This page covers 3 recalls, 237 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee.
22–26 mpg combined
9–10.7 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 6 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Powertrain complaints dominate the 2020 Jeep Cherokee's complaint record by a wide margin, with transmission problems being the most frequently reported issue. Owners commonly describe shuddering, delayed gear changes, a burnt smell during shifting, and 4WD system warning lights appearing alongside transmission symptoms. Engine complaints are the second-most reported area, and the pattern there is notable, multiple owners describe low compression, cylinder wall damage, and oil contamination in cylinders at relatively modest mileage, often in the 45,000–50,000-mile range, resulting in shops recommending full engine replacement. Steering complaints, while lower in volume, include reports of complete steering rack failure occurring without warning at highway speeds.
237
Total Complaints
9
Crash-Related
5
Fire-Related
6
With Injuries
By System
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee has 3 recalls, the most serious being a steering rack that can break and cause a sudden loss of steering control, and a power transfer unit that can fail and cut drive power or allow the vehicle to roll away unexpectedly.
On the visibility side, the rearview camera image on vehicles equipped with 8.4-inch or 12-inch display screens can linger after shifting out of reverse, leaving a stale image on screen while the vehicle is moving forward.
At a glance
What can fail
The power transfer unit may fail, which can affect the vehicle's ability to distribute power to the wheels.
What the fix does
Chrysler is developing a repair. Interim letters will be mailed June 25, 2026, with final repair instructions sent later.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
At a glance
What can fail
A software error in the 8.4" or 12" radio display can cause the rearview camera image to stay on screen after shifting out of reverse, blocking your view.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the radio display software for free. You can also download the update yourself via Over-The-Air update starting May 1, 2020.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The steering rack gear may break, which could cause you to lose steering control of the vehicle.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the steering gear at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
