2021 Jeep Cherokee recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee and 176 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are power train (103), engine (28), unknown or other (26). It earned a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 21–24 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2021 ranks #3 of 10 Cherokee model years for fewest complaints (2014–2023), with fewer complaints than the average year (1,010). It has 4 recalls vs. an average of 6.8 per model year.
Recalls 4
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Power train
Problem: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail.
Risk: A failed PTU may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: Dealers will update the Drivetrain Control Drivetrain Control Module, PTU, and Electronic Park Brake software, and replace the PTU, as necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk were 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.
Air bags · side/window · curtain
Problem: 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."
Risk: An air bag that does not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Fix: 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.
Power train · automatic transmission · cooler/radiator · hoses and fittings
Problem: 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.
Risk: A transmission fluid leak increases the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
Suspension · front · control arm · lower arm
Problem: 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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
My 2021 Jeep Cherokee suffered a complete failure of its 1-speed PTU and ESM module, causing a loss of 4WD capabilities. This is the exact same failure mechanism and safety risk outlined in recall 40D, but 1 speed units are being excluded from coverage. My vehicle is at dealership awaiting for this PTU. Service 4WD light on dashboard. Not safe to drive.
SVC 4WD light came on the dashboard. Took to the dealership, they said it was a PTU issue and it needed to be replaced. $3800 and 45 days to fix. NHTSA notes recalls for my year make and model for my 2021 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Lux but does not show a recall for my specific VIN#. Jeep says nothing they can do since the NHTSA does not show a recall for my specific VIN#. Vehicle…
PTU issue- located a recall for 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee Power Transfer Unit recall; my VIN wasn't one the ones listed. took vehicle to the local jeep dealership and the advised that PTU internal damage needs to be fixed.
Safety ratings
2021 Jeep Cherokee SUV 4WD
2021 Jeep Cherokee SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee.
Cherokee 4WD
Auto 9-spd · 4 cyl · 2.0 L · Turbo
Regular
Cherokee 4WD
Auto 9-spd · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II
Auto 9-spd · 4 cyl · 2.0 L · Turbo
Regular
Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II
Auto 9-spd · 6 cyl · 3.2 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 Jeep Cherokee have?
NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, most recently for power train (05/07/2026). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Jeep Cherokee?
Based on 176 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are power train (103), engine (28), unknown or other (26).
Is the 2021 Jeep Cherokee safe?
The 2021 Jeep Cherokee earned a 4-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the Jeep Cherokee?
The 2021 ranks #3 of 10 Cherokee model years for fewest complaints (2014–2023), with fewer complaints than the average year (1,010). It has 4 recalls vs. an average of 6.8 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Jeep Cherokee get?
EPA ratings for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee range from 21 to 24 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2021 Jeep Cherokee in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: CHEROKEE, Cherokee.