667 of the 20,992 complaints filed about the Jeep Cherokee are about the steering — 3% of everything owners reported. The worst model year for it is 2014.
667
Complaints
3%
Share of all complaints
41
Crashes
10
Fires
STEERING
Sudden total loss of power steering assist while driving over a small pothole on Pearman Dairy Road. Full details, diagnostic trouble codes (U0420-00, U0010-00, U1428-00, B2309-64), and Jeep case reference 97368807 are fully documented in the attached formal PDF letter
NHTSA complaint #11755280 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
Pulling into gas station and power steering went out when pulling in, almost hit pump. Not only did it now need a new power steering rack but the clock spring had to be replaced to program it
NHTSA complaint #11751453 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
I went to this dealership today to get my steering column control module reprogrammed. Which includes What the Dealer’s Reprogramming Usually Covers (Standard & Expected) • SCCM (Steering Column Module)programming/configuration — Loads the correct software and vehicle-specific data into the new module.• Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) calibration — Teaches the system the straight-ahead wheel position (critical for fixing hard steering and related codes).• Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS) relearn — Calibrates the new sensor so the vehicle accurately monitors battery voltage/charging (helps with electrical gremlins and odometer issues). • Instrument cluster synchronization/reset — Clears the blinking odometer light and syncs the cluster with the new module. • Clearing all DTCs and running a full system scan (before/after reports). • Basic test drive/verification to confirm power steering feel, turn signals, and no lights.These are normal “post-repair setup” steps. Labor time is usually 0.5–2 hours total. I was quoted 200 dollars for this specific work to be done. They came back with codes C0051-04, C0051-64, U0420-00 which they said were codes that heavily recommended the rack and pinion to be changed but the codes that recommend that to be changed are C1592, C2217, or U0131. None of them showed. Then with the codes that they showed me they showed a low battery voltage even though I changed the battery recently, the smart battery sensor as well recently which they even said they reprogrammed for free which apparently they didn’t. They never showed me any reports of the steering control module programmed with all the parameters showing it passed or failed. They just immediately recommended the rack and pinion with the wrong codes. Go figure. Someone please help the service writer Jorge Rocha to better explain things with proper codes and the mechanic who should also be looked into for rights of worked done improperly.
NHTSA complaint #11750966 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
On 05/30/2026 approximately 12:15. My Jeep radio screen prompted "service needed, no phone connected" and a few other words I did not have an opportunity to memorize. The check engine light came on and he oil light appeared. This all happened within a minute. It was very quick and scared both of us. As my mother was driving, she smelled heat, then the radio quit working, the air conditioning shut off and heat turned on without assistance, my mother attempted to open the electronic windows without success, the power steering stopped worked and locked up, then the entire vehicle shut off. She struggled to maintain control of the vehicle in order to guide us to a safe place off the side of the road. We were in imamate danger due to NOT having any control of the vehicle. The hood, driver and passenger doors, front and back were able to be accessed, however we could not open the hatch. And the interior lights would not remain shut off until the battery ceased to have amps. No the vehicle was not inspected by the manufacturer, police or insurance representatives. We were on a major highway. She had NO CONTROL of the vehicle. I bought this vehicle used from Blue Knob and have never received any recall notices however I researched and found 13 recalls I have never been informed of. This is unsettling and a dangerous form of noncommunication.
NHTSA complaint #11743446 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
4wd and power steering is off due to some recall issue that affects my make/model/year but for some reason my vin# wasn’t able to be repaired. Alignment is off and I constantly buy used tires
NHTSA complaint #11742163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
NHTSA ODI Case Update – Supplement to Complaint #XXX Vehicle: 2019 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Plus (VIN: [XXX] ) Subject: Dealership Deflection Tactics and Denial of Recall Repair Verification This statement is submitted to update my ongoing federal safety complaint regarding the catastrophic failure of the Mopar Two-Speed Power Transfer Unit (PTU) and the resulting loss of motive power/rollaway risks. On May 19, 2026, the vehicle was evaluated by an authorized FCA dealership, St. Helens Auto Center (Repair Order #XXX). The certified technician, Don Stockdale, explicitly confirmed the mechanical failure of the recall-associated components, stating in writing: “the propeller shaft at the rear of the PTU feels as though it is dry inside. Very loose and clanking around.” Despite verifying this severe manufacturing safety defect, Service Manager April McCall formally refused to submit a corporate Goodwill or Warranty Extension claim to FCA unless I paid out-of-pocket to replace three CV axles, which she claimed were "loose and dry." To verify this claim, the vehicle was immediately taken to a secondary licensed automotive facility (Dr. Auto LLC, Invoice #XXX) on May 27, 2026. The independent inspection confirmed that the dealership’s diagnosis was fraudulent. All CV axle boots are completely intact and sealed, meaning the internal grease has not escaped. The front axles have zero play, and the rear axles exhibit only normal, minor factory play. The dealership intentionally used a loaded 4-post lift to misdiagnose the vehicle, leveraging the high-frequency vibrations of the failing central PTU to fabricate secondary, non-covered user-pay repairs. This is a deliberate corporate tactic used to deflect financial liability for a known federal safety defect onto the consumer. I am requesting that the NHTSA review these attached service documents as evidence of predatory dealership behavior surrounding the Cherokee PTU failures. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552
NHTSA complaint #11740568 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
The contact owns a 2015 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that on multiple occasions, the brake pedal became inoperable and felt spongy while attempting to stop the vehicle. The contact also stated that the steering wheel became difficult to operate, and a crunching sound was heard while turning the steering wheel. Additionally, the contact stated that multiple incorrect warning messages illuminated on the instrument panel, including the Start/Stop warning message and a door open warning message. The contact stated that the failures began after the vehicle had been repaired under a tailgate recall. The vehicle was taken to another dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer advised the contact to return to the previous dealer for repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,600.
NHTSA complaint #11739326 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
2020 Jeep Cherokee Limited AWD, VIN [XXX] , approx. 111,355 miles. Reporting serious safety concern: repeated/worsening electrical system failure with intermittent loss of power steering assist. For nearly a year, Auto Start/Stop warning and battery warning lights have appeared. During episodes, power steering assist can stop working, especially at complete stops, making steering extremely difficult when stopped, parking, or pulling out. Battery, alternator, battery cables/connections, and belt have been replaced, but issue continues and is worsening. Recently while driving, radio shut off, dash/instrument cluster began shutting down, blower motor cycled on/off repeatedly, and windshield wipers slowed while raining. Warnings included battery/charging, Auto Start/Stop, Service Electronic Stability Control, Service Park Brake, ABS, traction control, check engine, and Blind Spot Alerts Unavailable. Vehicle vibrated/ran rough, sounded like it might stall, then revved back up. Burning smell noted after failure and possible smoke near rear after shutdown. Vehicle was towed home due to safety risk. After tow, vehicle restarted but same warnings returned within minutes and radio/dash failures repeated. Concerned this is system-wide electrical, charging, power distribution, ground, or steering assist failure that could cause loss of steering assist, visibility systems, or safety systems while driving INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11738869 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
The contact owns a 2020 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the power steering suddenly failed, and the vehicle began to decelerate. The Service 4-Wheel Drive warning was illuminated. The contact pulled to the side of the road where smoke began coming from underneath the vehicle near the power steering unit. The vehicle was towed to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed that the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) and transfer case had failed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was informed, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.
NHTSA complaint #11738465 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
2020 Cherokee owner from dealer purchased as CPO w/23k miles in 2023. Shortly after purchase rear differential failed and was replaced under warranty at 25k miles. At 42k full Steering Rack failure. Daughter on 5 hour drive home from college experienced a completely random failure at highway speeds. Failure occurred with zero warning. It was a dangerous situation. Dealer quoting $3600 to repair. Original warranty has expired and CPO warranty does not cover. The company issued a recall on about 5,000 vehicles for faulty steering racks. My VIN was not included, though I have a hard time believing a full failure at 42k miles is simply a coincidence. Steering Racks should last 100-150k. This vehicle is well services and driven lightly. Pleaded with the dealer for help and contacted customer care. Was denied coverage and offered zero cost assistance. Dealer hourly rates in my area are $250 for some context on the quote and a 10 hour job apparently. The part costs $1100. Further, a quick perusal of reviews for other common issues with this vehicle unfortunately lists many. I would NOT recommend this vehicle!
NHTSA complaint #11737699 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
The steering rack failed about one week after I purchased the vehicle. The dealer replaced the steering rack once, but the same problem happened again about six months later. The vehicle has now been at the dealership for about one year waiting for another replacement steering rack. The dealer informed me the part is unavailable and must be specially manufactured. A loaner vehicle was provided while waiting. This repeated steering system failure is a serious safety concern.
NHTSA complaint #11737325 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
While driving or idle at the light the ABS light, traction control light and parking brake light come on and have a loss power steering.
NHTSA complaint #11736780 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
I am submitting this complaint regarding a persistent and unresolved issue with the left front axle of my 2022 Jeep Cherokee X, which has been present since the day I purchased the vehicle new. Shortly after purchase, I brought the vehicle to the dealership due to a noticeable clicking sound coming from the front end. The dealer retained the vehicle for several days but stated they were unable to identify the source of the noise, although they indicated that a repair had been performed. Immediately upon leaving the dealership, the clicking sound was still present. I returned the vehicle, at which point it remained in their possession for approximately one week. During that visit, components in the left front end were replaced. Approximately one year later, while pulling out of a driveway under normal driving conditions, the left axle failed completely. The vehicle had to be towed back to the dealership, where it remained for another week. I was informed that the CV joint had been replaced. Now, roughly one year after that repair, I brought the vehicle in for a routine oil change. During this visit, the service manager showed me that grease is actively leaking from the same left front axle. I am also once again hearing the same clicking noise that initially prompted my first visit. This vehicle has low mileage, is driven approximately six miles per day, and is used primarily for local driving. It has never been used off-road and has not been subjected to any abnormal driving conditions or impacts. Given the repeated failures involving the same component, despite prior repairs, I am concerned about the safety and reliability of this vehicle. Additionally, this ongoing issue has significantly diminished the vehicle’s value, making it difficult to sell. I am extremely disappointed that a vehicle of this age and usage history continues to experience recurring axle failures without a lasting resolution.
NHTSA complaint #11733747 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
My 2019 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Plus is exhibiting a persistent metallic rattling and grinding noise originating from the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) and the propeller shaft interface. The noise is most prominent during acceleration and coasting at speeds under 20 mph. Confirmed through Dr. Auto LLC, in Warren, OR. That it is in fact PTU unit attached to the propeller shaft. Plan to go through a dealership soon. This failure mirrors the symptoms described in NHTSA Recall 23V-302 (FCA Recall 01C). Although my specific VIN is currently not included in this recall, the mechanical symptoms—specifically vibration and grinding at the PTU output—indicate a premature failure of the input shaft splines. This presents a significant safety risk, as the failure of these splines can lead to an abrupt loss of motive power while in motion and a loss of the "Park" function, which could lead to an unintended vehicle rollaway. I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate whether the current recall scope should be expanded to include additional 2019 Jeep Cherokee units, such as mine, that were manufactured with the same defective PTU components. Im afraid to lose power to my wheels while im driving with young kids in my vehicle and I am afraid to lose parking function that could injure someone or cause property damage.
NHTSA complaint #11729278 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the message “4WD/Pull Over” was displayed, and the Low Oil warning light was intermittently illuminated. The contact became aware of the warning lights after receiving an oil change. Additionally, the oil level needed to be topped off after driving approximately 3,000 miles. While driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost power steering functionality, and it decelerated and stalled. The contact pulled over, turned off the vehicle, waited for several minutes, then made several attempts to restart the vehicle until the power steering functionality returned and was able to drive as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and it was confirmed that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of oil, and that the oil level sensor was inoperable. The dealer reprogrammed the ECM, but failures persisted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
NHTSA complaint #11728808 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
While driving home from Church Sunday afternoon, I was on the highway driving 65 mph. Suddenly, and without warning lights or any other ability to know or prepare for the catastrophe about to take place, my 2019 Cherokee Trailhawk lost all control and function in the drive-train and braking. The rear differential completely froze, forcing the vehicle to skid recklessly without operator control or ability to brake. Steering was near impossible as the car veered first to the guard-rail on the median, and then across 2 lanes of traffic towards the guardrail on the shoulder. A terrible accident was avoided by an alert and skillful driver who was behind me. After what i later came to find out from the dealer (having the vehicle towed) was the rear drive train gears sheered, I was able to bring the vehicle to a stop on the shoulder.
NHTSA complaint #11727737 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
The steering is very "glitchy" almost sticky. When driving the steering wheel does not move freely when turned and will slightly stick in place.
NHTSA complaint #11727455 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
My Jeep veers left and right sharply while I drive. It does not take off pulling into traffic-I have to wait for total total clearance-there is no take off. My gas tank was filled three days ago and it is already below 50%. I drive 7 miles to and from work Monday-Friday, nowhere else. I have avoided several accidents due to these problems. These problems happen everyday. I have take it in to my jeep Dealership-Hendricks at least four times over the years and they drive it, say they find nothing and return it to me to bring back if the problems arise again. HELP before this car kills me.
NHTSA complaint #11724283 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
My car is safely in my driveway. It only has 18,000 miles driven. It became stuck in wheel drive, greatly reducing my ability to drive the vehicle. The 2014 Cherokee is known for PTU failures in which the unit overheats or leaks fluid into the electronics, causing the system to lock in 4WD and display "Service 4WD" or "4WD System Unavailable". Will my dealership fix this problem under a past recall?
NHTSA complaint #11717712 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
STEERING
While driving the car, the shifting mechanisms are not working correctly. Stalling, hard shift etc. Causing jolts, and sudden stop/start movements. I was driving in the snow when my car jolted and was unable to stop on the ice leaving me in the snow bank. Went to put it in 4wd and the 4wd wouldn’t work. Brought it to the dealer repair shop where the recall was determined as the culprit. I have waited a year for the recall with no news, updates and being unable to drive my car.
NHTSA complaint #11717559 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.