MODEL
Jeep Cherokee Safety
NHTSA safety across every Jeep Cherokee model year we cover.
Across the 6 model years of the Jeep Cherokee we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2023 at 89 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 70. 26 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that slots between the subcompact Compass and the midsize Grand Cherokee in Stellantis's Jeep lineup. Aimed at buyers who want trail-capable credentials alongside everyday practicality, it competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market. The Cherokee carries a distinct identity as a more rugged alternative to mainstream crossovers, appealing to active families and adventure-minded commuters alike.
The Jeep Cherokee's safety profile from 2019 to 2023 shows a clear upward trend, with the 2023 model year achieving an 89 out of 100 on our computed Safety Index. This score marks a significant improvement across the range. Crash-test results for the Cherokee in its strongest years include a 5-star rating for side impact protection, alongside 4-star ratings for frontal impact and rollover resistance. This places the vehicle's structural integrity in an acceptable, if not exemplary, position based on the ratings NHTSA published. However, the recall record warrants close scrutiny. Twenty-two recalls issued across five model years indicate recurring issues that Stellantis has addressed. Owner complaints further detail these concerns, totaling 2,010 reports within the same period. These complaints include 62 alleged crashes, 28 fire-related allegations, and 58 reported injuries. While these are unverified claims, the volume of complaints and the specific mention of fire incidents are notable. The Cherokee's overall safety band fluctuates between "Average" and "Strong" depending on the model year. For those prioritizing safety, the 2023 model year presents the most favorable data, but all prospective buyers should consult the NHTSA recall database to ensure any open recalls are resolved prior to purchase.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Jeep Cherokee as a capable and characterful compact SUV with genuine off-road credibility that sets it apart from more road-focused rivals. Most acknowledge that its interior and feature set have improved over the years, though many note that the segment has become intensely competitive and that the Cherokee faces strong pressure from newer, more polished alternatives.
- The 2023 Cherokee achieves the highest NHTSA Safety Index in our covered window at 89 out of 100, making model-year selection a meaningful safety decision rather than a cosmetic one.
- Twenty-two recalls across the 2019 to 2023 model years is a high count for a single model in a five-year window. Always run the VIN through the NHTSA recall database and confirm all open recalls are addressed before purchase.
- Owner complaints include 28 fire-related allegations and 58 reported injuries across the covered years. While these are unverified, the fire-incident volume warrants extra scrutiny, particularly around any recall notices tied to electrical or fuel system components.
- Side-impact protection is the Cherokee's strongest crash-test result at 5 stars in its best year, while frontal and rollover ratings hold at 4 stars, meaning the vehicle is not uniformly rated across all crash modes and buyers should weigh that balance against their own risk priorities.
Most-recalled year on record: 2019 Jeep Cherokee with 11 recalls.