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.
Power train, Mar 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that the gear shifter was stuck in park(P). The contact stated that once the vehicle was parked, the gear shifter remained stuck in park(P). The contact manually depressed the button under the gear shifter to move the gear shifter. No warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000.
Power train, Mar 10, 2025
My vehicle losses all power to the wheels or does not not allow me to accelerate on occasion. Mechanic told me I have a faulty PTU. This has almost cause me to get into an accident several times. Unfortunately due to a very long back order I'm not able to get my vehicle repaired any time soon. I was told to report this due to a recall for this issue but my vehicle is 1 year older than the recall years.
Power train, Mar 10, 2025
I own a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Limited 4x4. The SERVICE 4WD light came on a few weeks ago. After research and several mechanic's input, I was told the problem was the PTU, and, since Jeep no longer makes the part, I was given the quote of $2700-$3200 to replace the PTU with a remanufactured part with only a one year warranty. According to the mechanics, when driving with a broken PTU it may cause damage to the drive shafts. transmission and axles, which, in turn can break while in use, leading to a very dangerous situation. I was told that I should put the Jeep in two wheel drive manually and drive it like that, but my shifter doesn't have that option. It shifts automatically. So, I have a bad PTU, but my VIN doesn't have a recall, and there are several people with the same problem, according to the NHTSA site. I am filing this complaint so the NHTSA will step in and require the manufacturer to further the recall to include ALL of the VINs with defective PTUs and make them safer to drive. Yes, the vehicle is available to inspect at your convenience.
Power train, Mar 7, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who replaced the drivetrain control module but later the message "Service Four Wheel Drive" was displayed. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer who diagnosed that the PTU needed to be replaced; however, the part was on backorder. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V302000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 110,000.
Power train, Engine, Mar 6, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle violently began jerking after releasing the accelerator pedal and depressing the brake pedal. There was an abnormal popping sound coming from the vehicle. The engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V302000 (Power Train). The contact called the local dealer, who discussed updating the software. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 84,000.
Power train, Mar 6, 2025
Transmission is slamming into gear aswell as loss of all power to the wheels
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Mar 5, 2025, fire
I parked my vehicle at 6pm on February 15th. at 2:45 pm I awoke to a loud explosion outside my bedroom window. There was a very large fire, and it was my car. I was in shock we could only watch from our window as the fire department arrived and put out the fire which was spreading to the carport and mailboxes near my parking spot. It also burned a truck parked next to mine. both cars a total loss. My insurance company sent someone to tow my vehicle, but the tow truck driver refused saying the vehicle was untowable, due to the massive damage. the next day a neighbor informed me that he got the whole incident on video start to finish. 'The video shows my engine igniting while off and had been parked for over 6 hours. In the video you see a small flame start under the hood near the windshield wipers. the flame then grew and grew!!!! until the car was completely engulfed in flames. I also had a full tank of gas!!! Once the fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. the whole thing was melted to the concrete. the engine laying on the ground. A TOTAL LOSS!!!!
Parking brake, Feb 26, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle at a gas station, the check engine and brake warning lights illuminated after restarting the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate after several attempts. A handheld scanner was used to retrieve a code for a failure with the parking brake. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where the failure was confirmed. The contact was informed that the parking brake module, actuator, and wiring needed to be replaced and that the vehicle should be taken to the dealer for the repair. The local dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was advised to have the vehicle towed in for a diagnostic test. The vehicle remained with the independent mechanic unrepaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 127,000. The VIN was not available.
Engine, Feb 24, 2025, fire
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked and unoccupied at 3 AM, the contact noticed a loud popping sound outside the contact's window. The contact inspected and noticed the vehicle caught on fire. The contact stated the flames were coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the fire spread and damaged the vehicle that was parked beside the contact's vehicle owned by the neighbor. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked in a residential apartment parking lot when the fire occurred. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. The Police arrived, however, no report has been filed as of yet. There were no injuries sustained. The contact stated that both vehicles were towed to a local tow yard. In addition, both vehicles were condemned to total loss. The origin of the fire was undetermined however video surveillance showed that the fire started from the front area. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 127,000.
Other or unspecified, Feb 21, 2025
I have had my jeep since 2020, in September 2024 my "Service Transmission" notification displayed on the jeep. I took it a Jiffy Lube for a transmission service in which aftermarket fluid was put in the transmission and the filters were not replaced. The "Service Transmission" notification came back on in November, was taken into a mechanic that confirmed the Transmission Temperature Sensor had gone bad. The open recalls were repaired by a Jeep Dealership following the issues due to the recalls potentially having fixes for the "Service Transmission errors". Following that mechanic, it was taken to a dealership that diagnosed the Temperature Sensor and replaced the sensor and serviced the transmission. During the test drive, they noticed the transmission was jumping. After looking into it, they discovered that the transmission wasn't firing correctly. My friends with similar jeep transmissions, if not the same, are experiencing the same exact issues with the temperature sensor and transmission failures. There were no accidents reported, just issues directly related to the transmission.
Power train, Feb 17, 2025
2016 Jeep Cherokee, owner since NOV22. Transfer Case (Service 4-wheel drive), warning light appeared after driving 1x time off-road in sand. From my knowledge, there was a previous recall/complaints however isn’t covered currently by manufacturer. Last year I previously went to a local Jeep dealer to fix the PTU software issue for the same component. The transfer case issue has been verified by a mechanic and is estimated to be +$3,200 for parts and labor. The vehicle is well maintained, transfer case’s fluid was not replaced upon inspection by mechanic. The vehicle has been used for daily commute on paved roads/highways. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
Power train, Feb 16, 2025
Vehicle making grinding noise when wheel is turned last week. Previously a "Service Shifter" light came in sporadically. No codes were ever found. Recently the 4wd service light came on and stayed on. PTU failure. I searched and realized this specific vehicle was not included in the recall and I don't understand why because it should be. It's been wonky for years, right after the warranty. I may end up without a vehicle for all this beauracracy. It should be included in the recall...
Other or unspecified, Feb 13, 2025
4WD unavailable light popped up. Took it to a local shop. They said the code is for the PTU. It controls the gear the vehicle is in. The car can go into neutral at anytime including while driving. Many other Jeep Cherokees have recalls for the same issue. It is a safety hazard and I am afraid to drive it due to my safety and the safety of others.
Power train, Feb 12, 2025, fire
There was absolutely no warning driving at 55 mph heard a loud noise and smelt fluid pulled over small flame that extinguished by itself and fluid everywhere did a little research and many of these same jeeps had a PTU issue and were recalled
Other or unspecified, Feb 8, 2025
PTU failed. Other 2016 jeeps were recalled however this Jeep was not. Service 4WD light came on and the cars 4WD is not functioning
Other or unspecified, Feb 2, 2025
I just bought this used car and just drove around town. It has 101,724 miles and it smells like something burning when I start it up and when I drive it. I know it's coming from somewhere under the hood. I'm paying 9500.00 for this car and already have burnt smell.
Power train, Jan 28, 2025
4WD SYSTEM UNAVAILBE SERVICE REQUIRED HAD TO PAY TO HAVE IT FIXS
Power train, Jan 27, 2025
SVC 4WD - code that appeared, C14A7-97. Spoke with Stellantis and was told that this VIN was not covered under the recall. Not sure why not - it is experiencing the same issue. The diagnostic trouble code (DTC) C14A7-97 in a Jeep Cherokee indicates a problem with the power transfer unit (PTU) motor component or system. This issue can cause the transmission to disengage, resulting in a loss of drive power or park function. Symptoms The "Service 4WD" light is on The "AWD System Service Required" message is illuminated Possible causes The input shaft ring on the PTU may not be fully seated The PTU may have been built to allow relative movement between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft Possible consequences a vehicle crash without prior warning and injury to others outside the vehicle. Recall Chronology: On March 7th, 2023, the FCA US LLC (“FCA US”) Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance (“TSRC”) organization opened an investigation into 2016-2017 MY Jeep Cherokee vehicles for potential PTU failures that experience a loss of motive power (“LOMP”) and/or park function. During March 2023, FCA US TSRC conducted an analysis of LOMP and/or loss of park function patterns associated with two-speed PTU replacements. As of April 20th, 2023, FCA US is aware of two customer assistance records, 17 warranty claims, zero field reports, and six other service records potentially related to this issue for all markets with dates of receipt ranging from January 13th, 2017, through August 7th, 2022. As of April 20th, 2023, FCA US is not aware of any accidents or injuries potentially related to this issue for all markets. On April 20th, 2023, FCA US determined, through the Vehicle Regulations Committee, to conduct a voluntary safety recall of the affected vehicles.
Power train, Jan 26, 2025
Ptu failure/ loss of motive power
Power train, Jan 26, 2025, fire
*While driving vehicle on highway heard a loud noise and grinding sound and PTU exploded and *was not able to maneuver vehicle properly. *Fluid that was leaking out . Caused fire . Once car turned off this stopped flames .This could have been a very dangerous situation if it had not gone out for us and others on the highway. * we brought the vehicle to our mechanic who diagnosed it and said there was a problem to bring it to the Jeep dealer who also diagnosed the same problem. * it is currently still at the Jeep dealer . Because there are no parts available, which makes us wonder if this has happened to many other people.. * there were no warning, lamps or messages that came on.
Power train, Jan 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became firm, with the traction, check engine, and battery warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the messages to “Service Transmission” and “Service Shifter” were displayed. The contact was forced to park on the side of the road and restart the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the gear shifter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000.
Power train, Jan 23, 2025
SWC 4WD notice Car starts shaking go beyond 60 mph
Other or unspecified, Jan 23, 2025
Jeep lost power several times and at other times would say to shift to park. Same as the most recent recall but 2016 is not included currently.
Power train, Jan 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while cold starting the vehicle and shifting to drive (D) or into reverse (R), the vehicle hesitated and then jolted into gear while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that the "Service 4WD" warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving on the highway at an undisclosed speed, while depressing the accelerator pedal to overtake another vehicle, the vehicle hesitated before responding as needed. The contact stated that when the transmission shifted, there was a jolt, and the "Service 4WD" warning light illuminated. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 124,000.
Power train, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jan 23, 2025
This morning i heard about the recall of 63,000 jeeps from 2017-2019 for the power failure in the PTU. I have a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk and i have experienced the same EXACT issue! I currently have a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk. I'm the original owner. This Saturday, January 25th, I am turning it in for the PTU to be replaced. This will be my 2nd PTU replacement. . I was told that this 2nd PTU has a different Part Number than the OEM, or the last one. Thus making it slightly designed differently (i dont know the factual of this statement). *** In the last year, and mostly during warmer months, I have experienced MULTIPLE complete power failures of my Jeep. Anywhere from driving, and/or slow parking. it has even happended at times when taking an off ramp from the highway! I have had other people in the Jeep when this has happened. I was told that I have a loose battery terminal connection. So I went out and purchased the Battery Post Shims to increase the posts thickness on the battery. This did not resolve the problem. Since June 2024 I have been on MOPAR's waiting list for this replacment PTU and I finally received it a couple weeks ago. It is now winter and for some reason the power failure does not happen, but there is a consistent clicking in the front end. Not thinking it was the PTU because it has been replaced already, I thought it was the CV Joint so I bought that part. When i got to the dealership to have the work completed, they informed me that it is NOT the CV Joint, but definitely the PTU. So that is how I have been on the waiting list since June 2024. This morning i heard about the recall of 63,000 jeeps from 2017-2019 for the power failure in the PTU. I have a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk and i have experienced the same EXACT issue! This recall may need to be extended to include 2016's!!