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2019 Jeep Cherokee

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most Cherokee years

Owner complaints for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee are substantially higher than the model-year median of 113.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

750 reports with mileage · 888 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Power Train. Review the 800 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Engine. Review the 457 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Electrical System. Review the 340 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

40 crash reports19 fire reports22 injury reports

Power Train complaints

800 reports
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Mileage unknown · Nov 25, 2022
Power Train

The power transfer unit (PTU), an important element of the optional all-wheel-drive system in affected vehicles may not be able to maintain a connection between the transmission and the front wheels. If the PTU fails to engage with the transmission, the Cherokee could lose all power while being driven. Also, a failure to engage …

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The power transfer unit (PTU), an important element of the optional all-wheel-drive system in affected vehicles may not be able to maintain a connection between the transmission and the front wheels. If the PTU fails to engage with the transmission, the Cherokee could lose all power while being driven. Also, a failure to engage could keep the vehicle from being put into park when stationary, allowing it to roll away. Either situation could result in a crash or injuries. Yes - currently at Lithia Jeep in Bend, OR where another Jeep is in for the same safety issue and has been deemed unsafe to drive while waiting for a new PTU to come in. 4WD Service light was on.

NHTSA ODI #11494888

19,000 miles · Nov 9, 2022
EnginePower Train

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle was jerking, and the engine revved inadvertently. The contact also stated that when she applied the brakes, a loud abnormal noise was heard. After parking the vehicle, the parking brake engaged independently. Additionally, the con…

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The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle was jerking, and the engine revved inadvertently. The contact also stated that when she applied the brakes, a loud abnormal noise was heard. After parking the vehicle, the parking brake engaged independently. Additionally, the contact also stated that she needed to refill the engine oil on a weekly basis. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer on two different occasions; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was then taken to Lone Star Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (8811 Interstate 35 Access Rd, San Antonio, TX 78211) where various unknown repairs were performed; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that she was offered to trade in the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 19,000.

NHTSA ODI #11492898

Mileage unknown · Nov 2, 2022
Electrical SystemPower Train

My car shifted into neutral while driving and flashed "park to shift to drive" on the dash. I had to park, turn the car off, then turn it back on in order to drive. This happened 7 times trying to get home. The next day it just shut off while driving and the check engine light came on. I could have been rear-ended or caused an …

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My car shifted into neutral while driving and flashed "park to shift to drive" on the dash. I had to park, turn the car off, then turn it back on in order to drive. This happened 7 times trying to get home. The next day it just shut off while driving and the check engine light came on. I could have been rear-ended or caused an accident. My car would not accelerate until it was turned off and back on. I had people blaring their horns and swerving around me. The dealer told me the codes were an evaporative pressure switch and CAN bus code. They diagnosed the CAN bus issue as the PTU and replaced it. When I picked up the car, I had a rattling noise under the hood. I took it back to the dealer. When they fixed it, the ESS (Engine Stop/Start) was no longer working. A few weeks later, the jeep won't start and can't be jumped by other vehicles. Roadside assistance could get it started, but as soon as they disconnected their commercial jumper, it died. Had to tow back to dealer. Now I am told it is the alternator and battery.

NHTSA ODI #11492012

Mileage unknown · Oct 23, 2022
Power Train

The alarm of "4WD system not available. Service required" is shown in the panel. Went to my Jeep dealer and check the issue. After revision they said that the problem is with the PTU that needs to be replaced. Checking in Internet, found that problems with the PTU is a recurring issue with the jeep cherokee. I found a recall for…

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The alarm of "4WD system not available. Service required" is shown in the panel. Went to my Jeep dealer and check the issue. After revision they said that the problem is with the PTU that needs to be replaced. Checking in Internet, found that problems with the PTU is a recurring issue with the jeep cherokee. I found a recall for this problem and my VIN is not included, but the safety problem is there. I would really appreciate if you can help with this matter. Thank you.

NHTSA ODI #11490458

Mileage unknown · Oct 10, 2022
Power Train

While driving, my car had a service light come on that said "4WD System Unavailable Service Required" meaning my 4WD randomly stopped working, my transmission has also randomly been slipping. My car was purchased from a dealer, brand new, with 16 miles on it- several which I put on it while test driving. I have had nothing but t…

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While driving, my car had a service light come on that said "4WD System Unavailable Service Required" meaning my 4WD randomly stopped working, my transmission has also randomly been slipping. My car was purchased from a dealer, brand new, with 16 miles on it- several which I put on it while test driving. I have had nothing but trouble with it since purchasing and now at 74,3XX miles on it, I am yet again having issues. When codes were ran, it came up as a Drive Train Control Module code and says PTU- Motor- Component or System Obstructed or Blocked. The dealership told me the cost would be at least $2,200 to fix the issue and the part is backordered which makes me think I'm not the only one having this issue. I cannot afford to keep fixing the random things that happen to my car that should not be happening to a vehicle that was purchased brand new and has been gently used. There are recalls for this same issue on other VIN numbers of this vehicle, I feel like there should be more recalls issued.

NHTSA ODI #11488689

Mileage unknown · Oct 6, 2022
Electrical SystemEnginePower Train

I bought this car end of July 2022, around 31,000 miles from a Jeep dealer. Within weeks I began receiving alerts on my dash that the 4WD needed to be serviced as well as the start/stop function. Dealer had my car in Sept for almost two weeks. Today, something flashed on my screen stating electric failure and it completely shut …

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I bought this car end of July 2022, around 31,000 miles from a Jeep dealer. Within weeks I began receiving alerts on my dash that the 4WD needed to be serviced as well as the start/stop function. Dealer had my car in Sept for almost two weeks. Today, something flashed on my screen stating electric failure and it completely shut down. Nothing will turn on. It had to be drug up onto the tow truck as it could not be placed into neutral. Upon reviewing online resources, this appears to be an issue with this year/model, often happening while the car is in motion. This is terrifying! I have owned two Dodge Journeys and am currently leasing a wrangler. I have been a long time Dodge/Jeep customer and am terrified to drive this vehicle! If I could hand the keys back I would. The service center at the dealership said that they “should” be able to look at my car next week- just to look at it!

NHTSA ODI #11488282

Mileage unknown · Sep 20, 2022
Power Train

Problem with Transfer Case, Transmission, code C14A7 PTU, I had my engine replaced a couple of years ago due to excessive oil consumption. I am currently going through oil checks again due to excessive oil consumption.

NHTSA ODI #11485515

Mileage unknown · Aug 29, 2022
Power TrainUnknown Or Other

Every time I come to a red light or a stop sign and apply pressure to the break the voltage of the battery goes down. The vehicle cuts off and it will not start back up. I can be in a traffic jam and apply pressure to the brake and the vehicle will cut off leaving me in the middle of traffic. It will not start back up.

NHTSA ODI #11481884

Mileage unknown · Aug 24, 2022
Power Train

At @45,000 miles the 4WD system unavailable service required message and svc 4WD message came on, then every time the Jeep was driven messages would come on. Dealer replaced the PTU. NHTSA has already had a recall on Jeep Cherokee PTU's, but only to model years 2017. I believe Jeep still has a problem with the PTU and the recall…

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At @45,000 miles the 4WD system unavailable service required message and svc 4WD message came on, then every time the Jeep was driven messages would come on. Dealer replaced the PTU. NHTSA has already had a recall on Jeep Cherokee PTU's, but only to model years 2017. I believe Jeep still has a problem with the PTU and the recall should be reexamined to include years to at least 2020.

NHTSA ODI #11481022

Mileage unknown · Aug 24, 2022
Power Train

Service 4wd light came on. PTU needs to be replaced. No dealer within a 20 mile radius had loaners and only 1 had an appointment before October. This is the same issue that was covered in 14-17 jeep recall 20V343 and is now happening in later models. Dealer has had car for 2 WEEKS while i pay out of pocket for a rental. W…

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Service 4wd light came on. PTU needs to be replaced. No dealer within a 20 mile radius had loaners and only 1 had an appointment before October. This is the same issue that was covered in 14-17 jeep recall 20V343 and is now happening in later models. Dealer has had car for 2 WEEKS while i pay out of pocket for a rental. Warranty will only offer $40 per day reimbursement. I am in NY there are exactly 0 rentals for that price. I should not be paying out of pocket for something that should clearly have a recall... AGAIN. On top of all this i have not spoken to my case agent once. Always "on phone" when i call. This is absolutely ridiculous.

NHTSA ODI #11480951

Official recalls

11

26V290000 · Power Train

May 7, 2026

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A failed PTU may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: 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.

25V011000 · Power Train

Apr 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: 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.

Remedy: 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.

19V637000 · Steering:rack And Pinion:pinion Shaft; Steering:rack And Pinion:rack

Aug 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: 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.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Steering:rack And Pinion:rack

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.

Consequence: A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: 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.

Steering:rack And Pinion:pinion Shaft

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.

Consequence: A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: 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.

19V449000 · Air Bags

Jun 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: 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.

Remedy: 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.

19V248000 · Seats

Mar 28, 2019

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The front passenger seat mounting bolts may be loose.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: In the event of a crash, the seat may move, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: 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.

18V917000 · Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/panel

Dec 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: 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.

Remedy: 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.

18V739000 · Power Train:automatic Transmission

Oct 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A vehicle stall can increase the risk of crash.

Remedy: 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.

18V523000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:caliper

Aug 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: 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.

18V524000 · Electrical System:wiring:front Underhood

Aug 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: 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.

18V492000 · Power Train:automatic Transmission

Jul 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If the transmission weld fails, the vehicle will stop moving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: 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.

18V344000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:engine

May 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Cylinder damage or camshaft failure can cause the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: 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.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

0

No exact-year investigations in this snapshot.