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2016 Jeep Cherokee

Trims, performance, features, fuel economy, safety and known problems — with the pros and cons against similar 2016 models.

Jeep Cherokee
Pictured: 26 Jeep Cherokee Limited AZIAS. Photo: HJUdall, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Class
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Body styles
4dr SUV AWD, 4dr SUV FWD
Engines
2.4L 4-cyl, 3.2L 6-cyl
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel Drive
Fuel
Regular Gasoline, FFV
MPG (best)
25 combined · 21 city / 30 hwy
Length
181.9 in
Curb weight
3,680–3,942 lb
NHTSA rating
Not rated
Recalls
9 campaigns

Pros & cons

What's good

  • AWD / 4WD available

Watch out for

  • Many owner complaints1,412 complaints filed with NHTSA versus about 306 for similar models — most often about the power train.
  • "Park outside" recallCheck that the recall repair was done before buying or driving.

Calculated from EPA, NHTSA and vPIC data against 24 similar 2016 models — not a review. How we calculate this →

Overview

The 2016 Jeep Cherokee is a small SUV offered with 2 engines (2.4L 4-cyl and 3.2L 6-cyl) and front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive.

It measures about 182 inches long and 73 inches wide on a 106-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,942 lb (4dr SUV AWD).

EPA rates its most efficient version at 25 MPG combined (21 city / 30 highway), 2% better than the 2016 small SUV average of 24.6 MPG, for an estimated $2,700 a year in fuel.

NHTSA has not published a 5-Star overall rating for this model year.

It has 9 recall campaigns on file and owners have filed 1412 complaints with NHTSA since 2015, most often about the power train.

What changed for 2016

No changes to engines, powertrains, drivetrains, size, EPA ratings or NHTSA crash rating compared with the 2015 Cherokee — a carry-over year in the data.

Compared with 2015; trim, feature and price changes aren't covered. See the 2015 Cherokee →

Dimensions & weight

BodyLengthWidthHeightWheelbaseTrack F / RCurb weightWeight F/R
4dr SUV AWD181.9 in73.2 in66.5 in106.3 in61.8 / 61.8 in3,942 lb57/43
4dr SUV FWD181.9 in73.2 in66.5 in106.3 in61.8 / 61.8 in3,680 lb57/43

Transport Canada CVS (Open Government Licence – Canada), Canadian-market figures.

Will it fit your garage? Check with your measurements →

Engines, MPG & running costs

VersionEngineTransmissionDriveCity / Hwy / Combvs. classFuel / yrCO₂ g/mi
Cherokee FWD2.4L 4-cylAutomatic 9-spdFront-Wheel Drive21 / 30 / 25+2%$2,700361
Cherokee FWD FFV2.4L 4-cylAutomatic 9-spdFront-Wheel Drive21 / 30 / 25+2%$2,700361
Cherokee FWD3.2L 6-cylAutomatic 9-spdFront-Wheel Drive21 / 29 / 24-2%$2,800377
Cherokee 4WD2.4L 4-cylAutomatic 9-spdAll-Wheel Drive21 / 28 / 230%$2,900378
Cherokee 4WD FFV2.4L 4-cylAutomatic 9-spdAll-Wheel Drive21 / 28 / 230%$2,900378
Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II2.4L 4-cylAutomatic 9-spd4-Wheel Drive21 / 27 / 230%$2,900385
Cherokee 4WD3.2L 6-cylAutomatic 9-spdAll-Wheel Drive20 / 27 / 230%$2,900388
Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD2.4L 4-cylAutomatic 9-spd4-Wheel Drive19 / 25 / 22-4%$3,050411
Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II3.2L 6-cylAutomatic 9-spd4-Wheel Drive19 / 26 / 22-4%$3,050414
Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD3.2L 6-cylAutomatic 9-spd4-Wheel Drive19 / 26 / 22-4%$3,050408
6/10EPA fuel economy score (best version)
6/10EPA greenhouse gas score
Spend $1,500Fuel over 5 years vs. average new car
24.6 MPG2016 Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD average

EPA estimates; "vs. class" is combined MPG against the 2016 EPA class average. How we calculate this →

Safety ratings & technology

NHTSA has not published 5-Star ratings for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee.

Similar 2016 small SUVs

ModelBest MPG / rangeNHTSA overallRecalls
2016 Jeep Cherokee (this car)25 MPGNot rated9
2016 Toyota RAV432 MPGNot rated3
2016 Honda CR-V29 MPGNot rated3
2016 Toyota 4Runner19 MPGNot rated8
2016 Hyundai Tucson28 MPGNot rated5
2016 Subaru Forester27 MPGNot rated3
2016 Mazda CX-529 MPGNot rated4

Recalls (9)

Safety advisory: 1 recall for this model year carries a "Do Not Drive" or "Park Outside" warning. Check your VIN now.
Structure › Body › Hatchback/Liftgate · May 11, 2023 Park outside

NHTSA campaign 23V338000 · 132,099 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a power liftgate. An electrical short in the power liftgate module may lead to a vehicle fire with the ignition on or off.
Risk
A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Fix
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will relocate the power liftgate module and add a water shield. In addition, dealers will inspect for corrosion and replace the module and electrical connectors, if necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 1, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 49A. This recall supersedes recalls 15V-393 and 15V-826. Vehicles repaired under the prior recalls will still need to have the new remedy performed.
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · Apr 27, 2023

NHTSA campaign 23V302000 · 25,980 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may become damaged and disengage the transmission and differential, resulting in a loss of drive power or loss of park function.
Risk
A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash. A loss of park function can cause an unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix
FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 11, 2023. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 45A. This recall expands previous recall number 20V-343.
Power Train › Driveline › Differential Unit · Jun 11, 2020

NHTSA campaign 20V343000 · 67,248 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a two-speed Power Transfer Unit (PTU). Relative movement in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft may cause some input spline teeth to wear off, which may eventually cause a loss of engagement between the transmission and the differential inside the PTU. If this occurs, power cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission which results in a loss of drive while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the Park function while stationary.
Risk
A loss of drive can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning. A loss of the Park function can cause unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix
FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update that will maintain vehicle propulsion by engaging rear wheel drive and prevent rolling in Park by activating the electronic parking brake if a failed input spline occurs. This recall began July 14, 2020. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is W47.
Electrical System › Software · May 17, 2018

NHTSA campaign 18V332000 · 4,815,661 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Equipment · Dec 21, 2017

NHTSA campaign 17V824000 · 61,791 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
Risk
If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
Fix
Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall is T82.
Seats › Mid/Rear Assembly · Aug 10, 2016

NHTSA campaign 16V590000 · 1,827 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured July 29, 2013, to February 5, 2016. The seat fasteners on the first or second row seats may not have been tightened to the proper torque specification.
Risk
Loose fasteners may allow the seats to move, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupants in the event of a crash.
Fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seats or seat sets, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during September 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall S63.
Power Train › Axle Assembly › Axle Shaft · May 11, 2016

NHTSA campaign 16V287000 · 52 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured September 30, 2015, to October 2, 2015. The left halfshaft may have been incorrectly manufactured causing it to fracture without warning.
Risk
A fractured halfshaft may disconnect from the drive axle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the left halfshaft, free of charge. The recall began on June 30, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler's customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall number is S38.
Power Train › Axle Assembly › Axle Shaft · May 11, 2016

NHTSA campaign 16V284000 · 1,029 vehicles

Problem
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured October 3, 2015, to March 22, 2016. The right halfshaft may have been incorrectly manufactured causing it to fracture without warning.
Risk
A fractured halfshaft may disconnect from the drive axle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the right halfshaft, free of charge. The recall began on June 30, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler's customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall number is S39.
Structure › Body › Hatchback/Liftgate · Dec 9, 2015

NHTSA campaign 15V826000 · 32,784 vehicles

Problem
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.
Risk
A short circuit in the module increases the risk of a fire.
Fix
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the module and connectors for corrosion, replacing the damaged components as necessary. The mastic shield will be removed and the module will be covered with a water shield. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on February 1, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R67. This recall is superseded by NHTSA recall 23V-338.
Check your VIN for open recalls at NHTSA ↗

Not every 2016 Jeep Cherokee is affected — only a VIN check confirms your car.

Owner-reported problems

1,412Complaints to NHTSA since 2015
37Involved a crash
15Involved a fire
27Injuries reported
27,000 miTypical mileage at failure
Power Train623
Engine314
Unknown Or Other313
Electrical System292
Service Brakes92
Vehicle Speed Control75
Steering53
Fuel/Propulsion System43
Complaints received per month (last 24 months with reports)
24/11: 1524/12: 925/01: 1725/02: 925/03: 1225/04: 725/05: 825/06: 725/07: 825/08: 325/09: 1325/10: 625/11: 1025/12: 826/01: 826/02: 826/03: 726/04: 426/05: 826/06: 626/07: 426/08: 426/09: 126/10: 624/1125/0225/0525/0825/1126/0226/0526/08max 17

Unverified owner reports; best-sellers collect more.

Used 2016 Jeep Cherokee buyer's checklist

  1. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 9 recalls this year — ask for proof of repairs.
  2. Safety-critical recall. At least one recall carries a "Do Not Drive" or "Park Outside" warning. Do not buy until the VIN shows it was repaired.
  3. Power Train — 623 owner reports. Test-drive through all gears, including reverse; note slipping, harsh or delayed shifts.
  4. Engine — 314 owner reports. Cold-start the engine, listen for knocking, and watch for warning lights or hesitation on acceleration.
  5. Electrical System — 292 owner reports. Test every window, lock, light, screen and USB port; check the battery age.
  6. Mileage to watch. Owners typically reported problems around 27,000 miles; ask what was repaired near that point.
  7. Before you pay: service records, a history report and an independent inspection.

Generated by DecodedCars from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee. Not a substitute for a professional inspection.

Other Cherokee years

Compare all years →
YearMPG (best)LengthOverallRecallsComplaints
2026 Cherokee37188.2 inNot rated49
2023 Cherokee24181.5 in★★★★★13
2022 Cherokee26181.5 in★★★★★352
2021 Cherokee26181.5 in★★★★★4176
2020 Cherokee26181.5 in★★★★★3334
2019 Cherokee26181.5 in★★★★★111,671
2018 Cherokee25181.9 in★★★★★7688
2017 Cherokee25181.9 inNot rated61,338
2015 Cherokee25181.9 inNot rated111,778
2014 Cherokee25181.9 inNot rated132,431

Sources: EPA, NHTSA, Transport Canada, Wikimedia Commons. Not affiliated with NHTSA, the EPA or Jeep. How we calculate this →