to this car. Cannot drive a faster rate either. There should be a claim out for all these issues.
Power train, Sep 11, 2025
My 2016 Jeep Cherokee Latitude is 9years old with 89,800 miles of regular driving & being fully maintained. The Service 4-wheel light came on & I brought it to my mechanic immediately the next day. I was advised after performing tests, it was the PTU in my car. I was advised there is a recall & to take it to the dealer. I did that immediately, while being terrified to drive it as I was advised it could be very dangerous. I or someone could have been badly injured or worse if this part gave way while driving. Something this dangerous should be mentioned immediately to ALL vehicle owners. The dealer confirmed it is the PTU & that it had to be replaced. I was advised my vin was not under the very large recall & well know issue on this part. After a lot of research, Stellantis is well aware of the issue & there is a recall for 2017- 2019 models. Also, they don't have plan in place or a way of correcting this part & distributing it quickly. I had a recall in 2020 for a software update on this and it was taken care of immediately. For some reason the failure of my PTU is not under this recall & I have to pay out of pocket. It has been 3 weeks & still no part due to the huge issue with this part and Stellantis not working hard enough to rectify this known issue or have replacements available. Stellantis needs to extend the recall to all 2016 Cherokee's especially since this is a major issue on this make and model. This is so unacceptable. I am without a vehicle and cannot even use it until the part comes in since it is extremely unsafe to drive (told by my mechanic and the dealer). The consumer should not be penalized due to the incompetence of these auto makers. We are supposed to be safe in our vehicles especially when they are maintained as well as mine is. We spend our hard-earned money and should not have to pay for all these defects due to the poor quality the auto makers are rolling out. Not to mention the resale has dropped significantly!
Electrical system, Sep 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while the liftgate was closed, there was a warning light indicating that the liftgate was open. The contact stated that upon attempting to open the liftgate, the liftgate failed to open. The contact also stated that there was an abnormal burning odor coming from the rear of the vehicle. The dealer was contacted and advised the contact to park the vehicle outside and not to drive the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the recall repair of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V338000 (Electrical System, Structure) was performed; however, the power liftgate failed to close after the repair, and the battery was drained. The dealer jump-started the vehicle and determined that the liftgate latch needed to be replaced. The contact was charged a fee for the repair, and the vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle the following day, the contact noticed that the windshield wipers were inoperable. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where an unknown fuse was replaced, and the windshield wipers became inoperable. Additionally, the contact stated that the rearview camera image was black while reversing, and the infotainment system was inoperable intermittently. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing difficulty starting. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start on one occasion and was jump-started by AAA. The vehicle was taken to Firestone, where it was diagnosed with a lack of electrical connection with the key fob. The contact was referred to the dealer for assistance. The contact stated that the various electrical failures had started after the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,286.
Power train, Sep 9, 2025
Vehicle in dealership service dept since July 16, 2025 for manufacturing recall; attempted repair rendered vehicle inoperable; 2nd part ordered arrived damaged; third part in open order until verbal date of February 2026; no recall remedy such as loaner vehicle; extended warranty purchased but cannot use; manufacturer warranty expired; need transportation
Engine, Sep 5, 2025
Subject: Possible Recall Repair Connection to Open Recall U90 Dear NHTSA, I am writing to bring to your attention a concerning issue regarding my 2016 Jeep Cherokee with the 2.4L engine. I have been experiencing chronic coolant loss for approximately two years. After conducting research, I discovered the open recall, Emissions Recall U90, related to the exhaust manifold, and I suspect that my coolant loss may be connected to this defect. On September 4, 2025, I visited a Jeep dealership in Delray, where I was told that a leaking hose was the cause of my coolant loss, and they recommended replacing it to re-evaluate the leak. However, the following day, September 5, 2025, I sought a second opinion from a dealership located at 3701 Northlake Blvd, Lake Park, FL 33403. Unfortunately, during that visit, I was dismissed by Raheem, the service representative, who referred to me as a "clown" and refused to assist me. In light of these experiences, I sought service at Midas later that same day to address my coolant leak issues. I believe this situation warrants your attention, as it may be indicative of a larger problem related to the open recall. Your guidance on how to proceed would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Power train, Sep 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnosed; however, the contact was informed that there was no recall on the VIN. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 41,000.
Electrical system, Sep 5, 2025
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The vehicle was a private dealer sale in May of 2025. The contact stated that while receiving a diagnostic test, the contact became aware that the odometer mileage reading on the vehicle of 245,000 failed to match the odometer reading after the diagnostic test of 401,800. The current mileage was unknown.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Sep 4, 2025
I have owned my jeep since 2019. Since having my jeep MULTIPLE times I have had the Service shifter light come on. Previously shutting the vehicle off and turning it back on seemed to solve the issue for a little bit until it would come on again. Later down the road my battery died. Upon replacing the battery I didn't seem to notice the issue ever. Now I have another new battery and the light has come on permantely and does not turn off even if I restart the car and as I stated it is a brand new battery. I know there was a recall for this exact issue previously for the year before mine and the year after mine. Something needs to be done about this because i see countless people have this exact same problem.
Other or unspecified, Sep 3, 2025
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failure with "Service 4WD" message with "transmission service" message. Unfortunately, my car is not part of the recall but it is a similar issue.
Other or unspecified, Sep 3, 2025
Subject: Urgent Safety Concern – 2016 Jeep Cherokee Gear Shifting Issue Good Morning, I am writing to report a serious safety concern with my 2016 Jeep Cherokee. I have been experiencing persistent issues with the gear shifter and transmission that I believe may be related to a known defect or may warrant investigation under a recall. The gear shifter frequently locks up and does not change gears properly. It stays in the wrong gear for an extended period—both when going uphill and downhill—before finally shifting, often accompanied by a loud noise. In some cases, the gear becomes stuck entirely, forcing me to take my foot off the accelerator. This delay in shifting poses a significant risk, especially in traffic, as I temporarily lose control of the vehicle's speed. During these moments, pressing the accelerator has no effect, which could easily lead to a dangerous situation. While the vehicle is still drivable, it consistently displays warning indicators suggesting a serious issue that needs professional attention. These problems are ongoing and seem to be getting worse over time. Given the safety implications, I am requesting that Jeep investigate this matter urgently and confirm whether my vehicle is subject to any active recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs). If not, I would still appreciate guidance on how to resolve this as soon as possible, as I am concerned for my safety and that of others on the road. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt response. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] Email [XXX] VIN# [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Aug 14, 2025
My power transfer unit busted into several different parts. There was no warning lights, it went to making a noise & when they took the skid cover off pieces came falling out. This happened last year & everywhere we look the part is on back order. So I'm paying a note on a vehicle that can't be used.
Power train, Aug 10, 2025
The Power Transfer Unit in my 2016 Jeep Cherokee failed when it only had 50,255 miles on it. The car was almost 10 years old. In the past month, when I tried to accelerate to 50 mph to merge on the highway, the Jeep did not accelerate normally when I pressed on the gas. Instead, it went slowly and made a revving noise, then when I hit the accelerator again, it made the revving noise louder and reluctantly started to accelerate. It would also lose drive power when going down a steep incline. There were a few instances of that and then the “SERVICE 4WD” light came on every day when I would put the car into reverse and stay on for the rest of the time I was driving the car. After that light came on, I noticed there was abnormal vibration underneath the middle of the car when I would drive it, too. The problem was confirmed on [XXX] in the service department of the Don White’s Jeep dealership in Cockeysville, Maryland, and the car is available for inspection there. My service advisor told me my Jeep needs a new PTU and the estimated cost of the repair is $3563 (not including tax). I ordered the new PTU on 7/29/25, but the parts manager at the dealership said the part is on backorder, and it will take at least 1 month, if not multiple months to get the part because there are “380 other Jeep owners” waiting for this same part. With the vibration, loss of motive power both on inclines and when attempting to accelerate and merge onto the highway, the safety of my family was put at risk; Our Jeep could lose drive power and the car could stop on the highway with cars speeding all around us. It could cause a crash. My PTU failed at 50,255 after not quite 10 years of very light driving. There’s no way that part should have failed under those normal conditions. My VIN number should be included in recall 20V343000 or FCA should reimburse me for this part. The repair would have been covered under my warranties if my VIN was included in the original recalls or X89 extension. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Aug 1, 2025
The PTU is defective. Service 4wheel drive dash light on. Did "software update" but did not fix problems. I need to have the ptu replaced!
Parking brake, Jul 31, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the parking brake switch was released, however the parking brake failed to release as intended. The contact stated that after several attempts, the parking brake was released. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed park brake switch. The contact was informed that the parking brake switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that parts were on back order. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jul 31, 2025
THE AUTOMATIC START STOP SYSTEM SHOWS FAILED.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Engine, Jul 31, 2025
WHEN AT IDLE AT A STOP SIGN OR STOP LIGHT THE PARKING BRAKE WILL ENGAGE. I HAVE TO PUT MY JEEP IN PARK AND THEN TURN THE JEEP OFF AND BACK ON A FEW TIMES TO DISENGAGE THE PARKING BRAKE. THIS HAS OCCURRED MULTIPLE TIMES.
Other or unspecified, Jul 17, 2025
THE SERVICE SHIFTER LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON, BUT IT GOES OFF SOMETIMES WHEN I RESTART. EVERY TIME I ASK SOMEONE TO CHECK IT OUT, THEY SAY THERE'S NOTHING TO SEE UNLESS IT IS ON. I DON'T WANT THIS TO CAUSE ANY PROBLEMS WITH THE CAR. HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO HAVE IT LOOKED AT WHEN IT IS NOT ON ALL THE TIME. I HAVE A PICTURE OF IT AND I AM STILL REFUSED SERVICE FOR IT.
Other or unspecified, Jul 14, 2025
I’ve went to get my car inspected and it shows 1 recall for “IN-USE NOX - CATALYST EFFICIENCY” . There was no warning signs on my dashboard. My car just acts differently and it sounds much louder. My dealership, CarMax can’t repair it for free and charging over $100 for a diagnostic alone.
Engine, Jul 9, 2025
When coming to a stop the auto stop turned the engine totally off. The car had to be shifted into park to restart the engine using the car's starter button. Afterward a message was displayed that the autostop was not available and to get the autostop serviced. The car was brought to the dealer for service of the full engine shutoff when the car came to a stop issue and the service manager stated they could not duplicate the problem. Since then the car engine totally shutoff 5 times when at a full stop and where the car needed to be placed in park and the start button pushed to restart the car. I now manually shutoff the autostop feature before leaving my house to avoid having the car engine fully shut off. The autostop not available message now displays within 2 minutes of starting the car.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Jul 7, 2025
On [XXX] my Jeep started making a grinding noise near the rear axle. Initially, thinking something had broken when I had hit a pot hole earlier that evening. We parked the car at a garage and the next day inspected it and said it sounded like the rear differential may be effected, advising it should be safe to drive in “sport” mode. I drove it to Blueridge Chrysler Jeep in Abingdon VA where I informed them I had discovered a Recall 45A on the Jeep, they kept the Jeep and called me in a few days saying it was only for an “software update” and it was fixed. Om [XXX], I drove my Jeep and upon getting less than a mile down the road it sounded like the backend was dragging. They called a tow truck & took it back to the garage & now with the MOPAR Extended warranty they would have to replace the PTU. It was part of the initial recall and it could affect the PTU and the RDM (rear differential). This part took months to be delivered and during that time I had to rent and borrow a car to get back and forth from work for over two months. In May, the service dept. called saying the Jeep was still making the dragging noise and may be the transmission or the Rear Differential, but they’re still looking into it. In June, after re-working the PTU, Blueridge has determined it is the Rear Differential that now needs replaced and when I asked about it all being a part of the MOPAR extended warranty and they told me I needed to call Chrysler Customer Care. I followed up and called and spoke to several people advising that the dealership would have to call MOPAR warranty. Today, 7/7/25, I spoke with Blueridge again and they are saying the Recall was only for an update. I referred to the details of the initial 45A recall that specifically says that if the update is not complete, it would lead to problems with the PTU & the rear differential. My stance is that MOPAR warranty should cover both the PTU and the Rear Differential under Both recalls the 45A and 20V343000. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Service brakes, Jul 4, 2025
Went to go to the grocery store and the Electronic Park Brake was engaged. Had it reset, went to the grocery store and it was re-engaged. Had it towed to dealer, upon diagnosis, corrosion was found at EPB module and connector pin. Declined repair and had it towed back home due to dealership quoting almost three thousand dollars for parts and repair. Upon later research, found that there is a known issue with water intrusion in this area that caused this and that there is a class action lawsuit due to almost 1.3 million vehicles affected by this and has been known about for almost 5 years. Dealership claims sunroof does leak but there has never been evidence of a leak from that area.
Firerelated, Jun 30, 2025, fire
The contact owned a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that around 5AM, when parked on the driveway the day before in the evening, the contact's wife heard abnormal noise from a window and discovered the vehicle had caught on fire. As a result of the fire, two other vehicles and the contact's residence were damaged. The vehicle was unoccupied during the fire. A fire inspector informed that the fire was an electrical one near the battery and fuse panel. The fire was extinguished by the fire department with water and foam. A fire department report was filed. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was destroyed. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 133,000.
Power train, Jun 30, 2025
Service four-wheel-drive light has illuminated and dealership recommends to replace PTU system