Jeep Cherokee burning and leaking oil issue due to bad piston rings, class action lawsuit filed on Jeep Cherokee

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jan 31, 2026
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Jeep Cherokee owners report experiencing issues with burning and leaking oil, primarily due to faulty piston rings. This problem has led to a class action lawsuit against Fiat Chrysler, as owners claim the vehicles have an engine defect that causes excessive oil consumption. The design flaw in the Tigershark engine results in piston rings not functioning correctly with the cylinders, leading to oil burning. Additionally, mechanics can perform pressure tests to identify if valve seals or piston rings are the culprits behind the oil burning problem. Other reported causes of burning oil in Jeep Cherokees include engine overheating, faulty gaskets and seals, and issues with piston rings or valve seals. Regular maintenance, such as checking for leaks and changing the oil, is recommended to help prevent these issues and extend the vehicle's lifespan. Owners experiencing oil burning or leaking are advised to address these problems promptly to avoid further complications and potential engine damage.

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Jeep Cherokee vehicles with this problem

1 model year affected
Average mileage: 55,000 miles
(55,000 - 55,000)

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