2020 Jeep Cherokee Problems
What owners have reported about the 2020 Jeep Cherokee, which problems come up most, at what mileage, and which recalls to check.
From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.
Is the 2020 Jeep Cherokee a good year?
It's one of the better years for the Cherokee. Owners have filed 324 complaints with NHTSA, the 7th most of 9 Cherokee model years. The most reported problems involve the transmission, engine and electrical system.
324 complaints 3 recalls, 1 crash risk 7th worst of 9 Cherokee years
Top 2020 Jeep Cherokee problems
Transmission problems
189 complaints (58%) name the transmission, most often the transfer case (4-WHEEL DRIVE) and gear position indication (PRNDL).
Engine problems
49 complaints (15%) name the engine, most often the engine control module (ECU / ECM).
Electrical problems
35 complaints (11%) name the electrical system, most often the body control module / BCM.
Brake problems
27 complaints (8%) name the brakes.
Which parts fail most
Share of complaints that name each system. One complaint can name several.
Mileage when it failed
Each dot is a complaint that gave a mileage (92 of 324). The amber line is the middle value, about 50,000 miles.
When problems were reported
Complaints by the year the problem happened.
2020 Jeep Cherokee recalls
Transmission
Can stallThe power transfer unit (PTU) may fail. A failed PTU may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: Dealers will update the Drivetrain Control Drivetrain Control Module, PTU, and Electronic Park Brake software, and replace the PTU, as necessary, free of charge.
Recall 26V290000 · May 2026Rearview camera image can linger on screen
Crash riskA software error can keep the rearview camera image on the radio display after the car is out of reverse, which can distract the driver. This increases the risk of a crash and means the vehicle does not meet federal mirror safety rules.
Fix: The dealer will update the radio display software free of charge, or you can choose to receive the update remotely over the air.
Recall 20V191000 · Sep 2020Rack, Pinion shaft
The steering rack gear may break, possibly causing a loss of steering control. A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering gear, free of charge.
Recall 19V637000 · Aug 2019Get an email when your 2020 Jeep Cherokee gets a new recall
We check NHTSA every month. If a new recall or safety investigation covers the 2020 Jeep Cherokee, you'll hear about it the same week.
One email per new recall. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Cherokee years to avoid
Total NHTSA complaints by model year. Newer years have had less time on the road, so their totals will keep climbing. See the full comparison.
2020 Jeep Cherokee problems by system
Common questions
Is the 2020 Jeep Cherokee a reliable year?
It's one of the better years for the Cherokee. Owners have filed 324 complaints with NHTSA, the 7th most of 9 Cherokee model years. The most reported problems involve the transmission, engine and electrical system.
What are the most common 2020 Jeep Cherokee problems?
Owners most often report problems with the transmission, engine, electrical system and brakes. 189 complaints (58%) name the transmission, most often the transfer case (4-WHEEL DRIVE) and gear position indication (PRNDL).
At what mileage do 2020 Jeep Cherokee transmission problems start?
Reported mileage ranged widely, but most complaints fell between about 50,000–80,000 miles, with a middle value near 65,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2020 Jeep Cherokee have?
3. Transmission (26V290000); Rearview camera image can linger on screen (20V191000); Rack, Pinion shaft (19V637000). Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.
Should I buy a used 2020 Jeep Cherokee?
Ask for service records covering the transmission, confirm the recall work was done, and compare with the 2022, 2021 and 2020 models, which have the fewest complaints.
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports. Counts include each complaint once per model year.