Jeep Cherokee sluggish acceleration with a clogged feeling on Jeep Cherokee

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Jeep Cherokee owners report experiencing sluggish acceleration, often described as a clogged feeling, which can stem from various issues. Commonly, poor engine performance due to clogged air filters, worn spark plugs, or faulty fuel injectors has been identified as a contributing factor. Additionally, if the check engine light is illuminated, owners should use a code scanner to check for trouble codes in the powertrain control module (PCM). Rough idle and poor acceleration may also occur due to problems with the engine components, including fuel injectors, spark plugs, wires, or the mass airflow sensor, necessitating proper diagnosis and troubleshooting. Furthermore, some owners note that transmission behavior, such as shifting gears too quickly or hesitating during acceleration, can exacerbate the sluggish feeling. Lastly, a delayed gas pedal response, where acceleration does not match the pressure applied until nearly floored, can create a perception of sluggishness. Addressing these concerns through maintenance and repairs is essential for improving acceleration performance in the Jeep Cherokee.

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