Power Train Problems of Jeep Cherokee - part 1

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving check engine light had suddenly illuminated and the message "unspecified service unavailable" had displayed along with the 4 wheel drive warning light had illuminated. During the failure the vehicle did not properly accelerate. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed the ptu had malfunctioned. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer was not yet contacted. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000(power train). The contact indicated that the vehicle had experienced that same failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 81,000.

See all problems of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

The ptu 2 speed is not engaging anymore the low gear range, errore message says the motor actuator is stuck.

See all problems of the 2016 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

The vehicle was making a vibration in the center of the car. I took it to the dealership and they said it was the ptu but that it's not part of the recall.

My 2022 Jeep Cherokee trail-hawk ptu from transmission failed, and only has 68000 miles. I my warranty has expired, and cant believe they quoted me $5000 to replace this part of the transmission. I was going online, and noticed this ptu issue is kind of popular with Jeep vehicles, and at the moment, my Jeep has been in the service center for a few days now, since I don't know what to do or how to pay this, and seems its best to trade it in, but I honestly now not sure on getting another Jeep, after looking at so many comments on issues.

See all problems of the 2022 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while the vehicle was at the dealer for a service appointment, the vehicle was diagnosed with a failed rear differential. The contact was informed that the snap ring was detached from the housing unit. The contact was informed that the rear differential needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 35,600.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the 4wd warning light illuminated, rendering the 4wd inoperable. The vehicle automatically switched to the rear wheel drive mode. The vehicle was taken to both an independent mechanic and the dealer, who determined that the ptu had failed and needed to be replaced, but the part was on backorder. 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 not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

See all problems of the 2018 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to shift properly when the accelerator was applied. The contact was unaware of any warning lights illuminated at the time of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the power transfer unit and drivetrain had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a reimbursement case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 99,477.

Within two years of owning this Jeep, the rear differential has failed, the battery has failed twice, they didn’t include the extra battery in this Jeep that every other model has so it needs a new battery every two years like clockwork to keep the power systems running normally. It’s needed new spark plugs after four failed at once. Now it has the service 4wd light back on even though supposedly there isn’t any recalls still. I’ve never owned a car that has needed as much work as this Jeep. Ever. I know several people that have owned them and not one person has enjoyed the vehicle due to the repairs being so often. I take care of my cars and do the maintenance on time continuously. It’s crazy to have this many things go wrong this often.

The contact owns a 2015 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 25e003000 (powertrain). The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal and went into limp mode. Multiple warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the power steering seized. The contact's wife was able to cruise into a dealer. The vehicle was inspected and diagnosed that the power transfer unit (ptu) had failed. The contact was informed that the part was on a national backorder. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact stated that the failure had occurred in the past and was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that a request to expedite the part was submitted. The failure mileage was approximately 139,000.

See all problems of the 2015 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while reversing out the driveway at 5 mph, the vehicle lost motive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact indicated that the failure was related to NHTSA campaign number: 26v290000 (power train). The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who determined the failure was due to the rear differential. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 40 mph, the 4wd drive light illuminated. There was oil leaking. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the pto had failed. The vehicle was not repaired due to the part being backordered. The manufacturer was contacted, who confirmed there was no recall coverage and referred to the NHTSA hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 103,231. Car shield declined the repairs due to carfax's previous report indicating the failure had already been addressed.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the fwd warning light illuminated sporadically and then disappeared. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that something in the transmission had failed and needed to be repaired or replaced. The mechanic notified the contact of a possible recall associated with the failure. The contact believes the failure is related to NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 61,000.

Ptu overheated, message is "4wd unavailable" or "reduced functionality". Ptu replaced by Jeep, new ptu has overheated and will not go out of 4wd low unless car is turned off, ptu cools off for 20 minutes, will then go out of 4wd low. Dealer has confirmed the problem. Not sure what next steps are but I thought you should be aware of this recurring issue since the 2021 ptu is very similar to the earlier model ptu's that have been recalled.

See all problems of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

Service 4wd indicator.

See all problems of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

At about 50,000 started noticing a shift in transmission noise, and a new “burnt smell”. There was a delay in shifting to a lower gear. Took to a shop 2x different times for them to say it was “normal”. Srv 4x4 light came on after 2nd time in shop. Went in again for light diagnostics, to find that ptu actuator is faulty and is a known issue in this vehicle. Repair $5000. 00 with a back order on the part of over 900 people! Jeep fix and own your mistake!.

Per diagnostics, ptu has been compromised. I was driving on the highway and the car started to shake and make a loud, grinding noise and seemed to be stuck in gear. When I stopped it wouldn't go into park or go into drive.

See all problems of the 2017 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 57 mph, the check engine warning light illuminated and the message to “service vehicle immediately” was displayed. The contact stated that the 4wd setting switched from “auto mode” to “snow mode” independently. The contact pulled over to the right side of the road and remained there for two hours. The vehicle was turned off and restarted and the vehicle, and the vehicle operated as intended. The vehicle was then driven for seven miles before shutting off unexpectedly. The vehicle was repaired under NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000 (power train); but the repair failed to fix the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had occurred two weeks after the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,000.

The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Cherokee. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle abruptly lost automotive power, and the vehicle coasted to the side of the roadway. The contact stated the power transfer unit had failed, causing the transmission to become inoperable. The vehicle was towed to a dealer and was diagnosed with ptu failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 88,000.

Transmission control sensor.

See all problems of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced loss of motive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The contact also stated that the vehicle had failed to start occasionally. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle had unexpectedly shifted into neutral(n) while driving. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 131,000.

While driving ,the vehicle just shuts off while in motion, then dashboard lights come and message says if you want to start vehicle step on brake and push button , but once I push the button it struggles to start. Mechanic ran a diagnostic test and said its the power train control module that is under a recall on other Jeeps but not mine.

My 2014 Jeep Cherokee trailhawk (active drive ii / sales code dk4) has a confirmed dtc c14a7-97, indicating the ptu motor is obstructed or blocked. This has resulted in a "service 4wd" warning and a complete loss of all-wheel-drive capability. My vehicle was manufactured in November 2013, and I am being denied the xj1 extended warranty (15 years/unlimited miles) because my VIN does not appear in the dealer's system, despite the vehicle being a 2014 model year with the exact failure code the xj1 program was designed to address. This failure can lead to a sudden loss of drive power while in motion and a loss of the "park" function, creating a significant rollaway risk. These are the same safety hazards identified in NHTSA recall 20v-343 (w47). I am requesting that NHTSA investigate why 2014 model year vehicles with 2013 build dates are excluded from the xj1 warranty extension for this known safety defect.

My husband was driving the vehicle at approximately 70 mph on I-75, the vehicle slipped out of drive and into neutral causing the vehicle to lose the capability to accelerate and maintain the traffic flow. When trying to attempt to put the car into drive it would not engage and the engine just reved. Thankfully my husband was not hurt, but this could have been a potentially very bad outcome. I have had the dealership here, phillips cjrd diagnose the vehicle, they are saying it needs a new ptu, over $3300 to replace. The vehicle is only 5 years old! the ptu is also on backorder for almost 2 months, obviously this situation is having very frequently. There was absolutely no warning of this failure, no warning lights, etc. . . Jeep has recalled previous years of the Jeep Cherokee for this exact failure. They need to recall and pay for the 2021 models as well. So far we are out $300 in towing fees and the diagnostic test from the dealership. I believe Jeep should pay for the ptu replacement and refund the diagnostic fee.

My 2019 Jeep Cherokee latitude plus is exhibiting a persistent metallic rattling and grinding noise originating from the power transfer unit (ptu) and the propeller shaft interface. The noise is most prominent during acceleration and coasting at speeds under 20 mph. Confirmed through dr. Auto llc, in warren, or. That it is in fact ptu unit attached to the propeller shaft. Plan to go through a dealership soon. ?this failure mirrors the symptoms described in NHTSA recall 23v-302 (fca recall 01c). Although my specific VIN is currently not included in this recall, the mechanical symptoms—specifically vibration and grinding at the ptu output—indicate a premature failure of the input shaft splines. ?this presents a significant safety risk, as the failure of these splines can lead to an abrupt loss of motive power while in motion and a loss of the "park" function, which could lead to an unintended vehicle rollaway. I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate whether the current recall scope should be expanded to include additional 2019 Jeep Cherokee units, such as mine, that were manufactured with the same defective ptu components. Im afraid to lose power to my wheels while im driving with young kids in my vehicle and I am afraid to lose parking function that could injure someone or cause property damage.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle the warning message "service four wheel drive" had displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who performed a software update but the warning light remailed illuminated. The contact retrieved the vehicle and later experienced transmission gear slippage and grinding. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 154,000.

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the message "service 4wd" was displayed, immediately followed by the message "4wd system unavailable". The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where a diagnostic test was performed, and the contact was informed that the power transfer unit(ptu) was inoperable 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 notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.

I am writing to formally raise a concern regarding the power transfer unit (ptu) on my Jeep Cherokee, which currently has approximately 123,000 miles and has been driven fewer than 10,000 miles per year. Despite what I would consider normal usage, the ptu appears to be failing—an issue I understand is not uncommon for this vehicle. I have been informed that replacement ptu units are currently on extended backorder, with dealerships reportedly facing a backlog of hundreds of pending repairs. This raises serious concerns, not only about parts availability but also about the apparent frequency of this failure. More importantly, I am concerned about the risk of continued operation while awaiting replacement. Based on my understanding, a failing ptu can place additional strain on the transmission and drivetrain, potentially leading to more extensive damage, overheating, or even sudden mechanical failure. Given that the part is unavailable for an extended period, I am left in a position where continued use of the vehicle may result in further costly damage and possible safety risks. I would appreciate clarification on the following: what steps can be taken to mitigate further damage while the ptu is on backorder? whether there are any alternative repair options, including temporary solutions or access to remanufactured or used parts whether any goodwill assistance, extended warranty consideration, or manufacturer support is available given the known issues and current supply constraints I rely on my vehicle for regular transportation and am concerned about both safety and the potential for escalating repair costs due to circumstances beyond my control. I would appreciate a prompt and thorough response outlining available options. Sincerely, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the "service 4wd" warning light illuminated. The 4wd failed to engage as intended, and the vehicle remained in 2wd. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed with a power transfer unit (ptu) drivetrain failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 132,600.

My vehicle has an open ptu recall and when driving down the road my vehicle completely lost power was unable to drive or put vehicle in park in the middle of a turn which resulted in on coming traffic coming towards my vehicle. There were no injuries thankfully. My car was towed to the Jeep dealership in anchorage, ak to have the ptu recall done as that was the suspected reasoning of the failure. After weeks of back and forth I was told the transmission was damaged and needed replaced and the ptu recall was not able to be done due to the recall instructions. I was quoted 8-12 thousand dollars in repairs which was unrealistic to me. I then had vehicle towed to an auto body shop that could replace the transmission for a lesser price. Once at the auto shop they discovered there was a complete ptu failure which caused the transmission damage and told me to take it back to the dealership for repairs to be covered under the recall. The dealership submitted the information and I was denied the recall and repairs. The dealership informed me I would have to pay for a new transmission out of pocket. However once I had the new transmission testing the ptu recall could damage and that I also need to pay out of pocket for the ptu. This has been extremely frustrating and given the pictures and evidence submitted for ptu failure causing the transmission failure and still being denied I find it absolutely appropriate to submit a claim.

Power train- error message stating 4x4 is unavailable, message will appear anytime between when first starting the car to active on the road. While active, there sounds like there’s some sounds coming from the rear tires before message appears. This issue has been consistent since purchasing the car at 76k mileage. Airbag- at random and then noticeably when hitting some bumps, dash light stating “service airbag system”.

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 on my way to work around 7:45 am. As I was driving my car lost all power and I heard a grinding sound. As the grinding sound was happening, I had no control over my car. I managed to move to the side lane and put my hazards on. I then had to wait for a tow truck. Ultimately, the brakes, the transfer case, and the rear differental needs replaced.

About 2 years ago my shifter started coming on like it was all lit up and I got a code saying to service shifter, so I took it in to have it fixed it was on recall. Then in 2024 my service 4wd light came on it was going on and off on and off--when I took it to the dealership they could not get it to come on or replicate it. I was told it could be just a sensor--then my 4wd light came on and stayed on--I started losing power while driving and it scared me because I travel the highway a lot for work--it would also begin vibrating, I took it back in and of course they could not get it to replicate. Then the recall for the ptu came out and my Jeep Cherokee had all the symptoms as a bad ptu--I took it in to the dealership and they ran the test and yes my ptu was bad--they contacted Jeep and was told that my Jeep's VIN was not on the recall and they argued saying it was in fact due to a faulty ptu--I have been in dispute with Jeep since then--I recently received a notice that they are closing my case but if I took my Jeep in for diagnostic testing they would reopen my case so I paid another $190 to have it diagnosed and once again it is a faulty ptu--the service manager at the dealership said he would go to bat for me and stand with me on this--he said hands down my Jeep should be on the recall list and that there are 100's of Jeep Cherokees just in our area that should be included and that this recall should not be by VIN number but should be by model and year. This is very difficult for me because I do not have the $3500 to fix the ptu I recently became a widow and have 3 kids; but I have always taken care of my Jeep --oil changes, tires, regular wear and tear I take care of it. I am really disappointed that as much as I paid for my car and put love and sweat into it that this recall does not cover my Jeep and a lot more others who may be sitting in the same situation I am in.

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.