Jeep Cherokee 1984–2001 problems by year and mileage
2nd generation (XJ)
NHTSA data through 18 October 20264,748 complaints, 684 with mileageMethod
Which year is yours? Tap it to see what breaks on it.
- 1984—too few
- 1985—too few
- 1986—too few
- 1987—too few
- 1988—too few
- 1989—too few
- 1990—too few
- 1991—too few
- 1992—too few
- 1993—too few
- 1994—too few
- 1995106kmedian
- 1996137kmedian
- 1997104kmedian
- 199898kmedian
- 199977kmedian
- 200072kmedian
- 200160kmedian
The 1984 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 7
- Recalls naming this year
- 3
Most reported on the 1984
- Seat belts4 reports
- Engine and its cooling system2 reports
- Throttle and speed control2 reports
Recall areas Power train — driveline · Steering · Power train — axle assembly
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1985 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 17
- Recalls naming this year
- 3
Most reported on the 1985
- Seat belts6 reports
- Latches and locks2 reports
- Transmission and driveline2 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — power assist · Vehicle speed control — accelerator pedal · Steering — steering wheel/handle bar
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1986 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 21
- Recalls naming this year
- 4
Most reported on the 1986
- Seat belts10 reports
- Hydraulic brake circuit3 reports
- Throttle and speed control3 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — power assist · Steering — linkages · Vehicle speed control — cables
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1987 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 57
- Recalls naming this year
- 5
Most reported on the 1987
- Throttle and speed control19 reports
- Engine and its cooling system8 reports
- Steering7 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — power assist · Vehicle speed control — linkages · Vehicle speed control
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1988 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 97
- Recalls naming this year
- 0
Most reported on the 1988
- Throttle and speed control25 reports
- Seat belts20 reports
- Electrical system16 reports
The 1989 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 191
- Recalls naming this year
- 3
Most reported on the 1989
- Hydraulic brake circuit86 reports
- Throttle and speed control45 reports
- Fuel system15 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip · Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Vehicle speed control — cruise control
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1990 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 270
- Recalls naming this year
- 5
Most reported on the 1990
- Hydraulic brake circuit143 reports
- Throttle and speed control54 reports
- Engine and its cooling system28 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Service brakes, hydraulic — antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip · Vehicle speed control — cruise control
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1991 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 233
- Recalls naming this year
- 5
Most reported on the 1991
- Hydraulic brake circuit145 reports
- Engine and its cooling system17 reports
- Brakes15 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Service brakes, hydraulic — antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1992 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 113
- Recalls naming this year
- 1
Most reported on the 1992
- Hydraulic brake circuit35 reports
- Throttle and speed control19 reports
- Transmission and driveline15 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1993 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 418
- Recalls naming this year
- 3
Most reported on the 1993
- Hydraulic brake circuit123 reports
- Body structure99 reports
- Transmission and driveline44 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Steering — gear box (other than rack and pinion) · Equipment — other
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1994 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- too few reports to time
- Complaints filed
- 519
- Recalls naming this year
- 5
Most reported on the 1994
- Body structure205 reports
- Engine and its cooling system79 reports
- Hydraulic brake circuit64 reports
Recall areas Exterior lighting — brake lights · Electrical system — instrument cluster/panel · Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1995 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- 106,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 608
- Recalls naming this year
- 6
Most reported on the 1995
- Body structure149 reports
- Engine and its cooling system136 reports
- Hydraulic brake circuit77 reports
Recall areas Exterior lighting — brake lights · Electrical system — instrument cluster/panel · Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1996 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- 137,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 447
- Recalls naming this year
- 6
Most reported on the 1996
- Hydraulic brake circuit86 reports
- Transmission and driveline60 reports
- Engine and its cooling system54 reports
Recall areas Exterior lighting — brake lights · Electrical system — instrument cluster/panel · Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1997 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- 104,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 390
- Recalls naming this year
- 4
Most reported on the 1997
- Fuel system85 reports
- Hydraulic brake circuit62 reports
- Fuel system, other52 reports
Recall areas Electrical system — instrument cluster/panel · Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Air bags — frontal
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1998 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- 98,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 399
- Recalls naming this year
- 5
Most reported on the 1998
- Hydraulic brake circuit80 reports
- Transmission and driveline65 reports
- Airbag system52 reports
Recall areas Electrical system — instrument cluster/panel · Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Air bags — frontal
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 1999 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- 77,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 366
- Recalls naming this year
- 2
Most reported on the 1999
- Hydraulic brake circuit95 reports
- Transmission and driveline53 reports
- Airbag system38 reports
Recall areas Service brakes, hydraulic — foundation components · Air bags — frontal
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2000 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- 72,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 369
- Recalls naming this year
- 1
Most reported on the 2000
- Hydraulic brake circuit104 reports
- Engine and its cooling system53 reports
- Electrical system44 reports
Recall areas Fuel system, gasoline — fuel injection system
Check the VIN at NHTSA
The 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Close- Median failure report
- 60,000 mi
- Complaints filed
- 229
- Recalls naming this year
- 2
Most reported on the 2001
- Hydraulic brake circuit53 reports
- Engine and its cooling system37 reports
- Transmission and driveline24 reports
Recall areas Fuel system, gasoline — fuel injection system · Child seat
Check the VIN at NHTSA
Tiles: each year’s median failure mileage. Latest: the 1996; earliest: the 2001, and the 1996 is 5 years older (part of the gap is age). 11 of these years carry fewer than 30 reports with an odometer reading and show no median at all, rather than one computed from a handful.
The short answer
“Is the 1984–2001 Jeep Cherokee reliable?”
- Median of reported failures
- 97,000 mi
- 90% of reports came by
- 189,000 mi
- Reports with mileage
- 684
- Recalls
- 36
Most reported
- Hydraulic brake circuit24.6% of complaints · median 59,000 mi
- Engine and its cooling system12.5% of complaints · median 95,000 mi
- Body structure12.4% of complaints · median 108,000 mi
Documented problems
- Engine (4.0L)2000–2001
- Steering / Front Suspension1984–2001
- Cooling System1991–2001
- Body1984–2001
Owners filed 4,748 complaints with NHTSA about the 1984–2001 Jeep Cherokee; the hydraulic brake circuit leads with 24.6% of them, and half of the 684 that record an odometer reading came by 97,000 miles — complaints, not a failure rate.
No single peak: the middle half runs 54,000 to 149,000 miles.
Before-you-buy checklist ↓At your mileage ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗
How many miles does a 1984–2001 Jeep Cherokee last?
On the 1984–2001 Jeep Cherokee, half of the 684 complaints that record an odometer reading were filed by 97,000 miles and 90% by 189,000 miles (why that is not a lifespan).
167 reports came in past 150,000 miles and 54 past 200,000 — each one proof that a Cherokee reached that mileage, not that it failed there.
Figure 1 · Jeep Cherokee 1984–2001 · 684 reports with mileage
Mileage at failure
10,000-mile bins, 0 to 200,000 miles, linear scale; tallest bar 54 complaints
- Rest of the range
- Median
- 200,000+ — 54 complaints (7.9%), plotted separately
- 10%
- 22,000
- 25%
- 54,000
- Median
- 97,000
- 75%
- 149,000
- 90%
- 189,000
Show the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 0–10,000 | 24 | 3.5% |
| 10,000–20,000 | 33 | 4.8% |
| 20,000–30,000 | 26 | 3.8% |
| 30,000–40,000 | 33 | 4.8% |
| 40,000–50,000 | 33 | 4.8% |
| 50,000–60,000 | 42 | 6.1% |
| 60,000–70,000 | 44 | 6.4% |
| 70,000–80,000 | 40 | 5.8% |
| 80,000–90,000 | 35 | 5.1% |
| 90,000–100,000 | 41 | 6.0% |
| 100,000–110,000 | 36 | 5.3% |
| 110,000–120,000 | 35 | 5.1% |
| 120,000–130,000 | 34 | 5.0% |
| 130,000–140,000 | 31 | 4.5% |
| 140,000–150,000 | 30 | 4.4% |
| 150,000–160,000 | 38 | 5.6% |
| 160,000–170,000 | 17 | 2.5% |
| 170,000–180,000 | 22 | 3.2% |
| 180,000–190,000 | 23 | 3.4% |
| 190,000–200,000 | 13 | 1.9% |
| 200,000+ | 54 | 7.9% |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.
Common Cherokee problems, and when they happen
Figure 2 · Jeep Cherokee 1984–2001
When each system fails
Bar: middle half of reports · notch: median · proportional (log) scale (how to read it)
- Hydraulic brake circuit1,169 reportsmedian 59,000middle half 17,000–133,000
- Fuel system253 reportsmedian 80,000middle half 60,000–148,000
- Transmission and driveline471 reportsmedian 93,000middle half 59,000–121,000
- Throttle and speed control389 reportsmedian 95,000middle half 30,000–155,000
- Engine and its cooling system593 reportsmedian 95,000middle half 63,000–140,000
- Body structure590 reportsmedian 108,000middle half 88,000–156,000
- Electrical system355 reportsmedian 120,000middle half 67,000–150,000
- Your odometer, once entered below
Ordered by median mileage, earliest first.
All systems in a table
| System | Complaints | Share | Median | 25–75% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hydraulic brake circuit | 1,169 | 24.6% | 59,000 | 17,000–133,000 |
| Engine and its cooling system | 593 | 12.5% | 95,000 | 63,000–140,000 |
| Body structure | 590 | 12.4% | 108,000 | 88,000–156,000 |
| Transmission and driveline | 471 | 9.9% | 93,000 | 59,000–121,000 |
| Throttle and speed control | 389 | 8.2% | 95,000 | 30,000–155,000 |
| Electrical system | 355 | 7.5% | 120,000 | 67,000–150,000 |
| Fuel system | 253 | 5.3% | 80,000 | 60,000–148,000 |
| Airbag system | 250 | 5.3% | 95,000 | 61,000–156,000 |
| Seat belts | 213 | 4.5% | 81,000 | 38,000–150,000 |
| Steering | 199 | 4.2% | 120,000 | 84,000–153,000 |
Known problems with the 1984–2001 Cherokee
Engine (4.0L) 2000–2001
Cylinder heads with casting number 0331 crack between the #3 exhaust valve seat and the pushrod hole, causing coolant loss into the cylinder and overheating. Affects late 4.0L heads.
Steering / Front Suspension 1984–2001
'Death wobble' — self-sustaining front-axle oscillation triggered by a bump, from worn track bar, ball joints, tie rods and steering damper.
Cooling System 1991–2001
Closed-cooling-system radiators, fan clutches and plastic end tanks fail, and the 4.0L is intolerant of the resulting overheating.
Body 1984–2001
Severe rust in floor pans, rear quarter panels, and the unibody rails behind the rear wheels.
Before you buy a 1984–2001 Cherokee: the 3-minute check
Generated from 684 mileage-tagged complaints, 36 recall campaigns, 4 documented problem areas.
- Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 36 campaigns cover this generation.
- Check engine (4.0L) on 2000–2001 cars. What each looks like: Known problems.
- Check steering / front suspension on 1984–2001 cars.
- Check cooling system on 1991–2001 cars.
- Years differ here: from 7 to 608 complaints a year — compare them by model year.
- End with a pre-purchase inspection of this car.
Cherokee problems by mileage: where your car sits
Type your odometer, or read the table.
| System | Middle half of reports, mi | At 60k mi28% below | At 90k mi45% below | At 120k mi62% below | At 150k mi76% below | At 200k mi92% below |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hydraulic brake circuit | 17,000–133,000 | in window | in window | in window | earlier | earlier |
| Engine and its cooling system | 63,000–140,000 | later | in window | in window | earlier | earlier |
| Body structure | 88,000–156,000 | later | in window | in window | in window | earlier |
| Transmission and driveline | 59,000–121,000 | in window | in window | in window | earlier | earlier |
| Throttle and speed control | 30,000–155,000 | in window | in window | in window | in window | earlier |
| Electrical system | 67,000–150,000 | later | in window | in window | in window | earlier |
| Fuel system | 60,000–148,000 | in window | in window | in window | earlier | earlier |
Figure 3 · Jeep Cherokee 1984–2001 · 684 reports with mileage
Share of reports below each mileage
Steps at bin edges (how to read it)
- 60,000 mi — 28% of reports below
- 90,000 mi — 45% of reports below
- 120,000 mi — 62% of reports below
- 150,000 mi — 76% of reports below
- 200,000 mi — 92% of reports below
- Median (the 50% line)
- Your odometer, once entered
Linear axis, same as Figure 1.
1984–2001 Jeep Cherokee recalls (36)
NHTSA records 36 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation (what a recall is).
The campaigns cluster around the hydraulic brake circuit (10), throttle and speed control (5), the fuel system (4) (why one area can repeat).
May 2011 · 1994–1996 · Exterior LightingInadequate lighting could reduce visibility of vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The defect. U.S. Drive right is recalling certain model year 1994-1996 Jeep Cherokee vehicles imported from january 2007, through april 2011 for failing to comply with federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment,"…
What can happen. Inadequate lighting could reduce visibility of vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The free fix. U.S. Drive right will notify owners and mail kits along with instructions to have the vehicle repaired by a qualified mechanic of their choice, free of charge. The safety recall began on september…
Feb 2008 · 1994–1998 · Electrical SystemThese vehicles do not meet the required standards.
The defect. U.S. Drive right is recalling 107 my 1994-1998 right hand drive, 4-wheel drive Jeep Cherokee vehicles. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 101, 'Controls and displays;' no. 108, 'Lamps, reflective devices and associated…
What can happen. These vehicles do not meet the required standards.
The free fix. U.S. Drive right will make all the required modifications. A representative will travel to the customer's location and make the modifications on site. The recall will be performed on a regional basis…
Apr 2002 · 2000–2001 · Fuel System, GasolineThis could result in a vehicle fire.
The defect. On certain sport utility vehicles equipped with a 4.0L engine only, the design of the intake and exhaust manifolds could allow debris to accumulate at the #3 cylinder location.
What can happen. This could result in a vehicle fire.
The free fix. Dealers will install a manifold shield to modify the air flow characteristics and to prevent the accumulation of debris in the area of the #3 cylinder. Owner notification began may 13, 2002. Owners…
Nov 2000 · 2001 · Child SeatIn the event of a crash, the child seat may not be properly attached increasing the risk of injury to the…
The defect. Vehicle description: certain passenger vehicles, pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 225, "Child restraint anchorage systems." Some of the owner's manuals for these vehicles are missing instructions that…
What can happen. In the event of a crash, the child seat may not be properly attached increasing the risk of injury to the child.
The free fix. Owners will be provided with an addendum to the owner's manuals.
May 2000 · 1996–1999 · Service Brakes, HydraulicThe reduced strength can allow the cast iron wear surface to separate from the hub, reducing the brake…
The defect. Vehicle description: passenger and multi-purpose vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the states of connecticut, illinois, indiana, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island…
What can happen. The reduced strength can allow the cast iron wear surface to separate from the hub, reducing the brake effectiveness of the vehicle.
The free fix. Dealers will replace these rotors with rotors that are coated with a corrosion protection.
Apr 2000 · 1997–1999 · Air BagsSuch corrosion can lead to illumination of the air bag warning light or could allow inadvertent deployment of…
The defect. Vehicle description: sport utility vehicles. Water and/or road salt in the proximity of the air bag control module could lead to corrosion.
What can happen. Such corrosion can lead to illumination of the air bag warning light or could allow inadvertent deployment of the air bags.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the air bag control module and locate the new module on the top of the transmission tunnel.
Dec 1999 · 1992–1995 · Service Brakes, HydraulicThe reduced strength can allow the cast iron wear surface to separate from the hub, reducing the brake…
The defect. Vehicle description: passenger and multi-purpose vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the states of connecticut, illinois, indiana, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island…
What can happen. The reduced strength can allow the cast iron wear surface to separate from the hub, reducing the brake effectiveness of the vehicle.
The free fix. Dealers will replace these rotors with rotors that are coated with a corrosion protection.
Mar 1998 · 1998 · Seat BeltsIn the event of a vehicle crash, the front seat occupant may not be properly restrained increasing the risk…
The defect. Vehicle description: multi-purpose passenger vehicle. The front seat belt shoulder turning loop anchors were not properly heat treated and are not properly hardened.
What can happen. In the event of a vehicle crash, the front seat occupant may not be properly restrained increasing the risk of serious injury.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the front seat shoulder belt turning loop on these vehicles.
Feb 1998 · 1998 · Service Brakes, HydraulicThis can cause an increase in engine idle speed and a loss of power assist during brake application without…
The defect. Vehicle description: multi-purpose passenger vehicles. The power brake booster vacuum reservoir diaphragm can split or tear.
What can happen. This can cause an increase in engine idle speed and a loss of power assist during brake application without prior warning.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect the brake booster date code and any boosters with the suspect manufacturing date range will be replaced.
Jan 1998 · 1990–1991 · Service Brakes, HydraulicThe reduced strength can allow the cast iron wear surface to separate from the hub, reducing the brake…
The defect. Vehicle description: passenger and multi-purpose vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the states of connecticut, illinois, indiana, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island…
What can happen. The reduced strength can allow the cast iron wear surface to separate from the hub, reducing the brake effectiveness of the vehicle.
The free fix. Dealers will replace these rotors with rotors that are coated with a corrosion protection.
Nov 1997 · 1997 · Fuel System, GasolineOwners may not be aware that their vehicle is low on fuel increasing the risk of a vehicle crash if the…
The defect. Vehicle description: multi-purpose passenger vehicles. The fuel tank mounted fuel level sending unit accuracy can degrade over time, indicating significantly more fuel in reserve than is actually present.
What can happen. Owners may not be aware that their vehicle is low on fuel increasing the risk of a vehicle crash if the vehicle stops due to no fuel.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the fuel level sending unit.
Apr 1997 · 1993–1996 · SteeringDue to high steering load events, vehicles can exhibit broken steering gear attaching bolts or frame rail…
The defect. During assembly of the frame, a fillet weld that joins the inner steering gear attachment reinforcement to the frame rail, was omitted.
What can happen. Due to high steering load events, vehicles can exhibit broken steering gear attaching bolts or frame rail cracking at the steering gear attaching point increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect the vehicles for cracks in the frame rail. Vehicles that show cracks will be equipped with reinforcement plates. Vehicles that are found to be free of cracks will have a slot cut…
Mar 1997 · 1996 · Seat BeltsIn the event of a crash, the vehicle occupant would not be properly secured.
The defect. The web mounted rear seat belt inboard anchor positions may not achieve the required load of fmvss no. 210, "Seat belt assembly anchorages."
What can happen. In the event of a crash, the vehicle occupant would not be properly secured.
The free fix. Dealers will add a washer to each rear inboard seat belt anchor attachment.
Dec 1996 · 1989–1991 · Service Brakes, HydraulicIf this occurs, the ABS function would be lose and reduced power assist would be experienced during vehicle…
The defect. Vehicle description: vehicles equipped with antilock brake system (ABS). The antilock brake system (ABS) hydraulic control unit can experience excessive brake actuator piston seal wear which could cause pump-motor deterioration.
What can happen. If this occurs, the ABS function would be lose and reduced power assist would be experienced during vehicle braking. The instrument panel warning lights will signal system impairment and the base…
The free fix. Dealers will test the vehicle's ABS and repair as necessary. The warranty on all ABS components will be extended to 10 years or 100,000 miles (except for the brake actuator piston assembly and the…
Oct 1995 · 1996 · Electrical SystemImproper clamping can result in arcing at the connection potentially causing a fire in the engine compartment.
The defect. The fasteners which secure the alternator circuit fuse to the power distribution center may have an improper clamp load.
What can happen. Improper clamping can result in arcing at the connection potentially causing a fire in the engine compartment.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the alternator fuse with a fuse link and any damage to the power distribution center will be repaired.
Sep 1995 · 1995 · Parking BrakeThe parking brake may not hold causing the vehicle to roll inadvertently.
The defect. The parking brake handle release button can separate from the parking brake handle assembly, causing the parking brake to be inoperative.
What can happen. The parking brake may not hold causing the vehicle to roll inadvertently.
The free fix. Dealers will replace the parking brake handle assembly.
Mar 1995 · 1995 · Air BagsThis condition will cause the air bag to not deploy in the event of a vehicle accident increasing the…
The defect. Certain of the driver's side air bag modules were assembled without an arming lever.
What can happen. This condition will cause the air bag to not deploy in the event of a vehicle accident increasing the potential for personal injury.
The free fix. Dealers will inspect the vehicles for the presence of the air bag module arming lever and will replace those air bag modules that are missing a lever.
Sep 1993 · 1994 · Seat BeltsThe safety belt attachment bolts may not support theload of rear seat passengers in the event of a sudden…
The defect. The two rear inboard safety belt attachment bolts may have inadequate thread engagement into the floor pan anchor nuts.
What can happen. The safety belt attachment bolts may not support theload of rear seat passengers in the event of a sudden stop or accident; theassembly fails to comply with the static load requirements of fmvss 210…
The free fix. Replace the two inboard safety belt anchor bolts with longer bolts on all vehicles.
Mar 1993 · 1993 · EquipmentInstallation of the wrong size tires to the rim could result in loss of vehicle control.
The defect. The tire and wheel specification information on the certification label indicates a minimum tire size larger than the tire actually fitted to the vehicle. This does not comply with fmvss 120, "tire selection and rims."
What can happen. Installation of the wrong size tires to the rim could result in loss of vehicle control.
The free fix. Provide correct certification labels to vehicle owners for application to the vehicles.
Oct 1991 · 1989–1990 · Service Brakes, HydraulicContamination of the hydraulic fluid can causemalfunctioning of the anti-lock brake system; low pressure hose…
The defect. There may be hydraulic fluid contamination from condensation formation that can plug the ABS brake booster pump filter; stress corrosion of the master cylinder snap ring has been traced to chlorine leaking from the low pressure hydraulic hose which may cause…
What can happen. Contamination of the hydraulic fluid can causemalfunctioning of the anti-lock brake system; low pressure hose leakage causesloss of brake fluid and also results in corrosion and failure of the…
The free fix. Replace ABS low pressure hose; rebuild master brake cylinder; inspect, service interference problems, and replace front brake hose as necessary.
Apr 1991 · 1990–1991 · Service Brakes, HydraulicDetachment of the hose from the ABS system causes theloss of the ABS function and hydraulic brake assist…
The defect. Improper insertion/crimping of the hose-to-end fittings of the high pressure hose on the anti-lock brake system can cause detachment of the hose from the ABS system, and discharge of hydraulic fluid.
What can happen. Detachment of the hose from the ABS system causes theloss of the ABS function and hydraulic brake assist, leaving only manual brakesand decreasing stopping ability, which could result in an accident.…
The free fix. Replace the ABS high pressure hose.
Feb 1991 · 1991 · Service Brakes, HydraulicBrake fluid leakage could occur and result in partialloss of braking capability.
The defect. Improperly installed brake fluid tube may allow the tube to contact the steering intermediate shaft damaging the tube.
What can happen. Brake fluid leakage could occur and result in partialloss of braking capability.
The free fix. Reposition brake tube to avoid contact with steering shaft; also, replace any damaged brake tubes.
Dec 1990 · 1991 · Service Brakes, HydraulicContact at full jounce may cause the brake tube tocollapse and restrict the hydraulic brake fluid pressure to…
The defect. Suspension jounce bumper could contact left rear wheel brake tube when suspension is at full jounce (bounce).
What can happen. Contact at full jounce may cause the brake tube tocollapse and restrict the hydraulic brake fluid pressure to the left rear brakewhich affects the braking capability of the vehicle.
The free fix. Replace left rear brake tube with tube designed to eliminate contact with bumper.
Oct 1990 · 1989–1990 · Vehicle Speed ControlHigh engine idle when car is first placed in gear couldresult in unexpected acceleration.
The defect. Malfunction of fuel injection system throttle postition sensor could cause intermittent high engine idle speed immediately after starting engine.
What can happen. High engine idle when car is first placed in gear couldresult in unexpected acceleration.
The free fix. Replace throttle position sensors with sensors that would send correct signals to the fuel injection system.
Jul 1988 · 1985–1987 · Service Brakes, HydraulicThis would result in loss of power brake assist and anincrease in stopping distance.
The defect. Brake booster vacuum reservoir canisters may develop leaks due to bumper impact.
What can happen. This would result in loss of power brake assist and anincrease in stopping distance.
The free fix. Replace brake booster vacuum cannisters with new type cannisters; also, install a restriction orifice to ensure sufficient vacuum in event cannister leakage occurs.
Mar 1987 · 1987 · Vehicle Speed ControlThis could prevent the accelerator from returning toidle when released.
The defect. Vehicle may contain an out of tolerance throttle body.
What can happen. This could prevent the accelerator from returning toidle when released.
The free fix. Replace suspect throttle bodies.
Feb 1987 · 1987 · Vehicle Speed ControlInconsistent cruise control operation could result inloss of control and an accident.
The defect. Cruise control module could have inconsistent cruise control operation.
What can happen. Inconsistent cruise control operation could result inloss of control and an accident.
The free fix. Replace module, as necessary.
Dec 1986 · 1987 · Fuel System, GasolineA stud may have been installed on top of the intake manifold of engine that could contact the fuel supply…
A stud may have been installed on top of the intake manifold of engine that could contact the fuel supply hose. Consequence of defect: chafing of the fuel hose could occur which could result in a fuel leak.
The free fix. Remove stud and replace fuel supply hose and line assembly on vehicles with accumulated mileage.
Dec 1986 · 1986–1987 · SteeringSteering linkage couplers remained in acid etching bath too long.
Steering linkage couplers remained in acid etching bath too long. Consequence of defect: couplers could be out of tolerance resulting in steering wheel misalignment with eventual loss of vehicle control.
The free fix. Replace out of tolerance steering linkage couplers.
Nov 1986 · 1986 · Vehicle Speed ControlAccelerator cable bushing could disconnect from the accelerator lever assembly.
Accelerator cable bushing could disconnect from the accelerator lever assembly. Consequence of defect: this could result in loss of engine control with engine returning to idle.
The free fix. Replace accelerator pedal bracket and lever assemblies.
Oct 1985 · 1986 · Fuel System, GasolineJeeps may have an improperly connected fuel line fitting which could become disconnected and cause gasoline…
Jeeps may have an improperly connected fuel line fitting which could become disconnected and cause gasoline to be spilled. Consequence of defect: if the fuel line becomes disconnected, spills gasoline and an ignition source is present, a fire or explosion may occur.
The free fix. Reconnect fuel line fitting, as required.
Nov 1984 · 1985 · Vehicle Speed ControlVehicle description: multipurpose passenger vehicles equipped with v-6 engines.System: accelerator; pedal…
Vehicle description: multipurpose passenger vehicles equipped with v-6 engines.System: accelerator; pedal assembly.Decription of defect: vehicles may have an improperly secured plastic module (ecell timer) that could drop down and become jammed under the accelerator pedalassembly preventing the engine from returning…
The free fix. The dealer will have the module properly secured if necessary, without charge.
Oct 1984 · 1985 · SteeringImproperly tightened bolt on steering shaft allows the connector on the shaft to slip.
Improperly tightened bolt on steering shaft allows the connector on the shaft to slip. Steering movements will not be transmitted to the gear box.
The free fix. The vehicle will be inspected and the upper pinch bolt will be tightened if necessary at no charge to owner.
Apr 1984 · 1984 · Power TrainA defective differential pinion shaft may exist which can come in contact with the drive pinion gear, causing…
A defective differential pinion shaft may exist which can come in contact with the drive pinion gear, causing rear wheel lock-up.
The free fix. Pinion shaft and clips, and possibly the pinion gear, will be replaced without charge.
Mar 1984 · 1984 · SteeringThese vehicles may have bolts in the steering system that were not properly tightened.
These vehicles may have bolts in the steering system that were not properly tightened.
The free fix. The adjusting tube clamp bolt and the steering gear attaching bolt torque will be tested. The bolts will be tightened and the front wheel toe setting adjusted if necessary and at no cost to owner.
Mar 1984 · 1984 · Power TrainImproper assembly of the rear axle may cause axle bearing failure and could result in the separation of a…
Improper assembly of the rear axle may cause axle bearing failure and could result in the separation of a rear axle and wheel.
The free fix. The differential and axles will be inspected for the defect and replaced without charge, if necessary.
Crashes, fires and injuries owners reported
Out of 4,748 complaints against this generation, owners also reported:
- Crashes
- 496 (10.4%)
- Fires
- 201
- Injury reports
- 295
- Fatality reports
- 19
Cherokee problems by model year
The 1995 drew the most complaints of this generation, 608, most of them about body structure, and the 1986 the fewest among the 16 years with at least 20 complaints, 21. A typical year drew about 318.
| Year | Complaints | With mileage | Median miles | Most reported | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1984 | 7 | 0 | under 30 reports | Seat belts (4) | 3 |
| 1985 | 17 | 0 | under 30 reports | Seat belts (6) | 3 |
| 1986 | 21 | 1 | under 30 reports | Seat belts (10) | 4 |
| 1987 | 57 | 7 | under 30 reports | Throttle and speed control (19) | 5 |
| 1988 | 97 | 3 | under 30 reports | Throttle and speed control (25) | 0 |
| 1989 | 191 | 10 | under 30 reports | Hydraulic brake circuit (86) | 3 |
| 1990 | 270 | 21 | under 30 reports | Hydraulic brake circuit (143) | 5 |
| 1991 | 233 | 22 | under 30 reports | Hydraulic brake circuit (145) | 5 |
| 1992 | 113 | 8 | under 30 reports | Hydraulic brake circuit (35) | 1 |
| 1993 | 418 | 23 | under 30 reports | Hydraulic brake circuit (123) | 3 |
| 1994 | 519 | 25 | under 30 reports | Body structure (205) | 5 |
| 1995 | 608 | 42 | 106,000 | Body structure (149) | 6 |
| 1996 | 447 | 69 | 137,000 | Hydraulic brake circuit (86) | 6 |
| 1997 | 390 | 48 | 104,000 | Fuel system (85) | 4 |
| 1998 | 399 | 75 | 98,000 | Hydraulic brake circuit (80) | 5 |
| 1999 | 366 | 94 | 77,000 | Hydraulic brake circuit (95) | 2 |
| 2000 | 369 | 132 | 72,000 | Hydraulic brake circuit (104) | 1 |
| 2001 | 229 | 104 | 60,000 | Hydraulic brake circuit (53) | 2 |
What Cherokee owners reported
The contact owns a 1996 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle was running rough and then stalled. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to the residence. The contact had a…
1996 · 223,000 miles · Electrical system
The contact owns a 1998 Jeep Cherokee equipped with Goodyear Tires, Tire Line: Wrangler Radial A/S, Tire Size: 275/75/R15, DOT Number: 1PJHLFNWR. The contact stated that he had purchased two tires from Walmart that were installed in the rear of the vehicle. The contact stated while driving from a complete stop, the…
1998 · 200,000 miles · Tyres
The contact owns a 1991 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the contact depressed the brake pedal however, the vehicle failed to slow as needed. The brake warning light was illuminated. The depressed the brake pedal with extreme force and the vehicle came to a stop. The dealer was contacted but the…
1991 · 175,000 miles · Hydraulic brake circuit
The contact owns a 1990 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving 30-45 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that he increasingly applied pressure on the brake pedal until the vehicle responded. There was a 100-feet stopping distance delay. The dealer was…
1990 · 195,000 miles · Hydraulic brake circuit
Built from 684 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-10-20 · open data · how it is built
Other Cherokee generations
- Cherokee 2014–2023 6,074 reports with mileage, most about the transmission and driveline