2014 Jeep Cherokee

The 2014 Jeep Cherokee marked a return to the Cherokee nameplate after a long hiatus, introducing a modern, crossover-style vehicle to the Jeep lineup. It was offered with three engine options: a 2.4L Tigershark inline-4 producing 184 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, a 3.2L Pentastar V6 making 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L I4 Turbocharged engine. The primary transmission was a 9-speed automatic. Many appreciated the Cherokee’s comfortable ride, off-road capabilities (especially in Trailhawk trim), and stylish interior. However, the 9-speed transmission received criticism for its clunky shifting and reliability issues. Other common dislikes included the polarizing exterior styling and some reported electronic gremlins.

Engine

2.4L Tigershark I4

• Engine Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Can lead to engine damage if not monitored.
  • Solution: Software updates, oil consumption test, replacement of piston rings if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (if engine rebuild or replacement is required)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling at low speeds or when coming to a stop. Can be intermittent.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of sensors (crankshaft, camshaft), software updates, throttle body cleaning/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Pentastar V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Clunking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting between gears, especially at lower speeds. Clunking noises during shifts. Can lead to transmission failure.
  • Solution: Software updates, valve body replacement, or complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ (depending on the severity and required repair)
  • Recalls: #S66 - The transmission gear may not match the gear indicated, this may result in a rollaway without warning, causing a crash without warning.
  • Recalls: #S90 - The transmission may shift into neutral while driving, increasing the risk of crash.
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gear, especially during acceleration. Loss of power.
  • Solution: Transmission flush, valve body repair/replacement, or complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: #S66 - The transmission gear may not match the gear indicated, this may result in a rollaway without warning, causing a crash without warning.
  • Recalls: #S90 - The transmission may shift into neutral while driving, increasing the risk of crash.

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises from the front suspension when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Uconnect System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of Uconnect module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (depending on the severity and if module replacement is needed)
  • Recalls: #T36 - Radio software update to prevent hacking and vehicle control.
• Power Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Power liftgate not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of liftgate motor, struts, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Warning Lights (Various)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, ABS light, traction control light, and other warning lights illuminating for no apparent reason.
  • Solution: Diagnostic scan to identify the underlying issue, repair or replacement of faulty sensors, wiring, or modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof, especially during heavy rain.
  • Solution: Cleaning sunroof drain tubes, resealing sunroof, or replacing sunroof components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Jeep Cherokee presents a mixed bag of reliability concerns. The most significant issues revolve around the 9-speed automatic transmission, with harsh shifting and potential failures being a common complaint, and software updates along with valve body replacements appear to be the most common solutions. The 2.4L Tigershark engine can suffer from excessive oil consumption, potentially leading to expensive repairs. Electrical issues with the Uconnect system and power liftgate are also relatively common. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, major transmission or engine repairs can be costly. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s service history before purchasing.