These problems appeared in the records we reviewed. This is not a list of what happens most often, and it does not predict the condition of one car.
What to look for
Airbags owner reports
Moderate severity
Evidence: Limited confidence
Owner reports are bound to model year 2021.
Symptom
5 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention air bags.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 31,000 to 37,000 miles.
Based on 2 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“Was driving down hwy and vehicle pulled out directly in front of me. Nothing i could do but hit the brakes. Severe front end damage done to my 2021 Jeep Cherokee. Airbags did not deploy. There were injuries. No one can figure out why the airbags didn't deploy on either the passenger side nor the driver side. Thankfully no one was killed. I believe there to be a defect in the airbags on this vehicle of not deploying. The collision was fast enough and enough front end damage to deploy. The airbags in the other vehicle that was involved deployed just fine. Ours however didn't. Asking Jeep to look at their 2021 cherokee models.”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 mph and crossing an intersection, he crashed into another vehicle head-on. The contact stated the air bags did not deploy and the driver-side seat belt did not retract. The contact sustained injuries on his chest due to hitting the steering wheel and had bruises/swelling on his right foot. The contact sought medical attention at a nearby hospital. The contact stated the other driver was taken by an ambulance but was unaware of their injuries. A police report was filed. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle and stated he saw smoke from the engine due to the antifreeze leaking. The vehicle was not drivable. The vehicle was towed to his residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 28,000.”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“Car accident on 1/24 hit tree head on around 35 mph with NO airbags deploying. Suffered from concussion and whiplash, and potential of more serious injury. Insurance will be inspecting vehicle in the next week to determine total loss. No warning lamps, messages or other issues to the car prior to the accident”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“The contact rented a 2021 Jeep Cherokee Latitude. The contact stated while driving approximately 70mph when the contact lost control of the vehicle and experienced a head-on collision to the front end of the vehicle. While the contact was attempting to leave the vehicle post-accident, the driver-side interior door handle would not function and open the driver-side door. Which resulted in the contact having to open the door via the exterior door handle. All airbags deployed minus driver-side airbags. A police report was filed and the contact sought medical treatment and sustained a mild concussion, a hematoma on legs, and bruising on the chest abdomen, and face. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot where it was awaiting diagnosis. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000. The VIN was unavailable.”
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.
“I was involved in an accident on May 27, 2021 with my brand new Jeep Cherokee Latitude 2021, less than 3 k miles. Another driver ran a red light and I t-boned him, all of his air bags went off, but none of my air bags deployed. Hit the steering wheel with my chest, arms, hit the under dash area with knees and ankles as a result and am pretty bruised up.”
18 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention power train.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 13,505 to 55,000 miles.
Based on 4 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“The PTU UNIT HAS FAILED TWICE ALREADY ON MY VEHICLE! THE FIRST TIME IT WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY AND COVERED; THIS LAST TIME IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY, AND I HAD TO PAY OUT OF POCKET FOR IT, $3,186.02. Then a month or so later received a document in the mail stating that this is now a safety recall and if you have already had it fixed, once they find a remedy it will have to be fixed again, as it is still wrong and can fail AGAIN. ALSO states if you paid out of pocket for said repair to go to the website with documentation and a refund would be issued within 60 days of them receiving it.... but once you do that they automatically respond and deny it stating until a remedy is found they aren't giving me my money! which is against the law!!! And to top it off, my car is already acting up again, and pretty sure this will be going out again soon... so there will be a lot more for them to deal with if this does not get resolved and money returned to me. Which, in actuality, they should be giving me a refund on the vehicle as this first incident happened in 2022... so we should be well out of the "reasonable timeframe" to come up with a solution to fix said problem. The Manufacturer is withholding a resolution due to a lack of a recall remedy! Campaign 40D NHTSA 23V-404”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“The vehicle has developed a safety-related defect involving the rear differential. During low-speed turns from a stop, in both forward and reverse, the rear drivetrain exhibits grinding, binding, and wheel hop, causing the vehicle to jerk and resist normal movement. This condition affects the vehicle’s predictable handling while maneuvering in parking lots, intersections, and other confined areas. If the rear differential continues to deteriorate, it could result in catastrophic drivetrain failure and a sudden loss of vehicle propulsion, leaving the vehicle unable to move and potentially stranded in an active traffic lane or other hazardous location. This defect presents an unreasonable risk to the safety of the vehicle occupants and other road users and should be investigated as a potential safety-related defect.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Jeep Cherokee 2021 with less than 44,000 miles. pTU accentuates went out. VIN not in recall despite the make, model, and problem being recalled on 60,000 other jeeps already. If not fixed the car can freeze and possibly roll over or roll away when in park. I feel jeep should pay for this as part of their recall.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“I am the owner of a 2021 Jeep Cherokee that is subject to NHTSA Recall 26V-290 (FCA Recall 40D) for a defective Power Transfer Unit (PTU). The recall notice states that the PTU may fail internally, causing an unexpected and unrecoverable loss of drive power at any speed or allowing the vehicle to roll while in PARK without warning. The notice also states that these conditions can result in a vehicle crash or injury. While the manufacturer has acknowledged this as a safety defect, the recall notice also states that no remedy is currently available. I have been left with a vehicle that has a known safety defect but no means to have it repaired. I rely on this vehicle every day as my family’s only vehicle to transport my two young children to school, childcare, activities, medical appointments, and for my employment. Without a repair or transportation assistance, I must either continue driving a vehicle with a known safety defect or be left without reliable transportation. I am requesting that NHTSA document the hardship and ongoing safety concern created by this recall and the lack of an available remedy. I will also be contacting Jeep Customer Care to request a loaner or rental vehicle while a repair is unavailable. I believe owners should not be expected to continue driving a vehicle with a known safety defect or be left without reliable transportation while waiting for a remedy.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“While getting an oil change, the mechanic below noticed a crack in my rear differential. He sent me a picture. I have looked online and there are thousands of complaints for the same issue. I immediately contacted the local certified Jeep mechanic and was told that the rea diff housing has a crack around snap ring and the the PTU has a leak and evidence of metal. I was quoted over $6,000 to repair the vehicle and was told I could drive it until I couldn't anymore. The "service 4wd" light has been coming on since I bought the car less than 2 years ago but nothing could be found wrong until last Friday. There is a recall for this issue on other makes and sub models for the Jeep Cherokee but for some reason mine is not included. Please investigate as soon as possible as it is not possible for me to afford the repairs.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Nothing has happened yet. What is the timeline to correct this issue. The loss of power, and other issues that may happen could be catastrophic. Why is there no timeline required for resolutions? Notification are expected to begin to be sent by June 25,2026, why were they not required to be sent immediately, by law ? The government has many rules and regulations, who dropped the ball on issues that could be Catastrophic?”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“My vehicle is currently experiencing active, dangerous symptoms related to the open FCA/Stellantis Power Transfer Unit (PTU) safety recall (Recall Campaign 40D / NHTSA Campaign 23V-407). The vehicle is experiencing severe drivability issues related to this defective part, including vibrations and intermittent power issues, creating an immediate safety hazard of sudden power loss or roll-away while driving or parking.The Problem with the Manufacturer’s Response:The manufacturer has issued a "remedy not yet available" notice and has failed to provide a replacement part to fix this known safety defect. Local dealerships refuse to repair the vehicle because the re-engineered recall part does not exist yet. Furthermore, the manufacturer and dealership have failed to provide a safe loaner vehicle or an immediate stop-gap repair while my vehicle remains unsafe to operate.Safety Risk:I am being forced to either drive an inherently unsafe vehicle that faces an active recall for sudden loss of motive power, or leave the vehicle completely inoperable without alternative transportation. The manufacturer's unreasonable delay in producing the remedy part, combined with a lack of interim consumer support, poses a severe and direct risk to my safety, my passengers, and other drivers on the road. I request that the NHTSA investigate the manufacturer's delay in providing a timely remedy for Campaign 23V-407.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Service 4wd light came on. Driver side clinking noise came from tire area. Took my jeep to the dealership in which they diagnosed the problem as a PTU (Power train unit) failure. The part is on 2 months back order”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“My 2021 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is currently immobile due to an active safety recall involving vehicle movement/park functionality concerns, and loss of power. Prior to the recall being issued, one certified Jeep dealership inspected the vehicle regarding the concern - with no resolution. Since the recall has now been formally issued, I have attempted to contact both that dealership and the certified Jeep dealership where the vehicle was originally purchased by phone and email to obtain recall assistance, repair guidance, and information regarding transportation options. Neither dealership has responded to my calls or email communication. The vehicle is currently unusable and poses a safetly concern due to the recall condition. I reply on this vehicle for daily commuting and transportation. Stellantis Customer Care was contacted, but a customer care case was not opened. At this time, I have been unable to obtain assistance, repair scheduling information, or guidance regarding the safe operation or transportation accomodations while the vehicle remains affected by the recall.”
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“I've had my 2021 Jeep Cherokee Limited 4X4 since July 2023 with zero issues until my service 4WD light came on in December 2025. It went off immediately, but I let my mechanic look at it & he couldn't find anything. It continued this way until early April 2026, the light came on but always went off right away. I was driving home from my grandsons' house (about 1.5 miles) & half way home, there was suddenly an awful, LOUD noise coming from under the Jeep & the steering was difficult at best. I was afraid for my life driving less than 4 blocks from my house. The next day, it started fine & the 4WD light was not on. I attempted to drive back to the grandsons'; immediately after accelerating after the stop sign by my house, the 4WD light came on & a new, louder, scarier noise came from under the car. I couldn't pull over safely (nowhere to pull over except someone's yard) & became very frightened that I would hit the people on the sidewalk, the cars in the other lane, etc. I had some helpful people stop & push my car back to my house (I'm disabled). The next morning I had it towed to Surefire (my mechanic) & after a few days, he called & reported it was the PTU, I'd have to replace it immediately. I had to pay a deposit of $600 cash & after several weeks, my Jeep was fixed. I paid the other $1454 via credit card to get the Jeep back. This is NOT safe!! I see recall 40D last week & was relieved- until I spoke with FCA today. Evidently, all other 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee Limited 4X4 are recalled except mine. What if I'd hit the pedestrians? What if I'd crashed into the oncoming cars? I'm almost too scared to drive due to this PTU failure. It's an awful thing to experience. I have a beautiful Jeep I'm afraid to drive. This is not right.”
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee Latitude and Jeep Cherokee Limited vehicles.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 40,000 to 40,000 miles.
Based on 1 report that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.
Fix listed in the records: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front lower control arms and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2020. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W81. Note: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicles until they have been inspected and repaired if needed.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee Latitude and Jeep Cherokee Limited vehicles. One or both of the front lower control arms may fracture while driving.
A front lower control arm fracture while driving may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash without prior warning.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front lower control arms and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2020. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W81. Note: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicles until they have been inspected and repaired if needed.”
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee vehicles.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 13,505 to 55,000 miles.
Based on 4 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.
Fix listed in the records: Dealers will inspect and replace the hose, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed May 18, 2021. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Y18.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The transmission oil cooler hose may have been incorrectly cured, allowing transmission fluid to leak.
A transmission fluid leak increases the risk of a fire.
Dealers will inspect and replace the hose, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed May 18, 2021. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Y18.”
Official record covers model years 2021 through 2022.
Symptom
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Jeep Cherokee vehicles.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
What to inspect
Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.
Fix listed in the records: Dealers will secure the connector, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 71B.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the right-side curtain air bag may prevent the air bag from deploying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
An air bag that does not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Dealers will secure the connector, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 71B.”
Official record covers model years 2019 through 2022.
Symptom
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
Mileage in the reports
In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 45,500 to 86,750 miles.
Based on 14 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.
What to inspect
Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.
What may help
Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.
Fix listed in the records: The remedy is currently under development. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk are expected to be mailed June 25, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy becomes available. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 40D. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 14, 2026.
Sources and limitsShowHide
Source recordEvidence: High confidence
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.
“Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.
A failed PTU may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
The remedy is currently under development. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk are expected to be mailed June 25, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy becomes available. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 40D. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 14, 2026.”