Last updated: 2026-03-15

2021 Jeep Cherokee Reliability Report
The 2021 Jeep Cherokee scores 67/100 ("Good"). With 18 recalls and 554 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
18
Complaints
554
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
- STEERING (117)
- POWER TRAIN (105)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (86)
Should You Buy the 2021 Jeep Cherokee?
The 2021 Jeep Cherokee scores 67/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory.
With 554 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 steering (114). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2023 Jeep Cherokee, which scored 1 points lower. See also the 2020 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
- −Above-average recall count
- −Above-average complaint volume
- −STEERING issues reported (117 complaints)
Compare 2021 Jeep Cherokee With

2021 Jeep Compass
Reliability: 80/100

2021 Audi Q3
Reliability: 74/100

2021 BMW X1
Reliability: 75/100

2021 Lexus UX
Reliability: 80/100

2021 Nissan Kicks
Reliability: 78/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 18 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- STEERING (117)
- POWER TRAIN (105)
Recall Overview
18
recalls on record
The 2021 Jeep Cherokee has 18 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
554
complaintsSafety Incidents
31
Crashes
13
Fires
21
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Jeep Cherokee Recall Details
18 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
POWER TRAIN
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The transmission oil cooler hose may have been incorrectly cured, allowing transmission fluid to leak.
Consequence
A transmission fluid leak increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the hose, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed May 18, 2021. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Y18.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Dodge Durango, 2021-2023 Chrysler Pacifica, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, 2022 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, Chrysler Voyager, 2022-2023 Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram Promaster vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview camera image that does not display decreases the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the radio software or the software will be OTA, "Over-The-Air," free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning July 9, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's numbers for this recall are 66B and 79B.
SUSPENSION, STEERING
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The upper control arm ball joint and steering knuckle may separate and cause the wheel to fall outward, resulting in a loss of vehicle control.
Consequence
A loss of vehicle control increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the upper control arm pinch bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 2, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 10B.
Showing 10 of 18 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
2021 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 2021 Jeep Cherokee.
Inspect transmission for erratic shifting and limp mode
Test fuel pump for starting issues and stalling
Check electrical system for random shutdowns
Verify power steering functionality and check for error messages
Ensure air suspension system is stable and noise-free
Confirm airbag system functionality and recall completion
Test forward collision avoidance system for unexpected braking
Inspect for fuel leaks and related component issues
Buying a 2021 Cherokee? Check Its History First
Every 2021 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.
2021 Jeep Cherokee Common Problems by Component
554 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STEERING
117 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several steering-related issues with the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, including erratic steering behavior where the vehicle shifts left and right unexpectedly, often accompanied by steering wheel movement on its own. Complaints frequently mention power steering failures, with warning lights illuminating and the steering wheel becoming difficult to maneuver. These issues are often noted around the 25,000 to 70,000-mile range. Safety implications are significant, as the data includes six crashes and three injuries, with some incidents involving the vehicle pulling to one side or losing control, leading to collisions with curbs or guard rails. Buyers should be aware of these steering issues and the potential for related recalls affecting this model.
POWER TRAIN
105 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee frequently report issues with the power train, specifically citing transmission failures and erratic shifting as common problems. Symptoms described include loss of power, sudden engine shutdowns, hard or rough shifting, and warning messages such as “Service Transmission” and “Transmission Temperature High.” Complaints often emerge around mileage as low as 8,100 miles, with some reports detailing issues at approximately 35,000 miles. Safety concerns are highlighted by incidents of vehicles losing motive power while driving, and one report involves a crash. These patterns suggest potential reliability issues that prospective buyers should consider when evaluating this vehicle model.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
86 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several electrical system issues with the 2021 Jeep Cherokee. Complaints frequently mention problems with the vehicle starting, with symptoms including the starter engaging but not turning over or taking extended time to start. Some owners attribute this to potential fuel pump relay or starter issues, often occurring multiple times per week. Additionally, multiple complaints involve the vehicle shutting off randomly while driving, with some instances leading to crashes and loss of acceleration on highways. Another significant issue involves fires, with five reports detailing vehicles catching fire, sometimes while parked or shortly after starting. These problems are reported across a range of mileages, with some occurring as early as 32,000 miles. Safety implications are notable, including two crash incidents and multiple fire reports, making these issues critical for potential buyers to consider.
ENGINE (26 complaints)
ENGINE
26 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several recurring engine issues with the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, with a notable pattern of engine stalling and unexpected shutdowns while driving, sometimes at high speeds. Typical symptoms include the engine failing to start, shutting off without warning, or exhibiting unusual noises, often without triggering warning lights. Complaints frequently mention problems arising around 20,000 to 51,000 miles, with some cases requiring extensive repairs such as engine replacement. Safety implications are significant, as one complaint involves a fire and another reports an injury due to the vehicle shutting down. Prospective buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly the potential for sudden engine failure and associated safety risks.
SERVICE BRAKES (25 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
25 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee frequently report issues with the vehicle's braking system, including complaints of warped brake rotors and premature brake pad wear, often emerging around 30,000 miles. Multiple owners describe the automatic emergency braking system engaging unexpectedly, causing the vehicle to stop abruptly without warning, sometimes resulting in minor injuries. Additionally, some reports mention the parking brake engaging unexpectedly while driving, posing potential safety risks. One complaint involves a fire linked to brake failure, with smoke and burning brake fluid observed. These issues highlight potential safety concerns for prospective buyers, particularly regarding unexpected braking and parking brake malfunctions.
SUSPENSION (22 complaints)
SUSPENSION
22 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several suspension issues with the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, with air suspension system failures being a primary concern. Common symptoms include service suspension messages, stability and traction control warnings, and noises such as squeaks or thumps from the rear suspension. Complaints frequently mention problems arising around 20,000 to 40,000 miles, with some incidents leading to crashes due to components like the axle or control arms failing, resulting in loss of control. These issues may pose safety risks, as some owners experience sudden vehicle instability or steering difficulties. Buyers considering a used model should be aware of these potential problems and verify if recall repairs have been conducted.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (18 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
18 complaintsOwners report recurring issues with the fuel pump in the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, leading to starting problems and engine stalling. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle hesitating or failing to start, often requiring multiple attempts, and in some cases, the engine shutting off suddenly while driving, without warning lights or messages. These issues are observed across a range of mileages, with some instances occurring as early as 1,000 miles and others beyond 40,000 miles. Safety implications include the vehicle stalling in traffic or on highways, posing a risk of accidents due to sudden loss of power. Additionally, a few owners describe gas leaks and related components like the fuel pump relay and integrated power module contributing to these failures.
AIR BAGS (16 complaints)
AIR BAGS
16 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the airbag system in the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, particularly non-deployment during crashes. Complaints often describe airbags failing to deploy in various collision scenarios, including high-speed impacts and head-on collisions, with some crashes resulting in injuries. Several reports indicate that the vehicle had undergone recall repairs, yet the problem persisted. The incidents typically occur at mileage ranging from under 3,000 to about 40,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as the failure of airbags to deploy is linked to multiple injuries and one report of a fire, posing a potential risk for used car buyers considering this model.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (10 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
10 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the Forward Collision Avoidance system in the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, often describing unexpected activation of automatic emergency braking without any nearby obstacles, which can occur at various speeds, including as low as 20 mph and up to 60 mph. Complaints frequently mention warning lights illuminating without cause, and in some cases, the system remains non-operational from the time of purchase. These issues are noted at mileages ranging from as low as 700 miles to around 18,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with one reported crash and one injury due to unexpected braking. Additionally, some owners experience problems following software updates, which remove or disable system functionalities. This information could be crucial for potential buyers considering the vehicle's safety features and reliability.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (9 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee frequently report issues with the vehicle's speed control, particularly involving the cruise control system. Several complaints describe the vehicle accelerating uncontrollably when the cruise control's set(+) button is pressed, continuing to accelerate even after the button is released, requiring brakes or manual deactivation to stop. Instances of unintended acceleration are noted, with some reports of the vehicle accelerating independently without cruise control engaged. Three complaints involve crashes, with one owner reporting a total loss after the vehicle accelerated unexpectedly. Mileage at the time of issues varies, with some reports occurring shortly after purchase and others at higher mileages, such as 15,000 and 53,354 miles. These patterns suggest potential safety implications due to loss of vehicle control.
When Do 2021 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).
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 2021 Jeep Cherokee reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Jeep Cherokee?
How many recalls does the 2021 Jeep Cherokee have?
Is the 2021 Jeep Cherokee expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 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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