Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2020 Jeep Cherokee
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee shows some recurring issues, particularly with the powertrain and steering, supported by both recalls and owner complaints. Other issues include electrical and brake system concerns, although evidence is less substantial. Overall, it's crucial to investigate these areas closely during a pre-purchase inspection and test drive.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee has 3 NHTSA recall campaigns and 334 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 #20V191000 Rearview Image Can Remain on Display/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V637000 Steering Rack Gear May Fail NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 199 complaints
- Engine 46 complaints
- Unknown or Other 37 complaints
- Electrical System 35 complaints
- Service Brakes 25 complaints
- Steering 22 complaints
Of the 334 complaints on file, 9 report a crash and 7 a fire; across all 334 complaints, owners report 9 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
PTU may fail
How to check: Ensure smooth gear transitions and listen for noise.
Rearview camera may malfunction
How to check: Check rearview camera image during testing.
Rack gear may break
How to check: Inspect steering for smoothness and control.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or rattling
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard for warning lights.
Red flag: Any warning lights illuminated
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Unusual noise or vibration
- 04
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Check steering for smoothness and noise.
Red flag: Stiff or noisy steering
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Assess powertrain for smooth acceleration.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking motion
- 06
Use reverse gear
What to check: Ensure rear camera functions properly.
Red flag: Camera delay or no image
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the PTU been serviced?
- Any issues with the rear camera?
- Have recalls been addressed?
- Are there any steering problems?
- Do all dashboard functions work?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history records
- Recall repair receipts
- Accident history report
- Warranty information
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2020 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.