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2019 Jeep Cherokee Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 9, 2026·Daniel Wilson·5 Critical Recalls
2019 Jeep Cherokee Report

Overall Score

6.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant powertrain and steering recalls indicate potential long-term reliability risks.
  • Prioritize inspecting the steering rack and drivetrain components, especially the PTU.
  • Confirm all open recalls have been addressed by a qualified technician.
  • The 4-wheel drive system is a strong point for those needing capability.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Jeep Cherokee

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee blends Jeep's renowned off-road prowess with everyday usability, but used buyers should proceed with caution. This model year saw a significant number of recalls affecting critical systems like the powertrain, steering, and brakes. While consumer complaints are notably absent, the sheer volume and severity of recalls, coupled with a high TSB count, suggest underlying issues that warrant careful consideration and a meticulous pre-purchase inspection. Its 4-wheel drive system and decent fuel economy (21 MPG combined) are attractive, but potential buyers must weigh these against the documented mechanical vulnerabilities.

Critical Failure Risk

The PTU is a known weak point, prone to leaks and premature failure, especially in 4WD models. This can lead to drivetrain binding or failure.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls12
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
26
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.1/ 10

Practicality

4.8/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing 4-wheel drive capability in a compact SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair risk.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Jeep Cherokee Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic 9-spd
Drivetrain
4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. PTU (Power Transfer Unit) Leaks/Failures

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Steering Rack Issues

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
12 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Jeep Cherokee reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee is 8.1/10. Reliability score is 8.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 12. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2019 Jeep Cherokee for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Practicality 4.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Jeep Cherokee?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: PTU (Power Transfer Unit) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee?▾

Base MSRP is $36,995.

What engine is in the 2019 Jeep Cherokee?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.2.

What transmission does the 2019 Jeep Cherokee use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, transmission is Automatic 9-spd. The paired drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Jeep Cherokee?▾

6 standard and 7 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Jeep Cherokee?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Jeep Cherokee?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Jeep Cherokee use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, drivetrain is 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 9-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Jeep Cherokee?▾

This model year has 12 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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