2017 Jeep Cherokee
2017 Jeep Cherokee
Overview
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee, a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and comfortable ride, offers a range of powertrain options. While generally considered a reliable vehicle for its segment, like any model, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical problems beyond routine maintenance, examining common concerns across its engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior systems. Understanding these potential weak points can help owners anticipate and address maintenance needs, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of their Cherokee.
Engine
2.4L Tigershark MultiAir (I4)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, requiring frequent top-offs. May be accompanied by blue smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Engine internal inspection, potential piston ring replacement or PCV valve check.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Stalling/Rough Idling
- Symptoms: Engine may stall unexpectedly or run roughly at idle, particularly when cold.
- Solution: Check for vacuum leaks, faulty spark plugs, or issues with the throttle body or fuel injectors.
- Cost: $200 - $800
3.2L Pentastar (V6)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Transmission
948TE 9-Speed Automatic
Harsh Shifting/Jerking
- Symptoms: Transmission exhibits rough or jerky shifts between gears, especially at lower speeds.
- Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM) or internal transmission inspection and repair.
- Cost: $300 - $1200
Hesitation/Slipping
- Symptoms: Vehicle may hesitate to engage gears or feel like it’s slipping.
- Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition, inspect solenoids and clutch packs.
- Cost: $500 - $2000
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
Infotainment System
Uconnect System Glitches
- Symptoms: Touchscreen unresponsiveness, freezing, Bluetooth connectivity issues, or audio problems.
- Solution: Software updates for the Uconnect system, or potential replacement of the head unit.
- Cost: $100 - $800
Battery Drain
Intermittent Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Battery dies unexpectedly, often due to parasitic draw from various modules.
- Solution: Diagnostic scan to identify the source of the draw, repair or replace faulty modules or wiring.
- Cost: $200 - $700
Exterior
Body Panels
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Trim and Upholstery
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee presents a mixed reliability profile. The 2.4L Tigershark engine has documented issues with oil consumption and rough idling, while the 3.2L V6 appears more robust. The 9-speed automatic transmission is a common source of complaints, with owners reporting harsh shifting and hesitation. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the Uconnect infotainment system and intermittent battery drain, are also noted. However, the suspension, exterior, and interior components generally hold up well, with no widespread critical failures reported in these areas. Prospective buyers should be aware of the potential powertrain and electrical concerns and factor in possible repair costs.