Jeep Wranglers are designed to be tough and fun. Wrangler owners enjoy the appeal of having a daily driver that’s as at home on the trail as it is in the mud. When you have Jeep Wrangler automatic shifting problems, you are no longer able to enjoy your Wrangler.
What are the common Jeep Wrangler automatic shifting problems?
Unfortunately, the Wrangler is known to have the following issues:
- Delayed shifting
- Torque converter or overdrive problems
- Failed gear engagement
Jeep Wrangler automatic shifting problems span many models and transmissions. The good news is that some issues are a fairly easy fix, and most issues are repairable. Knowing the common problems and how to troubleshoot Wrangler transmission problems can help if you run into transmission issues.
Jeep Wrangler Automatic Transmissions
The Jeep Wrangler has had many transmissions over the years. They featured a 3-speed automatic transmission from 1986 to 2006, with some changes along the way. They were lightweight and simple, and they did not feature an overdrive gear.
In 2003, the 4-speed RLE was introduced in some models. It was the automatic transmission of choice until 2012, when the 5-speed W5A580 was introduced.
The RLE is a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. It’s considered a medium-duty transmission perfect for highway driving. However, the gear ratio wasn’t optimized for off-road use.
The W5A580 is a Mercedes transmission. It was used in many high-performance cars over the years. It was first used in the Wrangler in 2012. It’s known for fast shifts and the ability to handle 600 lbs. of torque.
Jeep Wrangler Automatic Shifting Problems
Delayed Shifting
This is a common problem for the 42RE and the 42RE 4 speed. This usually occurs when shifting from first to third or third to fourth. Delayed shifting can be frustrating and affect the performance of your Wrangler. Typically, no engine warning light is associated with this issue.
There are a few potential causes. The first, and easiest to remedy, is low transmission fluid or a dirty transmission filter. A worn or stuck pressure solenoid can prevent the transmission from keeping proper fluid pressure, which will often affect shifting from first to third.
The problem can also be caused by a wiring or sensor failure. If the problem occurs only with fourth gear, the overdrive solenoid is likely the issue.
Torque Converter or Overdrive Problems
This problem occurs in the 42RE and 42RE 4-speed transmission in 2000 and later Wrangler models.
The problem is usually intermittent, and it will often cause the “check engine” light to come on. The easiest way to determine the cause is to have it checked with a code reader.
A broken cover plate is common with these transmissions. It will trigger a P1740 code. There’s an upgrade kit available to repair this problem.
The other common cause is faulty sensors. Input/output and throttle body sensor failure will cause the torque converter clutch to not engage properly. If this is the case, you will need to replace the faulty sensor.
Failed Gear Engagement
This problem is common to the 545RFE 5-speed transmission. The gears will fail to engage in “Drive” and “Reverse.” This typically occurs when the vehicle is cold, and it’s more common when the outside temperature is low. This can be caused by low transmission fluid, dirty transmission fluid, or the wrong type of transmission fluid.
The other common cause is the transmission cooler filter being loose. When the transmission cooler filter is loose or disengaged, the fluid drains out of the torque converter. Upon starting, the pressure has to build before the transmission will function properly.
