A used Jeep Cherokee can be a good car if you find one with a well-documented service history and no major recalls. But the real question is, “Is A Used Jeep Cherokee A Good Car” for your specific needs and budget? This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from common problems to best model years, so you can make a smart purchase.
Let’s be honest: the Jeep Cherokee has a mixed reputation. Some owners love its off-road capability and rugged styling. Others complain about transmission issues and electrical gremlins. The truth lies somewhere in the middle, and it depends heavily on the year and how the previous owner treated it.
We’ll walk through the pros, the cons, the common pitfalls, and the years you should target or avoid. By the end, you’ll know if this SUV fits your lifestyle and what to look for during a test drive.
Is A Used Jeep Cherokee A Good Car For Daily Driving
For daily commuting, the Jeep Cherokee offers a comfortable ride and decent fuel economy, especially with the four-cylinder engine. The cabin is quiet on highways, and the seats are supportive for long trips. However, the nine-speed automatic transmission can feel jerky in stop-and-go traffic, particularly in older models.
Visibility is good thanks to large windows and a high seating position. The infotainment system, especially in later years, is user-friendly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Cargo space is average for the class, with 24.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.9 cubic feet with them folded.
One thing to note: the Cherokee’s turning radius is wider than some competitors, making parking in tight spots a bit challenging. If you live in a city with narrow streets, this might be a minor annoyance.
Engine Options And Performance
The Cherokee comes with several engine choices. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder produces 184 horsepower and is adequate for most driving. It’s not fast, but it gets the job done and returns around 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.
The 3.2-liter V6 is the better choice if you need more power for towing or highway merging. It makes 271 horsepower and can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped. Fuel economy drops to about 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
There’s also a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder introduced in 2019. It offers 270 horsepower and better low-end torque, making it feel quicker than the V6. It’s a good middle ground, but it’s rarer on the used market.
Transmission Concerns
The nine-speed automatic transmission is the most common complaint among Cherokee owners. Early models (2014-2016) had significant issues with rough shifting, hesitation, and even complete failure. Jeep released several software updates to fix these problems, but some cars still exhibit quirks.
If you’re looking at a 2014-2016 model, make sure the transmission has been updated with the latest software. A test drive should include stop-and-go traffic and highway speeds to feel for any odd behavior. Later models (2017 and newer) are generally more reliable, but it’s still worth checking.
Reliability And Common Problems
Reliability varies greatly by model year. The Jeep Cherokee has received mixed reviews from organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. Some years are solid, while others are plagued with issues. Let’s break down the most common problems.
Electrical Gremlins
Many owners report issues with the infotainment system freezing or rebooting randomly. This is more common in early models but can happen in later ones too. The fix is often a software update, but sometimes the entire unit needs replacement.
Other electrical problems include faulty window switches, malfunctioning door locks, and issues with the keyless entry system. These are usually minor but can be frustrating. Check all electronics during a test drive, including the radio, climate control, and power windows.
Cooling System Leaks
Some Cherokee models, especially those with the V6 engine, have reported coolant leaks. This can lead to overheating if not addressed. The most common source is the water pump or the coolant reservoir. Look for signs of coolant under the car or a low coolant level in the reservoir.
If you see a puddle of green or orange fluid under the front of the car, that’s a red flag. A pressure test can confirm if there’s a leak. This is a relatively cheap fix if caught early, but it can cause major engine damage if ignored.
Oil Consumption
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine has a reputation for consuming oil. Some owners report needing to add a quart between oil changes. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something to monitor. Check the oil level regularly and look for any blue smoke from the exhaust, which indicates burning oil.
Jeep issued a technical service bulletin for this issue, and some engines were replaced under warranty. If you’re buying a used Cherokee, ask if the oil consumption issue was addressed. A well-maintained engine should not consume excessive oil.
Best And Worst Model Years
Knowing which years to target can save you a lot of headaches. Here’s a quick rundown of the best and worst model years for the Jeep Cherokee.
Years To Avoid
- 2014: The first year of the current generation. Plagued with transmission issues, electrical problems, and recalls. Avoid unless you’re a mechanic or getting a steal.
- 2015: Still had transmission issues, though slightly improved. Electrical gremlins persist. Not recommended.
- 2016: Some improvements, but still risky. Transmission software updates help, but problems remain. Proceed with caution.
- 2017: Better than previous years, but still some reports of transmission hesitation. The V6 is more reliable than the four-cylinder.
Years To Consider
- 2018: A significant improvement in reliability. Transmission issues are largely resolved. The infotainment system is more stable. A good choice if you find one with a clean history.
- 2019: Introduction of the turbocharged engine. Overall reliability is solid. The infotainment system gets an upgrade. A strong option.
- 2020-2022: These are the most reliable years. Most bugs have been worked out. If you can afford a newer model, this is the sweet spot.
- 2023+: The latest generation is even better, but prices are higher. If you want the most trouble-free experience, go with a 2020 or newer.
Off-Road Capability And Trim Levels
One of the Cherokee’s biggest selling points is its off-road ability. The Trailhawk trim is especially capable, with features like skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a locking rear differential. It can handle moderate trails and rough terrain better than most compact SUVs.
Other trims include the Sport, Latitude, and Limited. These are more road-focused but still offer available all-wheel drive. The Active Drive I system is fine for light snow and gravel, while Active Drive II adds a low-range gear for more serious off-roading.
If you plan to take your Cherokee off-road, look for a Trailhawk or a model with Active Drive II. Otherwise, a standard all-wheel-drive system will suffice for most weather conditions.
Towing Capacity
The Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 pounds with the V6 engine and the proper towing package. This is enough for a small boat, a trailer, or a couple of jet skis. The four-cylinder engine is limited to 2,000 pounds, which is fine for a small utility trailer.
If towing is important, make sure the used Cherokee you’re looking at has the towing package. It includes a transmission cooler, a higher-capacity radiator, and a trailer hitch. Without it, towing capacity is reduced.
Cost Of Ownership
Owning a used Jeep Cherokee involves more than just the purchase price. You need to factor in insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs. Let’s look at the numbers.
Insurance Costs
Insurance rates for the Cherokee are average for its class. Expect to pay around $1,200 to $1,500 per year for full coverage, depending on your driving record and location. The Trailhawk trim may cost slightly more due to its higher value.
Maintenance And Repairs
Maintenance costs are moderate. Routine services like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pads are similar to other compact SUVs. However, major repairs can be expensive, especially if the transmission or engine has issues.
Budget around $500 to $800 per year for routine maintenance. If you buy a 2014-2016 model, set aside an extra $1,000 for potential transmission repairs. A 2018 or newer model will likely cost less to maintain.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is decent but not class-leading. The four-cylinder engine gets about 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The V6 drops to 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The turbocharged engine is similar to the V6.
In real-world driving, expect around 24-26 mpg combined with the four-cylinder and 22-24 mpg with the V6. This is competitive with rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, though those are slightly more efficient.
How To Inspect A Used Jeep Cherokee
Before you buy, follow this checklist to avoid common pitfalls. A thorough inspection can save you thousands in repairs.
- Check the transmission: Test drive in stop-and-go traffic. Feel for hesitation, jerking, or hard shifts. Listen for whining noises.
- Look for coolant leaks: Check under the car for puddles. Inspect the coolant reservoir for low levels. Ask for a pressure test.
- Test the electronics: Turn on the radio, climate control, and all power windows. Make sure everything works. Check for any warning lights on the dashboard.
- Check the oil level: Pull the dipstick. If the oil is low or looks dirty, that’s a red flag. Ask about oil consumption history.
- Review the service history: Look for records of transmission software updates, oil changes, and major repairs. A well-documented history is a good sign.
- Check for recalls: Use the VIN to look up any open recalls. Make sure they were addressed. The Cherokee has had several recalls over the years.
- Test the four-wheel drive: If the car has all-wheel drive, engage it and drive on a gravel road or in a parking lot. Listen for clunking or binding.
- Inspect the tires: Uneven wear can indicate alignment issues or suspension problems. Check the tread depth and look for cracks.
- Take it to a mechanic: A pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic is worth the money. They can spot issues you might miss.
- Negotiate based on findings: If you find problems, use them to negotiate a lower price. Be prepared to walk away if the issues are major.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a used Jeep Cherokee reliable for long road trips?
Yes, if you choose a 2018 or newer model with a clean service history. The V6 engine is especially good for highway cruising. Just make sure the transmission shifts smoothly and the cooling system is in good shape.
How many miles can a Jeep Cherokee last?
With proper maintenance, a Jeep Cherokee can last 150,000 to 200,000 miles. Some owners report going over 250,000 miles. The key is regular oil changes, transmission fluid changes, and addressing issues early.
What is the most reliable year for a used Jeep Cherokee?
The 2020 and 2021 model years are considered the most reliable. They have fewer reported issues and more refined transmissions. If you can find one in your budget, it’s a solid choice.
Is a used Jeep Cherokee expensive to maintain?
Maintenance costs are average for a compact SUV. Expect to spend around $500-$800 per year on routine maintenance. However, repairs can be costly if you buy a problematic year, so choose wisely.
Should I buy a Jeep Cherokee with the four-cylinder or V6 engine?
The V6 is more reliable and offers better performance, especially for towing. The four-cylinder is more fuel-efficient but has a history of oil consumption. If you can, go with the V6 or the turbocharged four-cylinder.
Final Verdict: Is A Used Jeep Cherokee A Good Car
So, is a used Jeep Cherokee a good car? The answer is yes, but with conditions. If you target a 2018 or newer model with a clean history, you’ll get a capable, comfortable SUV that handles well in all weather and offers genuine off-road ability. Avoid the early years unless you’re prepared for potential headaches.
The Cherokee shines in its off-road capability and rugged styling, which sets it apart from more vanilla competitors. It’s not the most reliable car in its class, but it’s far from the worst. With careful shopping and a thorough inspection, you can find a used Cherokee that will serve you well for years.
Remember to check the transmission, look for coolant leaks, and review the service history. A well-maintained Cherokee is a joy to own. A neglected one can be a money pit. Do your homework, and you’ll be rewarded with a versatile SUV that’s ready for adventure.
If you’re looking for a used SUV that’s a bit different from the crowd, the Jeep Cherokee is worth considering. Just be smart about which year you choose and how you inspect it. Happy hunting!