2019 Jeep Cherokee
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 1,643 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 4th highest complaint count among 12 Cherokee model years with reports.
Of the 2019 reports, 40 involved a crash and 19 involved a fire. 37 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Power trainMay 7, 2026
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.
A failed PTU may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Dealers will update the Drivetrain Control Drivetrain Control Module, PTU, and Electronic Park Brake software, and replace the PTU, as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were mailed June 25, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy becomes available. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 40D. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 14, 2026.
Campaign 26V290000 on NHTSA.gov
Power trainApr 29, 2025
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may become damaged and disengage the transmission and differential, resulting in a loss of drive power and/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.
Dealers will update the drivetrain control module and PTU software and replace the PTU, as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning February 19, 2026. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 01C.
Campaign 25V011000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, rack and pinion, rackAug 29, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The steering rack gear may break, possibly causing a loss of steering control.
A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering gear, free of charge. The recall began October 24, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V99.
Campaign 19V637000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bagsJun 13, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The impact and acceleration sensors may fail and reduce the air bag system's ability to properly detect certain crash events.
In the event of a crash, the inability to properly detect a crash may result in improper air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected sensors, free of charge. The recall began August 8, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V63.
Campaign 19V449000 on NHTSA.gov
SeatsMar 28, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The front passenger seat mounting bolts may be loose.
In the event of a crash, the seat may move, increasing the risk of injury.
Chrysler has notified owners, and dealers will tighten the mounting bolts, free of charge. The recall began April 11, 2019. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V31.
Campaign 19V248000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, instrument cluster/panelDec 20, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The instrument cluster may fail resulting in a lack of activation of warning chimes, messages, and gauges.
Without the activation of warning chimes, messages, and gauges to provide vehicle information to the driver, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Chrysler has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the instrument cluster, free of charge. The recall began February 7, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is UC4.
Campaign 18V917000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmissionOct 19, 2018
Chrysler(FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with 2.4L engines. Improper transmission calibration may result in a stall.
A vehicle stall can increase the risk of crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will re-flash the transmission controller with a new calibration, free of charge. The recall began November 2, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is UA9.
Campaign 18V739000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiring, front underhoodAug 9, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles and 2018-2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid vehicles. The powertrain control module may be equipped with a voltage regulator chip in the circuit board that may fail, causing a stall or a no start condition.
A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began October 2, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U87.
Campaign 18V524000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, foundation components, disc, caliperAug 9, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan and Jeep Compass, 2018 Dodge Journey, and 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will bleed the vehicle's brake system, free of charge. The recall began September 29, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U86.
Campaign 18V523000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmissionJul 26, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica non-hybrid vehicles. A component in the transmission may not have been welded properly, possibly causing the transmission to not transmit engine power to the wheels.
If the transmission weld fails, the vehicle will stop moving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the transmission, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin September 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U85.
Campaign 18V492000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, engineMay 25, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with 2.0L engines. The engines in these vehicles may be missing valve stem keepers, which can allow the valve to drop into the engine cylinder causing engine damage. These engines may also have a reversed camshaft cap that can damage the camshaft bearing causing camshaft failure.
Cylinder damage or camshaft failure can cause the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and repair or replace the affected engine components, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began August 9, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U52.
Campaign 18V344000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: power train
804 reports, newest first. Show all
Power train, Jan 21, 2026
I am reporting an open safety recall on my vehicle that has had no available remedy for over a year. My 2019 Jeep Cherokee is subject to Recall 01C, which warns of potential loss of power and loss of park function. Due to this defect, my vehicle’s 4-wheel drive system is currently inoperative. I live in Minnesota, where 4WD is necessary for safe winter driving. The loss of 4WD significantly affects the safe operation and intended use of the vehicle in snow and icy conditions. The recall notice has repeatedly stated that a remedy would be available by a certain date, but each time the date passes it is pushed back again. There has been no repair available despite the recall being open for more than a year. While I have not yet experienced a complete loss of power or park function, the recall states this is a possibility, and I am concerned about the safety risk this presents. The vehicle is currently being operated with a known safety defect that cannot be repaired. I am requesting that this issue be reviewed, as the prolonged lack of a remedy for a safety-related recall is creating an ongoing safety concern and hardship.
Power train, Jan 19, 2026
The Power Transfer (PTU) unit exploded while driving on the highway, upon inspection from the Jeep dealership it was found with multiple cracks on the PTU housing and even described in the service report from the tech that the PTU exploded. The car experienced sudden loss of power and if other cars were around I could of been rear ended. This part has recalls on other Jeep Cherokee models (Safety Recall W47 / NHTSA 20V-343) but my particular VIN does not fall under this recall. They're were not any warning lights on or symptoms that pertained to a possible faliure of the PTU.
Power train, Jan 18, 2026
Service 4WD light came on and stays on. Odometer flashes continuously. No 4 wheel drive functions operate. Dealer scanned for codes. Determined the transfer case control module was defective. Replacement did not fix the problem ($600.00). Then the fix was new tires because the front tires were worn more than the rear ($ 1000.00). That did not fix the problem either. Now we wait for the recall to materialize. The recall came out a year ago ( JAN 2025). Still no parts or fixes available for this problem.
Power train, Electrical system, Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 17, 2026
To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting a safety complaint regarding my 2019 Jeep Cherokee Limited due to ongoing defects that create unsafe driving conditions. Vehicle Information: •Year/Make/Model: 2019 Jeep Cherokee Limited •189,000 Safety Issues: My vehicle has experienced repeated and unpredictable failures, including: •Loss of power while driving •Electrical instability and voltage fluctuations •Auto Stop/Start system malfunction •Hard and delayed transmission shifting •“Service Shifter” warnings and parking brake alerts (P with exclamation point) •Intermittent stalling and hesitation These issues occur without warning and significantly impair the vehicle’s ability to accelerate, shift, and operate safely in traffic. Recall Concern: I am aware that 2018–2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles were recalled for transmission, powertrain, and electrical defects, including conditions that can cause loss of propulsion and unsafe shifting. My vehicle exhibits the same symptoms described in those recalls; however, my VIN has not been included. Repair History: I have contacted the dealership multiple times. The primary response has been battery replacement, which did not resolve the issues. No permanent repair or root cause has been identified. Safety Risk: Loss of power, transmission malfunction, and electrical instability while driving present a serious safety risk and increase the likelihood of a collision. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this complaint and investigate whether my vehicle is affected by a safety-related defect consistent with known recalls for this model Sincerely [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Jan 16, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train). The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle lost power and failed to accelerate as intended. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the PTU needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired because the part was not yet available. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the PTU needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000.
Power train, Jan 16, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train). The contact stated that on several occasions while driving at various speeds, the vehicle jerked and hesitated, but the engine continued to rev, and the RPM was very elevated. The contact stated that during the 6th failure, the check engine warning light illuminated for several seconds and then disappeared. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but the failure was not duplicated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, but the part for the recall repair was not yet available. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 60,000.
Power train, Jan 15, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the 4-WD warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the PTU needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.
Power train, Jan 13, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH, the vehicle stalled with the “Service 4-WD” warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the power transfer unit (PTU) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.
Power train, Jan 13, 2026
In July of 2025 the srv 4x4 warning light came on a clanking sound began happening while driving. Eventually my jeep would begin shifting gears really hard. My local jeep dealer service dept. diagnosed that the PTU was failing. There was a recall in the recent months but my VIN was not on the recall list. They offered a good faith repair estimate of $2,500 plus tax to fix it and ordered the parts which were on a long backorder. Its now January 2026 and the parts are still not in yet. I should not have to pay $2,800 for a part that has been recalled on the same vehicle, make and model in recent months and I can't even have it repaired in a reasonable time. Very poor customer service Chrysler Jeep!
Power train, Jan 13, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle started vibrating abnormally. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken a dealer where it diagnosed and determined that the PTU needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure had occurred twice. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 56,221.
Power train, Jan 12, 2026
Our 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk made the warning code "service 4 wheel drive" and shortly after when parked at a gas station shifted itself into 4 LOW. I figured it out after starting to drive and we limped home which was a few miles away. We called the dealership and were told to bring it in for diagnostic. While parked on the inclined driveway the Jeep shifted itself into N and luckily I was able to press the brake (Non-ABS or hydraulic assistance due to the engine being off) stop it from rolling through the sidewalk into the street. I was able to get the Jeep into 2H to drive the 5 miles to dealership where they said they would do a diagnostic. 2 days later they texted us to say the transfer case was at fault and that would cost us $3825 up front and then we could submit a claim to Mopar to be reimbursed. I don't believe the original PTU (Transfer case) is available for inspection but you could ask the dealership. It's obvious our safety along with neighbors, pedestrians, and people driving down the street were put at risk, and had we known how serious the issue was, I would have asked for it to be towed to the dealership instead of driving it. The problem was confirmed by the dealer to be under recall. I don't know if anyone besides the dealership has inspected our failed PTU. We had very little warning to the problem. I believe the first time we saw the warning light was the same day the vehicle began having mechanical failures.
Power train, Jan 12, 2026
The vehicle is subject to an open safety recall, Jeep recall 01C / NHTSA 25V-011, involving loss of motive power due to a power transfer unit defect. There is currently no available remedy or repair procedure. This vehicle has experienced loss of power while driving at freeway speeds on three separate occasions, creating an immediate safety risk. Because the recall has no fix, the vehicle is unsafe to operate and is not being driven. Stellantis Customer Care case [XXX] is open, but escalation beyond the call center has been denied. The owner is an [XXX] driver. The lack of a remedy has rendered the vehicle unusable and created ongoing safety and transportation issues. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Jan 10, 2026
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failure. It is available for inspection upon request. Visible PTU fluid leaking under the vehicle. Loss of 4WD. Service 4WD warning on dashboard began on Monday, January 5, 2026. Vibrations and grinding noises while driving. Burning oil smell in the cabin. Change in driving, such as delayed engagement and jerking during acceleration. Loss of power. My safety and the safety of others was put at risk at least twice when I experienced Loss of Power while driving. The vehicle unexpectedly shut off and all power was loss while in drive on two separate occasions in late 2025. PTU fluid leak is also a risk to my safety due to its potential for vehicle overheating, fire hazard, loss of 4WD, and/or catastrophic failure. The vehicle was taken to the service department of Ourisman Dodge Jeep Ram of Alexandria, VA on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The vehicle was inspected and PTU failure was confirmed by the dealership service department representative, Dennis Orellana.
Power train, Jan 8, 2026
PTU Control Motor is failing and triggering SVC 4WD. In the middle of winter having loss of power is terrifying. Has been looked at by mechanic, diagnostic ran and code C14A7-97 has been present. I purchased in 2022, 85k miles and regular maintenance.
Power train, Jan 8, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train). While parked in the snow, the contact attempted to engage the 4WD, but the 4WD feature failed to activate. The “Service 4WD” message was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 86,650.
Power train, Jan 7, 2026
my vehicle suddenly loss power and started decelerating while i was driving on the freeway on october 11th of 2025 . upon taking my vehicle to a mechanic i was told the TPU was the issue . i remembered this was an issue that had been recalled . i called the manufacturer and dealership . both told me that there was nothing they could do , i could not have my car fixed til there was a resolution and they could not provide me with a loaner vehicle . they told me my only option was to fix the car myself and have the money refunded to me after i show proof . the mechanic quotes me $2,000 to fix my vehicle . i do not have that amount to fix something that should’ve have BEEN fixed because the recall has been out for a whole year now . so for 3 months i have been without my vehicle up and running . i have gotten my payments pushed back on my jeep but now they have started again and i refuse to pay for something that i can’t drive ! especially after i could’ve died on the freeway
Power train, Other or unspecified, Jan 7, 2026
Safety issue involving loss of power and braking Prior to receiving a PTU recall notice in January 2025, my vehicle began experiencing sudden and unexpected loss of power while driving, particularly when braking. Since that time, the issue has worsened significantly and now occurs more frequently. On multiple occasions, the vehicle has failed to accelerate properly after braking, creating dangerous situations in traffic. In at least one incident, there was a loss of braking power that nearly caused me to run a red light. Several of these incidents were near-accidents and occurred without warning. I have brought the vehicle to my local Jeep dealership three separate times and fully explained the loss of power and braking concerns. Each time, I was told that all issues are “directly related to the PTU recall,” that there is currently “no solution,” and that “nothing can be done.” The vehicle was returned to me without repairs despite the safety risk. The dealership has acknowledged the issue but has not provided a fix, alternative transportation, or assurance that the vehicle is safe to operate. With a longer commute and the problem occurring more often, I no longer feel safe driving the vehicle and believe an accident outside of my control is inevitable if this continues. This defect presents a serious safety hazard involving loss of acceleration and braking while driving.
Power train, Jan 7, 2026
I have already placed a claim for my vehicle but did not confirm my email. I also need someone to reach out to me as well. I've lost my job and I can't do my side gig job to pay rent for my home now as well as having 3 small children.
Power train, Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 6, 2026
When I got it looked at it’s my powertrain. The car is shutting off in motion.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Jan 6, 2026
Started financing this vehicle 11/8/25- driving on the interstate on 11/27/25 I started hearing thumping noises coming from my vehicle, I thought it was the road so I turned my radio and everything off and listened and it continued so I pulled over. I put the vehicle in park, walked around my vehicle to check for flat tires and to see if I possibly ran over something and there was nothing. I put it in reverse and it pulled itself back a little.. I put it back in park and checked around the vehicle again. I got back in the vehicle and put it back in drive and it wouldn't budge. I sat on the side of the road for over 6 hrs, 2 hrs away from home. My dealership didn't put in any of my information or transfer for the vehicle at the time it was suppose to be put in at signing and so I was out almost $600 in tow charges back to the dealership because my warranty hadn't went into effect. I've had 4 loaner vehicles threw this dealership which in return has caused me to lose my job because of other defects wrong with those vehicles as well. The mechanic at the dealership where I purchased the vehicle looked at it and told me that the rear differential had went out. And that the warranty company denied my claim. The dealership messaged me on 1/5/26 to come get my vehicle, that it had been fixed and was ready to go. On 1/6/26 I was proceeding to take my partner to work and as I was pulling out to leave, the vehicle started to make the same noises as before. I pulled back and parked my vehicle back. We have lost income now over this matter and possibly another job if we continue to call in or can't make it to work. I have 3 small children all under the age of [XXX] . I've called the Chrysler/jeep dealership and everyone says they can't help me. I've pointed out the recalls of the same matter on other jeep Cherokee's and how much of a safety issue this is. Vehicle is available for inspection any time. 1/6/26- the vehicle also had a warning sign pop up on the dash for the auto start. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Jan 5, 2026
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Jan 5, 2026
My 2019 Jeep Lost all power. Shortly after that My service 4wd light came on. I understand that this is a recent recall for the PTU but, my VIN number is not showing this recall. How do I get my Jepp added to this recall for the service 4wd indicator?
Power train, Other or unspecified, Jan 3, 2026
Vehicle has been having driving issues such as noises and loss of power while driving. Recall for power control module, have been told they can’t give a loaner and they don’t have parts since the recall was issued (01/16/2025) was in the shop while that recall was going on (8 months actually because they couldn’t get parts) because it caused my differentials to lock up, they replaced them but vehicle has still had problems since then and was told there was nothing to be done. Warning signals come on and off when vehicle loses power, all dashboard lights cut on and off and it makes noise when shifting gears or accelerating. I have been terrified to drive it for months because it has just been getting worse and I am currently pregnant and don’t want to put my child at risk if it were to cause a wreck because I was told it could go out at anytime.
Power train, Jan 1, 2026
SVC 4WD warning indicator light appeared in dash cluster. Vehicle has been taken to two certified Jeep service dealerships. Both have confirmed the issue is with the Power Transfer Unit and that it will need to be replaced. Jeep does not have a replacement PTU for this widely known issue. A recall has been issued for this very problem, but our vehicle and many others from 2019 are not included in the recall. Same issue, same model, same year, but no recall and no part available for repair. Both dealerships have stated that the vehicle should not be driven due to safety concerns for loss of power if the PTU should completely fail. 6 months have passed with no indication of any effort from Stellantis to even repair the recalled vehicles, let alone the same vehicles with the same problem that are not included in the recall. A report was filed with Stellantis.
Power train, Jan 1, 2026
No known remedy for the PTU recall. I have had the 4WD Service light on for quite sometime now. Please advise on when remedy is available.