general problems of the 2017 Jeep Cherokee - part 1

325 problems related to equipment have been reported for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2017 Jeep Cherokee based on all problems reported for the 2017 Cherokee.

1 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 03/12/2026

The service 4wd light is on in this vehicle. Upon taking it to my personal mechanic to fix the issue, it was determined that the code was associated with a recall. This recall did not include my VIN number but is a safety recall on other vehicles. When calling Jeep/Chrysler to determine my next steps, I was advised to bring the vehicle to a dealer as they could not accept anything from my personal mechanic. My vehicle was dropped off at a dealer who then reached out and wanted to charge me $350 just plug the vehicle in for the code. Upon calling again, I was advised that I would have to incur the entire cost to have the issue fixed and if it was determined that my vehicle would be included in the recall at a later date I could submit receipts and be reimbursed. The code is ptu failure related and could cause possible loss of power to the wheels. This is a major safety concern as well as a huge expense to fix. The vehicle is available at any time for inspection. Please advise what my next steps and if I can be offered goodwill assistance as I do not want to incur a $2000 - $4000 expense for a known recall based on identical failure.

2 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 03/11/2026

Component: power transfer unit (ptu) [xxx] , but my VIN is not included. The power transfer unit has failed. This appears to be a manufacturing defect identical to those listed under the recall. I am requesting immediate inclusion and repair under the recall provisions. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

3 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 02/25/2026

My car suddenly started making a loud noise while driving and one day , I was driving to work and my car started to lose power it won’t accelerate even thoe I was trying to accelerate my car was slowing the speed down and I had to return to my house with emergency lights because my car won’t accelerate . The next day I took my car to a collision center and they changed some of the old car parts . I’m trying to submit a reimbursement for this recall but the website won’t let me submit the form along with the invoice I attached to the reimbursement request .

4 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/19/2026

To whom it may concern, I am filing a safety complaint regarding my 2017 Jeep that is currently under recall for the power transfer unit (ptu). I experienced a very frightening situation while driving in traffic when my vehicle would not properly stay in place, and I had to keep firm pressure on the brake to prevent it from rolling back into traffic. If I had not reacted quickly, this could have resulted in a serious accident or injuries. I have been informed that this issue is related to a serious recall involving the ptu, which can cause loss of power and rollaway risk. However, I have been told that there are no parts available yet and no timeline for when the repair will be completed. I am extremely concerned about continuing to drive a vehicle with a known safety defect. This is my third Jeep, and I recently paid this vehicle off. I depend on it daily for my job, to get my little girl to school. I am very thankful that this situation was not worse, but it easily could have been. I should not have to worry about my vehicle rolling into traffic due to a known recall issue. I have contacted Jeep recall representatives regarding this matter and was informed that no loaner vehicle would be provided and that if I needed alternate transportation, I would have to pay out of pocket. I do not believe it is reasonable for consumers to bear additional financial burden when the vehicle has a known safety defect under recall. I respectfully request that this matter be investigated and that action be taken to ensure repairs are made available as soon as possible to protect myself and other drivers on the road. Sincerely, whitney phillips.

5 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/15/2026

Tacoma Dodge Chrysler Jeep ram at address: 4101 s tacoma way, tacoma wa 98409 the service provider (andrew) has said his boss is telling him to have the vehicle moved and putting the responsibility on us at our own expense. We opened a case us customer care recall department case #[xxx] is pressuring us to move our 2017 Jeep at our own expense. It is inoperable and will not drive due to a safety recall that has been open for over 1 year without a remedy. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

6 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 12/24/2025

Shifter module problems. . The car jerks hard between shifts. The car reversing on it own and wont stop. Warning light in dash "service shifter soon".

7 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 11/01/2025

On 11/1/25 we were driving our Jeep and it malfunctioned while at a stop light. We heard a loud "clunk" and the car would barely go and if we tried to put in park, it would continue to roll. We were on top of a hill so thankfully we didnt roll back or into traffic. We could not drive the car and had to have it towed since it was not safe to drive. Our Jeep is at an authorized Jeep dealer since 11/3/25 and we were told the issue was a power transfer unit that would be covered on the recall but the part was on backorder until 12/2. Jeep would only cover $50/day for a car rental, so we had to rely on borrowing cars from others. Once 12/2 came, we reached out to the dealership and they said the part ship date was moved to 12/18! this is not a timely manner. We have made at least 3 calls to Jeep over the past week, and they keep telling us since 12/10/25 that they will let us know in 2 days. . . 2 days pass and they transfer our case. Another two days pass and still no call from them so I called them back and they have yet to call me. We had our Jeep in the week of 11/17 or 11/24 for inspection and it passed. We noticed some lagging when we were going up hills in the 1-2 rpm range but mechanic did not notice it. Between the inspection and when it finally broke down, no lights came on and there were no warning messages. Not until the car broke down on 11/1.

8 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 10/06/2025

My car is jerking when driven and enabling the park brake while driving. There is a recall on other similar models. I purchased this vehicle brand new and within the same year, had the engine replaced by the manufacturer due to mechanical issues. Please assist in getting this ptu fixed not at my expense. The dealership is telling me $3k but I feel this should be covered due to other recalls and the fact that this motor was replaced shortly after purchasing the car.

9 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 08/01/2025

Need new transfer case. Why isn’t my Jeep under a recall for this problem - when so many other 2017 Jeeps are ?.

10 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 07/17/2025

I was driving and my service 4wd light came on. Took vehicle to dealership I bought it from and they done a test on it. It came back saying ptu , power transfer unit went out on it. This is what engages the 4 wd in it. I told them I seen Jeep had recalls on 2017 Jeep Cherokee like mine and they told me my VIN number wasn't on list. I called Chrysler Jeep and was told the same story that my VIN wasn't on list . I did receive a case number of [xxx]. I then contacted the ohio attorney general’s office in columbus ohio and they contacted Chrysler Jeep and got no where with them as well and was told my vehicle VIN number isnt on recall list. I was given a case number there [xxx] and then was told to contact you. The dealership ordered the part for my Jeep but they said its not available right now and they dont know when it will come in. Its gonna cost me $3989. 24 + tax to repair it if or when the part comes in. If theres problems getting the part to fix my vehicle, wouldnt it appear that Chrysler knows the parts are going bad in the vehicles including all VIN numbers instead of just a certain VIN number ??? information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

11 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 07/15/2025

Transfer case going out. The warning light comes on when driving.

12 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 07/12/2025

I purchased a used 2017 Jeep Cherokee trailhawk in March 2025 for $13,000. Four days later, the transfer case failed while driving, leaving me stranded in traffic and requiring a tow. The dealership replaced the transfer case using a used part, but did not disclose that to me at the time. Roughly four months later, the vehicle failed again, this time grinding gears and failing to shift properly out of park or into drive. It began rolling forward while supposedly in park, and now requires the emergency brake to be engaged at all times to prevent it from moving. This makes the vehicle unsafe to operate or park and creates a serious safety hazard for myself and others. There were no dashboard alerts or warning lights before either failure. The most recent symptoms appeared suddenly in July 2025 and have persisted. The initial failure was confirmed by the dealership, but I have not had the second failure diagnosed due to lack of trust in the dealership's work. The issues are plainly visible and reproducible. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer or insurance representatives. I have filed complaints with the new york attorney general, dmv, and bbb. I later discovered that an open NHTSA safety recall on the powertrain was issued before the date of sale, but the dealership had me sign a document stating there were no recalls and failed to disclose this recall entirely. I am working with a lawyer and seeking resolution through consumer protection laws and formal complaints.

13 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 06/18/2025

I have had several different warning lights come on. 1. 4wd system unavailable service required 2. 4wd overheated temporarily unavailable 3. Stop/start not ready engine temperature too low received several codes showing faulty equipment. C140b-4b transfer case motor overheating-drawing excessive amperage 11-13 amps. Rear differential has faulty pump excessive end play at l/side axle Jeep will need a rr differential and transfer case assy I have taken vehicle to two different mechanics checking out the problems and potential repairs. It has taken a period of time to get to this point as I had the car looked at and the service light came on very intermittently and I did not drive the car much as I was unemployed during the summer. Since going back to work and using the car daily, my commute is only 1. 3 miles, the light has started coming on more bringing me back to have vehicle diagnosed. At one point during this period of time, I also had to replace the oil cooler making me change the oil just after an oil change. Also, had to change the antifreeze. There are several recalls for similar problems, and I believe this is a Jeep issue which should be repaired by a Jeep dealer. I have serviced this vehicle and followed Jeep guidelines for Jeep service throughout vehicles life span. Jeep has so many different recalls and seem to minimize the outcome of affected vehicles. I am requesting Jeep service for these problems that should not occur with a properly served vehicle. Thank you.

14 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 06/16/2025

Service shifter alert.

15 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 05/19/2025

I was driving and making a right hand turn my car just shut off I was in drive and it would not go. I had to shift to neutral and restart the car. This is not the first time its happened. Also my service shifter light comes on and my shifter is all lite up.

16 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 05/10/2025

Car has been broken down since may 2025. My car started jerking forcefully with my child in the car. Brought it in to be assessed. They could not figure it out. After two more times bringing it back in due to the jerking worsening, the car completely broke down in the middle of the road. Apparently recall has been active since January 2025. I was never notified that there even was a safety recall on my vehicle. Vehicle still does not have a recall remedy and I have been carless for 10 months. Not drivable. Has been sitting for a long time. Very frustrating and upsetting. Need my vehicle back. Have been making car payments on a car I don’t even have. Want reimbursement/ my car back.

17 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 05/05/2025

Vehicle suddenly loss power while driving and not accelerating properly. Had vehicle to stop stopped while driving and message appear where I had to put car in park before I could move again. I continue to have acceleration issues.

18 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 05/01/2025

It says service shifter and then every gear lights up meaning park,drive,reverse and netural are all lit.

19 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 04/25/2025

Power transfer unit 4 wheel drive system ptu motor component system operation obstructed or blocked.

20 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 03/10/2025

Notification of "service shifter" light came on. After reading other reviews this is a common problem and not easily diagnosed. Other vehicle owners noted that the car will just stop while in drive and moving! is this a major safety issue. Others states this is a recall item? please advise.

21 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 03/05/2025

4wd light has been on along with engine light. Took it to a mechanic but and a problem with cylinder 2 came up and they checked it and everything was fine. T'll sometimes slightly roll in park before perking to a stop. While driving it'll sputter sometimes.

22 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 03/03/2025

My Jeep vehicle currently has a safety recall. My car has been in the shop for two months with no update with the recall. My vehicle currently is in the shop and is not drivable due to the ptu failure. I am currently waiting for the recall remedy. I need my vehicle for work and it is very upsetting having to wait months for repairs.

23 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 02/27/2025

The issue involved a malfunction of the two-speed power transfer unit, which is available for inspection upon request. This malfunction created a serious safety risk, as it could have caused me to crash or resulted in another vehicle crashing into me. The problem was confirmed by an auto machanic that came to my home to inspect the vehicle because I was unable to drive it to get it inspected. Before the failure, a warning message appeared on the dashboard while I was driving that read “service 4wd. ” the alert came on briefly and then turned off. This happened in February of 2025. I was told that the part would be available on December 18th, then it changed to January 8th, and there is still no notice of when I can schedule to have my vehicle fixed.

24 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 02/24/2025

The "service 4wd" light came on. Upon inspection, the dealership found a problem with the power transfer unit, which lines up with the recall. I have been informed by the dealership that the replacement part may not be in until may of 2025 due to a backorder.

25 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 02/24/2025

Issue: persistent “service shifter” warning on 2017 Jeep Cherokee I own a 2017 Jeep Cherokee, and the “service shifter” warning continues to appear even after replacing both the wiring harness and bezel. Despite these repairs, the issue persists, creating safety concerns and frustration. This appears to be a recurring problem for many Jeep owners, yet no permanent fix has been provided. I am seeking further assistance or a long-term solution to resolve this issue. Jeep should address this defect to ensure customer safety and satisfaction.

26 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 02/20/2025

I am not sure what is failing but I was driving on the highway when all the sudden it lost power and when I pressed the gas to try and get back up to speed it acted like there was no power at all the started to kick in very slowly. This was extremely dangerous and when I got off the highway it did it more again. I believe this would fall under the ptu recall but I've looked, and it's not listed as my vehicle is included in the recall.

27 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 02/19/2025

I purchased a used 2017 vehicle in late 2024, and within a few months it became inoperable due to an open safety recall. I was driving on the highway with my children in the car when the vehicle stopped accelerating, putting mine and my children’s lives at risk. It was then confirmed the ptu is faulty at falling under the recall known as 01c. Via a local dealership service department. I have not had my vehicle since February of 2025 (it is now end of may 2025) the manufacturer has acknowledged the recall but has not provided a repair timeline, and the vehicle has now been out of service for over 90 days. They have denied my buyback request despite there still being no fix/resolution. To maintain transportation, I have had to rent a vehicle out-of-pocket and wait for reimbursement which has not been timely and has resulted in significant ongoing expenses causing immense financial hardship. While I was initially told I would be reimbursed weekly, the reimbursements have been inconsistent and delayed. Recently, the manufacturer changed its reimbursement parameters, requiring weekly in-person visits to the rental provider to obtain an “official receipt” — adding more logistical and financial strain.

28 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 02/08/2025

Every so often when putting vehicle in park while running or at start up I get a dash message “service shifter” and all the gear lights light up and I’m unable to shift out of park. The dealership mechanic has now looked at it three times replacing the shifting bezel, wiring harness, and shift box. The issues still happens almost daily.

29 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 02/01/2025

The vehicle has excessive clicking in the rear. Shifter service light required light on dash . Went to dealership and got diagnosis . They found left rear axle at differential has excessive movement. Rear drive shaft center bearings are loose. Both recommend replacing rear differential. I have quotes from two different auto repair places including Jeep dealer service . Vehicle only has 50k miles on it and is driven only around town. I am the original owner. I strongly believe that this issue is connected with the recall 01c/w47. I feel my vehicle is unsafe to drive and the out of pocket cost is extremely high for a repair on a vehicle with such low mileage.

30 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/30/2025

I had my 2017 Jeep repaired at the mechanic on January 30. I drove it straight home from the mechanic and within five minutes the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The service provided was tires, struts control arms, and of course placing the tire sensors on the car, no electrical work and no prior incidents of electrical concerns. The car is a total loss. It started in the engine compartment. I'm sure and burned all the way through the backseat.

31 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/22/2025

Safety recall in January 2025, it is now almost may 2025 and still no remedy has been made.

32 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/21/2025

I was driving on the highway and I lost the ability to accelerate after getting a pop noise and was forced to pull over. The car had begun to rev up on its own then I wasn't able to accelerate at all, I could hear the engine moving but the wheels weren't getting power. I had the vehicle towed to a dealership ship and authorized payment on all the necessary inspections to determine if the incident had to due with the ptu recall. The service department said it's most likely the recall but I'm out of luck because they can't officially say it is because then they works have to provide me a rental. They then tricked me into going to the dealership to look at cars that weren't there and tell me I need to call there customer service line, after almost a month of trying to get any information out of them I finally got an email back saying nothing and thanking me for being a loyal customer! the car has been out of commission for almost a month now and it's effecting my ability to do my job and live my life. I'd appreciate a rental until this is resolved but would prefer for them to buy out the pre-incident value of the car so I can move on with my life. The incident is very clearly what is stated in the recall notice for my 2017 Jeep Cherokee.

33 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/17/2025

There are 3 things: sometimes when I go to start my Jeep, it will start and cut off. Secondly: my rear back up camera keeps going in and out. I’ve had it replaced and it still goes out. Especially if it rains. Lastly, my “service shifter” light pops up randomly while I am driving and all of the lights on the gear shift will light up. It will not let me upload my videos of the screen.

34 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/10/2025

We continuously receive dashboard messaging related to this defect to replace the ptu. All lights illuminate near the shift knob, too. I'm scared I will lose motive power and cause a crash without warning or lose park function to cause injury. I received the recall letter a year ago in January 2025. I have checked with the dealer who sold us the Jeep and they say there isn't a fix for this. I understand that stellantis might not have an approved fix, but is there another way this recall can be repaired? the messaging is becoming more and more frequent. It seems that the input shaft snap ring needs to be fully seated to stop uncontrolled movement of the input shaft inward. Not fixing this soon will continue to damage the range shift sleeve, or create more spline damage or range fork damage. The drivetrain control module dtcm needs to be reprogrammed with new software to detect and monitor wear in the ptu. With the messaging I'm getting, I need to know, too, that the warranty extension terms are unlimited years/unlimited mileage per the recall notice from January 2025. I feel so unsafe driving my car and will not have my mom, kids, grandkids, husband, or other passengers with me for their own safety. Help, please!.

35 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 11/26/2024

Driving on the highway I was alerted with a warning on my dashboard display to "service shifter". At the same time all of the gear symbols illuminated red and stayed on. I did a web search regarding this issue and found this is happening to a very large number of Jeeps like mine and suggesting I fill out this form.



Cherokee Service Bulletins
Cherokee Safety Recalls
Cherokee Defect Investigations