general problems of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee - part 1

Put transfer case.

On September 14, 2025, while driving on the highway, the vehicle began shaking violently, the check engine light illuminated and began flashing, and the vehicle progressively lost power and became undriveable. The vehicle had to be towed. No warning lights appeared prior to the incident. This failure follows a documented history of power transfer unit (ptu) issues. In may 2024 at approximately 88,000 miles, diagnostic codes including c14a7-97 (ptu motor - component/system blocked) were retrieved at an independent service center. The 4-wheel drive system was found to be stuck engaged. The transfer case actuator motor was replaced in December 2024 at approximately 93,000 miles by the same shop at my expense. The vehicle is a single-speed ptu configuration and was excluded from equipment safety recall 02c (two speed ptu failure), despite experiencing substantially similar symptoms: loss of drive power, vibration, and drivetrain malfunction. The ptu and transfer case are available for inspection. The failure has been confirmed by an independent service center. Prior to the highway failure, the vehicle exhibited difficulty accelerating, particularly at highway speeds, and an audible whirring sound from the drivetrain. It also jerked forward when shifting into park. Safety was put at risk due to sudden loss of motive power at highway speed.

Car started making a grinding noise with service 4 wheel drive lamp, aware of a recall stopped driving, towed to dealer. Found code c14a7-97 described in NHTSA recall # 26v-290. Shift motor actuator replaced by dealership. Submission of receipts to fca with their outrageous response of withholding reimbursement pending a remedy for the recall. Recall issued since may 2026.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that the "service 4wd" message displayed. While attempting to reverse out of a parking space, the gear shifter shifted to neutral(n), and the message "still may move when in park" was displayed. The contact shifted the vehicle back into park(p) and turned off the vehicle, and there was an abnormal boom coming from the vehicle. The contact restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle resumed normal operation; however, the failure reoccurred the next day. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA campaign number: 26v290000(power train) and associated the failure with the recall. The failure reoccurred the next day; however, the vehicle failed to shift into drive(d). The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The contact notified the dealer of the failure and the recall; however, the dealer stated that the symptoms did not appear to be related to the recall. Two diagnostic tests were performed, and it was determined that the failure was not associated with the recall. The contact was texted a link that had a detailed list of the multiple issues with the vehicle; the contact was then given an estimate for the repair. The contact called several dealers about the failure, and the dealers agreed that, based on the symptoms described, the failure was associated with the recall. The contact attempted to make an appointment with other dealers; however, none was able to provide a loaner vehicle.

I own a 2019 Jeep Cherokee (VIN [xxx]). While driving, the vehicle displayed a “four-wheel drive service unavailable” / “service 4wd” warning. I recently had the 4wd warning inspected by a service department via a transfer case actuator repair, but I was advised that the ptu showed signs of wear and may be developing an issue. I have also previously experienced a “service electronic stability control” warning and have had an ongoing vibration when braking. Approximately one year ago, the vehicle’s rear differential required a complete rebuild. I am concerned these issues may indicate a larger drivetrain/4wd system defect, particularly in light of NHTSA recalls *-011 (fca 01c)** and *-290 (fca 40d)** involving ptu/drivetrain concerns affecting Jeep Cherokees. My VIN does not currently show an open recall. I am requesting that NHTSA review whether these symptoms and the observed ptu wear may be related to the recalled condition or another known safety defect. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 30 mph, the message “4wd-svc” was displayed while leaving a veterinary appointment. The screen was turning on and off, and there was a dinging sound coming from the vehicle while the message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who was unable to assist. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with ptu failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA campaign number: 26v290000 (power train). The manufacturer was contacted and declined to help. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. While driving approximately 30-55 mph, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact pulled over and turned off the vehicle. The vehicle was able to be restarted, but the failure persisted. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA campaign number: 26v290000 (power train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure by phone. The failure mileage was approximately 76,300.

I received a recall on my Jeep Cherokee in June (40d/NHTSA 26v-290) for power transfer unit failure. I contacted fca recall center [xxx]). The notice indicated that at present there was not remedy for the recall. In August we noticed that the vehicle was engaging into 4wd on dry pavement causing it to lunge when making turns at low speed. I reached to to fca and was directed to get the vehicle evaluated by the dealership. The dealer created a star case since this is the 4th time we have had this type of issue. The ptu identified for replacement. There is no timeline for when a replacement part will be available. Fca is trying to make us pay upfront for a rental car that they "promise" they will reimburse at a later date. We told them we did not have the budget for a rental and have requested a loan or that they direct pay for the rental. Fca needs to cover the cost of their safety issue not the consumer. We need a safe vehicle to drive in the interim, based on the recall notice we would be risking our lives and those of others if we drove this vehicle. I can provide lots of documentation if needed. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I am reporting a severe cascading drivetrain failure on my 2019 Jeep Cherokee trailhawk (VIN:[xxx] ) caused directly by defective components that are the subject of active federal safety recalls (NHTSA campaigns 01c / 40d / 25v011). This vehicle has a documented service history of two separate, consecutive power transfer unit (ptu) failures. The first ptu was replaced at a previous dealership, and a subsequent unit failed and was replaced later. The mechanical binding, slipping, and severe shock-loading caused by these factory-defective ptu modules repeatedly hammered the transmission's internal components during low-gear acceleration. As a direct result of this cumulative mechanical trauma, the transmission's 1st-gear clutch (clutch a, a mechanical interlocking dog clutch) has prematurely failed at 80,500 miles, leaving the vehicle completely disabled and unable to safely engage forward gears. The dealership confirmed internal failure of the 1st-gear clutch but refused 100% repair coverage, stating the current ptu is functional. However, because this is a sealed zf 9-speed transmission, the dealer cannot visually inspect clutch a for cumulative metal fatigue or micro-fractures without a total teardown. The manufacturer, stellantis/fca, is refusing to take corporate responsibility for the cascading damage caused to the transmission by their recalled, defective transfer units (corporate case number: xxx). I am requesting that NHTSA investigate how the structural defects in the 2019 Cherokee ptu systems are causing premature, catastrophic internal transmission failures in consumer vehicles information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I am filing this safety complaint regarding my 2019 Jeep Cherokee latitude plus 2. 4l awd. This vehicle is experiencing severe, life-threatening safety hazards involving sudden engine stalling and a complete loss of motive power while in motion. Despite my vehicle exhibiting the exact failure symptoms of multiple major fca/stellantis safety recalls for this model year, my specific VIN is currently showing as excluded from the recall database, leaving me with a highly dangerous vehicle and no dealership remedy. The vehicle is suffering from two distinct, interrelated defects that have recently caused terrifying incidents in heavy traffic. First, while driving, the dashboard suddenly illuminated both the "svc 4wd" (service 4wd) and the "auto start-stop" warning lights simultaneously. Immediately following these warnings, the vehicle lost forward power and unexpectedly rolled forward while I was fully stopped at a red light, failing to hold its position. This mirrors the exact mechanical behavior of the known Jeep ptu spline-wear defects that cause sudden rollaways and a loss of drive power. Second, the vehicle completely stalled out and shut down while I was driving on a highway exit ramp. The engine lost all power without warning, forcing me to coast through traffic, shift into park, and completely cycle the ignition to restart it. This engine shutdown creates an imminent risk of a rear-end collision on high-speed roads. The vehicle has a severe issue with oil consumption, which I suspect is dropping hydraulic pressure and forcing the engine to shut off while the car is shifted into drive. The manufacturer’s current recall parameters for the ptu failures and engine stalling issues on 2019 Cherokees are clearly too narrow. My vehicle is dealing with identical, dangerous safety failures as the units already recalled, but I am being denied a safe, free repair due to a VIN exclusion. I request that the NHTSA investigate this specific batch of 2019 vins and force a recall.

My vehicle (2019 Cherokee trailhawk) was subject to 2 ptu recalls. I had the first one replaced after the dash light came on, then had that one replaced after it failed and began leaking fluid. When it started having issues again, I took it to a dealership and they stated the transmissions first gear dog clutch had gone out/was damaged. It only has 80,500 miles on it and I believe the shock load from multiple failing factory recalled components directly caused cumulative strain to the clutch subsequently leading to premature failure. At this point in time I am facing an $8,800 repair cost, which needless to say would be a severe financial strain.

The motor experiences a malfunction, which the passengers feel as a slight ‘bump’ in the engine. The dash flashes service electronic stability control and the engine experiences a loss in power followed by a gain in power, experienced as slight lurching. The dash esc icon lights up yellow simultaneously as the esc button on the center dash instrument cluster. The vehicle continuously lurches as it tries to stabilize, at this point the most ginger touch to the accelerator is necessary, otherwise the engine may stall out. I have been left stalled in the middle of a road where there was moving traffic passing by both ways. The mechanic said the engine codes read- p0340- camshaft position sensor b1s1 & u1428- received engine torque request signal stuck.

Ptu failure. Jeep Cherokee manufacture in 2019 through February and again in December have recalled ptu failure. The ones manufactured in between were not recalled but have same dangerous failure.

Service 4w drive light came on vehicle stores going up in kleins as well as it shut off on me on an interstate thank goodness there was no vehicles I was able to get it started and get to safety on side of the road. My car is a 2019 Jeep Cherokee and it is not on the power trend recall and I’m not sure why when it’s having these issues it’s a very dangerous situation.

Svc 4 wd light come on suddenly and now noise is under car while driving.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated, with a loud screeching sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was driven to the local mechanic, who diagnosed that the power transfer unit was inoperable and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 26v290000 (power train). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 165,000.

The vehicle just shut off. There are 23 alerts codes.

Power transfer unit failure failed. Warning light of "4wd service" came up. Part is not available anywhere, and is on backorder until at least September.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 57 mph and depressing the accelerator pedal, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the vehicle. There was an abnormal burning odor inside the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. An independent mechanic or dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not taken a dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA campaign number: 26v290000 (power train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 95,000.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle vibrated and stalled. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle immediately. The "service 4wd" warning light was illuminated. The dealer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the failure was associated with NHTSA campaign number: 26v290000 (power train), which was previously completed on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.

The component/system that is malfunctioning is the power transfer unit. This is a well-known issue with Jeep Cherokees of many generations, including the 2019. It is available for inspection upon request, but it's being fixed at a Jeep dealership. No safety was put at risk, but if the ptu failed totally while driving, it would have put our safety for ourselves, and others ' safety at risk. This malfunction was confirmed/diagnosed at a dealership. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representative, or anyone else outside of ourselves and mechanics. There was a warning light that would come on intermittently but wasn't constant with no other symptoms showing. This happened for less than a week before a thumping started and we were able to bring it in to a shop.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train); and the contact was provided an unlimited warranty on ptu. The dealer was contacted and diagnosed the vehicle with a damaged ptu pending the repair. The contact stated that the dealer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the repair that was to be covered under the recall warranty. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.

My 2019 Jeep Cherokee experienced a power transfer unit (ptu) failure that matches the known ptu recall defect, even though my VIN is not currently listed. The first code that appeared was c1494?07, which is the recall?related dtc. Cochran Jeep in natrona heights performed the recall software update and cleared the code. They told us that if the code returned, initial diagnostics would then cost a minimum of $190. The code did not initially return after the software upgrade. Several days afterwards, a svc 4wd reappeared. During our state inspection, our trusted garage (performance auto) scanned the vehicle and found a new error code: c14a7?97. Further inspection revealed metal shavings throughout the ptu fluid, indicating internal mechanical failure. They documented the findings and provided a photo of the metal shaving in the fluid. They indicated that the vehicle “had a reprogram done to it but the ptu failed – metal all through the fluid. ” the awd system is no longer functioning. The new code: c14a7?97, indicates a ptu motor obstruction or blocked component. This occurred after the recall update and after the ptu had already suffered internal damage. We took the vehicle to hillview Jeep in greensburg. They read the new code but did not inspect the ptu or look at the photos showing metal contamination. They said that because the current code was different from the recall code and advised us to contact stellantis. The ptu has clearly failed internally, the awd system is inoperative, and the failure matches the progression described in recall 01c / NHTSA 25v?011 (internal wear, range fork damage, and loss of drive power). This is a safety issue because the vehicle can lose motive power, awd capability while driving and loss of park function while stabilized.

The rear differential is cracked and has seperated causing breakage at the snap ring due to faulty manufacturing. If the rear differential should fail while driving, the safety of myself, family and others on the road could be at extreme risk of injury or possible fatality caused by loss of control. The vehicle was inspected by an independent certified mechanic and snethkamp dealership for conformation. Signs of the issue were first discovered in early July when a whining type noise and slight shaking occured when pressing the accelerator which prompted me to take the vehicle to my mechanic who then discovered the rear differential had spllit at the snap ring.

Had cruise control on set on 64 up and down hills and around curves it just started going faster & faster I had to stomp the brakes 3 times to get it to quit afterwards the power train is now not shifting right it still was at times going to shop staying at 27 to 35 rpm’s, made it to shop.

An nhsta #26v290000 report received on 07/05/2026-power train from aaa, nhsta campaign #25v011000- power train, and nhsta #18v523000- service brakes, hydraulic foundation and components disc caliper. On July 9th, 2026, I was driving on the highway and about to approach the delaware memorial bridge. All the lights on the dashboard started flashing: temperature, engine, coolant, etc. I lost braking performance and the car's ability to use it because the entire electronic system locked. I could not put the car in neutral, nor could the truck drivers move it. I was in a dangerous location. Both repair shops also impacted the powertrain and differential; during the test drive, they noted noise from the rear differential when turning and a sense of locking up. These are symptoms of early differential failure. The initial gauge fluctuated, and due to the high temperature, it burned out the engine and radiator; the car smoked heavily inside and out. I have had to pay more than $ 3,500 in repairs for two recalls that were indicated to me when I called about them; they were for 2019 Jeeps, but not my vehicle. It appears as though the recall should be for all 2019 Jeep Cherokees. This is my 4th Jeep, and I have driven each one well over 140,000 miles before getting another vehicle. Before that, any recalls were for all Jeep makes and models that carried those parts or were manufactured with a possibility of failure. I want a refund for what I have had to put into the vehicle. If I had not pulled off the highway at the last exit as was laid on my mind by a higher power, I would have been a fatality due to not being able to move the car off the highway.

We noticed a recall will be issued for certain Jeep Cherokee regarding the failed ptu system. Our vehicle is not showing it will be included however we are having the identical issue. The 4wd service light comes on and when you excellerate, the vehicle chokes down and hesitates acting as if it will turn off. The vehicle has 73,000 miles and has never been driven in 4wd or off road.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the rear passenger’s side of the vehicle, with the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the message that the “4wd disabled” was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the power transfer unit and rear differential had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 95,000.

Subject: safety complaint – Jeep Cherokee ptu failure not included in recall 40d (NHTSA 26v-290) I am submitting this complaint regarding a safety issue with my 2019 Jeep Cherokee (3. 2l v6, ~86,000 miles). My vehicle is experiencing symptoms that closely match those described in recall 40d (NHTSA 26v-290) and 01c (NHTSA 25v-011), however my VIN is not included in the recall. During low-speed turns, the vehicle behaves as if the four-wheel-drive system is locked. The drivetrain binds and the vehicle jerks, hops, or “skips” through turns. This affects control and creates safety concerns, especially in traffic and parking situations. An independent third-party mechanic has inspected the vehicle and diagnosed a failure of the power transfer unit (ptu). This aligns directly with the defect described in recall 40d. Symptoms include: drivetrain binding during turns jerking/hopping when cornering sensation of locked differential or 4wd system abnormal driveline behavior consistent with ptu failure these conditions indicate a drivetrain malfunction that could worsen and potentially lead to loss of motive power or unintended vehicle movement, both identified risks in the recall. Given the clear similarity to recall 40d, I am concerned that additional vehicles outside the current VIN range are affected. I respectfully request that NHTSA: investigate expanding the recall population determine whether the ptu defect is more widespread require remedies for affected vehicles not currently included vehicle information: 2019 Jeep Cherokee, 3. 2l v6, ~86,000 miles.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal became inoperable while depressed. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was shifted into park, however, the vehicle failed to turn off. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road. The ignition coil was disconnected, the gearbox removed, and then shifted to neutral(n) to tow the vehicle to a dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 94,000.

My 2019 Jeep Cherokee limited suffered a complete loss of power while driving down the highway and now has a service 4wd light on as well.

4wd service light turning on and off intermittently, one incident where a grinding noise was noted, car was parked and when looked into further the noise was gone. Contined driving, but 4wd service light stayed on. Took to dealer and they informed me the ptu requires replacement due to failure, diagnostic code shared was c14a797. After further research I discovered safety recall 40d / 26v290000 for 2019 - 2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles, both dealer and stellantis/Jeep customer service have stated the vehicle is not included in the recall.

1. First ptu recall repair (February 27 – March 3, 2026) Jeep to dealership for recall 01c ptu replacement. I reported no drivability concerns, brake noises, vibrations, or drivetrain issues. The repair order contains no documentation of any problems with the driveshaft, cv axle, brakes, or related drivetrain components. 2. Ptu failure and second ptu replacement (may 1 – may 25, 2026) after recall repair, ptu failed, multiple warning lights appeared. Returned vehicle to dealership. I again did not report any squeaking brakes, vibrations, clunking noises, or drivetrain symptoms. Second ptu replacement done. The technician documented on the repair order: “vehicle is now working as design. ” 3. New symptoms immediately following second ptu replacement (June 4 – June 13, 2026). Immediately after picking up the vehicle on may 25, 2026, I noticed several new symptoms that had not existed before the ptu replacement: • clicking noises • clunking noises when applying the brakes • vibrations throughout the vehicle while in reverse with the brake pedal applied • abnormal driveline behavior. Returned vehicle to the dealership on June 4, 2026 for evaluation. I was informed that the vehicle required: • front brake replacement • rear driveshaft replacement. Repair order : “upon inspection, the technician found excessive play in the drive shaft. Also noticed front brakes squeaking. ” no explanation was provided as to how these conditions developed immediately after the ptu replacement or why no such conditions had been documented during either prior repair. 4. Immediately took car to independent mechanic for evaluation. Report: "right front axle inner joint not completely installed into the transmission/ptu assembly • hanger cut and missing • rear driveshaft not fully seated, with splines visibly exposed • ptu replacement unit marked “lkg” • all brake components inspected and found to be operating normally". 5. The vehicle is now mechanically compromised and unsafe to drive.

Ptu going out. Service 4 wheel drive light on. Car wasn’t in an accident. Four-wheel-drive will not activate any longer. Very costly repair for a part that just went out with not even being used.

Hi, I own a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. Requesting that my vehicle VIN number be included in the active recalls associated with the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, specifically related to the power transfer unit failure. The two active recalls that apply to my vehicle are: 40d and 01c. Recently, my vehicle displayed a "svc 4wd" warning message. I took the vehicle to an authorized Jeep dealership for diagnosis and paid a diagnostic fee of approximately $200. The dealership determined that the power transfer unit (ptu) needs to be replaced and provided a repair estimate of approximately $3,200. After receiving the vehicle diagnosis from the dealership and reading the possible life-threatening ramifications listed in the active recalls, which are very similar, if not the same as what the dealer diagnosed in my vehicle, I decided not to drive it. That has been very distressing for me because I don't have another vehicle, I don't have the money to repair the vehicle, and the dealer refused to repair it under the recall because my VIN is not listed on the ordered recall. My understanding is that your office has the authority to issue recalls for vehicle with defects that threaten public safety, and my situation described above is certainly dangerous to myself and others. At the time the warning message was displayed on the dashboard, (early June), my vehicle odometer displayed 71,876 miles. Based on publicly available information, ptu-related failures and others have been identified in Jeep Cherokee vehicles, and the symptoms affecting my vehicle are similar to those associated with known ptu issues. The vehicle has been consistently maintained through the Jeep dealership service department at 120 w mckinley Ave, mishawaka, indiana, 46545, united states. Please add my VIN number to the Jeep Cherokee ptu-related active recall so that the dealer can repair my vehicle under the recall and I can drive my car again. Sincerely, a very concerned and affected Jeep Cherokee driver.