Last updated: 2026-03-15

2020 Jeep Cherokee Reliability Report
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee scores 76/100 ("Good"). With 5 recalls and 436 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
5
Complaints
436
Complaint Rate
N/A
Est. Annual Cost
$520
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- POWER TRAIN (148)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (71)
- ENGINE (39)
Should You Buy the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee scores 76/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory.
With 436 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to power train (148). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, which scored 9 points lower. See also the 2019 Jeep Cherokee for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$1 cheaper to maintain than avg compact SUVs
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (12%)
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −Above-average complaint volume
- −POWER TRAIN issues reported (148 complaints)
Compare 2020 Jeep Cherokee With

2020 Jeep Compass
Reliability: 76/100

2020 Audi Q3
Reliability: 69/100

2020 BMW X1
Reliability: 74/100

2020 Nissan Kicks
Reliability: 78/100

2020 Lexus UX
Reliability: 84/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 5 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (148)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (71)
Recall Overview
5
recalls on record
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee has 5 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
436
complaintsSafety Incidents
30
Crashes
10
Fires
20
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Jeep Cherokee Recall Details
5 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Ram 1500 and 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L Diesel engines. The crankshaft position sensor tone wheel may delaminate, causing the engine to lose its ability to synchronize the fuel injector pulses and cam shaft timing, possibly resulting in an engine stall.
Consequence
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software to maintain vehicle propulsion, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 3, 2023. Some owner notification letters were mailed October 31, 2023. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated July 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 66A. This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-475.
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 2014-2019 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. A high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure may introduce internal debris into the fuel system, potentially resulting in fuel starvation.
Consequence
Fuel starvation may result in an unexpected loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the HPFP, and inspect and replace, if necessary, additional fuel system components, free of charge. Interim notification letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed July 21, 2022. Owner notification letters for were mailed for Jeep Grand Cherokee owners starting January 11, 2024. Owner notification letters for Ram 1500 owners were mailed March 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLS's number for this recall is Z46.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Cherokee, 2019-2020 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Renegade and 2019 Dodge Challenger vehicles equipped with 8.4" or 12" radio displays. A software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Consequence
The lingering rearview image can distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler has notified owners, and dealers will update the radio display software, free of charge. Optionally, owners can choose to remotely update their software via an Over-The-Air (OTA) update available as of May 1, 2020. The recall began April 27, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W30-W37.
2020 Jeep Cherokee NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.9%
Safety Technologies
Jeep Cherokee Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$520
vs $521 avg for compact SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
12%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Jeep Cherokee.
Check transmission for rough shifting or failure to engage gears
Inspect infotainment system for screen delamination and phantom touches
Verify engine for oil and coolant leaks, especially around the oil filter housing and water pump
Test for unexpected vehicle shutdowns while driving
Ensure fuel gauge accuracy and check for fuel pump issues
Inspect steering system for loss of power steering or stiffness
Check for any recall repairs related to the power transfer unit (PTU)
Buying a 2020 Cherokee? Check Its History First
Every 2020 Jeep Cherokee has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
2020 Jeep Cherokee Common Problems by Component
436 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
148 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee frequently report issues with the transmission, including slipping, rough shifting, and failure to engage gears. Symptoms often include the check engine light activating, vehicles stalling or losing power unexpectedly, and difficulty shifting into park or reverse. These problems are commonly reported at mileage ranges from around 26,000 to over 100,000 miles. Safety implications are notable, with reports of the vehicle stalling on highways and two incidents involving fires, one of which led to a vehicle being engulfed in flames. For potential buyers, these patterns suggest a need for careful inspection of the transmission system, especially concerning its history of repairs or replacements.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
71 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2020 Jeep Cherokee's electrical system, particularly related to screen delamination in the infotainment system, which leads to phantom touches, malfunctioning GPS, and unreliable rearview camera images. Complaints often describe problems with starting the vehicle, with some indicating that the vehicle shuts off unexpectedly, sometimes while driving or when stationary. These issues are typically reported around 44,000 to 60,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, including one crash linked to sudden acceleration and braking issues, and multiple reports of the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly. For used car buyers, these patterns suggest potential concerns with the infotainment system and vehicle reliability at moderate mileage.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
49 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several issues with the 2020 Jeep Cherokee, notably involving the delamination of the dashboard touchscreen, which affects visibility and functionality of vehicle controls. This delamination often occurs without warning and can rapidly worsen, impacting safety features and navigation systems. Additionally, multiple owners describe spontaneous shattering of the sunroof glass while driving, posing a potential injury risk if the interior screen is open. Some complaints involve the vehicle stalling unexpectedly due to inaccurate fuel gauge readings, with incidents occurring at highway speeds, risking loss of control. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, with no specific timeline pattern consistently emerging.
ENGINE (39 complaints)
ENGINE
39 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee frequently report issues related to engine failures, with common symptoms including oil and coolant leaks, engine misfires, and stalling. Several complaints highlight problems with the oil filter housing and water pump, often leading to significant engine damage and costly repairs. These issues typically arise around 50,000 to 115,000 miles. Safety implications are evident, as some owners describe sudden loss of power while driving, which can pose a risk of accidents. Additionally, six reports involve engine fires, underscoring potential safety hazards for prospective buyers.
STEERING (28 complaints)
STEERING
28 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report multiple issues with the steering system in the 2020 Jeep Cherokee, with common symptoms including loss of power steering, heavy or stiff steering, and the steering wheel pulling to one side. Complaints frequently mention problems with the electrical power steering system cutting in and out, and some describe the steering rack and pinion system failing, leading to a complete loss of control. These issues often occur around 20,000 to 35,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes, including one with an injury, due to steering failure. Buyers should be aware that several owners relate their experiences to a known recall, although they note their specific vehicles are not included.
AIR BAGS (15 complaints)
AIR BAGS
15 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee frequently report issues with air bags not deploying during crashes, with 13 out of 15 complaints involving accidents. Typical symptoms include head-on collisions and significant impacts where air bags fail to activate, leading to injuries such as fractures, bruises, and concussions. Most incidents occur at varying speeds, with reported mileages ranging from 8,000 to 70,000 miles. Some owners also describe unexpected air bag deployment without a collision, resulting in additional injuries. These patterns suggest potential safety implications, especially in crash scenarios, and are important for potential buyers to consider.
SERVICE BRAKES (13 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
13 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report two primary issues with the 2020 Jeep Cherokee's braking system: the automatic engagement of the parking brake while driving and repeated failures of the ABS module. Complaints frequently mention the parking brake activating unexpectedly, causing the vehicle to stop abruptly at various speeds, including highway speeds, which has led to near-crash situations. Additionally, multiple owners describe the ABS module needing replacement multiple times, with one owner detailing three replacements over four years. Crashes are noted in three reports, with incidents involving brake lockup and unexpected acceleration leading to collisions. These issues often occur at varied mileages, with some reports indicating problems as early as 7,713 miles. Potential buyers should be aware of these reported safety risks and the recurring nature of these problems.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (10 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
10 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee frequently report issues related to unintended acceleration and cruise control malfunctions. Complaints often describe the vehicle accelerating rapidly beyond the set cruise control speed, requiring drivers to deactivate the system manually. Unintended acceleration incidents sometimes occur during normal driving, with reports of the vehicle continuing to accelerate despite brake application, leading to four reported crashes. These issues are noted at various mileage ranges, from as low as 500 miles to over 60,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as several incidents resulted in collisions with stationary objects, raising potential concerns for prospective buyers about the reliability of the vehicle's speed control systems.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (9 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
9 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee frequently report issues with the fuel propulsion system, particularly related to the fuel pump. Several complaints describe the vehicle failing to start on the first attempt, requiring a second try, often attributed to a fuel pump problem. A few reports mention fuel leaks, including one instance where a fuel supply tube failure led to a significant gas spill in a garage. Fuel line issues are also noted, with cracked fittings causing fuel to spray onto hot engine components, posing a fire risk. These problems are reported at various mileages, with some occurring shortly after purchase. Safety concerns include potential fire hazards and loss of vehicle control due to engine stalling, which may impact a buyer's decision regarding this model.
SUSPENSION (9 complaints)
SUSPENSION
9 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee report several suspension-related issues. Commonly mentioned problems include premature failure of front ball joints and control arms, with some replacements occurring around 60,000 miles. Shocks are also reported to fail under 50,000 miles, leading to safety concerns, especially for those transporting passengers. Multiple complaints describe noises such as thumping from the rear and scraping sounds when driving over bumps, with some issues recurring despite repairs. A few reports indicate significant safety implications, such as sudden vehicle collapse or loss of braking effectiveness, particularly around 16,000 to 52,000 miles. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for buyers considering a used model.
When Do 2020 Jeep Cherokee Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Jeep Cherokee Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Jeep Cherokee Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Jeep Cherokee year is 2020 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (75/100) and 2018 (68/100).
2020
(Current Model)
2025
2018
Jeep Cherokee Years to Avoid
No Jeep Cherokee years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Jeep Cherokee maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Jeep Cherokee Reliability Score Trend
Jeep Cherokee reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 69/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 75/100 | Good |
Jeep Cherokee Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Jeep Cherokee reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?
How many recalls does the 2020 Jeep Cherokee have?
Is the 2020 Jeep Cherokee expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2020 Jeep Cherokee without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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