The 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo offers a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, though its transmission can feel hesitant. If you are looking for a used SUV that balances daily practicality with off-road capability, this model deserves a close look. In this article, we will break down everything you need to know from real 2012 jeep cherokee laredo reviews.
We will cover the engine options, interior comfort, common problems, and how it drives. By the end, you will know if this SUV fits your needs and budget.
2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo Reviews: An Overview
The 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo is the base trim level for the Liberty model that year. It is a compact SUV that seats five people. It competes with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape.
What makes the Cherokee Laredo different is its off-road heritage. Even the base model comes with a capable four-wheel-drive system. Many owners praise its ability to handle snow, mud, and light trails.
However, the 2012 model has some quirks. The most common complaint is the transmission. It can feel sluggish or hesitant when you need to accelerate quickly. This is a key point in many 2012 jeep cherokee laredo reviews.
Engine And Performance Specs
The 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo comes with a single engine option. It is a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission.
Here are the key performance numbers:
- 0-60 mph: around 9.5 seconds
- Towing capacity: up to 5,000 pounds
- Fuel economy: 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- Drivetrain options: rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive
The engine is reliable and has enough power for daily driving. But the four-speed transmission feels outdated. It hunts for gears on hills and hesitates during passing maneuvers. This is a common theme in owner feedback.
Interior Comfort And Cargo Space
Inside, the 2012 Cherokee Laredo offers a simple but functional cabin. The seats are firm but supportive for long trips. The cloth upholstery is durable and easy to clean.
Key interior features include:
- 60/40 split-folding rear seats
- Fold-flat front passenger seat for long items
- Available leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Basic audio system with CD player and auxiliary input
Cargo space is decent for its class. You get 29.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Fold the seats down, and you get 60.8 cubic feet. That is enough for a weekend camping trip or a trip to the hardware store.
One downside is the lack of modern tech. There is no touchscreen, Bluetooth streaming, or USB port in the base model. You will need to use an aftermarket adapter for phone connectivity.
Off-Road Capability
This is where the Cherokee Laredo shines. Even the base trim comes with Jeep’s Command-Trac part-time four-wheel-drive system. It has a low-range gear for serious off-road driving.
What you get for off-roading:
- 8.6 inches of ground clearance
- Skid plates for the fuel tank and transfer case
- Tow hooks front and rear
- Available hill descent control
Many 2012 jeep cherokee laredo reviews mention its ability to handle rough terrain. It can climb rocky trails and ford shallow streams. Just keep in mind that the base tires are not meant for heavy mud. You may want to upgrade to all-terrain tires.
Common Problems And Reliability
No car is perfect, and the 2012 Cherokee Laredo has its share of issues. Knowing these can help you make a smart buying decision.
Transmission Issues
The four-speed automatic is the biggest pain point. It can feel jerky, especially when shifting from first to second gear. Some owners report a delay when shifting from Park to Drive.
Solutions include:
- Check the transmission fluid level and condition
- Perform a transmission fluid flush if needed
- Update the transmission control module software at a dealer
- In severe cases, a rebuild or replacement may be necessary
Electrical Gremlins
Some owners report issues with the power windows, door locks, and dashboard lights. These are usually caused by a faulty fuse or a bad ground connection.
Common electrical fixes:
- Replace blown fuses
- Clean battery terminals
- Check the alternator output
- Inspect wiring harnesses for damage
Rust On Rear Liftgate
This is a known problem for this generation of Cherokee. The rear liftgate can rust around the license plate area and the handle. It is more common in areas with road salt.
Prevention tips:
- Wash the car regularly in winter
- Apply a rust inhibitor to the liftgate
- Inspect the area during a pre-purchase inspection
Suspension Wear
The front suspension components can wear out faster than expected. Ball joints and tie rod ends may need replacement around 60,000 to 80,000 miles.
Signs of suspension wear:
- Clunking noise when going over bumps
- Uneven tire wear
- Vibration in the steering wheel
How The 2012 Cherokee Laredo Drives
On the road, the Cherokee Laredo feels stable and composed. The ride is smooth for a body-on-frame SUV. It absorbs potholes and bumps well, though you will feel some body roll in corners.
The steering is light and easy to turn, which makes parking simple. But there is not much feedback from the road. This is fine for daily commuting but not for spirited driving.
On the highway, the engine can get loud under hard acceleration. Wind noise is also noticeable at higher speeds. The cabin is not as quiet as a Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.
Off-road, the Cherokee Laredo feels much more capable. The low-range gearing gives you excellent control on steep descents. The suspension soaks up rocks and ruts without jarring the cabin.
Fuel Economy In Real World Driving
The official EPA numbers are 16 city and 22 highway. In real-world driving, most owners report getting around 18 to 20 mpg combined. This is below average for the compact SUV class.
Factors that affect fuel economy:
- Aggressive driving lowers mpg by 2-3
- Using four-wheel drive reduces fuel economy
- Carrying heavy cargo or towing drops mpg further
- Proper tire inflation helps maintain efficiency
If fuel economy is your top priority, you may want to look at a Honda CR-V or a Toyota RAV4. But if you need off-road capability, the Cherokee Laredo is a good trade-off.
Safety And Reliability Ratings
The 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo has average safety scores. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave it four out of five stars overall. It scored four stars for frontal impact and five stars for side impact.
Standard safety features include:
- Front airbags
- Side curtain airbags
- Antilock brakes
- Electronic stability control
- Traction control
Reliability ratings are mixed. J.D. Power gave the 2012 Cherokee a score of 3 out of 5 for predicted reliability. This is average for the segment. Consumer Reports rates it as below average, mainly due to the transmission and electrical issues.
However, many owners report that the car is reliable if you stay on top of maintenance. Regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and suspension inspections can extend the life of the vehicle.
How To Find A Good Used Example
If you are in the market for a 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo, here is a step-by-step guide to finding a good one.
- Check the vehicle history report for accidents and service records
- Look for rust on the rear liftgate and undercarriage
- Test drive the car and pay attention to transmission behavior
- Have a mechanic inspect the suspension and brakes
- Check all electrical components: windows, locks, lights
- Verify that the four-wheel-drive system engages properly
- Negotiate the price based on any needed repairs
Prices for a 2012 Cherokee Laredo range from $6,000 to $10,000 depending on mileage and condition. A well-maintained example with under 100,000 miles is a good buy.
Comparing The 2012 Cherokee Laredo To Rivals
How does the Cherokee Laredo stack up against its competitors? Let us compare it to three popular options.
Vs. Honda CR-V
- CR-V has better fuel economy (23 city / 31 highway)
- CR-V has more cargo space (35.7 cubic feet behind rear seats)
- Cherokee Laredo has better off-road capability
- CR-V is more reliable overall
- Cherokee Laredo can tow more (5,000 lbs vs. 1,500 lbs)
Vs. Toyota RAV4
- RAV4 has a smoother transmission and better fuel economy
- RAV4 has a more modern interior with available tech features
- Cherokee Laredo has a lower starting price used
- RAV4 is more reliable with fewer reported issues
- Cherokee Laredo has a more rugged off-road capability
Vs. Ford Escape
- Escape has a more powerful V6 option (240 hp)
- Escape has a more refined ride on pavement
- Cherokee Laredo has a better off-road system
- Escape has more cargo space (66.3 cubic feet max)
- Cherokee Laredo has a simpler, more durable interior
Overall, the 2012 Cherokee Laredo is best for buyers who need off-road ability and towing capacity. If you stick to pavement, the CR-V or RAV4 are better choices.
Maintenance Tips For The 2012 Cherokee Laredo
Keeping your Cherokee Laredo running well requires regular care. Here are the most important maintenance tasks.
Engine Oil Changes
Change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Use 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic blend oil. This helps prevent sludge buildup in the engine.
Transmission Service
Flush the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles. This helps reduce the hesitancy and jerky shifts. Use Mopar ATF+4 fluid for best results.
Coolant Flush
Replace the coolant every 60,000 miles. This prevents overheating and corrosion in the cooling system.
Brake Inspection
Check brake pads and rotors every 20,000 miles. The Cherokee Laredo is heavy, so brakes wear faster than in smaller SUVs.
Tire Rotation
Rotate tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. This ensures even wear and extends tire life. Keep tire pressure at 35 psi for best handling and fuel economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo A Good Used SUV?
Yes, if you need off-road capability and towing capacity. It is not the most reliable or fuel-efficient option, but it is durable and practical for outdoor enthusiasts.
What Is The Towing Capacity Of A 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo?
The towing capacity is 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This is excellent for a compact SUV and allows you to tow a small boat or camper.
Does The 2012 Cherokee Laredo Have Bluetooth?
No, the base Laredo trim does not come with Bluetooth. You will need to use an aftermarket adapter or install a new stereo for hands-free calling.
How Long Will A 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo Last?
With proper maintenance, the engine and transmission can last 150,000 to 200,000 miles. Many owners report reaching 200,000 miles with regular care.
What Are The Most Common Problems With The 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo?
The most common issues are transmission hesitation, electrical gremlins, rust on the rear liftgate, and suspension wear. These are manageable if you address them early.
Final Verdict On The 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo
The 2012 Jeep Cherokee Laredo is a solid choice for buyers who value off-road ability over modern comforts. It has a spacious interior, a strong V6 engine, and a proven four-wheel-drive system. The transmission is its weak point, but it is not a dealbreaker if you are prepared for it.
If you find a well-maintained example with a clean history, it can serve you well for many years. Just be ready to deal with some quirks and keep up with maintenance. For the price, it offers a lot of capability that newer SUVs cannot match.
We hope this detailed look at 2012 jeep cherokee laredo reviews helps you make an informed decision. Take your time, test drive a few, and choose the one that feels right for your needs.