Hey everyone. I’m looking to add a new vehicle for myself. I have found some used cherokee’s I want to look at. Before I do that I figured I would come here and see what to look for to not get into a lemon or a bad vehicle. I’m looking strongly towards a 2015 Cherokee latitude with the 3.2 v6.
Looking to get into a Jeep
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Can't go wrong with a 2015 Lat w/V6...nice vehicle. Only caveat I could add would be try to find the build date and look for a late model year vehicle. FCA had ironed out the transmission issues of 2014 and early 2015 KLs by around June. You can also ask for a printout of all the work done (TSBs, Recall, etc) and see what was done to the vehicle. I'm not a huge Carfax fan, but they can certainly be informative as to maintenance and accidents, etc.
With that said, I have a 2014 ordered in 2013 that tows a trailer all the time, so gives the transmission a good workout, and I've never had a problem. So it is not necessarily the kiss of death to get an early transmission.
With that said, I have a 2014 ordered in 2013 that tows a trailer all the time, so gives the transmission a good workout, and I've never had a problem. So it is not necessarily the kiss of death to get an early transmission.
Frankly, I would just go with a 2016 to be safe, if you can find one. It shouldn't increase the price too much, especially since the 2020 MY is virtually upon us. Plus, the Jeep should have more of the powertrain warranty remaining to be transferred to you.
The 2016 I found has more miles and is $5000 more that the 2015 with less miles. Plus it’s the 2.4 4cyl motor. Just doesn’t seem like the best move to go to the 2016
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not a real Jeep
My 2014 TH will go off road where I need it to go off road, but,
it is not a real Jeep. I proved it by destroying it keeping up with the stock Wranglers at Nemacolin Resort.
I go to Jeep only Jeep shows. If you don't go to Jeep only Jeep shows then you don't need a Jeep.
Fortunately my TH has been very reliable, the only serious problem was when my Optima AGM battery was "at the end of its useful life". Not an FCA problem.
Determine who will be working on your new ride and buy something they can fix correctly.
Also, get something that is comfortable for you, this is a matter of personal preference.
Since you asked I decided to give you my personal opinion.
If you are not going off road don't even consider getting a Jeep.
My 2014 TH will go off road where I need it to go off road, but,
it is not a real Jeep. I proved it by destroying it keeping up with the stock Wranglers at Nemacolin Resort.
I go to Jeep only Jeep shows. If you don't go to Jeep only Jeep shows then you don't need a Jeep.
Fortunately my TH has been very reliable, the only serious problem was when my Optima AGM battery was "at the end of its useful life". Not an FCA problem.
Determine who will be working on your new ride and buy something they can fix correctly.
Also, get something that is comfortable for you, this is a matter of personal preference.
Since you asked I decided to give you my personal opinion.
I don’t need a Jeep no. I live in upstate NY boarder of Canada so winters can be rough but most of the roads are flat. I would like something that can make it in and out if deer camp which is basically a man made road that is not maintained well and usually consists of two large ruts. Most people going in and out have trucks or SUV’s. I have a Subaru Legacy now that is nice but I’m looking to get into something that I can tow with and has 4wd. Jeeps have been a pretty strong brand in both those categories compared to other companies. I know the new line of Jeeps have gotten some hate as they went after mass consumers instead of traditional enthusiasts. Just google the renegade and you can see everyone’s displeasure with Jeeps idea to bring back an old classic. The reality is I need something I can drive back and fourth and still be able to handle the weather and the demands of pulling a small trailer. I’d love something I can modify and lift slightly even if it’s more for looks than use.
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I owned a 2015 2.4l Limited. That vehicle gave me so much trouble with having to get things fixed and replaced. The transmission was terrible, but working normally according to dealer after several visits. Luckily I never had any issues with the actual engine, which I know people rag on the 2.4l, but the power suited me just fine and I didn't need to tow anything. But after all of the headache that I had with that vehicle, I swore off ever buying another jeep product due to poor reliability reasons. As I was researching and driving other vehicles in the same class, nothing touched the Jeep Cherokee in terms of style, comfort, and versatility. I wanted to leave for another manufacturer, but I just couldn't find anything else I fell in love with the same way I did with the Cherokee. So I found a place that gave me a great trade in offer, which was way more than I owed on the loan, and traveled to Northern Virginia to buy another Cherokee. I got a new 2019 Cherokee Latitude Plus 4x4 2.4l, and am happy with my decision to stay with the Cherokee. So far, fingers crossed, my Jeep has given me no trouble. However, I did buy the 7 yr/unlimited miles Maxcare warranty for piece of mind. The 2019 is way more refined than my 2015, and they have come a long way with the transmission. The advice I would give you is to look at the Carfax, and see what type of service entries were done on the vehicle, as that can sometimes be an indicator of a potential problem. I would also look at the prices of a new Cherokee vs an older model, as with some of the rebates Jeep is offering, you can sometimes find a new one for not much more than a used one. Also I would highly consider checking to see if a Mopar Maxcare warranty is available for the vehicle you are looking at, you may not have to use it, but it sure payed for itself in my situation.
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I've changed my mind. You need a TH with factory tow, cold weather package and 3.2L engine.
Definitely get the Carfax report, mine is 7 pages long.
If you can find a good used TH and the transmission shifts properly then it is probably good.
In the winter I use Bridgestone Blizzak 235-70/17 XL tires which give slightly more ground clearance and have been great on
wet, muddy off road ruts.
Anything you buy used will probably need expensive repairs.
Noisy drive shaft, shocks and struts and an AGM battery.
If you get the TH you can easily mount driving lights to the tow hooks so you can see at night.
Get lights with Halogen bulbs to melt the ice off of the lens.
I really like the Hella 500FF driving lights.
Hopefully you can find something you like.
Definitely get the Carfax report, mine is 7 pages long.
If you can find a good used TH and the transmission shifts properly then it is probably good.
In the winter I use Bridgestone Blizzak 235-70/17 XL tires which give slightly more ground clearance and have been great on
wet, muddy off road ruts.
Anything you buy used will probably need expensive repairs.
Noisy drive shaft, shocks and struts and an AGM battery.
If you get the TH you can easily mount driving lights to the tow hooks so you can see at night.
Get lights with Halogen bulbs to melt the ice off of the lens.
I really like the Hella 500FF driving lights.
Hopefully you can find something you like.
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5,404 Posts
My 2014 built in December 2013 has been perfect to date. No transmission issues. In fact its probably the smoothest shifter I have had. Transmission does get a little funky at times mostly due to the adaptive learn system that is always working and the missing 2nd gear on downshifting. That 2nd gear missing was a software update on the 2014 and early 2015 models to help the durability of the transmission.
* When you move the shifter to the left it will show you what gear you are in at that moment. As you slow down to almost a stop but still moving, move it to the left and see what gear it shows.
If you see 2nd then your trans is the newer updated one. If you see 3rd you have the older hardware transmission. Basically it will stay in 3rd till you stop completely.
On the other hand you could have a 2014 or early 2015 that had the trans replaced with a newer hardware equipped transmission. In that case you will have 2nd gear and it will show when coming to a stop.
I also tow but no where near what @SkipW does. My 2014 handles it just fine with no issues. Towing does add a lot of stress to the transmission. If there is a lurking problem it will come out with towing I would imagine.
If you have any doubts just do that little test I gave you and then you can rest assured you got the newer transmission. That's assuming that all the recalls had been done.
Also you can not compare a Jeep Cherokee to a Jeep Wrangler for off roading. Two different vehicles. I for one would not like to drive a Wrangler for the next several years in my normal driving. A Wrangler is made for off roading and a Cherokee in made for off roading and everyday driving. Its a compromise to get 100% one or the other. But that's my opinion.
The Cherokee for off roading does very good. There are some good photo albums on this forum to prove that.
And yes its a true Jeep as much as a Wrangler is. It just functions differently for its intended purpose.
* When you move the shifter to the left it will show you what gear you are in at that moment. As you slow down to almost a stop but still moving, move it to the left and see what gear it shows.
If you see 2nd then your trans is the newer updated one. If you see 3rd you have the older hardware transmission. Basically it will stay in 3rd till you stop completely.
On the other hand you could have a 2014 or early 2015 that had the trans replaced with a newer hardware equipped transmission. In that case you will have 2nd gear and it will show when coming to a stop.
I also tow but no where near what @SkipW does. My 2014 handles it just fine with no issues. Towing does add a lot of stress to the transmission. If there is a lurking problem it will come out with towing I would imagine.
If you have any doubts just do that little test I gave you and then you can rest assured you got the newer transmission. That's assuming that all the recalls had been done.
Also you can not compare a Jeep Cherokee to a Jeep Wrangler for off roading. Two different vehicles. I for one would not like to drive a Wrangler for the next several years in my normal driving. A Wrangler is made for off roading and a Cherokee in made for off roading and everyday driving. Its a compromise to get 100% one or the other. But that's my opinion.
The Cherokee for off roading does very good. There are some good photo albums on this forum to prove that.
And yes its a true Jeep as much as a Wrangler is. It just functions differently for its intended purpose.
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Forgot to mention the TH has a rear locker which I use going up my steep hill and in the woods running my muddy ruts.
It even works in sand/mud mode.
Don't try this in your back yard of you will cultivate it. Found out the hard way.
Let us know what you end up getting.
It even works in sand/mud mode.
Don't try this in your back yard of you will cultivate it. Found out the hard way.
Let us know what you end up getting.
Thanks for the info. I had an older grand Cherokee that I ended up giving back to the dealership after being brought in for an electrical issue the fifth time in a mater of a month. It put a bad taste in my wifes mouth but honestly I loved the car. My current car, Subaru Legacy, is the only other vehicle that has come close to touching that Grand Cherokee. I like the wranglers but I agree they seem like after a while a bit of a pain to drive and something like the Cherokee would be more convenient.
Ok everyone. I went and did a test drive today on a 2014 Trail hawk. I loved it but honestly can't justify the price for the amount of mileage it has on it. I looked at a chevy Equinox while I was there as well but the jeep just felt so much better in every aspect. Im hoping to get a test drive on a 2017 Cherokee with better mileage or a patriot. Any known issues to look for on the 17 Cherokee?
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Refer to Post #5 above.
This is why I said what I said: Car brands with the highest customer satisfaction ratings in 2022 | Autoblog
This is why I said what I said: Car brands with the highest customer satisfaction ratings in 2022 | Autoblog
Looking @ a 2019 Cherokee Latitude Plus 4x4, v6. Has the upgraded interior, heated seats, cold weather group, trailer-tow group, safety tech group, with 45000 miles. It's on Carvana.
My question is, is this SUV worth buying. I've read the good and the bad but wanted some advice from actual owners.
Thanks! 😊
My question is, is this SUV worth buying. I've read the good and the bad but wanted some advice from actual owners.
Thanks! 😊
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13,509 Posts
Hi,
'Worth buying' is very relative. Vehicle history is important. Price is important. We know Jeeps aren't known to be very reliable vehicles in general, so... how much passion is involved here ? Worth taking a bit of a risk ?
45K for a 2019 sounds 'normal'. Was it on a lease ?
'Worth buying' is very relative. Vehicle history is important. Price is important. We know Jeeps aren't known to be very reliable vehicles in general, so... how much passion is involved here ? Worth taking a bit of a risk ?
45K for a 2019 sounds 'normal'. Was it on a lease ?
It's had 2 (single) owners, no rental car history. No accidents or weird maintenance. Recalls are zero for this vehicle. Arrived & stayed in NM state. I'm in WA state. It's on Carvana. I've driven a local one but this one has the "bells & whistles" I'm looking for.
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my 2 cents - keep up the test driving. do a lot of them. doesn't matter if the Cherokees you drive are exactly what you want. just get some miles in. try highways, especially highway hills. the last thing you want is some kind of buyers remorse cuz you didn't know about something. try lots of local roads with traffic lights & stop signs to see how it stops, downshifts & starts again from a stop. drive your local roads & routes. including parking it where you usually shop etc.
so many ppl on so many auto forums often write about how they didn't know or weren't aware of this or that, which all could have been avoided up front before the purchase
also try multiple dealers. if any dealer gives you cr*p, cross them off the list. when I shop for a car, I'm also shopping for a dealer. there's 1 dealer in our state, who owns multiple dealerships for multiple brands. after several bad experiences, I never go to any of his dealerships. one of his salesmen actually said to me: "give me your keys, you won't need them anymore, I will sell you a car today" of course I did not give him my own cars keys. & when I got back from my test drive & handed the dealer's keys to someone at the desk, the salesman ran out to my car & asked me: "but what am I gonna tell my boss?" poor guy, working there must be living hell
@ Flybynightcru & Mark
Alrighty... I took the advice and drove several Trailhawks all over the place. 5 different dealers. 3 actually took me down a some dirt road with bumps. Those 3 dealers said driving a Jeep is different than most & agreed with the advice here.
I drove a 22 Cherokee Latitude Plus, loaded... mmmm beautiful leather, like a cloud/plushy 🤤... but it's only a 2.0L. 2k lbs towing. As pretty as she was it's a no. Dove an Outback also.... yuck. Why do Washingtonians like them is beyond me.
Drove a 2020 Trailhawk, pretty loaded, leather, V6, towing package, cold weather package, no rental history, 17200 miles, 1 owner, no accidents of any sort. An OR/WA vehicle. No rust under from what I saw (yes I wiggled underneath). I dove it (with the sales gal) for 2 hours, yes really. By the time I was done I was pleasantly surprised. Not squirrly at all.
I've never driven any Jeep & I liked the feel, the handling, luv I can tow up to 4500lbs, and the room it has. The only things I don't like is: no tint on the front windows, it's "billet silver" color, and those Firestone destination tires with the white lettering have to be the fugliest tire ever!🤣
Verdict? I bought it. Pick it up tomorrow. I think everyone has buyers remorse at some point in a vehicle. Unless your ultra rich and can buy EXACTLY what you want/desire, whatever. 😉 If I'll miss one thing, it'll be gas mileage for sure! Encore was 27-30mpg. As Mark asked, "is it worth taking the risk?"
Yes, I think so.😁
Thanks everyone!
Pati
WA state
Alrighty... I took the advice and drove several Trailhawks all over the place. 5 different dealers. 3 actually took me down a some dirt road with bumps. Those 3 dealers said driving a Jeep is different than most & agreed with the advice here.
I drove a 22 Cherokee Latitude Plus, loaded... mmmm beautiful leather, like a cloud/plushy 🤤... but it's only a 2.0L. 2k lbs towing. As pretty as she was it's a no. Dove an Outback also.... yuck. Why do Washingtonians like them is beyond me.
Drove a 2020 Trailhawk, pretty loaded, leather, V6, towing package, cold weather package, no rental history, 17200 miles, 1 owner, no accidents of any sort. An OR/WA vehicle. No rust under from what I saw (yes I wiggled underneath). I dove it (with the sales gal) for 2 hours, yes really. By the time I was done I was pleasantly surprised. Not squirrly at all.
I've never driven any Jeep & I liked the feel, the handling, luv I can tow up to 4500lbs, and the room it has. The only things I don't like is: no tint on the front windows, it's "billet silver" color, and those Firestone destination tires with the white lettering have to be the fugliest tire ever!🤣
Verdict? I bought it. Pick it up tomorrow. I think everyone has buyers remorse at some point in a vehicle. Unless your ultra rich and can buy EXACTLY what you want/desire, whatever. 😉 If I'll miss one thing, it'll be gas mileage for sure! Encore was 27-30mpg. As Mark asked, "is it worth taking the risk?"
Yes, I think so.😁
Thanks everyone!
Pati
WA state
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13,509 Posts
Congrats on the TH !!
2019 Trailhawk Elite 2.0T Olive Green Metallic Pearlcoat
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9,196 Posts
Good choice, and congrats!!! It will not disappoint...BTW, I have a 2.0T in my Trailhawk, and with the factory tow package, it can tow 4000lbs, and I do 3500-3700 on a pretty regular basis...😎
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