2016 Jeep Cherokee Reliability ReportKeepScore 65/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2016 Jeep Cherokee
- Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2017 Jeep Cherokee earns a 72.
- The system most likely to surface first: transmission (critical severity).
- Has 9 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:wiring.
2016 Jeep Cherokee: Buy or Avoid?
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee is a mixed bag: it offers distinctive styling, surprising off-road capability (especially the Trailhawk), and a comfortable ride, but it's critically undermined by a notoriously problematic 9-speed automatic transmission. While the V6 engine generally proves robust, the transmission's propensity for erratic behavior and premature failure makes this an ownership gamble you'll need to approach with extreme caution.
While the 2016 Jeep Cherokee offers a comfortable ride and capable performance, its notorious 9-speed automatic transmission poses a high risk of expensive failure. If you're considering this vehicle, a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a robust repair fund are essential. It's not a 'buy with confidence' vehicle…
Best Model Years
2019+, as transmission issues were largely addressed or mitigated in later production runs; specific 2014-2018 V6 models with documented transmission replacements/upgrades.
Years to Avoid
2014-2016 model years, specifically with the 2.4L engine, due to the highest incidence of transmission and oil consumption issues.
Biggest Strengths
- Rugged off-road capability (Trailhawk models)
- Comfortable and compliant ride quality for its class
- Available powerful and reliable 3.2L Pentastar V6 engine
2016 Jeep Cherokee — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2016 Jeep Cherokee, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The ZF 9-speed automatic transmission is the primary Achilles' heel. Owners report harsh shifts, lunging, grinding noises, failure to engage gears, and complete transmission failures, often requiring expensive rebuilds or replacements du…
Electrical problems are common, ranging from frustrating Uconnect system freezes, blank screens, and Bluetooth connectivity issues, to more concerning failures of active safety systems (adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning)…
While the 3.2L V6 is generally solid, the 2.4L 'Tigershark' 4-cylinder engine has faced reports of excessive oil consumption, often stemming from piston ring issues, which can lead to engine damage if not consistently monitored and toppe…
2016 Jeep Cherokee Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2016 Jeep Cherokee most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Warning Zone
At this mileage, owners often experience the first signs of transmission issues (harsh shifts, delays) which may trigger software updates. Initial electrical glitches with Uconnect can also emerge. Pay attention to any unusual behavior.
First Major Maintenance / Risk Zone
This mileage often brings the need for more significant transmission repairs (e.g., solenoid replacement). If you have the 2.4L engine, monitor for oil consumption. Suspension components may start showing wear.
Elevated Repair Risk Zone
The risk of major transmission failure (requiring rebuild or replacement) significantly increases here. Other components like the alternator or starter may begin to fail. Rust can become more visible on undercarriage components.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the 2016 Cherokee becomes a higher-risk proposition for substantial repairs. A complete transmission failure is a strong possibility if not already addressed. Other age-related failures (engine mounts, significant r…
2016 Jeep Cherokee Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2016 Jeep Cherokee on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-700
Moderate Repairs
$500-2,000 (for electrical or minor transmission fixes occasionally)
How Long Does the 2016 Jeep Cherokee Last?
If buying, aim for lower mileage examples (under 50,000 miles) with documented transmission service history; be extremely wary of vehicles over 80,000 miles unless the transmission has been recently replaced or rebuilt.
What 2016 Jeep Cherokee Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Excellent off-road capability (especially Trailhawk models with locking rear differential)
- Smooth and comfortable ride on pavement, soaking up bumps well
- Distinctive and modern exterior styling that stands out from the crowd
- Intuitive Uconnect infotainment system (when functioning correctly)
Common Frustrations
- Frequent and frustrating issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission
- Persistent electrical glitches, including Uconnect freezes and sensor malfunctions
- Smaller cargo space compared to many rivals in the compact SUV segment
- Subpar fuel economy, especially with the 2.4L engine paired with the problematic transmission
Who Should Buy the 2016 Jeep Cherokee?
Best For
- Off-road enthusiasts looking for an affordable, capable trail rig (Trailhawk trim)
- Drivers who prioritize a comfortable daily commute over absolute reliability
- Individuals who appreciate distinctive styling and character in their SUV
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers who cannot afford unexpected major repairs
- Anyone seeking bulletproof long-term reliability for worry-free ownership
How the 2016 Jeep Cherokee Compares to Rivals
While offering competitive off-road prowess and a comfortable ride, the 2016 Cherokee's significant transmission reliability issues often place it below its class leaders in terms of long-term dependability, particularly when compared to Japanese rivals.
More Reliable Than
- Older domestic compact SUVs known for poor quality (e.g., pre-2010 Jeep Compass/Patriot)
- Nissan Rogue (earlier CVT issues)
Comparable To
- Ford Escape (similar transmission issues on early models)
- GMC Terrain/Chevy Equinox (some engine oil consumption issues)
Safety Recalls on the 2016 Jeep Cherokee
9 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING: REAR COMPARTMENT/TRUNK
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 18, 2015, to September 10, 2015 and equipped with the power liftgate option. In the affected vehicles, water may leak into the Power Liftgate Control Module and result in a high resistance short circuit.
What breaks on the 2016 Jeep Cherokee?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Jeep Cherokee — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Jeep Cherokee. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2016s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2016 Jeep Cherokee
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Frequently Asked Questions
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