Power Train Problems of Jeep Cherokee - part 2

My 4wd light came on my dashboard. I took my Jeep to the dealer and they said the ptu was blocked and has an internal mechanical failure. According to websites, this can cause the power train to stop, cause an accident or injury. I don't feel safe driving this vehicle. The dealer informed me that the part is back ordered and will take a year to come available. I live where there is heavy rain and snow weather and the 4 wheel drive feature is not working. This is not good for driving in these conditions.

See all problems of the 2022 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

4wd has issues with the transfer case and cars up to 2019 had issues. I cant get parts and it is not safe to drive.

See all problems of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

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.

My 4wd warning light keeps coming on. Took to the dealer and they are telling me it’s my ptu.

See all problems of the 2021 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

The contact owns a 2023 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 26v290000 (power train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

See all problems of the 2023 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

Nothing has happened yet. What is the timeline to correct this issue. The loss of power, and other issues that may happen could be catastrophic. Why is there no timeline required for resolutions? notification are expected to begin to be sent by June 25,2026, why were they not required to be sent immediately, by law ? the government has many rules and regulations, who dropped the ball on issues that could be catastrophic?.

The contact owns a 2020 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at 75 mph, the vehicle began to lose propulsion upon depression of the accelerator pedal. The contact also stated that an abnormal, clunking sound began to emti from the without warning. The contact pulled the vehicle over and attempted to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle lost all forward propulsion. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to the dealer where they also experienced the same failure. The dealer managed to get the vehicle to move while in reverse(r); however, the vehicle failed to accelerate forward. The dealer had diagnosed the vehicle with a defective ptu(power transfer unit) and it was later discovered that a recall had been placed on the vehicle for NHTSA campaign number: 26v290000(power train). Although a recall was placed on the vehicle; the part for the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and the contact was informed that the repair would not be covered under warranty. The contact was given an estimate to have a new ptu placed inside the vehicle; however, that would only be a temporary fix. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.

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.

See all problems of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at 35 mph, the vehicle shut off as several warning lights appeared on the instrument panel. The contact made multiple attempts to restart the vehicle but to no avail. The police arrived at the scene and helped to place the vehicle into neutral(n) and moved the vehicle off to the side of the road. Due to the failure, the vehicle was initially towed to the contact's home and was then towed to a dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle with a failed alternator and ptu(power transfer unit). The vehicle was towed back to the contact's home due to the cost of the repair. The contact called an independent mechanic who managed to replace the alternator. Although the contact managed to drive the vehicle once the alternator was replaced; the contact stated that the same warning lights including the 4wd warning message remained on the instrument panel. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA campaign number: 25v011000(power train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be fully repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.

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 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.

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.

See all problems of the 2016 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

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.

Service 4wd indicator.

I was driving and my power steering suddenly went out by its self. It was a very dangerous and traumatic experience. I had to get a good grip on the steering wheel to keep from hitting a parked car or something! I read that it was once a recall for this part but when I took it to the dealer they said it wasn’t. I need some type of help. My car isn’t safe for me or my son.

My 2021 Jeep Cherokee trailhawk is currently immobile due to an active safety recall involving vehicle movement/park functionality concerns, and loss of power. Prior to the recall being issued, one certified Jeep dealership inspected the vehicle regarding the concern - with no resolution. Since the recall has now been formally issued, I have attempted to contact both that dealership and the certified Jeep dealership where the vehicle was originally purchased by phone and email to obtain recall assistance, repair guidance, and information regarding transportation options. Neither dealership has responded to my calls or email communication. The vehicle is currently unusable and poses a safetly concern due to the recall condition. I reply on this vehicle for daily commuting and transportation. Stellantis customer care was contacted, but a customer care case was not opened. At this time, I have been unable to obtain assistance, repair scheduling information, or guidance regarding the safe operation or transportation accomodations while the vehicle remains affected by the recall.

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 🔎.

My ptu in my 2014 Jeep Cherokee is failing. The car has been jerking when accelerating. Sometimes very slow when I first accelerate then jerks heavily and takes off at a high rate of speed. I also noticed weird grinding and unusual sounds. The sound starts randomly when accelerating or when traveling and I let off the accelerator. The sound is more of a howling then grinds and quickly goes away. I replaced all the wheel bearings on the vehicle and it still existed. I then took the car to a Jeep dealer where one of the techs had test drove it and confirmed that the ptu has failed.

See all problems of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee 🔎.

The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 25 mph, the vehicle went into limp mode. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The contact pulled over into a parking lot, turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle operated as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the power transfer unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA campaign numbers: 23v302000 (power train) and 20v343000 (power train); however, the VIN was not included in the recalls. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 69,177.

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.

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.

I've had my 2021 Jeep Cherokee limited 4x4 since July 2023 with zero issues until my service 4wd light came on in December 2025. It went off immediately, but I let my mechanic look at it & he couldn't find anything. It continued this way until early April 2026, the light came on but always went off right away. I was driving home from my grandsons' house (about 1. 5 miles) & half way home, there was suddenly an awful, loud noise coming from under the Jeep & the steering was difficult at best. I was afraid for my life driving less than 4 blocks from my house. The next day, it started fine & the 4wd light was not on. I attempted to drive back to the grandsons'; immediately after accelerating after the stop sign by my house, the 4wd light came on & a new, louder, scarier noise came from under the car. I couldn't pull over safely (nowhere to pull over except someone's yard) & became very frightened that I would hit the people on the sidewalk, the cars in the other lane, etc. I had some helpful people stop & push my car back to my house (I'm disabled). The next morning I had it towed to surefire (my mechanic) & after a few days, he called & reported it was the ptu, I'd have to replace it immediately. I had to pay a deposit of $600 cash & after several weeks, my Jeep was fixed. I paid the other $1454 via credit card to get the Jeep back. This is not safe!! I see recall 40d last week & was relieved- until I spoke with fca today. Evidently, all other 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee limited 4x4 are recalled except mine. What if I'd hit the pedestrians? what if I'd crashed into the oncoming cars? I'm almost too scared to drive due to this ptu failure. It's an awful thing to experience. I have a beautiful Jeep I'm afraid to drive. This is not right.

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.

Ptu failed. Service 4 wd light is on. Jeep has a recall but my VIN isn't included. It is going to cost over $3000 to get it fixed.

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.

10/29/2018 - I had completed safety recall to reprogram powertrain control module. 4/2/2026 - I had ptu unit replaced due to service 4wd light came on so not sure why my 2019 Jeep Cherokee is not under this recall because I'm having to call dealer back today because light came on again yesterday 5/14/2026 after being replaced! thank you.