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ProblemsByVin File / 2021-JEEP-CHEROKEE
2021 · jeep

jeep Cherokee problems

2 safety recalls. 121 owner complaints. We mapped every trouble spot before you sign the papers.

0 5 10
Reliability score
7.4 / 10

Solid reliability overall. Common issues are concentrated in a few systems.

0
Critical
2
Severe
0
Moderate

Top trouble spots 7 categories with 3+ complaints

powertrain
57 reports · avg $2,500
moderate
electrical
14 reports · avg $850
severe
engine
8 reports · avg $3,100
severe
brakes
7 reports · avg $450
severe
airbags
6 reports · avg $1,100
severe
suspension
5 reports · avg $900
severe
steering
3 reports · avg $700
moderate

What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim

2021 Cherokee · powertrain
PTU is going out causing jeep to not have 4wd. 67k miles. Causing the jeep to not be able to get traction on a busy highway causing a traffic jam in snow. Putting people’s safety at jeopardy.
12/29/2024 · NHTSA ODI #11632934.0
2021 Cherokee · powertrain
While I was trying to get onto the interstate my vehicle would not accelerate. I tried to merge in with traffic but I was only going 35 and I almost hit someone. They stayed the same speed hoping I would speed up in front of them but I couldn’t. This put everyone around me at…
12/28/2021 · NHTSA ODI #11445327.0
2021 Cherokee · powertrain
I was driving on the interstate at approximately 70 mph when I attempted to accelerate to pass another vehicle. There was no response. At first, I thought I might have hit a patch of ice, but I quickly confirmed that wasn’t the case. I tried to accelerate again, and once more…
12/24/2025 · NHTSA ODI #11706912.0
2021 Cherokee · powertrain
PTU Failure. Known issue. 2017-2019 recalled but the part is still and issue and can lock up transmission. Recall needs to be extended to cover later years
12/18/2025 · NHTSA ODI #11705902.0

Estimate your repair exposure

Drag to your current mileage. Numbers are derived from this vehicle's complaint history.

0 mi 200k mi
At 80,000 miles
Likely repair cost in next 24 months
$0

Active recalls showing 2 of 2

severe NHTSA 20V657000 27/10/2020

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee Latitude and Jeep Cherokee Limited vehicles

A front lower control arm fracture while driving may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash without prior warning.

Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front lower control arms and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2020. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W81. Note: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicles until they have been inspected and repaired if needed.
severe NHTSA 21V310000 04/05/2021

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee vehicles

A transmission fluid leak increases the risk of a fire.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the hose, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed May 18, 2021. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Y18.

Common questions

Is the 2021 Jeep Cherokee reliable?

Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 7.4 out of 10 based on 121 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.

What's the most common problem on the 2021 Jeep Cherokee?

Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is powertrain, with 57 complaints filed. Average repair cost runs about $2,500 at an independent shop.

What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?

The powertrain is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $2,500 at an independent shop. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.

How do I check if my Jeep Cherokee has open recalls?

Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.

Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2021 Jeep Cherokee?

Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 121 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $2,500, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans aren't always better value.

Related vehicles

Recall and complaint data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public records database, last synced 19 hours ago. Editorial commentary written by ProblemsByVin contributors and reviewed by ASE-certified mechanics. We are not affiliated with jeep. Some links on this page are affiliate links and we may earn a commission if you complete a quote or purchase.
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