Common issues with the 2017 Jeep Cherokee include transmission hesitation and electrical glitches. If you own one or are thinking about buying one, you need to know what problems to watch for. This guide covers the most frequent complaints from owners and mechanics.
The 2017 Cherokee is a popular compact SUV with good off-road capability. But it has some known weak points that can be expensive to fix. Let’s look at each issue in detail.
Transmission Problems
The most talked-about problem with the 2017 Jeep Cherokee is the transmission. Many owners report hesitation, jerking, and rough shifting. This is especially common with the 9-speed automatic transmission.
Hesitation And Jerking During Acceleration
You might feel a delay when you press the gas pedal. The car may hesitate for a second before moving. Some drivers also report a sudden jerk or lurch when accelerating from a stop.
- Common symptom: Delay of 1-2 seconds when pressing gas
- Another symptom: Car jerks forward suddenly
- Worse in stop-and-go traffic
This issue often happens when the transmission is cold. It can also occur after driving for a while. Many owners have taken their Cherokees to dealers multiple times for this.
Rough Shifting Between Gears
Another common complaint is rough shifting. You might feel a hard clunk when the transmission changes gears. This can happen when going from first to second gear or from third to fourth.
- First sign: A noticeable thud when shifting
- Second sign: Vibration during gear changes
- Third sign: Transmission seems confused about which gear to use
Some owners have had their transmission control module reprogrammed. Others needed a full transmission replacement. This is not a cheap fix.
Transmission Software Updates
Jeep has released several software updates for the 9-speed transmission. These updates try to fix shifting problems. But not all owners see improvement after the update.
If you have transmission issues, check with your dealer for the latest software. Some updates are free under warranty. But if your warranty has expired, you may have to pay.
Electrical System Glitches
Electrical problems are another major complaint for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee. These can affect many different systems in the vehicle. Some are minor annoyances, while others can leave you stranded.
Uconnect Screen Freezing Or Going Blank
The Uconnect infotainment system is a common source of frustration. The screen may freeze, go blank, or become unresponsive. This can affect your radio, navigation, and climate controls.
- Screen goes black while driving
- Touchscreen stops responding to touch
- System takes a long time to boot up
Sometimes a simple reset fixes the problem. Hold down the volume and tuner knobs for 10 seconds. If that doesn’t work, you may need a software update or a new screen.
Battery Drain Issues
Many owners report that their battery dies unexpectedly. The car may not start after sitting for a day or two. This is often caused by a parasitic draw from an electrical component.
- Check for lights left on inside the car
- Test the battery voltage with a multimeter
- Look for aftermarket accessories that may cause drain
Some dealers have found that the radio or telematics module causes the drain. Replacing these parts can cost several hundred dollars. A new battery may only be a temporary fix.
Check Engine Light And Sensor Failures
The check engine light can come on for many reasons. Common causes include faulty oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, or evap system leaks. These can be tricky to diagnose without a scan tool.
If your check engine light comes on, get the code read at an auto parts store. This will tell you what system is having trouble. Some fixes are simple, like tightening the gas cap. Others require professional repair.
Engine Performance Issues
Engine problems are less common than transmission issues, but they do happen. The 2017 Cherokee offers three engine options: a 2.4L four-cylinder, a 3.2L V6, and a 2.0L turbo diesel. Each has its own set of potential problems.
2.4L Tigershark Engine Oil Consumption
The 2.4L four-cylinder engine is known for burning too much oil. Some owners report adding a quart of oil every 1,000 miles. This can lead to engine damage if not caught early.
- Check oil level every time you fill up with gas
- Look for blue smoke from the exhaust
- Listen for knocking sounds from the engine
Jeep has issued technical service bulletins for this issue. Some repairs include replacing the piston rings or the entire engine. This is a costly repair if out of warranty.
3.2L V6 Engine Stalling
The V6 engine is generally more reliable than the four-cylinder. But some owners report stalling at low speeds. This can happen when coming to a stop or when idling in traffic.
Stalling is often caused by a dirty throttle body or a faulty idle air control valve. Cleaning the throttle body can sometimes fix the problem. In other cases, a software update is needed.
Diesel Engine Emissions Problems
The 2.0L turbo diesel is rare in the US. But owners who have it report issues with the emissions system. The diesel particulate filter can clog, causing reduced power and warning lights.
Diesel issues are often covered by the emissions warranty. But repairs can be expensive if you are out of warranty. Regular driving at highway speeds helps keep the filter clean.
Cooling System Failures
Cooling system problems can lead to engine overheating. This is a serious issue that can cause major engine damage. The 2017 Cherokee has some known weak points in the cooling system.
Water Pump Failure
The water pump is a common failure point on the 3.2L V6 engine. It can start leaking coolant before it fails completely. You may notice a puddle of coolant under the car or a sweet smell from the engine bay.
- Coolant puddle under the front of the car
- Engine temperature gauge reading higher than normal
- Whining noise from the water pump area
Replacing the water pump is not cheap. The part itself is affordable, but labor costs are high. The pump is located in a tight space, so the job takes several hours.
Radiator Leaks
Some owners report radiator leaks on the 2017 Cherokee. The plastic end tanks on the radiator can crack over time. This causes coolant to leak out and the engine to overheat.
If you see coolant leaks, check the radiator for cracks. Also check the hoses and clamps. A new radiator costs a few hundred dollars installed.
HVAC And Climate Control Problems
The heating and air conditioning system can also have issues. Some owners report that the air conditioning stops blowing cold air. Others have problems with the heater not working properly.
Air Conditioning Not Cooling
A common complaint is that the AC stops working. This can be caused by a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, or a bad blend door actuator. The blend door actuator is a known weak point.
- Check if the AC blows cold on the driver side but not passenger side
- Listen for clicking sounds behind the dashboard
- Have the refrigerant level checked by a mechanic
Replacing a blend door actuator is a labor-intensive job. The part is cheap, but the dashboard may need to be removed. This can cost $500 or more at a shop.
Heater Not Working
Some owners report that the heater blows cold air even when set to hot. This is often caused by a faulty heater core or a stuck thermostat. A clogged heater core can also cause this problem.
Flushing the heater core can sometimes fix the issue. If that doesn’t work, the heater core may need to be replaced. This is another labor-intensive repair.
Suspension And Steering Complaints
Suspension and steering issues can affect ride comfort and safety. The 2017 Cherokee has some known problems in this area. These are less common than transmission issues but still worth knowing about.
Front Suspension Noise
Many owners report clunking or popping noises from the front suspension. This is often caused by worn sway bar links or control arm bushings. The noise is usually worse when going over bumps or turning.
- Clunking noise when driving over speed bumps
- Popping sound when turning the steering wheel
- Vibration in the steering wheel at highway speeds
Replacing sway bar links is a relatively cheap fix. Control arm bushings are more expensive to replace. If the noise is loud, get it checked before the part fails completely.
Steering Wheel Vibration
Some owners report vibration in the steering wheel at highway speeds. This can be caused by unbalanced tires, worn wheel bearings, or a problem with the power steering system. A loose steering rack can also cause vibration.
Start by checking tire balance and alignment. If that doesn’t fix it, have the steering components inspected. A faulty steering rack can be expensive to replace.
Brake System Problems
Brake issues are less common but still reported by some owners. The most common complaint is premature brake wear. Some owners report that the brakes wear out faster than expected.
Premature Brake Pad Wear
Some owners need to replace brake pads every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. This is much sooner than average. The cause may be soft brake pads or a caliper that is sticking.
- Squealing noise when braking
- Brake pedal feels soft or spongy
- Car pulls to one side when braking
Using high-quality aftermarket brake pads can help. Also check that the brake calipers are not sticking. A sticking caliper can cause uneven wear and reduce braking performance.
Brake Pedal Goes To The Floor
A more serious issue is when the brake pedal goes to the floor. This can be caused by a brake fluid leak, a failed master cylinder, or air in the brake lines. This is a safety issue that needs immediate attention.
If your brake pedal feels soft or goes to the floor, do not drive the car. Have it towed to a mechanic. Brake system repairs are critical for safety.
Interior And Comfort Complaints
Interior issues are mostly about comfort and convenience. These are not safety issues but can be annoying. Some owners report problems with seats, windows, and trim.
Seat Heater Failure
Some owners report that the seat heaters stop working. This can happen on the driver or passenger seat. The cause is often a broken heating element inside the seat cushion.
Replacing the heating element requires removing the seat cover. This is a labor-intensive job. Some owners choose to live without the heater rather than pay for the repair.
Power Window Problems
Power windows can fail on the 2017 Cherokee. The window may stop moving or move slowly. This is often caused by a faulty window regulator or motor.
- Window makes a grinding noise when moving
- Window moves very slowly
- Window gets stuck in the down position
Replacing a window regulator is a moderate DIY job. At a shop, it can cost $200 to $400 per window. The rear windows are less likely to fail than the front ones.
Reliability And Recalls
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee has several recalls. Check if your vehicle has any open recalls by using the NHTSA website. Some recalls are for serious safety issues.
Common Recalls For 2017 Cherokee
One recall involves the transmission shifter. The shifter may not clearly show which gear is selected. This can lead to the car rolling away after parking.
- Recall for shifter cable bushing
- Recall for airbag inflator
- Recall for fuel pump relay
All recalls are free to fix at a Jeep dealer. Even if you are not the original owner, the dealer must perform the repair. Check for open recalls before buying a used 2017 Cherokee.
Overall Reliability Rating
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee has a below-average reliability rating. Consumer Reports gives it a 2 out of 5 for predicted reliability. J.D. Power gives it a 3 out of 5.
Common issues with the 2017 Jeep Cherokee make it a risky used car buy. But if you find one that has been well-maintained and had recalls done, it can be a good vehicle. Just be prepared for potential repairs.
Issues With 2017 Jeep Cherokee
To sum up, the main issues with the 2017 Jeep Cherokee are transmission hesitation, electrical glitches, and engine oil consumption. These problems can be expensive to fix. If you own one, stay on top of maintenance and check for recalls.
If you are thinking about buying one, get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic. Look for a model with the V6 engine if possible. The four-cylinder has more oil consumption issues.
Also check the service history. A well-maintained Cherokee with records is better than one with no history. Ask if the transmission software has been updated. Ask if any major repairs have been done.
Some owners have had good experiences with their 2017 Cherokees. But the risk of problems is higher than average. Be prepared for the possibility of repairs.
If you already own one, join an owner forum. Other owners can help you diagnose problems and find good mechanics. Some issues have known fixes that are not expensive.
For example, the transmission hesitation can sometimes be fixed by resetting the transmission adaptive learning. This is a simple procedure that you can do yourself. It involves disconnecting the battery for 30 minutes.
Electrical glitches can sometimes be fixed by updating the Uconnect software. Check the Jeep website for the latest update. Some updates are free to download and install yourself.
Oil consumption on the 2.4L engine should be monitored closely. Check your oil level every time you fill up with gas. If you notice it dropping fast, take it to a mechanic.
Cooling system issues should be addressed immediately. Overheating can cause engine damage that costs thousands to repair. Check your coolant level regularly and look for leaks.
Brake issues should also be taken seriously. If your brake pedal feels soft or the car pulls to one side, get it checked. Brake repairs are not as expensive as engine repairs.
Suspension noise is usually not a safety issue, but it can be annoying. Get it checked if the noise gets louder. Worn parts can cause uneven tire wear and affect handling.
HVAC problems can make driving uncomfortable. If your AC stops working, get it checked before summer. If your heater stops working, get it checked before winter.
Interior issues like seat heaters and power windows are mostly cosmetic. They do not affect the car’s reliability. But they can be frustrating if you paid for these features.
Recalls are important to address. Even if you have not had a problem, the recall fix can prevent future issues. Check the NHTSA website for open recalls on your VIN.
Overall, the 2017 Jeep Cherokee is a capable SUV with some known issues. If you are willing to deal with potential problems, it can be a good vehicle. Just go in with your eyes open.
Some owners have driven their Cherokees for 100,000 miles with no major issues. Others have had problems early on. It really depends on how the car was built and maintained.
If you are buying used, try to find one with a full service history. Look for one that has had the transmission software updated. Check for any open recalls.
Also consider buying an extended warranty. This can cover the cost of major repairs. Just read the fine print to see what is covered.
In the end, the 2017 Jeep Cherokee is a mixed bag. It has good off-road capability and a nice interior. But it also has some reliability issues that can be costly.
If you are handy with tools, you can save money by doing some repairs yourself. Simple things like changing oil, replacing brake pads, and updating software are DIY-friendly.
More complex repairs like transmission work or engine repairs should be left to professionals. These can be expensive, so budget for them.
Overall, the 2017 Jeep Cherokee is not the most reliable SUV on the market. But with proper care, it can still be a good vehicle. Just be aware of the common issues and address them quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2017 Jeep Cherokee Reliable?
Reliability is below average. The transmission and