2019 Jeep Cherokee

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee represents a mid-cycle refresh for the KL generation. It’s available with three engine options: a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, a 2.4L inline-4 producing 180 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2L Pentastar V6 generating 271 hp and 239 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Cherokee’s comfortable ride, off-road capabilities (especially in Trailhawk trim), and updated infotainment system. Common dislikes include the sometimes-clunky 9-speed transmission and relatively poor fuel economy for some engine choices.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can be accompanied by blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Initially, dealers often performed oil consumption tests. If consumption was deemed excessive, the recommended repair was often engine replacement. A revised PCV valve may help reduce oil consumption in some cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Engine replacement can range from $7,000 - $9,000+. PCV valve replacement is typically $50 - $150.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls while driving or coming to a stop.
  • Solution: Software updates were released to address the stalling issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-4

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls while driving or coming to a stop.
  • Solution: Software updates were released to address the stalling issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L Pentastar V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic (All Engine Options)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation, clunking, or jerky shifts between gears, especially at lower speeds. Some owners report difficulty finding the correct gear.
  • Solution: Software updates for the transmission control module (TCM) are a common fix, often improving shift quality. In some cases, valve body replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $100 - $200. Valve body replacement: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping or Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips out of gear unexpectedly, loses power, or fails completely. This may be accompanied by warning lights.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, the transmission may require rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Transmission rebuild: $2,500 - $4,500. Transmission replacement: $4,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front End Clunking/Popping
  • Description/Symptoms: A clunking or popping noise is heard from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. This can be caused by worn sway bar links or ball joints.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn sway bar links or ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Sway bar links: $150 - $300 per side. Ball joints: $200 - $500 per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Uconnect Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, and random reboots of the Uconnect infotainment system. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate controls.
  • Solution: Software updates can resolve some issues. In more severe cases, the Uconnect module may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $0 - $150. Uconnect module replacement: $500 - $1200+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use. This can be caused by a faulty module or other electrical component drawing power.
  • Solution: Identifying and replacing the faulty module or component. Performing a parasitic draw test.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the cause, ranging from $100 - $500+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera fails to display image. This may occur intermittently or constantly.
  • Solution: Check the camera connection and wiring. If the wiring is intact, then replace the camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing correctly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Clean sunroof tracks. If cleaning the tracks do not help, the sunroof motor may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Sunroof motor replacement $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee has several potential issues, primarily related to the 9-speed transmission and electrical system. Engine issues, such as excessive oil consumption, can be costly to repair. While many problems can be addressed with software updates, more serious issues might require component replacement, leading to significant repair bills. The transmission and electrical issues appear to be the most common and concerning problems owners face with this vehicle.