2017 Jeep Cherokee Safety Report
2017 Jeep Cherokee: Good crash ratings, but significant powertrain issues and recalls pose safety risks.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee
Reliability Score
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Transfer Unit (Ptu) Failure The PTU may become damaged, leading to a loss of drive power or inability to engage park, increasing the risk of a crash or rollaway. This is a subject of multiple recalls (e.g., 25V-011, 17V-543). |
High | Common | variable, often 30000-80000 miles |
| Loss Of Motive Power While Driving Vehicles suddenly lose power or fail to accelerate while driving, often linked to PTU or transmission issues, as reported in numerous complaints. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Service Shifter/4wd Warning Lights Illumination of 'Service Shifter' or 'Service 4WD' lights, often preceding or indicating PTU or transmission problems, with some complaints noting jerking or grinding. |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Cruise Control System Malfunction A recall (18V-332) addresses a wiring issue that could prevent cruise control deactivation, leading to unintended acceleration and increased crash risk. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Driver'S Knee Airbag Inflator Defect A recall (17V-007) for improper welds on the driver's knee airbag inflator, potentially preventing proper inflation and increasing injury risk in a crash. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Jeep Cherokee:
The most frequently reported component, with 399 complaints, often involving PTU failure, loss of drive, inability to shift, and grinding noises.
A significant number of complaints fall into this category, often describing general vehicle malfunction or issues not easily categorized by the complainant.
Reported issues include warning lights, system malfunctions, and in some cases, contributing to powertrain problems.
Complaints related to engine performance, stalling, or loss of power, sometimes in conjunction with powertrain issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Jeep Cherokee
Is the 2017 Jeep Cherokee safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Jeep Cherokee has good crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star side). However, it has a high number of complaints (1299 total, 23 crashes, 26 injuries) primarily concerning the powertrain, specifically the Power Transfer Unit (PTU). Multiple recalls address these critical issues, which can lead to a sudden loss of drive power or unintended vehicle rollaway, posing significant safety risks.
What are common problems with the 2017 Jeep Cherokee?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee revolve around the POWER TRAIN (399 complaints), often related to the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failing, causing a loss of drive power or issues with the transmission and differential. Other common complaints involve the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (101 complaints) and ENGINE (97 complaints), sometimes in combination with powertrain issues.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee?
Yes, the 2017 Jeep Cherokee has 6 recalls. Key recalls include those for the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) which can cause a loss of drive power or unintended rollaway, a cruise control wiring issue that could prevent deactivation, and an airbag inflator defect. Some complaints indicate that parts for these critical recalls may be unavailable.
How does the 2017 Jeep Cherokee perform in crash tests?
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee received a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance, indicating generally good performance in these areas.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2017 Jeep Cherokee?
When considering a used 2017 Jeep Cherokee, prioritize checking if all 6 recalls, especially those related to the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) and cruise control, have been completed. Pay close attention to any warning lights (e.g., 'Service 4WD', 'Service Shifter'), unusual noises (grinding, clunking), or hesitation/loss of power during a test drive, as these are common indicators of the significant powertrain issues reported.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of powertrain complaints and critical recalls, thoroughly verify all recall repairs are completed and have a pre-purchase inspection specifically focusing on the PTU and transmission before buying a 2017 Jeep Cherokee.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Jeep Cherokee
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The data includes 1299 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 23 reported crashes, 6 fire incidents, 26 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Jeep Cherokee an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.