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2016 Jeep Cherokee: problems, recalls and fuel economy
NHTSA lists 1,411 owner complaints for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee, and the largest group is the power train[1][2]. It also has 9 recalls on file, so check which repairs a car has had before you buy[3].
Most reported problems
NHTSA has 1,411 owner complaints on file for the 2016 Cherokee[1]. Of those, 37 mention a crash, 15 a fire and 27 injuries[1]. No deaths are reported[1]. These are unverified reports from owners, and one complaint can name more than one part.
Here is how the complaints split by component group:
| Component group | Complaints | Median mileage at failure |
|---|---|---|
| Power train[2] | 634 | 49,000 |
| Engine[6] | 320 | 42,000 |
| Unknown or other[7] | 313 | 45,000 |
| Electrical system[8] | 298 | 43,000 |
| Brakes[9] | 103 | 42,600 |
| Speed control[10] | 76 | 34,621 |
| Steering[11] | 54 | 49,000 |
| Fuel/propulsion system[12] | 43 | 35,000 |
The power train group is the largest by a wide margin[2]. In the sample of power train complaints we read, 10 of 12 name the transmission, often with a "service transmission" warning, rough or slipping shifts, or a loss of power[2]. Seven of the 12 describe the car losing power, stalling or not responding to the gas pedal while moving[2]. Several of these texts describe the problem starting in the first few thousand miles[2]. It is a small sample, so treat it as a description of what owners report, not as a rate.
In the engine sample, 5 of 12 complaints describe the engine shutting off while driving, and 3 of 12 mention oil use or a low oil level[6]. In the electrical sample, 3 of 12 describe the engine starting or running when the owner did not intend it, and 4 of 12 describe dashboard, touchscreen, warning light or lane warning glitches[8]. In the brakes sample, 3 of 12 describe the parking brake acting unexpectedly, and 3 of 12 describe a weak or noisy brake pedal or booster[9].
Brakes, speed control, steering and fuel/propulsion each have far fewer complaints than the top groups[9][10][11][12].
Recalls
NHTSA lists 9 recalls for the 2016 model year[3]. Newest first:
- Power liftgate module (23V338). Recalled May 11, 2023[13]. On 2014 to 2016 Cherokees with a power liftgate, an electrical short in the liftgate module may cause a fire, whether the car is on or off[13]. Until the repair is done, owners are advised to park outside and away from buildings[13]. Dealers move the module, add a water shield, and check or replace corroded parts, free of charge[13]. It replaces the earlier liftgate recalls, and cars fixed under those still need the new repair[13].
- Power transfer unit, software (23V302). Recalled April 27, 2023[14]. It covers certain 2016 and 2017 Cherokees. The power transfer unit may become damaged and disconnect the transmission from the differential. That can mean a loss of drive power, which raises crash risk, or a loss of the Park function, which can let the car roll away[14]. Dealers install a software update, free of charge[14]. This recall expands recall 20V343[14].
- Power transfer unit (20V343). Recalled June 11, 2020[15]. On certain 2014 to 2017 Cherokees with a two-speed power transfer unit, worn splines may let the transmission lose its connection to the differential. The result can be a loss of drive without warning, or a loss of Park[15]. Dealers install a software update. If a spline fails, it keeps the car moving by engaging rear wheel drive and applies the electronic parking brake to stop the car rolling in Park[15].
- Cruise control software (18V332). Recalled May 17, 2018[16]. A short circuit in the wiring could keep cruise control from turning off, even with the brake pedal or the off switch. The car could hold its speed or speed up[16]. This recall covers many Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram models. Dealers inspect and reflash the engine or powertrain software, free of charge. Owners are advised not to use cruise control until the update is done[16].
- Fire extinguisher (17V824). Recalled December 21, 2017[17]. Certain Kidde fire extinguishers may clog or be hard to use, and in some models the nozzle may detach. That raises injury risk in a fire[17]. Owners contact Kidde for a free replacement[17]. The recall lists various Dodge, Chrysler and Ram vehicles and affected trailer models[17].
- Seat fasteners (16V590). Recalled August 10, 2016[18]. On certain 2014 to 2016 Cherokees built from July 29, 2013 to February 5, 2016[18], seat fasteners on the first or second row may not be tight enough. Loose seats raise injury risk in a crash[18]. Dealers replace the seats, free of charge[18].
- Left halfshaft (16V287). Recalled May 11, 2016[19]. A left halfshaft on certain 2016 Cherokees built September 30, 2015 to October 2, 2015 may break without warning, which raises crash risk[19]. Dealers replace it, free of charge. The recall covers 52 vehicles[19].
- Right halfshaft (16V284). Recalled May 11, 2016[20]. The same kind of defect on the right halfshaft of certain 2016 Cherokees built October 3, 2015 to March 22, 2016[20]. Dealers replace it, free of charge. The recall covers 1,029 vehicles[20].
- Power liftgate module (15V826). Recalled December 9, 2015[21]. Water may leak into the liftgate control module of certain 2015 and 2016 Cherokees with the power liftgate and cause a short and a fire risk[21]. Dealers inspect and replace damaged parts and add a water shield. This recall is superseded by 23V338[21].
Recalls 16V287 and 16V284 cover cars built in narrow date ranges, and some recalls cover more than one model. Check the VIN with a dealer or NHTSA to see which recalls apply to a specific car.
Fuel economy
EPA ratings depend on the engine and drive type. All versions below are listed as automatic 9-speed[4]. The cost column is EPA's estimated annual fuel cost, based on EPA's current fuel price assumptions.
| Version | City / highway / combined MPG | Annual fuel cost |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4L 4-cyl FWD[4] | 21 / 30 / 25 | $2,700 |
| 2.4L 4-cyl 4WD[22] | 21 / 28 / 23 | $2,900 |
| 2.4L 4-cyl 4WD Active Drive II[23] | 21 / 27 / 23 | $2,900 |
| 2.4L 4-cyl Trailhawk 4WD[24] | 19 / 25 / 22 | $3,050 |
| 3.2L 6-cyl FWD[25] | 21 / 29 / 24 | $2,800 |
| 3.2L 6-cyl 4WD[26] | 20 / 27 / 23 | $2,900 |
| 3.2L 6-cyl 4WD Active Drive II[27] | 19 / 26 / 22 | $3,050 |
| 3.2L 6-cyl Trailhawk 4WD[28] | 19 / 26 / 22 | $3,050 |
The front-wheel-drive 2.4L is the most efficient at 25 combined[4]. The 2.4L models listed for gasoline or E85 carry the same ratings as the regular gasoline versions[29][30].
Safety ratings
NHTSA gives the 2WD version 4 stars overall, 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash and 4 stars for rollover[5]. Its rollover risk is 17.4%[5]. The 4WD version has the same star ratings, with a rollover risk of 16.9%[31].
Engine and size
EPA lists two engines for the 2016 Cherokee. The 2.4L 4-cylinder is rated 184 hp[32]. The 3.2L 6-cylinder is rated 271 hp[33].
Dimensions are Canadian-market specifications, so they can differ slightly from US models.
| Version | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FWD | 182 in | 73 in | 67 in | 106 in | 3,680 lb |
| AWD | 182 in | 73 in | 67 in | 106 in | 3,942 lb |
How 2016 compares with other years
Show the numbers
| Model year | Complaints | Recalls |
|---|---|---|
| 1995 | 608 | 6 |
| 1996 | 447 | 6 |
| 1997 | 390 | 4 |
| 1998 | 399 | 5 |
| 1999 | 366 | 2 |
| 2000 | 369 | 1 |
| 2001 | 229 | 2 |
| 2014 | 2,650 | 13 |
| 2015 | 1,792 | 11 |
| 2016 | 1,411 | 9 |
| 2017 | 1,337 | 6 |
| 2018 | 687 | 7 |
| 2019 | 1,669 | 11 |
| 2020 | 328 | 3 |
| 2021 | 176 | 4 |
| 2022 | 51 | 3 |
| 2023 | 3 | 1 |
| 2026 | 8 | 4 |
NHTSA's counts for Jeep Cherokee model years[3]:
| Model year | Complaints | Recalls |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 2,650 | 13 |
| 2015 | 1,792 | 11 |
| 2016 | 1,411 | 9 |
| 2017 | 1,337 | 6 |
| 2018 | 687 | 7 |
| 2019 | 1,669 | 11 |
Of all the model years in the data, 2016 has the fourth most complaints, after 2014, 2015 and 2019[3]. It also has the fourth most recalls, after 2014, 2015 and 2019[3]. Complaint counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold, so use them as a rough guide only.
Should you buy a used 2016 Cherokee?
The 2016 Cherokee has a 4-star overall NHTSA rating[5][31] and fuel economy of 22 to 25 combined MPG depending on the version[4][24]. The downside is the record. It has 9 recalls[3] and more power train complaints than any other group[2]. Owners in the sample we read describe transmission trouble and sudden loss of power[2]. Before you buy, run the VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls and ask for proof that the power transfer unit and liftgate recalls were done[13][14][15]. On the test drive, pay attention to how the transmission shifts and whether any warning lights come on. Complaint counts are not adjusted for sales and come from unverified reports[1].
Frequently asked questions
- What are the most common problems with the 2016 Jeep Cherokee?
- The largest complaint group at NHTSA is the power train, with 634 of 1,411 complaints[1][2]. In a small sample we read, owners describe transmission warnings, rough shifts and sudden loss of power[2]. Engine, unknown or other, and electrical groups follow with 320, 313 and 298 complaints[6][7][8].
- Has the 2016 Jeep Cherokee been recalled?
- Yes. NHTSA lists 9 recalls for the 2016 model year[3]. They cover the power liftgate module, the power transfer unit, cruise control software, seat fasteners, halfshafts and a fire extinguisher[13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21].
- What gas mileage does the 2016 Jeep Cherokee get?
- EPA combined ratings run from 22 to 25 MPG[4][24]. The 2.4L front-wheel-drive version rates 21 city, 30 highway and 25 combined[4]. The 3.2L Trailhawk 4WD rates 19 city, 26 highway and 22 combined[28].
- Is the 2016 Jeep Cherokee safe?
- NHTSA gives it 4 stars overall in both 2WD and 4WD form, with 5 stars for side crash[5][31]. Its recall list includes crash and fire risks, so check that repairs were done[13][14][15].
- Is 2016 a better year than 2014 or 2015 for the Jeep Cherokee?
- By NHTSA counts, 2016 has 1,411 complaints and 9 recalls, compared with 2,650 and 13 for 2014 and 1,792 and 11 for 2015[3]. The counts are not adjusted for sales, so this is only a rough comparison.
Facts and sources
- NHTSA has 1,411 owner complaints on file for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee (37 mention a crash, 15 a fire, 27 injuries, 0 deaths reported). NHTSA vehicle records
- 634 complaints name the power train component group (7 crashes, 4 fires, 3 injuries, median mileage at failure 49,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- Owner complaints and recalls for every Jeep Cherokee model year (chart above). NHTSA recall database
- EPA rating for Cherokee FWD, 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 9-spd, Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 21 city / 30 highway / 25 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,700. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, SUV 2WD: overall 4 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 17.4%. NHTSA vehicle records
- 320 complaints name the engine component group (2 crashes, 4 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 42,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 313 complaints name the unknown or other component group (5 crashes, 4 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 45,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 298 complaints name the electrical system component group (2 crashes, 4 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 43,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 103 complaints name the brakes component group (4 crashes, 0 fires, 3 injuries, median mileage at failure 42,600). NHTSA vehicle records
- 76 complaints name the speed control component group (5 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 34,621). NHTSA vehicle records
- 54 complaints name the steering component group (3 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 49,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 43 complaints name the fuel/propulsion system component group (2 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 35,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- Recall 23V338, filed May 11, 2023: Structure › Body › Hatchback / Liftgate. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 23V302, filed April 27, 2023: Power Train › Automatic Transmission. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 20V343, filed June 11, 2020: Power Train › Driveline › Differential Unit. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 18V332, filed May 17, 2018: Electrical System › Software. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 17V824, filed December 21, 2017: Equipment. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 16V590, filed August 10, 2016: Seats › Mid / Rear Assembly. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 16V287, filed May 11, 2016: Power Train › Axle Assembly › Axle Shaft. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 16V284, filed May 11, 2016: Power Train › Axle Assembly › Axle Shaft. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 15V826, filed December 9, 2015: Structure › Body › Hatchback / Liftgate. NHTSA recall database
- EPA rating for Cherokee 4WD, 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 9-spd, Regular, All-Wheel Drive: 21 city / 28 highway / 23 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,900. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II, 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 9-spd, Regular, 4-Wheel Drive: 21 city / 27 highway / 23 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,900. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD, 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 9-spd, Regular, 4-Wheel Drive: 19 city / 25 highway / 22 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,050. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Cherokee FWD, 3.2L 6-cyl, Automatic 9-spd, Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 21 city / 29 highway / 24 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,800. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Cherokee 4WD, 3.2L 6-cyl, Automatic 9-spd, Regular, All-Wheel Drive: 20 city / 27 highway / 23 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,900. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II, 3.2L 6-cyl, Automatic 9-spd, Regular, 4-Wheel Drive: 19 city / 26 highway / 22 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,050. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD, 3.2L 6-cyl, Automatic 9-spd, Regular, 4-Wheel Drive: 19 city / 26 highway / 22 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,050. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Cherokee FWD, 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 9-spd, Gasoline or E85, Front-Wheel Drive: 21 city / 30 highway / 25 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,700. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Cherokee 4WD, 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 9-spd, Gasoline or E85, All-Wheel Drive: 21 city / 28 highway / 23 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,900. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, SUV 4WD: overall 4 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 16.9%. NHTSA vehicle records
- EPA Test Car List, 2016 Jeep Cherokee with 2.4L 4-cylinder: rated 184 hp. www.epa.gov
- EPA Test Car List, 2016 Jeep Cherokee with 3.2L 6-cylinder: rated 271 hp. www.epa.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, CHEROKEE 4DR SUV FWD: length 182 in, width 73 in, height 67 in, wheelbase 106 in, curb weight 3,680 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, CHEROKEE 4DR SUV AWD: length 182 in, width 73 in, height 67 in, wheelbase 106 in, curb weight 3,942 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov