2016 Jeep Cherokee

The 2016 Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and distinctive styling. Engine options include a 2.4L Tigershark I4 producing 184 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2L Pentastar V6 producing 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Cherokee’s comfortable ride, user-friendly infotainment system, and available advanced safety features. Common complaints often revolve around the 9-speed transmission’s shift quality, some engine reliability issues, and higher than average repair costs compared to other vehicles in its class.

Engine

2.4L Tigershark I4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, a redesigned PCV valve or piston rings may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (depending on the extent of repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Pentastar V6

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires that can result in a check engine light and rough running conditions. This can be caused by faulty ignition coils or fuel injectors.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil or fuel injector.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the part and location)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Rough or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, hesitation, and difficulty finding the correct gear are frequently reported. This can include slipping between gears and clunking noises.
  • Solution: Software updates or a transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for software update. $3,000 - $6,000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: 2016 Jeep Cherokee Recall Number 16V529000
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure requiring replacement. This can manifest as complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: 2016 Jeep Cherokee Recall Number 16V529000

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported premature wear of suspension components such as ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts, resulting in clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per component (depending on location and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Uconnect System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezes, glitches, and connectivity problems, particularly with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The screen can be slow to respond or completely unresponsive.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the Uconnect module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software update) - $500+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the vehicle sits for a few days. This can be due to a parasitic draw from an electrical component.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. Often involves replacing a module or repairing wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, particularly around the windshield, sunroof, or liftgate.
  • Solution: Resealing the windshield, sunroof, or liftgate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate correctly, often due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Jeep Cherokee is a capable SUV, but it has some common issues to be aware of. The most significant concerns involve the 9-speed automatic transmission, which can suffer from rough shifting and even complete failure. The 2.4L engine is prone to excessive oil consumption, while the 3.2L can suffer from misfires. Electrical issues with the Uconnect system and battery drain are also relatively common. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for transmission or engine repairs. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before making a purchase.