The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV popular for its off-road capabilities and versatility. Whether driving with your family or out on an adventure, you'll appreciate how the Cherokee blends the Jeep's rugged aesthetic with a refined and comfortable interior. It has multiple engine and drivetrain options, plenty of space for cargo and passengers, and a bundle of safety and connectivity options. At Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram (CJDR) in Lewisville, Texas, we've taken an in-depth look at the reliability of this fan-favorite Jeep.
Cherokee InventoryA Brief History of the Jeep Cherokee: Evolution and Legacy
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The Jeep Cherokee originally hit the market in 1974 as a sporty version of the Jeep Wagoneer. The original Cherokee featured a body-on-frame design, while later models featured a more fuel-efficient unibody design. The Cherokee was updated over the years, with significant overhauls in 1984 and 2014, enhancing its off-road capabilities.
The 1990s solidified its reputation for ruggedness and utility. As consumer preferences shifted, the Cherokee adapted by incorporating modern amenities and safety features without losing character. The Jeep Cherokee was discontinued after the 2023 model year, but its legacy hasn't died. Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa announced that Jeep is working on a compact crossover with a hybrid powertrain that will be coming in 2025, and it's widely believed that this will serve as the traditional Cherokee's replacement.
Although Cherokees aren't currently being produced, many used models are still available, and they remain popular with drivers who appreciate the nostalgia and comfort of such a famous Jeep.
Reliability Ratings
Many people have rated the Jeep Cherokee as a reliable vehicle. Drivers who choose a Cherokee are often pleased with its longevity and ease of maintenance, making it a great choice if you're looking for a sense of security on the road.
RepairPal provides drivers with accurate, unbiased, and valid car ownership information. It rates the Jeep Cherokee 4 out of 5, placing it 9th out of 26 compact SUVs. The company states that Jeep owners can expect to bring in their Cherokee for unexpected repairs only 0.2 times per year, compared to an average of 0.4 for all vehicle models.
J.D. Power, one of the most trusted brands for car ratings, gave the 2021 Jeep Cherokee a quality and reliability score of 85 out of 100, which places it in the Great category. This rating measures the defects, malfunctions, and design flaws experienced by vehicle owners and covers the entire vehicle, from the engine to the infotainment system.
Real-World Owner Experiences and Testimonials
While rankings are always a good place to start, there's nothing better than testimonials from real Jeep owners. Owner ratings on Edmunds reveal that the 2023 Cherokee, the most recent model year, receives an overall score of 4.2 out of 5, meaning that most Jeep owners have had excellent experiences with their Cherokee.
One Cherokee owner was "blown away by the luxury driving experience" provided by the Cherokee, comparing it to high-end models that tend to come with a much higher price tag. Another reviewer commented, "After 30,000 miles, I haven't had any issues with the Cherokee," which aligns with the above reliability rankings. Another owner, who'd owned their Cherokee for over two years, reported "absolutely NO issues along the way except two cabin filter replacements." Similarly, another owner said they've driven their Cherokee for over 75,000 miles and had "no mechanical, electric, or transmission issues at all."
The Cherokee is an SUV designed to withstand the test of time. Year after year, it has proven to be a reliable car that makes drivers pleased with their decision to buy it. Now that the Cherokee has retired from production, used Cherokees available on the market are a great find if you want a used compact SUV.
Common Jeep Cherokee Problems and Solutions
No vehicle is perfect, and we'd be leaving out critical information if we didn't present some of the problems a few Cherokee owners have reported. The good news is that far more Cherokee owners have reported not having these issues, helping to solidify its ranking as one of the most reliable compact SUVs on the market.
Engine Stalling
Some Cherokee owners reported having an issue with their Cherokee stalling. Three common causes for this issue are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system, making it clear that there isn't an issue with the actual engine itself. The fix for this is often quick and easy and involves a mass airflow sensor replacement, oxygen sensor replacement, or fuel pressure sensor replacement.
Engine Oil Leaks
Some drivers have reported oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or timing cover gasket. While inconvenient, fixing these leaks is usually fast and can be remedied with a valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket replacement.
Is the Jeep Cherokee the Right Choice for You?
The Jeep Cherokee is a tried-and-true feature of the Jeep lineup that will appeal if you're looking for a compact SUV with the powerful off-road punch of a traditional Jeep. Multiple sources point out that the Jeep Cherokee is a reliable car that will bring enjoyment to your drives, whether on the highway or more adventurous routes. Contact Huffines CJDR Lewisville today to get started on your search for a Jeep Cherokee.
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Jeep Cherokee