Post
Research the Car Logo

2015 Jeep Cherokee

Posted
By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2015 Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV offering a blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability, making it a popular choice for those seeking versatility. Engine options for the 2015 Cherokee include a 2.4L Tigershark I4 producing 184 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 3.2L Pentastar V6 generating 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were typically paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Cherokee for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and available 4x4 systems that provide impressive off-road performance. However, common complaints include issues with the 9-speed transmission’s shifting behavior, some engine reliability concerns, and electrical glitches.

Engine

2.4L Tigershark I4

  • Engine Stalling/Rough Idle
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall unexpectedly, especially at idle or during low-speed maneuvers. A rough or unstable idle can also be present. This may be due to an issue with the MultiAir actuator.
    • Solution: Replacing the MultiAir actuator can resolve the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an abnormally high amount of oil, requiring frequent top-ups. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed.
    • Solution: Repair can range from PCV valve replacement to piston ring replacement, or complete engine replacement in severe cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Pentastar V6

  • Oil Filter Housing Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: The plastic oil filter housing may crack or warp, causing oil leaks. This is a common issue with the early Pentastar engines.
    • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing with an updated design (often made of aluminum) is recommended.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic Transmission (45RFE/48RFE)

  • Harsh Shifting/Hesitation/Shuddering
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit harsh or erratic shifting, hesitation when accelerating, or a shuddering sensation at certain speeds.
    • Solution: In some cases, software updates or a TCM (Transmission Control Module) replacement can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, transmission replacement or rebuild may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (Software Update) - $4000+ (Replacement)
    • Recalls:
      • Recall Number S28: On approximately 31,700 of the above vehicles equipped with a 9–speed transmission, the software in the transmission control module (TCM) may cause a momentary loss of motive power.
      • Recall Number S55: Certain 2014 and 2015 model year Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a 9–speed transmission may experience an Electronic Park Brake (EPB) system malfunction. The park brake system may experience degradation and fail to engage, preventing the vehicle from maintaining a stationary position when the gear selector is in the Park position.
  • Transmission Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure may occur, rendering the vehicle undriveable.
    • Solution: Transmission replacement or rebuild is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • No Issues Found

Electrical

  • Uconnect System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions with the Uconnect infotainment system can occur, including freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity problems.
    • Solution: Software updates can often resolve these issues, but hardware replacement may be necessary in some cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $500+ (Module Replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain excessively, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or a completely dead battery.
    • Solution: Identifying and addressing parasitic drains, such as faulty modules or accessories, is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Liftgate Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or it may become unresponsive.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the liftgate motor, sensors, or wiring harness may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Water Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks can occur in the cabin, often around the windshield or sunroof.
    • Solution: Resealing the windshield or sunroof may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may leak, fail to open or close properly, or become stuck.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof components, such as the motor or seals, may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Jeep Cherokee has some notable reliability concerns, primarily related to the 9-speed automatic transmission and some engine issues, especially with the 2.4L engine. The transmission problems can range from inconvenient shifting issues to complete failure, potentially leading to expensive repairs. Electrical glitches, particularly with the Uconnect system, are also common. While not every 2015 Cherokee will experience these problems, it’s crucial to be aware of them and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchasing. Repair costs can vary widely, but major transmission or engine repairs can easily exceed several thousand dollars. The recalls related to the transmission highlight the severity and prevalence of the issues.

Jeep, Cherokee
Jeep Cherokee 2015
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.