2019 Jeep Cherokee steering problems

Updated from NHTSA data · How we count

90 owners have reported steering problems with the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, 7% of all complaints about this model year. The typical problem appeared around 22,000 mi.

Steering complaints
90
Crashes
5
Fires
1
Injuries
1
Related recalls
1
Median mileage
22,000 mi

Specific components reported

Steering covers: Power steering, steering column and wheel, loss of steering assist.

ComponentComplaints
Steering90

Steering complaints across Jeep Cherokee years

2420141720152120162920172120189020192220203202132022
Steering complaints by model year. The 2019 is highlighted.

Mileage when the problem appeared

10Under 10k1310k–30k830k–60k760k–100k3100k–150k150k+
Complaints that list mileage, grouped by odometer reading.

Related recalls

  • Recall 19V637000Aug 29, 20195,294 vehicles
    STEERING:RACK AND PINION:PINION SHAFT · STEERING:RACK AND PINION:RACK

    Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The steering rack gear may break, possibly causing a loss of steering control.

    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.

What owners say

  1. Filed May 28, 2026ORSteeringTransmission & DrivetrainWheels & Tires
    ​NHTSA ODI Case Update – Supplement to Complaint #XXX ​Vehicle: 2019 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Plus (VIN: [XXX] ) Subject: Dealership Deflection Tactics and Denial of Recall Repair Verification ​This statement is submitted to update my ongoing federal safety complaint regarding the catastrophic failure of the Mopar Two-Speed Power Transfer Unit (PTU) and the resulting loss of motive power/rollaway risks. ​On May 19, 2026, the vehicle was evaluated by an authorized FCA…
    NHTSA complaint #11740568 · source
  2. Filed Apr 5, 2026ORSteeringTransmission & DrivetrainWheels & Tires
    My 2019 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Plus is exhibiting a persistent metallic rattling and grinding noise originating from the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) and the propeller shaft interface. The noise is most prominent during acceleration and coasting at speeds under 20 mph. Confirmed through Dr. Auto LLC, in Warren, OR. That it is in fact PTU unit attached to the propeller shaft. Plan to go through a dealership soon. ​This failure mirrors the symptoms described in NHTSA Recall…
    NHTSA complaint #11729278 · source
  3. Filed Mar 29, 2026CTBrakesSteeringTransmission & Drivetrain
    While driving home from Church Sunday afternoon, I was on the highway driving 65 mph. Suddenly, and without warning lights or any other ability to know or prepare for the catastrophe about to take place, my 2019 Cherokee Trailhawk lost all control and function in the drive-train and braking. The rear differential completely froze, forcing the vehicle to skid recklessly without operator control or ability to brake. Steering was near impossible as the car veered first to the…
    NHTSA complaint #11727737 · source
  4. Filed Mar 27, 2026WISteering
    The steering is very "glitchy" almost sticky. When driving the steering wheel does not move freely when turned and will slightly stick in place.
    NHTSA complaint #11727455 · source
  5. Filed Feb 12, 2026MTSteeringTransmission & Drivetrain
    While driving the car, the shifting mechanisms are not working correctly. Stalling, hard shift etc. Causing jolts, and sudden stop/start movements. I was driving in the snow when my car jolted and was unable to stop on the ice leaving me in the snow bank. Went to put it in 4wd and the 4wd wouldn’t work. Brought it to the dealer repair shop where the recall was determined as the culprit. I have waited a year for the recall with no news, updates and being unable to drive my…
    NHTSA complaint #11717559 · source
  6. Filed Dec 10, 2025LAEngineAcceleration & Cruise ControlSteering
    My vehicle is under an open safety recall 01C involving the PTU system, and there has been no remedy available for nearly a year. This defect caused a dangerous and sudden loss of acceleration while I was driving, and the manufacturer has still provided no fix, and no support through the dealership. The incident occurred when I was stopped at a red light. When the light turned green,I pressed the gas and the vehicle immediately made a loud grinding/shaking noise, shuddered…
    NHTSA complaint #11704248 · source
  7. Filed Oct 2, 2025PAElectrical SystemOther / UnknownSteering
    Driving from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia, then To DC, then VA, power steering service show up and caused my jeep hard to turning. Completely unexpected. I just got them 2 month ago.
    NHTSA complaint #11690961 · source
  8. Filed Sep 13, 2025NYSteeringTransmission & Drivetrain
    Vehicle is hard to turn since it is locked in to all wheel drive . I had Northtown Jeep ( dealership) look at it and they knew what it was just after one quick ride around the building. The car has 28543 miles on it and is out of warranty. They told me that the PTU was faulty and that also caused damage to the rear differential. This vehicle from day one sounded and felt a bit (odd) but I just figured that this was normal but it wasn't until this year when leaving the…
    NHTSA complaint #11687102 · source
  9. Filed Aug 23, 2025CAElectrical SystemSteering
    During certain temperatures my cars emergency brake light will come on, engine light the abs light all at once and the steering wheel will stiff up this used to happen to my 2004 Jeep grand cherokee now it’s with my new 2019 Jeep Laredo
    NHTSA complaint #11682585 · source
  10. Filed Aug 21, 2025AKOther / UnknownSteeringTransmission & Drivetrain
    Am concerned about theses vehicles even being on the roadways with no resolution to the safety recall being resolved. Reported in Jan 2025, no resolution yet. for 8 months? "Parts are not available". It appears by documentation that if you are in the states you can get a dealer to check via software to detect and monitor for excessive wear within a PTU. If PTU failure is confirmed by software, FCA US will replace the PTU for all impacted customers experiencing messaging…
    NHTSA complaint #11682215 · source
  11. Filed Jul 22, 2025TXSteering
    I’m having power steering issues , when i start my vehicle the power steering light comes on and my steering wheel locks up
    NHTSA complaint #11675252 · source
  12. Filed Jun 27, 2025FLSteeringTransmission & Drivetrain
    PTU needs to be replaced after less than 55k miles. Several recalls issued, but VIN is not included, but meets every "check box" for recall.
    NHTSA complaint #11669699 · source

Other 2019 Jeep Cherokee problem areas

Back to all 2019 Jeep Cherokee problems →

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology