general problems of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee - part 1

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle independently accelerated. The “service 4wd” warning light was illuminated. The contact pressed and held down the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. In addition, the contact stated that when the vehicle stopped, the vehicle rolled forward. The contact turned off the vehicle. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle started. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with the failure of the transfer case, rear differential, and the engine oil cooler. The contact was informed that the transfer case, rear differential and engine oil cooler needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that on March 4,2026, the vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train). The contact stated that the vehicle was not inspected, and the recall repair was not performed; however, the recall was marked as completed by the dealer. The contact was informed that the failure was not associated with the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 176,465.

I was driving on the highway going approximately 75mph, everything was 100% normal. All of a sudden, and at once, my steering wheel started to shake, the car lost power/acceleration and speed quickly dropped. The engine was making loud noises. We pulled over, called my mechanic I've had for 35yrs. We were able to get the car to the garage driving very slowly, it wouldn't go above maybe 30mph. My mechanic initially did a diagnostic test which indicated issues with coils??after further investigation he, and 2 of his fellow mechanics determined it was a much more serious issue that has resulted in a total malfunction of the motor. I bought my car in 2021 with 46,740 miles on it, it currently has 84,756 miles. I still owe $4349. 63, 1yr left on my loan. My mechanic said he is aware of a number of recalls on Jeeps . I looked up my VIN bought found nothing. Similar issues, but nothing with that VIN.

The service 4wd light came on and vehicle doesn’t have 4wd capabilities right now because the ptu is bad. They also can’t get the part because so many people are having the same issue. I have a Jeep for the 4wd capabilities and had difficulty driving to work during a winter snow storm because the dealer can’t fix it because too many people need the part. Other Jeeps are under recall for the same issue.

When going over bumps such as speed bumps or bumps in the road there has been a clunking noise and sometimes a grind, for a few seconds. With this the abs light also comes on. Then goes off. This has went on for the past 6-7months. Its not every time,it is very random. It will do it and not again for a while. On 3/16/26 the svc fwd warning light came on while driving. After restarting it it takes about 30seconds and it comes back on and stays on until the vehicle is shut off. There has been a couple times the vehicle has hesitated to go forward when the gas was pressed. I have taken it to an auto shop and they found code: c14a7-97 for ptu failure. They recommended to contact Jeep since there is a recall for that year. When the dealer checked my VIN it does not fall under the recall. I am afraid of driving it as I don't want it to stall on me or cause an accident as I usually have my young child with me. The shop said it would be around $6000 to repair. If not under the recall.

Warning light indicating "svc 4wd" came on. Drive became erratic. Immediately took to Jeep dealer and found that ptu had failed though this VIN apparently not covered by ongoing recall (01c) of vehicles of the same year, make, and model. Parts to make repairs unavailable and on indefinite backorder. Seems clear that recall 01c should have been much broader and covered all vehicles with this well-known and frequent catastrophic failure. Vehicle essentially rendered inoperable and unusable and no projected date from manufacturer for receiving needed parts. Utter collapse of supply chain.

On March 1, 2026, while traveling south on colonel rodman highway, I heard a sudden explosive noise and the Jeep bucked and jerked violently, nearly causing an accident. We were able to reach the breakdown lane, but the situation created a highly hazardous driving condition. My research identified a significant ptu recall and TSB 9004402, which acknowledges complexities and compatibility issues between 20-plate and 24-plate rdm designs for this model year. This confirms the component is not a standard wear-and-tear part, but a specialized system with known engineering concerns. I brought the vehicle to tasca Jeep and was advised that the rear differential failed and the ptu blew apart, with an estimated repair cost of $9,637. It is unacceptable for owners to bear the cost of what appears to be a known safety-related defect. This is not an inconvenience — it is a serious safety issue. I am requesting a full investigation and written clarification as to why no recall or broader corrective action has been issued. There were no lights or warnings on the dash, no indication this could/would happen. I look forward to your prompt response.

I was driving on the highway and experienced what felt like a brief power outage where my vehicle instantly dropped speed. I estimate it was approximately 10-15 mph. Everything appeared to return to normal at the time until approximately 5 minutes later when I exited the highway and it began making a loud noise. I drove a couple miles before getting concerned and thinking I don't want to risk breaking down on the side of the highway going home or doing further damage to an expensive component such as engine or transmission. I used roadside assistance to tow my vehicle to my nearest dealership. The tow driver confirmed he heard the noise inside the vehicle while I stood outside and could not hear it. The dealership called me to approve the diagnostic fee and also asked questions about what happened. In hindsight, they had asked a very specific question regarding the noise sound and location which, in my opinion, shows they instantly suspected the issue that they would later report. After approving the fee, they sent a quote focused primarily around the rear differential housing being cracked for an estimate of $5221. 85. I asked how this would happen and the service representative explained that the choke inside the differential broke and a piece of metal inside it cracked the housing. I began researching differentials in vehicles and specifically in Jeep Cherokees, I learned very quickly that this is a very common problem which explains how a representative was able to tell me the cause without seeing it. No warnings were ever issued on the dashboard and no symptoms were present prior to the sudden deceleration. There are no warnings on the dash after the event and the only symptom other than the noise while in motion is the acceleration/deceleration feels slightly less sensitive. Every potential cause stated by mechanics who have looked at this points to a manufacturing issue or quality issue. A complete failure could cause an accident harming people.

While driving home from church Sunday afternoon, I was on the highway driving 65 mph. Suddenly, and without warning lights or any other ability to know or prepare for the catastrophe about to take place, my 2019 Cherokee trailhawk lost all control and function in the drive-train and braking. The rear differential completely froze, forcing the vehicle to skid recklessly without operator control or ability to brake. Steering was near impossible as the car veered first to the guard-rail on the median, and then across 2 lanes of traffic towards the guardrail on the shoulder. A terrible accident was avoided by an alert and skillful driver who was behind me. After what I later came to find out from the dealer (having the vehicle towed) was the rear drive train gears sheered, I was able to bring the vehicle to a stop on the shoulder.

Driving at intestate speed when vehicle started to make noise and started jerking. Stopped to see what was happening and found that it was trying to bind up or lock up in transmission area. Trailered vehicle to Jeep dealer there diagnosed answer was the ptu is bad. And none available do to recall of which my vehicle is not part of? they say part needed is 68333254ai can you help?.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train). The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle has not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed the recall status. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Incidental to nys inspection it was found that rear differential was severely "decayed. " the case was fractured and retaining ring on passenger side was broken or out of place. Took to Jeep dealer and it was confirmed that the differential was trashed, had to be replaced, and that vehicle unsafe to operate. No warning signs or symptoms (ie, no noise, no handling issues, no dashboard warning lights. ) vehicle has only 63,000 miles. It is my understanding that this is not isolated situation, and "it just happens. " dealer contacted Jeep warranty office and they agreed to "good will" partial contribution to repair, but leaving over $2,000 not covered. I know that just recently announced (2/2026) recall of grand Cherokees for internal snap ring problem. This was external snap ring (see photos) but wonder if related.

Rear differential lock rings broke and caused leaking fluid, as reported to me by a dealer service department. This could lead to handling problems and even total system failure. No warning lights, messages, or noticeable symptoms. Upon an internet search, I found that this seems to be a common issue with Jeep Cherokee's - therefore, I'm not sure why it isn't already a recall.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "service 4wd" was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to firestone, where it was diagnosed, and dtc: c14a7-97 was retrieved. The contact was informed that the code indicated that the transfer case range position sensor was obstructed or blocked. The contact was informed that the failure was due to the power transfer unit (ptu). The second diagnostic code was u0010-00, which involved the instrumental panel cluster (ipc) and the controller area network (can) interior box. The third code was u0140, which involved the "lost communication with body control module (bcm)”. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to a transmission specialty shop, where the dtc codes were confirmed. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where the diagnostic codes were confirmed. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 121,000.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 mph, there was a grinding sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle stalled and failed to drive forward. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the ptu had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 93,000.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "4wd not available" displayed, and the 4wd warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle vibrated while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the power transfer unit (ptu) was damaged and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 121,000.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked abnormally. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, no cause for the failure was found. Most recently, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "service 4wd" was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a power transfer unit (ptu) failure. The contact was informed that the ptu needed to be replaced. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 127,000.

Failing ptu (power train unit) causing power loss and high risk of breakdown or crash.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated while driving 20-25 mph, the vehicle experienced reduced power and jerked significantly. The contact was able to drive to the nearby residence. The awd warning light was illuminated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, to be diagnosed, and the dealer determined that the ptu had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer informed the contact there would be reimbursement for any vehicle rental expenses; however, the contact was unable to afford a rental, and the manufacturer had become unreachable. The failure mileage was approximately 51,000.

Well the engine definitely failed to provide power for me to drive my vehicle. And as I am doing more and more research on what the ptu does, which is what there is a recall on. It appears the ptu not working correctly on my vehicle affected the engine, and the ability for car to properly utilize oil, thus affecting the operation of the cylinders 1 and 4 on my vehicle. I am being told I need a new engine however, I believe the ptu problem directly affected my engine because everything that happens with the failure of the ptu is similar things that happen with the failure of my engine, thus the two really are related. And if the ptu "talks to" the engine for proper consumption and usage of oil then, my current engine replacement needs to be covered under the recall of the ptu and any other possible engine problems with other Jeep Cherokee engine recalls. I would like someone to contact me and have a discussion with me and/or an attorney as I am considering now hiring one because of the safety risk of continued problems especially putting in another engine and having the ptu affect the engine again. Also mechanics are saying there is no way that this engine failed unless there was something else wrong upon installation of the engine or something else affected the operation of the engine, as in the ptu.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 mph, the vehicle stalled with the “service 4-wd” warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the power transfer unit (ptu) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.

To whom it may concern, I am submitting a safety complaint regarding my 2019 Jeep Cherokee limited due to ongoing defects that create unsafe driving conditions. Vehicle information: •year/make/model: 2019 Jeep Cherokee limited •189,000 safety issues: my vehicle has experienced repeated and unpredictable failures, including: •loss of power while driving •electrical instability and voltage fluctuations •auto stop/start system malfunction •hard and delayed transmission shifting •“service shifter” warnings and parking brake alerts (p with exclamation point) •intermittent stalling and hesitation these issues occur without warning and significantly impair the vehicle’s ability to accelerate, shift, and operate safely in traffic. Recall concern: I am aware that 2018–2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles were recalled for transmission, powertrain, and electrical defects, including conditions that can cause loss of propulsion and unsafe shifting. My vehicle exhibits the same symptoms described in those recalls; however, my VIN has not been included. Repair history: I have contacted the dealership multiple times. The primary response has been battery replacement, which did not resolve the issues. No permanent repair or root cause has been identified. Safety risk: loss of power, transmission malfunction, and electrical instability while driving present a serious safety risk and increase the likelihood of a collision. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this complaint and investigate whether my vehicle is affected by a safety-related defect consistent with known recalls for this model sincerely [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The power transfer (ptu) unit exploded while driving on the highway, upon inspection from the Jeep dealership it was found with multiple cracks on the ptu housing and even described in the service report from the tech that the ptu exploded. The car experienced sudden loss of power and if other cars were around I could of been rear ended. This part has recalls on other Jeep Cherokee models (safety recall w47 / NHTSA 20v-343) but my particular VIN does not fall under this recall. They're were not any warning lights on or symptoms that pertained to a possible faliure of the ptu.

Service 4wd light came on with intermittent lack of power while accelerating noticed. Dodge dealership diagnosed bad ptu with diagnostic code dtc c14a7-97 and now waiting on ptu replacement that is weeks out. Appears to be same issue that other Jeeps are under recall for.

I have already placed a claim for my vehicle but did not confirm my email. I also need someone to reach out to me as well. I've lost my job and I can't do my side gig job to pay rent for my home now as well as having 3 small children.

Power transfer unit (ptu) failure. It is available for inspection upon request. Visible ptu fluid leaking under the vehicle. Loss of 4wd. Service 4wd warning on dashboard began on Monday, January 5, 2026. Vibrations and grinding noises while driving. Burning oil smell in the cabin. Change in driving, such as delayed engagement and jerking during acceleration. Loss of power. My safety and the safety of others was put at risk at least twice when I experienced loss of power while driving. The vehicle unexpectedly shut off and all power was loss while in drive on two separate occasions in late 2025. Ptu fluid leak is also a risk to my safety due to its potential for vehicle overheating, fire hazard, loss of 4wd, and/or catastrophic failure. The vehicle was taken to the service department of ourisman Dodge Jeep ram of alexandria, va on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The vehicle was inspected and ptu failure was confirmed by the dealership service department representative, dennis orellana.

I previously reported a safety issue with my vehicle and have not received a response. My complaint number is 11709360. Issue still remains and no recall is associated to my VIN number yet, even after locating a recall for my vehicle make, model and year when researching on line.

The vehicle is subject to an open safety recall, Jeep recall 01c / NHTSA 25v-011, involving loss of motive power due to a power transfer unit defect. There is currently no available remedy or repair procedure. This vehicle has experienced loss of power while driving at freeway speeds on three separate occasions, creating an immediate safety risk. Because the recall has no fix, the vehicle is unsafe to operate and is not being driven. Stellantis customer care case [xxx] is open, but escalation beyond the call center has been denied. The owner is an [xxx] driver. The lack of a remedy has rendered the vehicle unusable and created ongoing safety and transportation issues. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The rear differential went out on it on Nov 27th, I had it towed back to the dealer and they kept it until Jan 5th and said they had fixed it. I have a hand written receipt from them but it's not very detailed. It does seem better but I can still hear a small noise that concerns me because it sounds and feels just like it did before. I just started financing this vehicle so im not sure what to do and I cant get any help with it. Its scary to drive sometimes but it's my only transportation and I have 3 small children. The check engine light is on but it didn't come up until after they worked on it the first time.

When I got it looked at it’s my powertrain. The car is shutting off in motion.

Sometimes after starting the vehicle, the transmission will not shift into reverse and the vehicle must be turned off and restarted. Occasionally when the vehicle is shifting from 1st to 2nd gear, it shifts very hard, like a kick.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train). While parked in the snow, the contact attempted to engage the 4wd, but the 4wd feature failed to activate. The “service 4wd” message was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 86,650.

See attached document for complaint.

Current mileage 120,287 have owned since purchased in 2019. On 12/28/2025 experienced a loud pop and an apparent disconnect of power to drive wheels, place car in neutral and back into drive seemed to drive normal. After driving another 12 miles and turning onto a side road experienced the occurrence again. We began having pops and vibrations as early as 2023 predominantly during an acceleration following a turn. On 10/19/2024, mileage 98,975, I requested maintenance as “developed slack in the drive train. When slowing down it bumps, when accelerating, mostly from a stop, it bangs and slips when shifting”, however despite having a tech drive with me only the hesitation was noticed. The concluded “trans no problem found at this time. ” the bangs have intermittently continued but I had never experienced the loss of power like occurred on 12/28/2025.

I have a 2019 Jeep Cherokee limited VIN# [xxx] there is less than 65000 miles on it and the ptu has gone bad, I have been told by dealer its the same ptu with same issues that's apart of the factory recall for the 2017 - 2019 models Jeeps however my specific model has not been recalled but its the same part information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The power transfer unit (ptu) has failed for the second time in this vehicles history. This problem disables the four wheel drive feature of the vehicle, causing a dashboard warning light to illuminate, and may lead to other serious drivetrain safety issues. According to the dealer service technician, the splines on the unit are wearing out and causing disengagement of the rear drive wheels. This unit was replaced two years ago, and is a known issue with the manufacturer according to my dealer service department.