Jeep Cherokee Years to Avoid
Every Cherokee model year ranked by owner complaints filed with NHTSA, with recalls and the top problem for each year.
Updated Oct 17, 2026.
Which Cherokee years should you avoid?
The 2014, 2015 and 2019 Cherokee have the most NHTSA complaints. Adjusted for how long each year has been on the road, the 2022, 2021 and 2020 models have the fewest problems.
Complaints by model year
Total complaints. Newer years have had less time on the road, so their totals will keep climbing.
Every year at a glance
| Year | Complaints | Per year | Recalls | Top problem |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 51 | 10 | 3 | Transmission |
| 2021 | 173 | 29 | 4 | Transmission |
| 2020 | 324 | 46 | 3 | Transmission |
| 2019 | 1,661 | 208 | 11 | Transmission |
| 2018 | 687 | 76 | 7 | Transmission |
| 2017 | 1,336 | 134 | 6 | Transmission |
| 2016 | 1,409 | 128 | 9 | Transmission |
| 2015 | 1,789 | 149 | 11 | Transmission |
| 2014 | 2,650 | 204 | 13 | Transmission |
"Per year" divides complaints by the years since that model year went on sale, so new and old years compare fairly. Highlighted rows have the most complaints.
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Common questions
What is the worst year for the Jeep Cherokee?
The 2014 Cherokee, with 2,650 complaints. Its most reported problem area is the transmission.
What is the best year for the Jeep Cherokee?
Among years with at least three years of owner reports, the 2022 Cherokee has the fewest complaints per year on the road.
Which Jeep Cherokee years should I avoid?
Be most careful with the 2014, 2015 and 2019 models. Check service records and recall work before buying.