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2020 Jeep Cherokee Report

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

Updated Jun 9, 2026·Daniel Wilson·2 Critical Recalls
2020 Jeep Cherokee Report

Overall Score

7.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2020 Jeep Cherokee has an average reliability rating, influenced by significant recalls.
  • A critical recall for the steering rack requires verification of repair; failure can lead to loss of steering control.
  • An ongoing power transfer unit (PTU) recall has an unfinalized remedy, indicating potential for future drivetrain issues.
  • Despite four recalls, owner complaint data is absent, but this does not negate documented safety concerns.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2020 Jeep Cherokee

The 2020 Jeep Cherokee offers a blend of utility and comfort, but used buyers should be aware of its reliability record. While it boasts strong safety ratings, including a 5-star side crash score, it has faced several recalls. The most significant concern involves the steering system, with a recall for potential steering rack failure. Additionally, a power transfer unit (PTU) recall is ongoing with an unfinalized remedy, impacting drivetrain integrity. Despite zero owner complaints in the provided data, these recalls suggest potential ownership risks and warrant careful inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

The steering rack and pinion assembly can fail, leading to a loss of steering control. This is a critical safety defect addressed by recall 19V637000.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$1,800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
180–271HP
Torque
171–295 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
26
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

5.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a capable SUV with all-wheel drive for varied conditions.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing long-term, worry-free ownership with minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2020 Jeep Cherokee Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
180-271 hp
Torque
171-295 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
MSRP Range
$25,740 - $38,490
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Most Common Issues

1. Steering Rack Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Failure

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 Inspection

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 (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2020 Jeep Cherokee reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2020 Jeep Cherokee for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 570 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee is 7.1/10. Overall score is 7.1/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 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 Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Steering Rack (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $1,800).

What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

MSRP range is $25,740 - $38,490.

What engine is in the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4, V6 • 6 • 3.2. Output is 180-271 hp • 171-295 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2020 Jeep Cherokee use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee, fuel economy range is 18-26 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2020 Jeep Cherokee use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2020 Toyota RAV4 and 2020 Honda CR-V.

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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