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
1,643 reports, newest first.
Power train, Engine, Jan 28, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated before surging forward and accelerating. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed that the power transfer unit had failed. The power transfer unit was replaced. The contact stated that after the vehicle was repaired, the contact learned online that there was a recall related to the failure under 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 62,000.
Power train, Jan 27, 2025
Rear differential cracked at approximately 53,000 miles. The gear oil began leaking profusely. There were no warning lights so if I had continued to drive it, the rear could have locked up. My local shop (fox run automotive in Bear, Delaware) cannot find new dealer parts. A used differential sourced from a lot will be used at a cost of $3,400 to me.
Power train, Jan 24, 2025
I noticed an oil leak in the rear of the car. I went underneath and noticed the casing of the rear differential is separating at the seam. This can cause the rear to lock up, which can cause a loss of control. The warranty is expired. After doing research, there are thousands of cases with the exact same problem. My mechanic even said he has seen this on a few different jeeps of the same model. This should be a recall.
Power train, Jan 24, 2025
PTU (Power transfer unit) I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the ongoing lack of resolution regarding my Jeep's Power Transfer Unit (PTU) replacement. Since November 19, 2024, my vehicle has been in service at Larry H. Miller, located at 9733 Coors Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87114. The dealership has informed me that the necessary part is on indefinite backorder, with no expected timeline for delivery. Despite my efforts, I have been unable to receive any assistance or timely resolution. The dealership is suggesting that I trade in my vehicle for a newer model, which I find completely unacceptable, especially since the part required for my vehicle’s repair is covered under my warranty. I have been working with Javiar Sanchez, the Service Manager, and have made multiple attempts to resolve this issue, but unfortunately, I have received no substantial help or updates. Additionally, I have contacted Jeep directly, with no progress made. This situation has left me in the unfortunate position of continuing to make payments on a vehicle that I am unable to drive. As my Jeep remains at the dealership without a resolution, I kindly request immediate assistance in facilitating the repair of my vehicle under warranty, or an alternative resolution to this issue.
Power train, Jan 24, 2025
Rear differential is going dealership says it’s a common issue.
Other or unspecified, Jan 24, 2025
The car would jerk forward randomly while increasing speed. This happens at least once every few months. Also, the car would randomly cut off while at a stop light. This has happened twice. I've owned the car for 3 years and have regular maintenance.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Engine, Jan 24, 2025
When I am at a stop like a stop sign or light the engine will sometimes stall not allowing me to drive. It won’t go which is extremely dangerous. The car will have lights come on about airbags or it’ll be passenger seat belt when I don’t even have a passenger in the car. The brakes have locked up on me when coming to a stop the brakes have gone rock solid allowing no movement and I’ve almost hit other cars due to it locking up and not stopping. You would have thought someone out a rock under my brake. All of this has happened multiple time.
Other or unspecified, Jan 23, 2025
My car has just turned off out of no where twice now once pulling up to a stop light and once pulling into the garage. Complete loss of power. I wasn’t in immediate danger except for I had to put the car in park and turn it back on at a stop light I guess I was lucky it could have been much worse.
Power train, Jan 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "4WD Unavailable - Service Required" was displayed. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the power transfer unit resulting in damages to the 4WD actuator. The contact was informed that the 4WD actuator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 50,000.
Power train, Engine, Jan 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle failed to properly accelerate while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that after stopping and restarting the vehicle, the failure self-corrected. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light and 4WD message was intermittently displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the power transfer unit was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact was informed of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 70,000.
Power train, Electrical system, Jan 23, 2025
Hi, I am making this report because my jeep has a similar issue I've noticed has been recalled on earlier year jeep cherokees my service 4WD light has come on every time I drive including losing access to my 4WD in the vehicle. While stopped my jeep seems to stall out occasionally at stop lights or signs. Every mechanic we have seen said it could be a manufacture issue but it could also be the transfer case actuator. I just wanted to send this in because it is an issue that would cost my family financially to fix. If there is any way to look into this that would be great.
Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Jan 22, 2025
Automatic brakes suddenly came on. Huge BRAKE busy road and could not get the car going
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Jan 16, 2025
During acceleration to pass another vehicle, my engine had lost all power and acceleration and I had to make a split decision to brake and maneuver my vehicle back into my lane behind multiple vehicles who were behind me before I attempted to pass. Had there have been oncoming traffic within that mentally unaccounted time that I was in the opposite lane, I could have been in a very large deadly accident. Cylinder 1 and 2 are testing at 0 compression, Oil is leaking into the turbo and out of the exhaust. I have had regular oil changes and a tune up with the mentioning of a low power and jolting issue during acceleration and the dealership did not look into my concerns other than their simple findings of one burnt spark plug, I had all 4 replaced at that appointment, the engine is broken about 6 months later.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Jan 15, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the brakes would activate causing the vehicle to stall and shut down immediately without any warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who determined that oil was leaking from the vehicle. The oil level sensor had been replaced but the failure persisted. The contact stated that while reversing, the vehicle made a bumping and thumping sound underneath the vehicle. Additionally, the brakes were squealing while the brake pedal was depressed. The contact also stated that several attempts were needed while attempting to start the vehicle. The vehicle was returned to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the brakes might not have been properly installed on the vehicle. The brakes and the battery had been replaced; however, the failures persisted. The contact stated that on another occasion while driving approximately 25 MPH, the brakes unintendedly activated, causing the vehicle to stall. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact became aware that antifreeze was leaking from the vehicle. The contact called AAA and the vehicle was jumpstarted after several attempts. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and had the vehicle towed to the residence. The contact stated that the failure was persistent, and the vehicle needed to be jumpstarted regularly. The contact stated that the vehicle would only drive for short distances before stalling and shutting off. The failure had occurred 3 times. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Electrical system, Forward collision avoidance, Jan 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the Automatic Emergency Braking unintendedly activated. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power and failed to exceed 30 MPH. The contact stated that the Auto START/STOP function and the brake warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 153,400.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Jan 8, 2025
On 12/30/2024, I received a “4WD SVC” light on the dashboard of my 2019 Jeep Cherokee (odometer reading 61,000). Upon a quick Google search, this is a very common problem with the Jeep Cherokee’s Power Transfer Unit. I took my Jeep in to be diagnosed at an independent service center (1/3/2025), where it was confirmed that my vehicle was reading a code: C14A7-97 (PTU motor component, or system operation obstructed, or blocked). It has been noted that the PTU failure can result in a loss of power to the front wheels, potentially causing reduced traction, difficulty turning, and noticeable noises like grinding or knocking, especially when turning, due to the malfunctioning gears inside the unit; in severe cases, the front wheels might completely lock up depending on the nature of the failure. My vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representative; however, a Google search indicates that there is an ongoing class action investigation (Saunder, Schelkopf - Attorneys at Law) for PTU failures in 2019-2022 Jeep Cherokee’s.
Engine, Jan 8, 2025
When I put my car in park it began to smell as if something was burning. Within a few days, my car began leaking oil. I brought it to my mechanic, who let me know that my oil cooler was leaking. He let me know that this is a very common issue with Jeeps and Jeep is very well aware of it. He let me know that the oil cooler that Jeep uses is known to be faulty. I had it fixed by my local mechanic. There were no lights on in the Jeep and absolutely no notification that there was an issue. The oil life stated it was at 89%, which coincided with when I had my oil changed last. This issue went completely unnoticed by my car with NO alert to the driver. Had I not noticed the smell or recognized that my car was leaking, this could have been VERY bad. Jeep knows there is an issue and refuses to address it. I called the dealership and they denied that there was any issue with the part and even suggested that my local shop that changes my oil was responsible. A quick internet search will show you that this IS a huge issue with Jeeps and way too many people have had to pay out of their own pocket to fix an issue that Jeep knows they have with their faulty oil cooler.
Engine, Jan 7, 2025
Consistent hard, sudden shifts, jerking, shaking, and shuddering during gear changes. The vehicle also stalls and experiences shift delays. The vehicle also abruptly shifts to neutral while driving at various speeds.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Jan 7, 2025
My vehicle is leaking in the front and passenger seat and my emergency brake comes on and I can't disengage it unless I stop the car and turn it off and back on. Sometimes it takes 2 times to do this. In November, twice I was merging into traffic going 45 miles per hour and it happened. I prayed I wouldn't get smashed. I turned the car off and back on and I was able to disengage the emergency brake. On 1/3/2025, it happened as I was backing out of my driveway onto traffic. I had to turn the car on and off 2 times before I could disengage the emergency brake. I was lucky no vehicles traveling on the road. There is a terrible sound and then the car bucks and you are jarred. I read about an investigation on this same issue back in July 2022. My dealer says until they can replicate the problem they can't fix it. Please help!
Other or unspecified, Jan 5, 2025
I was driving our 2020 Newmar Baystar #3609 motorhome and towing our 2019 Jeep Cherokee. In 2021, I had the Blue Ox tow bar, 10k rated along with the Blue Ox base plate installed at a RV dealer in Mead, WA. We have had no issues at all with this tow system during the last 4 years, we have never drove "off road", backed the unit up with our Jeep attached or abused the two system in any way. We had driven 6 hours from Pensacola, FL heading to the Mayport Naval Station. While on a secondary road approaching the base, I felt a tug on the motorhome. I checked my mirrors and saw our Jeep tracking to the passenger side and now not directly behind our motorhome. I pulled over and luckily there was no damage to our motorhome, our Jeep or any other property. I saw the passenger side base plate had failed. While examining the piece that had broken off, I noted the area where the "weld" was supposed to be didn't look right. It almost looks like the entire area that should have been welded to the base plate was spotty at best. I have reached out to Blue Ox Customer Service requesting they reimburse for a new set of base plates and the normal labor now to install them. I'm being quoted 4 hours labor which is more that the base plates. I'm glad the remaining base plate held, or our Jeep would have detached completely and even with the emergency break away attached, the likelihood of damaging persons or property would have been high. I took photos of the failed base plate and will keep both parts in the event they need to be examined by a competent person.
Power train, Jan 4, 2025
Power Transfer Unit failed at 79,100kms. Previous year models had a recall of PTU but my VIN is excluded. Common failure.
Engine, Jan 2, 2025
Engine failed while driving down the highway. Vehicle was towed to local repair shop, per their report cylinder two had zero compression. This was inspected with boroscope, cylinder walls and piston looked undamaged. Cylinder leak down test showed that vehicle has blow by to the crank case indicating a piston or ring failure. Their recommendation was for new engine/long block. Per the report there are no engines available because of national shortage and backorder and no anticipated date of availability. Attached below our invoices for diagnostic testing as well as estimates or new engine or long block.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Dec 30, 2024
The car has been running out of coolant the past couple of months with no known visual leaking problems. I brought it to the mechanic who stated the radiator had to be replaced. No warning prior. No leaking or lights coming on. Another issue the uconnect subsystem powers on and off whenever it wants. Switches from GPS. Radio, heating and a/c. Causing distraction to the driver. I have not been able to know why it is happening. Went from several times a month to now daily.
Power train, Dec 25, 2024
Last week, my wife was turning left at a busy intersection and her 2019 Jeep Cherokee suddenly wouldn't accelerate, and she had to coast across 4 lanes of traffic during evening rush hour. After placing in park and shutting off to refuel, she restarted and upon putting in drive, 4WD Srv light was still on, yet this time the vehicle was able to move again. So luckily she was able to get home. Next morning, I went to take the car to local mechanic. Sitting at the end of our street and ready to turn left onto a high-traffic main road, I experienced the same condition, with 4WD Srv light, also check engine symbol indicator, and also the same error message on info screen of: "4WD Neutral Warning Vehicle May Move Even in Park." And similarly, when I tried to start pulling out with cars approaching from both directions, when taking my foot off the brake and onto the accelerator, I felt no resistance at the pedal, as RPMs increased yet the vehicle didn't move an inch. I shifted into Park, and momentarily killed the engine. Then restarted it, and once back into drive—although 4WD indicator was still on—I was able to get power to the drive wheels and was able to pull out. Seeing as my [XXX] was also in the car with me, I'm very grateful that the failure to accelerate didn't occur at the moment I would've just pulled out in front of fast-approaching traffic. I took the vehicle to a local mechanic and explained the situation. A few hours later, they called me stating the Power Train Unit (PTU) was bad and would need to be replaced. They also informed me that the part, according to a local Jeep dealer they contacted was unavailable and "not even on the horizon." They said a used and remanufactured part could be used to make the repair, but that it would cost $600 more than if a new part were available. They also said that there were no aftermarket parts available, and that the part itself was not repairable, but had to be replaced. Quoted $3700. The Power Train Unit INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Dec 20, 2024
I'm the single owner of the jeep with roughly 50,000 miles on it. It has not been abused nor been in an accident. I took the jeep in for a brake job (by an ASE certified mechanic) and during the service they noted that the casting of the rear differential had failed in what appears to be a bad casting/manufacturing defect. The part that failed is what retains the seal for the differential. Had it completely let go, the fluid could have drained out causing a complete failure of the differential. Of course, depending upon when the failure were to occur, the severity risk is vast. I had it replaced to the tune of over $3,000. On-line searches indicated that this is a known issue yet I was not able to find any sign of a recall to inspect or repair. My next step is co contact Stellantis to seek restitution although I suspect that since the failure was found beyond the warranty period, that I will be unsuccessful....fingers crossed.