2021 Jeep Cherokee Safety Report
2021 Jeep Cherokee Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2021 Jeep Cherokee. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (3) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (118) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 14 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Power Train | Compare power train issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2023 | Compare against the 2023 Jeep Cherokee with 2 complaints and 0 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2019 | Check the 2019 Jeep Cherokee before buying across this generation. |
Jeep Cherokee Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Jeep Cherokee years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Jeep Cherokee | 37 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Jeep Cherokee | 226 | 2 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2023 Jeep Cherokee | 2 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2019 Jeep Cherokee | 1500 | 10 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Jeep Cherokee | 658 | 7 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2017 Jeep Cherokee | 1299 | 6 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2021 Jeep Cherokee Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Power Train
39 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Jeep onlyUnknown Or Other
11 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Jeep onlyEngine
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Jeep onlyElectrical System
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Jeep onlyAir Bags
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags issues Jeep onlySuspension
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Suspension issues Jeep onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee
Reliability Score
The 2021 Jeep Cherokee receives a reliability score of 55 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.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Bags Malfunction Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee vehicles due to improperly secured air bags, posing a risk of injury. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Transmission Issues The transmission oil cooler hose fitting can leak, leading to transmission failure, especially in 2021 models. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Ptu Failure The Power Transfer Unit (PTU) can fail, causing the vehicle to stop moving and potentially leading to accidents. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| 4wd Loss The vehicle can lose 4WD functionality, which can be dangerous in adverse driving conditions. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Jeep Cherokee:
The Power Transfer Unit (PTU) can fail, causing the vehicle to stop moving and potentially leading to accidents.
Transmission issues, including oil cooler hose fitting leaks, can lead to transmission failure.
Air bags can malfunction, posing a risk of injury in the event of a collision.
The vehicle can lose 4WD functionality, which can be dangerous in adverse driving conditions.
Recall Details for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee
The following 3 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee by NHTSA:
Summary: 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."
Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy: 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.
Summary: 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.
Consequence: A transmission fluid leak increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: 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.
Summary: 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.
Consequence: 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.
Remedy: 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.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes. 1 involved fires. 1 reported injuries or fatalities.
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the radio went black, with the message "Re-insert USB" displayed. The contact was unable to use the radio. Additionally, the rear-view camera, the AC/HEAT settings, and other safety features were inoperable and unavailable. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined t...
I purchased this 2021 Jeep Cherokee, and it has developed a life-threatening defect where it performs an uncommanded braking while driving at speed. Without any warning the car slams on the brakes creating an immediate risk of a Rear end collision. Diagnostic scans show multiple critical failures: PO128 (the initial warning of a computer communication issues). Dealership (Echo Park) refuses to fix...
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 50 MPH on the highway, the vehicle lost 4WD functionality. The message “Service 4WD” was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the 4WD actuator had failed and the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due the part to repair the vehicle not bei...
The 2021 Jeep Cherokee sporadically and infrequently engages the parking brake and hazard flashers. In order to disengage it, the car must be put in park and turned off then on, sometimes repeatedly. It has happened multiple times when the car is at a stop and in drive (at a stoplight, etc.) Recently it started happening while driving. The parking brake engaged and the car slammed to a stop nea...
The 948TE 9-speed automatic transmission failed at approximately 75,000 miles on my 2021 Jeep Cherokee V6 80th Anniversary Edition. The Engine light eliminated while traveling down the highway. No noise or indication of engine or transmission trouble, Decided to head directly to the dealership. When I approached my first light off the exit (still no sign of trouble) the vehicle rolled backwards. A...
The interior screen has become pixelated with different colors. This effects my back up camera which is a big safety hazard. All of the climate control, radio and general info are also on this screen. I have not had it diagnosed at the dealership because they charge 160.00 to just hook up to diagnostics.
the light came on that says cannot move vehicle, it just stopped. The Power Transfer Unit went out--I cannot get a part since it is backordered over 1200 people right now are having issues with the part of the vehicle
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
I was driving on the interstate at approximately 70 mph when I attempted to accelerate to pass another vehicle. There was no response. At first, I thought I might have hit a patch of ice, but I quickly confirmed that wasn’t the case. I tried to accelerate again, and once more nothing happened—other than the engine revving. No warning lights appeared to indicate a problem. I coasted to the next ex...
PTU Failure. Known issue. 2017-2019 recalled but the part is still and issue and can lock up transmission. Recall needs to be extended to cover later years
I took my vehicle to dealer shortly after purchase due to jerking forward during stops. A software update was performed and did not have any issues until recently. The past few weeks it began to hesitate upon acceleration and jerked forward harshly into first gear. Today there is a very noticeable prolonged hesitation during acceleration and an odd revving noice coming from TPU. This should be a ...
The contact owned a 2021 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that there was an abnormal sweet/alcohol smell in the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent while in the process of performing a stress test drive. There was a popping sound from the ignition, and it stopped on the interstate. Upon opening the hood, he noticed smoke and flames, and the ...
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the hazard lights failed to operate. The contact's wife coasted the vehicle to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who determined that the battery had failed....
I have had a service 4wd light on for months. The Power Transfer Case part has been on backorder from jeep for over 4 months and I have been left with out a vehicle this entire time with no updates or information about when the parts will be available.
My jeep initially shutoff while driving on the interstate at 70 mph last December. I took it the dealership and they kept it for 2 months and replaced several parts. I got it back and it shutoff the next day, but started after l let it sit for an hour. Then it went for weeks with no issues, then it started happening again, so I took it to a different dealership. They also repaired different issues...
About a month ago I noticed the gas pump clicking off quickly, way before the tank is full. I have been unable to fully fill my tank since. No accidents have occurred to cause a problem but my engine light is on and after getting it read it says it's an EVAC issue. When placing the nozzle in the tank a large amount of air noise is heard.
2021 78784 MILES WONT DRIVE 4 WHEEL LIGHT ON DEALER STATES NEES NEW PTU SAYS THERES MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH THE PTU BUT WILL NOT COVER UNDER WARRANTY. $ 4, 000 TO REPAIR 99 COMPLIANTS HERE ALONE
While driving on the highway a message popped up that the 4 wheel drive system was unavailable. Then the orange error message displayed the svc 4wd. Then it went off. I called the dealership and was told to get it checked sometime, but since it went off there was no rush. I told him to check it when I brought it in for an oil change. Apparently they did not check it for error codes. No erro...
PTU failure
The check 4wd light on, the PTU needs replaced
Showing 20 of 118 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Jeep Cherokee
Has the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE been recalled?
Yes, the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE has 3 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE have?
The 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE has 118 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 10 involved crashes. 7 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE?
The 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE involve power train (39 complaints), unknown or other (11 complaints), engine (8 complaints). Other affected components include electrical system, air bags, suspension.
How many crash reports does the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE have?
There are 10 crash reports associated with the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE out of 118 total complaints (8.5% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE have?
There are 4 fire reports for the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE out of 118 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE.
How many injuries are reported for the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE?
7 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE is acceptable with caveats. It has 118 complaints, 3 recalls, and a good (4/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE?
The components with the most failures on the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE are: 1. POWER TRAIN (39 complaints), 2. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (11 complaints), 3. ENGINE (8 complaints), 4. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), 5. AIR BAGS (4 complaints). POWER TRAIN is the single most-reported problem area with 39 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE?
Be cautious of potential air bag and transmission issues. Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid unexpected failures. The 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE has 118 NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it good (4/5).
How reliable is the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE?
The 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE receives a reliability score of 55/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 118 owner complaints, 3 recalls, and 14 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Air bags malfunction and Transmission issues.
What are the known issues with the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE?
Known issues with the 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE include: Air bags malfunction, Transmission issues, PTU Failure, 4WD Loss. These are based on patterns found across 118 NHTSA complaints. 3 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee?
Yes, there are recalls for improperly secured air bags and transmission oil cooler hose fitting issues.
What are the common issues with the 2021 Jeep Cherokee?
Common issues include Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failure, transmission problems, air bag malfunctions, and 4WD loss.
Can the 2021 Jeep Cherokee's 4WD system fail?
Yes, the 4WD system can fail, which can be dangerous in adverse driving conditions.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of potential air bag and transmission issues. Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid unexpected failures.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Jeep Cherokee
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee. The data includes 118 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported crashes, 4 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16