2013 Jeep Patriot vs 2013 Jeep Cherokee
Reliability Side-by-Side
2013
Jeep Patriot
Grade D+
An inexpensive SUV that often demands costly repairs, especially from its problematic CVT.
2013
Jeep Cherokee
Grade C-
A distinct SUV overshadowed by a high-risk transmission that can lead to significant headaches.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2013 Jeep Cherokee
Score 62/100 vs 58/100
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2013 Jeep Patriot | 2013 Jeep Cherokee★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $500-800 | $500-700 |
| Moderate Repairs | $600-1,500 annually (for common electrical or suspension issues) | $1,000-2,500 annually (due to electrical/transmission issues) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 23 / 29 | 22 / 31 |
| MSRP (New) | $15,995 | $22,995 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2013 Jeep Patriot
CVT Transmission (Jatco JF011E)
80,000-120,000 mi
Rust and Corrosion
60,000-100,000 mi
Electrical System
50,000-90,000 mi
2013 Jeep Cherokee
Transmission (9-speed ZF9HP)
20,000-80,000 mi
Electrical System & Uconnect
15,000-70,000 mi
Engine (2.4L MultiAir Tigershark)
60,000-100,000 mi
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
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Editorial Take
When considering compact SUVs from the Jeep brand, the 2013 Patriot and the recently introduced 2014 Cherokee often come into play for buyers looking for rugged capability combined with daily usability. It is important to note that the Jeep Cherokee model, in its modern KL generation, debuted as a 2014 model year vehicle in the North American market, following the discontinuation of the Jeep Liberty after the 2012 model year. While the Patriot was a 2013 model, there was no '2013 Jeep Cherokee' in the US. For the purpose of this comparison and to provide the most relevant information to prospective buyers considering contemporary Jeep compact SUVs, we will compare the 2013 Jeep Patriot with the inaugural 2014 Jeep Cherokee, as this represents the first opportunity to compare these distinct generations side-by-side. The Patriot appeals to budget-conscious buyers seeking a traditional, boxy SUV look with basic off-road chops, while the Cherokee targets those desiring more refinement, advanced technology, and stronger performance. Key decision factors will revolve around budget, desired driving experience, fuel efficiency, and the level of off-road capability needed. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2013 Jeep Patriot: 1. CVT Transmission Issues: The continuously variable transmission (CVT) found in many Patriot models is a common source of complaints. Owners report issues such as whining noises, overheating during extended use (especially with Freedom Drive II), slipping, and premature failure, often requiring costly replacement around 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Regular fluid changes are critical but not always a preventative measure. 2. Suspension Component Wear: Many owners experience premature wear of front suspension components like lower control arms, tie rod ends, and sway bar links. This often manifests as clunking or rattling noises over bumps and can begin as early as 40,000-70,000 miles, necessitating replacement for proper handling and safety. 3. Rust Formation: Especially in regions with road salt, the Patriot can be prone to rust, particularly on the subframe, suspension components, and exhaust system, which can compromise structural integrity and increase maintenance costs over time. 2014 Jeep Cherokee: 1. 9-Speed Automatic Transmission Problems: The newly introduced ZF 9HP 9-speed automatic transmission in the 2014 Cherokee was a significant source of early reliability concerns. Issues included harsh and erratic shifting, hesitation, difficulty finding gears, and premature failure. Many problems were addressed with software updates, but some vehicles required transmission replacement, often occurring within the first 30,000-60,000 miles. 2. Uconnect Infotainment Glitches: Owners reported various issues with the Uconnect system, including freezing screens, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation errors. While often resolved with software updates, it could be a persistent annoyance for some. 3. Electrical System Gremlins: Some 2014 Cherokee owners experienced various electrical issues, such as flickering lights, warning lights illuminating incorrectly, issues with power windows, or intermittent starting problems, which could be challenging to diagnose.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the 2013 Jeep Patriot offered a distinct value proposition with its significantly lower starting MSRP of $15,995 for the base Sport model, compared to the 2014 Jeep Cherokee's $22,995 entry point. This substantial price difference made the Patriot an accessible option for buyers on a tight budget. In the used market today, this trend continues; a 2013 Patriot typically fetches between $5,000 and $9,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. A 2014 Jeep Cherokee, being a newer generation with more features and refinement, commands a higher price, generally ranging from $8,000 to $14,000. Insurance costs for the Patriot are generally lower due to its lower initial value, simpler construction, and less powerful engines. The Cherokee, with its higher price, more advanced technology, and more powerful engine options, will typically incur moderately higher insurance premiums. Maintenance costs for the Patriot can be a mixed bag. Its simpler mechanicals, particularly with the manual transmission, often mean cheaper routine parts and labor. However, the known issues with the CVT transmission can lead to very costly repairs or replacements, significantly impacting long-term ownership costs if not properly maintained or if a failure occurs out of warranty. The Cherokee, while featuring more advanced technology, also had significant early issues with its 9-speed automatic transmission, which could lead to expensive repairs if not covered by extended warranties or if the issue resurfaces. Outside of transmission concerns, both vehicles share some common platform components within the Stellantis (formerly FCA) parts bin, so general engine and brake services are comparable. Resale value for the Patriot has historically been poor, as its dated design and known mechanical issues (especially the CVT) detract from its desirability in the used market. The 2014 Cherokee, being a newer model, generally holds its value better than the Patriot, but not exceptionally compared to segment leaders from Toyota or Honda, partly due to its initial transmission issues and overall competitive market.
Editorial Verdict
Best for families: The 2014 Jeep Cherokee is the clear winner for families. Its more refined interior, superior passenger comfort, advanced safety features (optional, but available), and quieter cabin make it a more pleasant and safer environment for occupants, especially on longer trips. The more powerful V6 option also provides ample power for family hauling. Best for commuters: The 2014 Jeep Cherokee excels as a commuter vehicle. Its more comfortable ride, quieter cabin, superior fuel economy (especially the 2.4L FWD model at 22 city / 31 highway MPG compared to the Patriot's 23 city / 29 highway MPG for its most efficient variant), and more responsive handling make daily driving less fatiguing and more enjoyable. The available Uconnect system also offers better connectivity and entertainment for the drive. Best for enthusiasts: Neither vehicle is a true "enthusiast" road vehicle, but for off-road enthusiasts, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk model stands out. With its advanced Active Drive Lock 4x4 system, locking rear differential, Selec-Terrain system, and increased ground clearance, it offers significantly more capability than any Patriot variant. While the Patriot Freedom Drive II offered decent budget off-roading, the Cherokee Trailhawk is in a different league. Best value overall: This depends heavily on initial budget and long-term expectations. The 2013 Jeep Patriot offers the best initial value due to its significantly lower purchase price, both new and in the used market. For buyers needing basic transportation, a traditional SUV look, and occasional light off-road capability on a very tight budget, the Patriot is undeniably the more affordable entry point. However, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, despite its higher cost, delivers a much more modern, refined, and capable overall package. If the budget allows, the Cherokee offers more for the money in terms of features, comfort, and driving dynamics, making it a better long-term proposition for those willing to pay more upfront and potentially manage early transmission quirks. For those prioritizing initial affordability above all else, the Patriot takes the lead.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
Products for 2013 Jeep Patriot
Products for 2013 Jeep Cherokee
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