Why You Shouldn’t Worry About the Cherokee
The newest recall for the Jeep Cherokee is scary — but it shouldn’t scare you away from one. Here’s why.
In case you were looking into a Jeep Cherokee and got reasonably concerned about the most recent recall regarding fire risks, don’t worry — we’re here to tell you the Cherokee line is still a valid choice. The Cherokee was introduced in 1974, and is what made the “family Jeep” so popular. The trusty four-wheel drive system Jeep developed because of the war paired with comfort, four doors, and cargo space? Most American families said, “Yes, please!”
Though, like all manufacturers, Jeep hit a snag. During the years 2014-2016, Jeep decided to make some additions and subtractions to the successful formula. With that, came some scary results. The Cherokee suffered from transmission issues, engine issues, electrical shorts and fire risks. While it’s easy to point fingers, nearly every automaker suffered the consequences of trying to fix what wasn’t broken. Before you turn the Cherokee down as an option or deem it a bad car, here are a few reason we think it’s still an excellent choice.
Off-Road Prowess
One of the things we like about it is the size, and therefore the length of the wheelbase. The Cherokee is in between the Wrangler and the Wagoneer as far as size is concerned, and that lends it a moderate wheelbase length — not too long, not too short. Additionally, with Jeep still implementing the 4WD system that added so much heft to the Jeep name, it’s hard to beat.
With it being a smaller SUV, it also means that mileage is better than its larger sibling. The latest generation has an EPA estimate of 31 mpg during highway driving — miles better than the Wagoneer. Essentially, you could tackle some gnarly trails and make it home on the same tank.
A Different Cherokee Flavor for Everyone
The Cherokee line is diverse. Even the most basic of trim levels were welcoming and family oriented — but the Grand Cherokee was where luxury and capability was successfully crossbred. Quite literally, the Cherokee invented the term “sport utility vehicle,” as it was advertised as such in brochures. In 1974, there was a trim level for everyone — the Cherokee base, Cherokee Sport (S), Chief, Golden Eagle, Golden Hawk, Limited, Classic, Sport, Pioneer, and Laredo. In 2023, the same trim levels apply — but Jeep added a Latitude Lux and 80th Anniversary edition.
Plus, we can’t forget the Cherokee Trailhawk. The Trailhawk was developed for those who live an active outdoorsy lifestyle, by having off-road trail apps built in, higher ground clearance, beefier tires, better articulation and flexibility, and is overall more durable.
With all that combined makes for a seriously capable SUV — sans the fire risks that plagues earlier model years.
Overall Reliability
In all, the Cherokee had a very clean track record before the dark ages of 2014-2016. Like previously mentioned, a large part of it was Jeep attempting to fix a problem that wasn’t broken. If it was left alone, that blemish on the track record would have never existed. Due to all the boxes the mid-sized SUV still checks after being discontinued, it’s still a wonderful vehicle to consider as a family vehicle.
