2016 Jeep Cherokee
2016 Jeep Cherokee
Overview
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee, part of the KL generation, offers a range of powertrain options and a comfortable ride, making it a popular choice in the compact SUV segment. While generally considered a capable vehicle, like any model, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns, excluding routine maintenance and normal wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of potential mechanical and electrical vulnerabilities for the 2016 model year across its various configurations. Understanding these common problems can help prospective buyers and current owners anticipate and address potential repair needs.
Engine
2.4L Tigershark MultiAir (I4)
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level warnings, burning oil smell.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking seals or gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
- Cost: $200 - $600
Coolant Leaks
- Symptoms: Overheating, visible coolant puddles, sweet smell, low coolant level.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of leaking hoses, radiator, water pump, or thermostat housing.
- Cost: $300 - $800
3.2L Pentastar (V6)
Oil Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level warnings, burning oil smell.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking seals or gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
- Cost: $200 - $600
Coolant Leaks
- Symptoms: Overheating, visible coolant puddles, sweet smell, low coolant level.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of leaking hoses, radiator, water pump, or thermostat housing.
- Cost: $300 - $800
Transmission
948TE 9-Speed Automatic
Harsh Shifting / Jerking
- Symptoms: Rough gear changes, clunking noises, hesitation during acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: Software updates for transmission control module, fluid flush and replacement, or internal transmission repair/rebuild.
- Cost: $400 - $2,500+
Transmission Slipping
- Symptoms: Engine revs but vehicle does not accelerate, difficulty engaging gears.
- Solution: Transmission fluid check and top-off, transmission flush, or internal transmission repair/rebuild.
- Cost: $500 - $3,000+
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM) & Related Systems
Uconnect System Glitches
- Symptoms: Infotainment screen freezing, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, backup camera malfunctions.
- Solution: Software updates for the Uconnect system, hard reset, or replacement of the head unit.
- Cost: $150 - $1,000+
Keyless Entry/Start Issues
- Symptoms: Vehicle not recognizing key fob, difficulty starting the engine, doors not locking/unlocking.
- Solution: Battery replacement in key fob, reprogramming of key fobs, or diagnosis/repair of BCM or related sensors.
- Cost: $100 - $500
Exterior
Body Panels & Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Electronics & Features
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee presents a mixed reliability profile. The primary concerns revolve around the powertrain, specifically the 9-speed automatic transmission, which can exhibit issues with shifting quality and occasional slipping, potentially requiring software updates or more extensive repairs. Engine options, both the 2.4L Tigershark and 3.2L Pentastar, have seen reports of oil and coolant leaks, generally stemming from gasket or seal failures. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the Uconnect infotainment system and keyless entry, are also noted, often resolvable with software updates but sometimes necessitating component replacement. Suspension, exterior, and interior components are generally considered reliable with no widespread systemic failures reported. Owners should be aware of potential transmission and engine leak issues when considering this model year.