Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2014 Jeep Cherokee
The 2014 Jeep Cherokee has a significant number of complaints and recalls, notably concerning the powertrain, electrical system, and engine. With 13 recalls and 2,650 complaints, this model year has faced multiple issues that potential buyers should be aware of, though it might still be a viable option if thorough checks show past repairs and no current issues.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2014 Jeep Cherokee has 13 NHTSA recall campaigns and 2,651 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #23V338000 Electrical Short in Power Liftgate Module NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V343000 Power Transfer Unit Input Splines May Break NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V447000 Stuck Transmission Clutch May Cause Loss of Drive NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V332000 Cruise Control cannot be Cancelled NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V824000 Fire Extinguisher May Be Clogged or Inoperable NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V590000 Improper Torque on Seat Fasteners NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V529000 Transmission may Shift Unexpectedly to Neutral NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V509000 Windshield Wipers may Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V461000 Radio Software Security Vulnerabilities NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V393000 Water may Enter Power Liftgate Module NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V041000 Unintended Side Curtain Air Bag Deployment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V392000 Rear Shock Absorbers may Partially Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V293000 Cruise Control Unintended Continued Acceleration NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 1,471 complaints
- Engine 516 complaints
- Electrical System 450 complaints
- Unknown or Other 284 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 186 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 185 complaints
Of the 2,651 complaints on file, 56 report a crash and 16 a fire; across all 2,651 complaints, owners report 39 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Power liftgate fire risk
How to check: Inspect the power liftgate for electronic issues.
Transmission shifts to neutral
How to check: Test drive and check for sudden neutral shift.
Driveline differential wear
How to check: Listen for unusual noises while driving.
Rear shock detachment
How to check: Look for unusual suspension noises.
Unexpected airbag deployment
How to check: Verify airbags through recall records.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
Idle
What to check: Dashboard warning lights remain off.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Transmission shifts smoothly through gears.
Red flag: Delayed or harsh shifts
- 04
Highway driving
What to check: Steering response and stability at speed.
Red flag: Vibrations or drifting
- 05
Full stop
What to check: Brakes stop the vehicle smoothly.
Red flag: Spongy brake pedal or noise
- 06
Parking
What to check: Check power liftgate operation.
Red flag: Liftgate issues or malfunctions
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the power liftgate recall been addressed?
- Any issues with transmission shifts recently?
- Have you experienced unexpected airbag deployment?
- Are there any suspension repairs documented?
- Has the vehicle ever stalled unexpectedly?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service and maintenance records
- Recall repair history
- Vehicle title and registration
- Warranty documentation
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2014 Jeep Cherokee at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2014 Jeep Cherokee? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.