Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 Jeep Cherokee
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee has a significant number of recalls and complaints, particularly related to the powertrain, engine, and electrical systems. With 11 NHTSA recalls and over 1,600 owner complaints filed, this model year may require careful inspection, especially in these areas. While the powertrain issues are a major concern, other systems like airbags and brakes also have notable recalls.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee has 11 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,676 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 #26V290000 Power Transfer Unit May Fail and Cause a Loss of Drive Power NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V011000 Loss of Drive Power from Damaged PTU NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V637000 Steering Rack Gear May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V449000 Loss of Air Bag Acceleration Sensor Connection NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V248000 Passenger Seat Mounting Bolts may be Loose NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V917000 Instrument Cluster May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V739000 Incorrect Transmission Calibration Causes Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V524000 Voltage Regulator may Fail and Cause Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V523000 Insufficient Coating on Rear Brake Caliper Pistons NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V492000 Loss of Drive from Incomplete Transmission Weld NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V344000 Cylinder or Camshaft Damage NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 834 complaints
- Engine 459 complaints
- Electrical System 342 complaints
- Unknown or Other 261 complaints
- Steering 120 complaints
- Service Brakes 100 complaints
Of the 1,676 complaints on file, 40 report a crash and 19 a fire; across all 1,676 complaints, owners report 37 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Valve stem keepers missing
How to check: Inspect for any engine knocking or unusual noise.
PTU may fail
How to check: Check for smooth shifting and no transmission warning lights.
Instrument cluster failure
How to check: Ensure all dashboard lights and gauges operate correctly.
Rear brake caliper gas pockets
How to check: Inspect brake response and look for uneven wear.
Steering rack gear breakage
How to check: Test for smooth and responsive steering without noise.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual engine noises or knocks.
Red flag: Persistent knocking noise
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dash for warning lights and errors.
Red flag: Warning lights staying on
- 03
Low-speed maneuver
What to check: Test steering response for smooth operation.
Red flag: Steering feels loose or unresponsive
- 04
Moderate acceleration
What to check: Ensure transmission shifts smoothly through gears.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed shifting
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for engine performance and transmission response.
Red flag: Lack of power or hesitation
- 06
Braking from speed
What to check: Test for smooth, prompt braking action.
Red flag: Vibration or noise while braking
- 07
Parking
What to check: Ensure steering remains consistent and accurate.
Red flag: Difficulty in steering control
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the PTU been replaced?
- Any unresolved recalls on this vehicle?
- Are there service records for engine repairs?
- Have you experienced any transmission issues?
- Has the instrument cluster ever failed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle recall history
- Complete service records
- Warranty repair history
- Title and registration
- Previous inspection reports
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2019 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.