Generations
KL — Fifth Generation (KL)
2014–2021
2.0L MultiJet Diesel, 2.2L MultiJet Diesel, 2.4L Tigershark
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Jeep Cherokee problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Major
Transmission chain/belt excessive wear (KL)
The ZF 8HP transmission fitted to Cherokee diesel variants shows exceptionally high wear rates on internal chain components, with MOT data showing 34.3x the fleet average failure rate at 60-80k miles. The issue manifests as harsh shifting, hesitation between gears, or complete transmission failure. This appears to be a design weakness specific to the 2.0L diesel application, possibly related to torque delivery characteristics or software calibration.
What happens if ignoredComplete transmission failure requires replacement or rebuild costing £4,000-£7,000. Early intervention with fluid changes may extend life but cannot reverse chain wear once established. The vehicle becomes undriveable when the transmission fails completely.
Independent garage
£3,500–£5,500
Specialist
£4,000–£6,500
Main dealer
£5,500–£8,000
Parts only
£2,500–£4,000
Major
Excessive fluid leakage - environmental hazard
Cherokee models show 12.0x the fleet average for excessive fluid leakage across multiple systems, with the issue worsening over time according to MOT data. The leakage affects engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and power steering systems. This appears to be related to seal quality and design rather than normal wear, as failures occur across a wide mileage range including low-mileage vehicles.
What happens if ignoredSevere leakage can lead to catastrophic engine or transmission failure if fluid levels drop critically. Environmental contamination may result in prosecution under environmental legislation. Multiple system leakage typically indicates widespread seal failure requiring comprehensive repairs.
Independent garage
£200–£800
Specialist
£300–£1,000
Main dealer
£500–£1,500
Parts only
£100–£400
Major
Suspension pin, bush or joint excessive wear
Cherokee suspension components show 11.3x the fleet average wear rate, with the problem worsening according to MOT trends. This affects bushes, ball joints, and suspension pins across both front and rear systems. The issue appears to be design-related rather than wear-pattern specific, as failures occur across a wide mileage range including relatively low-mileage examples.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components compromise vehicle stability and handling, potentially affecting safety in emergency manoeuvres. Severe wear can lead to MOT failure and may cause accelerated tyre wear. Complete joint failure can result in loss of wheel control.
Independent garage
£200–£600
Specialist
£300–£800
Main dealer
£500–£1,200
Parts only
£100–£300
Major
Brake disc excessive wear/fracturing
Cherokee models show 4.8x the fleet average for brake disc fracturing or excessive weakening, with failures occurring across all mileage ranges including very low-mileage vehicles. This suggests a material or design issue rather than normal wear patterns. The problem affects both front and rear discs and can lead to dangerous brake failure if not addressed promptly.
What happens if ignoredFractured or severely weakened brake discs can fail catastrophically, leading to complete loss of braking ability on the affected wheel. This creates an immediate safety hazard and requires urgent replacement. Driving with damaged discs risks brake system failure and potential accidents.
Independent garage
£180–£400
Specialist
£220–£500
Main dealer
£300–£700
Parts only
£80–£200
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Jeep Cherokee fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Transmission joint, belt or chain worn
Bodywork · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 37x the fleet average
Sample: 5,801 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 30x the fleet average
Sample: 6,610 tests
Tyre wear or damage
Tyres · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 936 tests
Suspension pin, bush or joint worn
Suspension · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 378 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 9.0x the fleet average
Sample: 1,037 tests
Fluid leak
Exhaust & Emissions · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 9.0x the fleet average
Sample: 5,902 tests
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Related
Jeep Cherokee reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Jeep Cherokee?
The Jeep Cherokee has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Transmission chain/belt excessive wear (KL) and Excessive fluid leakage - environmental hazard.
Is the Jeep Cherokee reliable?
The Jeep Cherokee has 0 dangerous and 4 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.
How much does it cost to fix Jeep Cherokee problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Transmission chain/belt excessive wear (KL)) costs £3,500–£5,500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.