1997 Jeep Cherokee Exterior lighting Problems
- Complaints
- 7about this part
- Share
- 2%of 390 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 184,500miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 7 complaints about the exterior lighting of the 1997 Jeep Cherokee, 2% of the 390 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 184,500 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Takata recall when I engage high beams or turn on my right blinker my hazards flash quickly in the back only. I have been pulled over multiple times due to this issue. Have had multifunction switch replaced.”
NHTSA complaint #11157114, filed 2018-12, 170,000 miles“Headlights while driving were occasionally turning off and on. Side lights remained on and instrument panel lights remained on. Upon investigation for cause, discovered connector on headlight/dimmer switch was melted due to excessive heat buildup. Suspect due to several connectors on dimmer switch were loose adding resistance to the flow of current creating excessive heat in switch and connector. Switch was replaced and problem was resolved. Since the switch provides power directly to the headlights, this creates a potential fire hazard. …”
NHTSA complaint #10676302, filed 2015-01, 199,000 miles“1997 Jeep Cherokee; since approx 84,500 miles turn signals (both directions) have failed to operate properly. They indicate appropriate turn but do not return to neutral position. Dealer says switch in steering column needs replacing at cost of approximately $350.00. I have owned many cars since about 1956 and this is the first time I have had this problem. The original workmanship/materials are a big question in my mind.”
NHTSA complaint #10056877, filed 2004-02“Consumer was test driving and made a u turn and vehicle shut off with prior warning. Mechanic told him that fuel pressure gauge, and then a light came on. Also, tail lights were out, and computer was reset. Dealership was aware of problem.”
NHTSA complaint #891724, filed 2001-06“Engine check light illuminated on three occasions, indicating malfunction. When this occurs, the vehicle will not shift gears, the vehicle will also hesitate and lose power when accelerating. Dealers has replaced the computer system which did not remedy the problem. Please give any further details.”
NHTSA complaint #815817, filed 1997-08Exterior lighting: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 4 | 8% |
| 2021 | 1 | 1% |
| 2020 | 1 | 0% |
| 2019 | 18 | 1% |
| 2018 | 2 | 0% |
| 2017 | 8 | 1% |
| 2016 | 20 | 1% |
| 2015 | 37 | 2% |
| 2014 | 47 | 2% |
| 2001 | 10 | 4% |
| 2000 | 7 | 2% |
| 1999 | 12 | 3% |
| 1998 | 13 | 3% |
| 1997 | 7 | 2% |
| 1996 | 7 | 2% |
| 1995 | 7 | 1% |
| 1994 | 1 | 0% |
| 1993 | 3 | 1% |
| 1992 | 3 | 3% |
| 1991 | 3 | 1% |
| 1990 | 6 | 2% |
| 1989 | 5 | 3% |
| 1988 | 2 | 2% |
Other parts of the 1997 Jeep Cherokee
141 complaintsBrakes
75 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
47 complaintsEngine cooling
45 complaintsAir bags
28 complaintsElectrical system
23 complaintsVehicle speed control
15 complaintsEquipment
12 complaintsLatches, locks and linkages
11 complaintsSteering
11 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
10 complaintsSuspension
9 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1997 Jeep Cherokee
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology