Is your Jeep Cherokee running? If it is, that’s great. This SUV has an above-average reliability rating and could keep on going for years. However, due to a significant corrosion issue, over a million Jeep Cherokee models could suddenly stop in traffic. 

The Jeep Cherokee has a parking brake issue 

According to AutoBlog, over one million Jeep Cherokee models face a new parking brake issue. The brake could engage while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of accidents or injuries. 

This problem is so prevalent that the big dogs got involved. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating this issue in the 2014 – 2020 Cherokee models. They could be equipped with an electronic parking control module vulnerable to water encroachment. 

As a result, the water may cause a short, leading to the activation of the parking brake. This might cause the vehicle to stall. Also, the chances of sparking a fire increase when water meets electricity. But there are currently no reports of fires related to this problem.

Will the Cherokee have a recall? 

There could be a recall for 2014 – 2020 Jeep Cherokee models to correct this problem. However, there isn’t one at the moment. The investigation is the first step in the process, so there might be a recall based on what the NHTSA discovers. 

So far, the Office of Defects Investigation has received 80 reports from owners of the parking brake allegedly engaging while in motion. Based on repair invoices, the electronic parking brake module seems to be damaged due to water leaking into the module. 

This problem might sound familiar. Jeep recently issued a recall because water was leaking into the liftgate control module, causing it to short circuit and increasing the fire risk. 

The liftgate control module and parking brake control module are located in a similar area. The liftgate recall only includes around 55,687 2015 – 2016 Cherokee models that have the optional power liftgate. 

To correct this issue, repair technicians inspected the related parts for damage to replace them if necessary. They also installed a better moisture shield to protect the control unit. Perhaps the parking brake control model needs a better moisture shield too. 

How many miles will a Cherokee last? 

The life span of a Jeep Cherokee depends on how well it’s taken care of. Some models make it to 200,000 miles while others surpass 400,000 miles. According to Repair Pal, the Cherokee has an above-average reliability rating of four out of five. 

Plus, the Cherokee has an annual maintenance cost of about $520, which is lower than the average yearly vehicle cost of $652 for all vehicles. It has an average severity of repairs that is low, meaning significant problems are rare. 

If this brake problem turns into a recall, then owners will be notified via mail. Then they will have to take their Cherokee to a Stellantis dealership for maintenance. You don’t have to go to the same dealership where you purchased your Cherokee. 

The vehicle will be inspected, and repairs should be completed for free. Perhaps those who already had this issue corrected will be reimbursed. We will keep an eye on this problem to see how it develops.