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2021 Jeep Cherokee Transmission Problems

From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.

How common are transmission problems on the 2021 Jeep Cherokee?

100 owners have reported transmission problems on the 2021 Jeep Cherokee, 58% of all complaints for this year and the most reported problem area. Most reported problems happened at about 45,000–106,000 miles. 2 recalls cover this area.

100 complaints 58% of all 2021 complaints 70,000 miles typical

Which parts fail

The specific part named in each complaint.

Transfer case (4-WHEEL DRIVE) 4
Driveshaft 1

Mileage when it failed

Each dot is a complaint that gave a mileage (19 of 100). The amber line is the middle value.

When problems were reported

Transmission complaints by the year the problem happened.

Transmission complaints by Cherokee year

2021 Cherokee 100
2022 Cherokee 28

Related recalls

Transmission

Can stall

The power transfer unit (PTU) may fail. A failed PTU may result in a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Fix: Dealers will update the Drivetrain Control Drivetrain Control Module, PTU, and Electronic Park Brake software, and replace the PTU, as necessary, free of charge.

Recall 26V290000 · May 2026

Transmission cooler hose may leak fluid

Fire risk

The transmission oil cooler hose may not have been cured correctly during manufacturing, so it can leak transmission fluid. Leaking fluid raises the risk of a fire.

Fix: The dealer will inspect and replace the transmission oil cooler hose free of charge.

Recall 21V310000 · May 2021
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Common questions

What are common 2021 Jeep Cherokee transmission problems?

Complaints most often name the transfer case (4-WHEEL DRIVE) and driveshaft.

At what mileage do 2021 Jeep Cherokee transmission problems happen?

Most complaints that gave a mileage fell between about 45,000–106,000 miles. The middle value is about 70,000 miles.

Is there a recall for 2021 Jeep Cherokee transmission problems?

Yes: 26V290000, 21V310000. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.

Which Cherokee year has the most transmission complaints?

The 2014 Cherokee, with 1,471 complaints.

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports.