Is There A Recall On 2018 Jeep Cherokee
If you own a 2018 Jeep Cherokee or are considering buying one, you may wonder about its safety record. Vehicle recalls are important because they address problems that could affect your safety or the car’s performance.
In this article, you’ll find out if there are recalls on the 2018 Jeep Cherokee, what issues have been reported, and what you should do next if your car is affected.
Recall Overview For The 2018 Jeep Cherokee
The 2018 Jeep Cherokee has been subject to several recalls since its release. These recalls are issued by the manufacturer, often in cooperation with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), to fix defects that could pose safety risks.
Number Of Recalls
The 2018 Jeep Cherokee has had more than five official recalls in the United States. These recalls cover a range of issues from electrical problems to brake failures. Staying updated on these recalls helps you keep your vehicle safe and running smoothly.
Common Recall Issues
Some of the most significant recalls for the 2018 Jeep Cherokee include:
- Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Failure: The PTU can fail, especially in all-wheel-drive models. If the PTU fails, the car may lose power or even roll away when parked.
- Brake Problems: Certain Cherokees may have faulty brake caliper pistons that can reduce braking power.
- Electrical System Malfunctions: Software problems in the transmission or infotainment system can cause unexpected behavior.
- Airbag Issues: Some recalls address airbags that may not deploy correctly in a crash.
Major Recalls Explained
Power Transfer Unit Recall
The PTU is a critical part for all-wheel-drive vehicles. In the 2018 Cherokee, water can enter the PTU, causing internal damage. If this happens, you might notice clunking noises or difficulty shifting gears. In the worst cases, the car could roll away when parked.
Brake Caliper Piston Recall
Some 2018 Cherokees have brake caliper pistons that were not manufactured to the correct specifications. This can lead to brake fluid leaks and reduced stopping power. This issue affects braking performance and is a serious safety concern.
Electrical System Recalls
There have been recalls related to the software in the transmission control module and the infotainment system. Problems here can cause unexpected shifting, loss of power, or screen malfunctions. While these may sound minor, any unpredictable behavior in a car’s main systems can be dangerous.
Airbag Deployment Problems
A small number of 2018 Jeep Cherokees had airbag sensors or inflators that were faulty. These parts might not work properly in an accident, raising the risk of injury.
How To Check If Your 2018 Jeep Cherokee Is Affected
If you own a 2018 Jeep Cherokee, it is easy to check if your vehicle is part of a recall:
- Go to the official NHTSA recall search website.
- Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This number is on your registration or a sticker inside the driver’s door.
You can also visit the Jeep official recall page or contact your dealer for information.
What To Do If Your Vehicle Is Recalled
If you find that your car is affected by a recall, follow these steps:
- Contact your local Jeep dealer as soon as possible.
- Schedule a free repair appointment. All recall repairs are done at no cost to you.
- Follow dealer instructions about driving your car until it is fixed. In rare cases, they may advise you not to drive the vehicle.
Never ignore a recall notice. Some issues, like brake failures, can lead to accidents if not repaired.
Recalls Vs. Technical Service Bulletins (tsbs)
It’s important to understand the difference between a recall and a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB). A recall is a safety-related repair required by the manufacturer. A TSB, on the other hand, is advice for mechanics about common problems and repairs, but it’s not required for every vehicle.
For example, some 2018 Cherokees have TSBs about transmission hesitation or infotainment glitches. These are not recalls but might still be fixed under warranty.
Data Comparison: 2018 Jeep Cherokee Vs. Other Years
Here is a comparison of recall numbers for the Jeep Cherokee across three years:
| Model Year | Number of Recalls | Main Issues |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 4 | PTU, Airbags, Electrical |
| 2018 | 6 | PTU, Brakes, Electrical, Airbags |
| 2019 | 5 | Transmission, PTU, Airbags |
As you can see, the 2018 model year had the highest number of recalls compared to the years before and after.
Repair Completion Rates
Not all recalled vehicles get fixed quickly. Here’s a look at estimated repair completion rates:
| Recall Type | Completion Rate (%) | Average Repair Time (days) |
|---|---|---|
| PTU Failure | 72 | 3 |
| Brake Issues | 80 | 2 |
| Electrical System | 67 | 2 |
| Airbags | 90 | 1 |
Airbag recalls are often fixed quickly, while electrical issues may take longer.
Non-obvious Insights For Owners
Many owners overlook two important points:
- Recalls do not expire. Even if your Jeep is a few years old, you can still get the recall fixed for free.
- Used car buyers should check recall status. Dealers may not always fix recalls before selling, so check the VIN before purchase.
Some owners have also reported that not all dealers keep the required parts in stock. Calling ahead to confirm parts availability can save you a repeat trip.
Where To Find Official Recall Information
For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official NHTSA website or the manufacturer’s page. An excellent resource is the NHTSA Jeep Cherokee Recalls page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Drive My Jeep Cherokee If It Has An Open Recall?
You can usually drive your car, but some recalls (like brake or PTU failures) can be dangerous. Always check with your dealer.
How Do I Know If My Recall Repair Is Complete?
After your dealer completes the work, you should get a receipt showing the recall was addressed. You can also check your recall status online.
Does A Recall Affect My Car’s Value?
A fixed recall usually does not affect value. An unfixed recall can lower the resale price and make the car harder to sell.
Are Recall Repairs Really Free?
Yes, all recall repairs are done at no cost to you, even if your car is out of warranty.
What If I Bought My Jeep Used?
Recalls follow the vehicle, not the owner. If your used Jeep Cherokee has an open recall, you are still eligible for free repairs.
When it comes to vehicle safety, staying informed about recalls is key. The 2018 Jeep Cherokee has had several important recalls, but free repairs are available.
Check your VIN, contact your dealer, and keep your car safe for the road ahead.
