MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2020 Jeep Cherokee

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

3Recalls
256Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE JEEP CHEROKEE

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.

VERDICT

The 2020 Jeep Cherokee earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers 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.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 16.9%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 14273

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech6/10
Defect record11.5/20
Forward collision warning: OptionalLane departure warning: OptionalStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

POWER TRAIN26V290000

Risk: A failed PTU may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: The remedy is currently under development. Interim owner notification letters explaining the safety risk are expected to be 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

Reported 2026-05-07

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA20V191000

Risk: The lingering rearview image can distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler has notified owners, and dealers will update the radio display software, free of charge. Optionally, owners can choose to remotely update their software via an Over-The-Air (OTA) update available as of May 1, 2020. The recall began April 27, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W30-W37.

Reported 2020-09-10

STEERING:RACK AND PINION:RACK19V637000

Risk: A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering gear, free of charge. The recall began October 24, 2019. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is V99.

Reported 2019-08-29

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

256 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

9reported crash
5reported fire
9reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsPower Train 138Engine 36Unknown Or Other 34Electrical System 33Service Brakes 23Steering 19

Other Cherokee years

Rivals in SUV (2020)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 14273), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Jeep Cherokee 2020. Class rank 81 of 107 in SUV 2020. Methodology · Disclosure