Owning a Jeep Cherokee means you’re ready for adventure—but winter weather can bring its own challenges. That’s where the Jeep Cherokee Cold Weather Package steps in. This special group of features is designed to make driving in snow, ice, and freezing temperatures much more comfortable and safe. If you’ve ever sat on a freezing seat or struggled with an icy windshield, you’ll understand why so many drivers look for this package. Let’s explore what makes the Cold Weather Package a popular choice and how it changes the winter driving experience.
What Is The Jeep Cherokee Cold Weather Package?
The Cold Weather Package is an optional set of features offered by Jeep for the Cherokee. It’s not a trim level by itself but an add-on available on select trims. The package bundles together several comfort and convenience features aimed at making cold climates easier to handle.
Key Features
Here’s what you’ll usually find in the Jeep Cherokee Cold Weather Package:
- Heated front seats – No more shivering while the car warms up.
- Heated steering wheel – Keeps your hands warm on even the coldest mornings.
- Remote start system – Start your car from inside your house, so it’s warm when you get in.
- Heated exterior mirrors – Clear away ice and fog quickly for better visibility.
- All-weather floor mats – Protect your carpet from snow, mud, and salt.
- Windshield wiper de-icer – Prevents your wipers from freezing to the glass.
Not every year or trim level includes all these features, but most modern packages have them.
Why The Cold Weather Package Matters
Winter driving is about more than comfort—it’s also about safety. The Cold Weather Package does more than just keep you cozy.
- Heated mirrors help you see better in icy conditions, reducing blind spots.
- Remote start lets your vehicle warm up, which can help with engine performance in cold weather.
- Wiper de-icers keep your windshield clear, helping you react quickly on the road.
Real-world Value
In snowy states like Michigan or Colorado, these features become more than luxuries—they’re necessities. Many used Cherokees with the Cold Weather Package also have higher resale values, especially in northern states.
Comparing The Cold Weather Package Across Cherokee Trims
The Jeep Cherokee comes in several trims, and the Cold Weather Package is not always standard. Here’s how the package is typically available:
| Trim Level | Cold Weather Package Available? | Standard/Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Latitude | Yes | Optional |
| Latitude Plus | Yes | Optional |
| Limited | Yes | Often Standard |
| Trailhawk | Yes | Optional |
| Overland | Included | Standard |
It’s wise to check the exact model year, as features can change. For example, the 2021 Cherokee Latitude Plus offers the Cold Weather Package as an option, while the Limited trim often includes it standard.
How The Cold Weather Package Improves Daily Life
Most drivers notice the difference right away. On cold mornings, the remote start is a favorite feature—no need to scrape ice while waiting in a freezing car. The heated seats and steering wheel provide comfort almost instantly, which can make long winter drives much less stressful.
Another overlooked advantage is the all-weather floor mats. These keep your Jeep cleaner, protect the interior, and are much easier to clean than standard mats. In areas where road salt is used, this can even help prevent corrosion inside the vehicle.
Data: Added Value In Cold Climates
A study by IHS Markit found that vehicles with heated seats and remote start sell about 8% faster in northern states than those without. These features also add up to $600 in resale value compared to similar models without the package.
What To Consider Before Choosing The Cold Weather Package
While the package offers many benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Cost: The Cold Weather Package usually adds $995–$1,200 to the price of a new Cherokee.
- Availability: Not all trims or used models will have it, so you may need to search a bit.
- Maintenance: Heated elements can fail over time, though this is rare with modern systems.
Comparing Key Features With Competitors
How does the Jeep Cherokee Cold Weather Package compare to what other brands offer?
| Feature | Jeep Cherokee | Toyota RAV4 | Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes (higher trims) | Yes (higher trims) |
| Heated Steering Wheel | Yes | No | No |
| Remote Start | Yes | Optional | Optional |
| Wiper De-Icer | Yes | No | No |
As you can see, Jeep includes some features standard that are not always available on other SUVs in the same class.
Non-obvious Insights For Buyers
Many people think the Cold Weather Package is just about comfort, but there are extra benefits:
- Energy savings: Pre-warming the engine with remote start can reduce wear and tear, especially in freezing weather. Engines work better and last longer when not started cold.
- Better resale: In areas with harsh winters, buyers actively look for vehicles with heated features. This can make your Cherokee easier to sell.
- Insurance: Some insurers offer small discounts for remote start systems, as they can reduce the risk of engine problems in winter.
How To Tell If A Used Cherokee Has The Package
If you’re buying a used Jeep Cherokee, check for these signs:
- Look for controls for heated seats and steering wheel on the dashboard.
- Check the side mirrors for a small heater icon.
- Ask the seller for the original window sticker or build sheet—it will list the Cold Weather Package.
Some dealerships may also run the VIN to show which packages were included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Cold Weather Package Worth It For Mild Climates?
If you live in a place where winters are short and not very cold, you may not use all the features often. However, heated seats and remote start can still be useful on chilly mornings.
Can I Add The Cold Weather Package To My Jeep Later?
Most features need to be installed at the factory, but some (like remote start or all-weather mats) can be added by a dealer. Heated seats and steering wheels are harder to add after purchase.
Does The Cold Weather Package Use More Fuel?
The remote start feature uses extra fuel when warming up, but the difference is small. Heated seats and steering wheel use little power and don’t affect miles per gallon much.
How Does The Cold Weather Package Affect Resale Value?
In northern states, Cherokees with the package often sell faster and for higher prices. Buyers in these regions look for heated features.
Where Can I Find More Details About Jeep Cherokee Packages?
You can visit the official Jeep website for the latest information and full package details: Jeep Cherokee.
Jeep’s Cold Weather Package makes winter driving safer and more comfortable. For those who deal with snow, ice, and freezing rain, it’s an upgrade that pays off every time you start your engine on a cold morning. It’s a smart investment in both comfort and value—especially if you plan to keep your Cherokee for years or sell it in a cold-weather state.
