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.
Steering, Electrical system, Service brakes, Jan 23, 2025
My vehicle continues to sporadically lose power steering, power and braking. “4wd temporarily disabled” light keeps coming on but then goes off. I have taken to dealer and they say it doesn’t throw a code and there is nothing they can do. It’s a safety issue. Other Jeep Cherokee years and models keep getting recalled but not mine. Mine needs to be recalled. Very dangerous.has been happening increasingly more often in last two months.
Power train, Jan 21, 2025
Four Wheel Drive quit working. There is no traction on the rear wheels and four wheel drive error and stuck in traffic during freezing temperatures and snow on the road. This almost caused a collision. Why is there a recall on 2016 Jeep Cherokees for four wheel drive issue but not on my 2016 Jeep Cherokee?
Power train, Jan 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle jerked while in first gear. The contact stated that after a short while the vehicle returned to normal functionality. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 168,000.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Jan 14, 2025
While driving doe the highway the Dashboard lights go out and headlights turn off. Headlights and bulbs go out frequently. Rear license plate lights go out even after bulb replacement. Kicks cruise off while driving and shift gear control warning.
Power train, Jan 9, 2025
Transmission doesn’t engage while driving. When I am braking, the vehicle jumps like it is skipping gears while trying to slow down.
Power train, Jan 9, 2025
Intermittent 4WD SVC Light - Code c14a7-97 comes up. There is an outstanding LIFETIME warranty on my vehicle to replace the Power Transfer Unit, however Jeep/Chrysler refuses to fix this under the warranty because this code does not fall under the Extended Warranty, even though it is related to the same part (PTU). The part is 3-6 months backordered anyway. This is ignorance and a safety hazard from Jeep/Chrysler.
Suspension, Power train, Jan 4, 2025
According to my mechanic the sway bar broke, also I get a 4WD system unavailable service required! Which is PTU module needs replaced! That is a rescalled issue, do to safety issues! Please look into it! Thanks
Electrical system, Structure, Jan 3, 2025
The outside body of the vehicle is leaking, which is causing the Park break module to short circuit. This is causing my vehicle to suddenly stop and lock up.This has happened three times so far.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Engine, Dec 31, 2024
Started hesitating and did it at random times. I had a tune up done and it continued. I thought it was the transmission and took it to the transmission shop and they didn’t find anything wrong with the transmission. Started losing power and hesitation became worse while in traffic. Now it’s hesitating while stopped at the traffic light and not accelerating when taking off from a complete stop and not accelerating while merging. I brought it to the dealership in Lakeport, Ca. 95453. When I brought it to them the start stop warning lights were lit up on the dash. The start stop feature is creating the problem. I’m being told by the dealership that they can’t disengage the start stop feature. This is a safety hazard and I’m concerned it’s going to create engine problems. Apparently it’s a nationwide issue. The start stop feature needs to be recalled and fixed.
Power train, Dec 30, 2024
Service 4wd warning light illuminated. Google search for recall indicated that 2016 Jeep Cherokees had a recall for this problem. However, our specific VIN was not part of recall. When calling the manufacturer, I was advised that if the dealership could verify our vehicle was having the same problem as the recall, we could receive assistance. The advice was followed and confirmed, but when calling the manufacturer back, I was told that that was not how things work when dealing with a recall and since our VIN was not part of the recall, they could not do anything. I filed a complaint with NHTSA in April 2024 to no avail. We have brought the vehicle back to the dealership to see if we could have the problem fixed, and although we can, the parts are on back order. I can only assume because of the recall. Almost a year later, we are still dealing with this issue and never did hear back regarding our complaint.
Other or unspecified, Visibility/wiper, Dec 29, 2024
Cracked windshield. No visible impact mark. Parked car at home and when came back out there was small crack coming from bottom driver side going up. Later on when actually driving the vehicle the crack randomly started getting bigger and went further up and then split to the side until reached edge of windshield.
Suspension, Power train, Electrical system, Dec 25, 2024
My car has 123,000 done everything by book. Been report issues for over yr. Car almost got my killed by not stopping, turning, jerking on Accelerating and decelerating when shifting. All my motor mounts, transmission mount busted , messed up suspension control arm, ball joints, struts , axle, brakes all once. Drained battery. Spent 4500. Then my service shifter just came on. So back at shop. This is insane my shifter should last life time of my car. Due to the damage of that it cause a downfall of front end issues. This is well known issues of Jeep 2016 but not mine for a recall. It has cost me thousands and should not be happening at 122,000 miles . Car is at dealership again now and i have rental so not sure what that will cost. This started 2/11 not codes just could tell already filed reports with you all. My brakes lasted years , rotors was changed 2/11 hoping it helped per papers already damaged due to all this other crap. I’m very upset my car shouldn’t be having all these issues at 122,000 we are 1 car family
Power train, Dec 17, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 25 MPH, the message “4WD Unavailable” was displayed. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the power transfer unit (PTU) needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V302000 (POWER TRAIN). The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact was then referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 96,000.
Electrical system, Engine, Dec 10, 2024
On my 2016 jeep Cherokee limited my 4WD needs service along with my shifter popping up every now and then ref needing service … all lights turn red and flash… Code: C14A7 - 97 Ptu motor Obstructed or blocked Google shows recall but when I look it up it shows not on my model.. Why ? Miles :114000 I’m very disappointed.. will not recommend a Jeep again…
Electrical system, Service brakes, Engine, Dec 3, 2024
The thing died randomly and locked the steering wheel. Dealer can’t recreate the issue and said they cant fix it. I pay monthly on this thing that cant be fixed?
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 3, 2024
Vehicle lost power while in traffic was running weird jerking check engine light came on A! Light came on vehicle wouldn't stay running. Codes read Catalyst system efficiency. Recall u90 issues Recall u67 issues code p0430, p0300,p0175, p0174
Electrical system, Engine, Dec 2, 2024
IN EARLY 2022 THE VEHICLE JUST SHUTOFF WHILE I WAS ACTIVELY DRIVING. I COULDNT GET THE CAR TO NEUTRAL ONCE IT SHUT OFF AND HAD TO BE TOWED. BOOSTING DID NOT IMMEDIATELY RESOLVE THE ISSUE. BUT A DAY LATER THE CAR WOULD START AND THEN DRIVE FOR A WHILE AND JUST RANDOMLY SHUTOFF. I HAD BATTERY CHANGED, INCIDENT OCCURED AGAIN AND I HAD TO BE TOWED A COUPLE OF THE TIMES AND JUST DECIDED TO READ UP ON LINE IF ANYONE WAS HAVING SIMILAR ISSUES AND I CAME ACCROSS THIS ARTICLE BUT WHEN I ENTERED MY VIN NUMBER IT WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL EVEN THOUGH THE ISSUE I AM HAVING IS SIMILAR.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Nov 22, 2024
2 WEEKS AGO, I WAS DRIVING MY JEEP AND STOPPED FOR A TRAIN. THE JEEP SUDDENLY CUT OFF. I PUT IT IN PARK AND IT STARTED RIGHT UP. AFTER THE TRAIN PASSED, I DROVE APPROXIMATELY 200 FEET TO THE NEXT STOP SIGN AND IT CUT OFF AGAIN. IT RESTARTED, BUT I HAVEN'T DRIVEN IT FOR ANY DISTANCE SINCE THEN BECAUSE I'M AFRAID IT WILL CUT OFF ON THE HIGHWAY WHILE I'M GOING TO WORK OR ELSEWHERE. ALL MAINTENANCE IS CURRENT AND FLUIDS ARE CORRECT.
Engine, Nov 21, 2024
I own a 2016 Jeep Cherokee, and I’ve experienced significant engine issues that seem to be a common problem among other owners. The vehicle initially developed a ticking noise, which I was told was due to an oil change issue (first too little oil, then too much). The problem escalated quickly—leading to misfiring, bucking, excessive fuel consumption, and eventually a complete loss of power. After consulting multiple auto shops, the root cause was identified as premature failure of the lifters, rocker arms, and camshaft. I’ve been informed that all 24 lifters and rocker arms need replacement. The cost for repairs is quoted at $4,200, which is financially burdensome. Through my research, I’ve learned this is a recurring issue for Jeep owners and have even found references to class action lawsuits for similar problems. This indicates that the issue may be widespread and systemic. I urge the NHTSA to investigate these complaints to determine whether this failure meets the criteria for a recall. Many Jeep owners, including myself, would benefit from a recall or repair cost reimbursement due to the significant financial and safety impacts of this issue.
Power train, Nov 19, 2024
Service 4WD light came on. Mechanic received C14A7-97 code indicating a problem with the PTU. Also I was told that the internals of the transfer case were jammed and cannot engage 4x4. A Google check confirmed that other Jeep Cherokees were recalled because of PTU issues but my VIN does not come up. This doesn’t make sense as it is the same vehicle and same flawed part. Also, I did have a brief loss of power while driving over a year ago. I do not want to pay $4100 for this repair when other similar issues exist and a recall was issued. I believe that this is similar enough to be covered for this flaw, especially when I only have 107,000 miles. Please advise. Regards, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Nov 19, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the contact was informed that an undisclosed module needed to be reprogrammed. The vehicle was then taken to another independent mechanic where a diagnostic test was performed, and the contact was informed that the PTU (Power Transfer Unit) and the blower motor needed to be repaired. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V302000 (Power Train) which was linked to the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure and scheduled an appointment. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.
Power train, Nov 15, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the 4WD function failed to operate as intended. The check 4WD warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with power transfer unit case assembly failure. The contact was informed that the power transfer unit case assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.
Electrical system, Nov 14, 2024
Instroment light come back on with all other lights ignition off. Runs battery down.
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Nov 13, 2024
PTU problems. Grinding noise from rear when turning slow and accelerating. Remove fuse for ptu and noise goes away. Put fuse back in it is back. Vehicle moves a lot when put in park and sometimes when using remote start you can see the vehicle jump forward a couple feet. My vehicle has all symptoms from recalls NHTSA 20V-343, NHTSA 20E-037, NHTSA 23V-302. But my PTU part number of:68283349AA is not included in any recall. This needs to be looked at further and extend the recalls to all PTU’s on the Jeep Cherokees 2014-2017. Chrysler knows these are bad
Engine, Nov 13, 2024
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving on the highway at approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle suddenly began to decelerate. The transmission service and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that as she was making her way to the side of the road, a vehicle from behind almost crashed into the rear. The contact was able to park the vehicle on the side of the road and have it restarted. Upon restarting the vehicle the contact was able to continue driving however the contact stated that the acceleration was reduced to approximately 30 MPH. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage 111,000.