2021 Jeep Cherokee

Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data

Engine Size
Engine
2.4L I4
Oil Type & Capacity
0W-20 Full Synthetic (5.5 qts)
Transmission
Automatic 9-spd
Wheel Torque
100
ft-lbs

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Jeep Cherokee.

For oil changes, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 5.5 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Mopar OAT (Purple/Violet), and transmission fluid is ATF+4. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.

When mounting wheels on the Jeep Cherokee, torque the lug nuts to 100 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.

Owners of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee have reported 5 common issues including "9-Speed Automatic Transmission Problems", "Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Failure" and "Uconnect Infotainment Crashes and Slow Response". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.

There are 3 NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.

Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee uses 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil (5.5 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 100 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.

2021 Jeep Cherokee Specifications
Motor Oil0W-20 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity5.5 qt
Lug Nut Torque100 ft-lbs
Brake FluidDOT 3
CoolantMopar OAT (Purple/Violet)
Transmission FluidATF+4
Transmission Fluid
Fluid Type
ATF+4
Shop
Coolant
Fluid Type
Mopar OAT (Purple/Violet)
Shop
Brake Fluid
Fluid Type
DOT 3
Shop
Washer Fluid
Windshield
Shop

Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.

Service Item
Interval
Engine Oil & Filter
8,000 mi / 12 mo
5W-20 full synthetic (2.4L) or 5W-20 (3.2L V6), 5.5 qt (2.4L)
Tire Rotation
8,000 mi / 6 mo
Rotate every oil change
Cabin Air Filter
20,000 mi / 24 mo
Replace more often in dusty conditions
Engine Air Filter
30,000 mi / 36 mo
Inspect every 15,000 mi
Brake Fluid
40,000 mi / 36 mo
DOT 4
Transmission Fluid
60,000 mi
ZF 9-speed automatic; ATF+4 or ZF-approved fluid
Transfer Case Fluid
60,000 mi
Active Drive Lock; Mopar PTU/RDU fluid
Coolant
100,000 mi
Mopar OAT coolant; then every 50,000 mi
Spark Plugs
100,000 mi
Mopar Champion iridium
Serpentine Belt
100,000 mi
Inspect at 60,000 mi
Battery
60 mo
Inspect annually
DTC Code Lookup

Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee.

Common problems reported by 2021 Jeep Cherokee owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.

1

9-Speed Automatic Transmission Problems

The ZF 9HP 9-speed automatic transmission exhibits rough or jerky shifts, hesitation during acceleration, unexpected gear hunting, and delayed engagement from park. Some owners report the transmission refusing to upshift or downshifting harshly during deceleration, creating a lurching sensation.

Solution

Reflash the Transmission Control Module (TCM) with updated calibration software. TSB 21-011-22 addresses shift quality. In severe cases, valve body replacement or full transmission rebuild may be required.

Est. Cost: $0 - $4,000
2

Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Failure

The Power Transfer Unit on AWD models can fail prematurely, sometimes as early as 30,000-50,000 miles. Symptoms include grinding or whining noise from the front differential area, vibration at speed, and eventual loss of AWD capability. The failure is often caused by inadequate lubrication and overheating of the PTU.

Solution

Replace the PTU assembly. Fluid should be changed every 60,000 miles as preventive maintenance. TSB 21-004-22 addresses PTU noise diagnosis. Use only Mopar PTU fluid for replacement.

Est. Cost: $2,000 - $7,000
3

Uconnect Infotainment Crashes and Slow Response

The Uconnect infotainment system experiences intermittent crashes, slow touchscreen response, blank screen episodes, and random reboots. Bluetooth connectivity drops frequently, and the backup camera display may lag or fail to activate when shifting into reverse.

Solution

Update to the latest Uconnect software version. Perform a hard reset by disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes. TSB 08-044-22 covers software update procedures. Head unit replacement if the problem persists after updates.

Est. Cost: $0 - $1,200
4

Electrical System and Sensor Malfunctions

Various electrical issues plague the 2022 Cherokee, including false forward collision warnings, malfunctioning blind-spot sensors, brake warning lights illuminating without cause, and phantom chiming. The auto start-stop system may display exclamation marks and refuse to function. Tail lights can fill with condensation.

Solution

Reprogram the Forward Collision Module and sensor modules with updated software. TSB 18-025-22 addresses false collision warnings. Tail light housings may need replacement with improved sealed units.

Est. Cost: $100 - $600
5

HVAC Climate Control Inconsistency

The dual-zone HVAC system blows inconsistent temperatures between sides, fails to heat or cool adequately, or produces unusual odors from the vents. Owners report musty or mildew smells from the evaporator core, and the system may default to defrost mode unexpectedly.

Solution

Clean the evaporator core with an antimicrobial treatment and replace the cabin air filter. Recalibrate the HVAC blend door actuators. TSB 24-006-22 addresses temperature inconsistency in dual-zone systems.

Est. Cost: $100 - $500

3 NHTSA safety recalls for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov

1

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN

Campaign: 24V516000 Date: 08/07/2024

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the right-side curtain air bag may prevent the air bag from deploying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."

Consequence

An air bag that does not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will secure the connector, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 71B.

2

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLER/RADIATOR:HOSES AND FITTINGS

Campaign: 21V310000 Date: 04/05/2021

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The transmission oil cooler hose may have been incorrectly cured, allowing transmission fluid to leak.

Consequence

A transmission fluid leak increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the hose, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed May 18, 2021. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is Y18.

3

SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM

Campaign: 20V657000 Date: 27/10/2020

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Cherokee Latitude and Jeep Cherokee Limited vehicles. One or both of the front lower control arms may fracture while driving.

Consequence

A front lower control arm fracture while driving may result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash without prior warning.

Remedy

Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front lower control arms and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2020. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W81. Note: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicles until they have been inspected and repaired if needed.

Have the VIN?

Decode your VIN for even more detailed specs including trim-level data.

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Cherokee — Other Model Years
2026202320222020201920182017201620152014
See Also
2021 Jeep Cherokee Lug Nut TorqueBest Oil for 2021 Jeep CherokeeAll Vehicles Using 0W-20 Full Synthetic OilAll Vehicles Using DOT 3Oil Change Guide: 2021 Jeep CherokeeWiper Replacement: 2021 Jeep Cherokee