2020 Jeep Cherokee Safety Report
2020 Jeep Cherokee: Strong crash ratings, but significant powertrain and steering reliability concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee
Reliability Score
The 2020 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 2020 Jeep Cherokee
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Transfer Unit (Ptu) Failure Numerous complaints describe PTU failure leading to loss of 4WD functionality, grinding noises, and in severe cases, complete loss of propulsion while driving at highway speeds, posing a significant safety risk. Many reports indicate this is a known issue. |
High | Common | 13000-87000 miles |
| Transmission Failure/Slipping Complaints detail the transmission slipping between gears, locking in park, or complete failure with metal particles found in fluid, often leading to expensive repairs and loss of vehicle control. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Steering Rack Gear Breakage A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 20V339000) addresses steering rack gear breakage, which can cause a sudden loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Airbag Non-Deployment At least one complaint details airbags failing to deploy in a head-on accident, resulting in injuries, despite significant vehicle damage. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Rearview Camera Lingering Image A recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 20V191000) indicates the rearview camera image may linger on the screen, potentially distracting the driver and increasing crash risk. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Jeep Cherokee:
The most frequently reported issue, with 87 complaints, encompassing transmission failures, transfer case (PTU) issues, and loss of propulsion.
13 complaints related to engine issues, including oil leaks from the filter housing and stalling.
12 complaints, including issues like the steering wheel jerking and loss of steering control, aligning with a recall for steering rack gear breakage.
6 complaints, including reports of non-deployment in crashes and visible airbag components.
6 complaints related to braking system issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Jeep Cherokee
Is the 2020 Jeep Cherokee safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Jeep Cherokee received a 4-star overall safety rating, with good performance in crash tests (4-star frontal, 5-star side, 4-star rollover). However, there are significant safety concerns highlighted by 226 complaints, including 9 crashes and 9 injuries, primarily related to powertrain failures (87 complaints) and steering issues (12 complaints), which have led to recalls. These mechanical failures, particularly loss of propulsion or steering, can pose a high risk on the road.
What are common problems with the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?
The most reported issues for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee are overwhelmingly related to the POWER TRAIN, accounting for 87 complaints. This includes frequent reports of Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failure, transmission slipping, and complete loss of propulsion. Other common problems involve the ENGINE (13 complaints), STEERING (12 complaints), and AIR BAGS (6 complaints), with specific concerns about steering rack breakage and airbag non-deployment.
Are there any recalls for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?
Yes, the 2020 Jeep Cherokee has two recalls. One recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 20V339000) addresses a potential steering rack gear breakage that could lead to a loss of steering control. The second recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 20V191000) is for a rearview camera issue where the image may linger, potentially distracting the driver.
How does the 2020 Jeep Cherokee perform in crash tests?
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an overall 4-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash protection, a top 5-star rating for side crash protection, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
What should I know about the 4WD system in the 2020 Jeep Cherokee?
Many complaints for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee specifically highlight issues with the 4WD system, particularly Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failure. Owners report 'Service 4WD System' warnings, loss of 4WD functionality, grinding noises, and in some cases, complete loss of propulsion. This is a common and expensive repair, with some owners noting it's a known issue that can occur at relatively low mileages.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2020 Jeep Cherokee has good crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the high frequency of serious powertrain issues, particularly PTU and transmission failures, and the steering recall. Thorough pre-purchase inspection of the powertrain and steering components is highly recommended, and consider an extended warranty.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Jeep Cherokee
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee. The data includes 226 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 5 fire incidents, 9 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 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.