2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude: A Review of Common Problems and Benefits

The 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude is a popular compact SUV offering great versatility for both city driving and outdoor adventures. While the Cherokee Latitude is praised for its off-road capabilities and comfort it does have its share of issues like any other vehicle. We will take a comprehensive look at the common problems owners might encounter with this model its benefits and some real owner opinions to help you make an informed choice.

A Quick Overview of the 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude

The 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude stands out as an attractive entry in the SUV market offering style comfort and capability for both everyday driving and light off-roading. It comes equipped with a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine or a 3.2L V6 with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The trim levels range from the base Latitude to the higher-end Trailhawk and Limited providing a variety of options for different preferences and budgets.

Engine & Performance Issues

Engine Stalling & Rough Idle

One of the most reported complaints for the 2018 Cherokee Latitude is engine stalling or rough idling. Several owners have mentioned that their SUV stalls without warning especially when idling at a stoplight or slowing down. A few factors could be causing this like the transmission software or fuel delivery issues.

Transmission Problems

The 9-speed automatic transmission found in the 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude has been a common source of complaints. Drivers have reported delayed gear shifts jerking while changing gears and difficulty in finding the right gear when accelerating. This can lead to a less smooth driving experience and potential safety issues if it happens unexpectedly on the road.

Solutions to Transmission Issues

• Jeep has offered software updates aimed at resolving some of these transmission quirks. It’s worth checking if your vehicle has received all the necessary updates if you’re facing such problems.
• In more severe cases the transmission may need to be repaired or replaced. Consulting a professional mechanic and addressing any symptoms early on can help to prevent long-term damage.

Powertrain Warranty Considerations

While some issues may arise with the Cherokee Latitude it’s important to note that Jeep offers a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. So if these problems arise while your vehicle is still covered it might not be a huge expense to address them.

Interior Comfort and Technology Drawbacks

Uconnect Infotainment System

The Uconnect system is generally well-regarded for its intuitive design and user-friendliness. However some 2018 Cherokee Latitude owners have encountered glitches like:

• Freezing screens
• Slow response times
• Occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues

How to Handle Infotainment Issues

If you face any of these problems resetting the Uconnect system by holding down the power and volume buttons might solve the issue temporarily. Otherwise visiting a dealership for a firmware update might be necessary.

Seating and Comfort Concerns

The Latitude trim comes with cloth seats which some owners find less comfortable over long trips compared to the higher trims’ leather seating options. Additionally there have been complaints about the seat cushion being too firm or not providing adequate lumbar support.

Opinions from Owners

"While the seats are okay for daily driving I find them uncomfortable for long-distance trips," says Alex Collantes a Cherokee Latitude owner. "I wish Jeep had added a bit more padding or better support for long drives."

Fuel Economy: A Mixed Bag

The 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway for the 4-cylinder engine while the V6 achieves a slightly lower rating. Many compact SUV buyers look for fuel efficiency and while the Cherokee Latitude’s numbers are respectable it’s not a leader in this area.

Pros and Cons of the Fuel Economy

• The 4-cylinder engine provides better mileage but sacrifices some power especially noticeable when merging on the highway or passing other vehicles.
• The V6 engine offers more robust performance but at the cost of fuel efficiency.

If fuel economy is a top priority there are more efficient options in the compact SUV class like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.

Reliability & Recalls

Recalls and Service Bulletins

The 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude has had its share of recalls primarily focused on potential issues with the transmission and electrical systems. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Transmission Reprogramming Recall: Some models required a reprogramming of the transmission control module to fix stalling issues.
• Electrical System Updates: A recall for the power liftgate module that could potentially short-circuit due to water intrusion.

Maintenance and Reliability Ratings

The Cherokee Latitude has been rated average in terms of reliability by sources like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. Regular maintenance and adherence to service schedules are crucial to keeping the Cherokee in optimal condition.

Cargo Space & Practicality Concerns

Smaller Cargo Space

The Jeep Cherokee Latitude offers 24.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 54.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V or the Ford Escape the Cherokee’s cargo space is relatively small making it less practical for those needing to haul large items frequently.

Rear Seat Space

Rear passenger space is another aspect where the 2018 Cherokee falls a bit short. Taller passengers may find the legroom to be somewhat cramped particularly for longer journeys.

Towing Capacity & Off-Road Capability

Pros: Towing and Off-Road Prowess

One area where the 2018 Cherokee Latitude shines is its towing capacity and off-road ability. When properly equipped with the V6 engine and a towing package the Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 pounds which is impressive for its class. Additionally the available Active Drive 4x4 system makes it capable of handling dirt trails snow and light off-road conditions.

Cons: Off-Road Over Utility?

While the Cherokee’s off-road capabilities are a big selling point it’s worth considering if that’s something you’ll truly need. The trade-off is reduced cargo space and lower fuel efficiency compared to more road-focused competitors.

Owner's Perspective: Living with a 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude

Many owners like Alex Collantes find that the Cherokee Latitude offers a good blend of comfort and capability despite its drawbacks. “I enjoy driving the Cherokee Latitude for its smooth handling and the ability to tackle both city and light trail driving without any issues” says Collantes. “But the fuel economy and occasional transmission quirks are something to consider especially if you plan on doing a lot of driving."

Pros & Cons at a Glance

Here’s a quick breakdown of the 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude’s positives and potential drawbacks:

Pros

• Strong Off-Road Capability: Great for light trails and moderate off-roading with the right trim and packages.
• Towing Capacity: Impressive 4,500 lbs towing ability when properly equipped.
• Comfortable Ride Quality: Smooth ride over both paved and rough roads.

Cons

• Transmission Issues: Common complaints about jerky shifting and software glitches.
• Average Fuel Economy: Less efficient compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
• Limited Cargo Space: Smaller cargo area than many competitors in the compact SUV class.
• Infotainment Glitches: Uconnect system may freeze or have connectivity problems.

Tips for Potential Buyers of a 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude

If you’re considering purchasing a 2018 Cherokee Latitude here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Test the Transmission: During a test drive pay close attention to the transmission behavior. Feel for any jerks or delayed shifts as these could be signs of the common issues reported.
• Check for Recalls & Updates: Make sure the vehicle has all the latest software updates and that any recalls have been addressed.
• Consider Your Needs: If you plan to tow or do off-road driving the Cherokee is a strong choice. But if you need better fuel economy or cargo space other compact SUVs may be a better fit.

Final Thoughts: Is the 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Right for You?

The 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude is a compelling option for those seeking a versatile SUV with off-road capabilities towing capacity and a comfortable ride. However it's crucial to be aware of the potential transmission and reliability issues as well as its limitations in cargo space and fuel efficiency.

"At the end of the day it’s about what fits your lifestyle best" says Alex Collantes. "For me the Cherokee works well but it’s definitely not perfect. It’s all about knowing what you need in a vehicle."

So whether you’re someone who needs an SUV to tackle a variety of terrains or simply need a daily driver with a bit of rugged flair the Cherokee Latitude may be worth a look but make sure to weigh its benefits against the potential drawbacks.

References:

• Consumer Reports: Ratings on the reliability and ownership experience of the 2018 Jeep Cherokee
• J.D. Power: Reliability ratings and owner feedback
• Jeep Official Website: Specifications and details on warranties and recalls
• Owner Testimonials: Including quotes and insights from Jeep Cherokee Latitude owners