Jeep Cherokees are popular with drivers who want a comfortable vehicle they can take off-road. However, certain models are plagued by transmission problems. Transmission problems can be expensive to fix, and they can also pose a safety hazard.
The most common Jeep Cherokee transmission problems occur in the 2014 and 2015 models.
Problems include:
- Shifting roughly or not shifting properly
- Transmission failure with no warning
- Power loss while driving, which poses a safety hazard
- Transmission shifting into neutral
We will look at the most common problems with the Jeep Cherokee transmission, and what you can do to avoid them. We’ll also take a closer look at the transmissions used in the Jeep Cherokee.
Jeep Cherokee Transmissions
Many transmissions have been used in the Jeep Cherokee over the years. However, the one that’s the most problematic is the ZF 9-speed automatic transmission. This transmission debuted in the 2014 Jeep Cherokee.
The ZF was designed to provide performance and fuel economy. CVT transmissions are often used to accomplish this, but they aren’t ideal for off-road vehicles. The ZF uses a wider gear ratio to provide acceleration and higher gears that lower rpms and improve fuel economy.
The transmission also requires proper computer programming to keep it shifting properly. Jeep has issued 11 program updates due to problems with the transmission in an attempt to fix problems.
The all-wheel drive Cherokees have a two-speed power transfer unit. It is similar to the two-speed transfer cases found on part-time four-wheel-drive vehicles. This added complexity is thought to contribute to the transmission problems as well.
Jeep Cherokee Transmission Problems
Rough Shifting or Not Shifting Correctly
Owners state that when shifting gears, the vehicle will jerk or lunge forward. They also report shuttering and vibration before it shifts. Owners state that mechanics are hesitant to touch the transmission, and they are often told these problems are “a Jeep thing.”
They also state that the Jeep doesn’t shift into gear at the right time. It will reach high rpms or very low rpms before it shifts. Owners with this issue state that attempting to shift the gears manually doesn’t help the problem.
Jeep did extend the warranty on the transmission. The 2014 and 2015 model are covered by a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty that includes the transmission. However, owners have had little success with getting the problems repaired in these cases.
Transmission Failure With No Warning
Generally, a transmission doesn’t fail all at once. You’ll notice problems with gears slipping or rough shifting. In today’s vehicles, the transmission or service light should come on if there is a problem as well.
Unfortunately, the Jeep Cherokee’s faulty software doesn’t indicate there’s a problem until it fails completely. Jeep has issued a software update to correct this problem and alert drivers when there’s a malfunction, but it’s unclear how effective it is.
Many owners state that the transmission failed at between 50,000 to 70,000 miles. They were able to get the transmission replaced under warranty, but it takes weeks for the repair to be done. This frustrates owners for good reason, along with the concern that the new transmission will fail as well.
Shifting Into Neutral
The most dangerous transmission problem in the Jeep Cherokee is that it can shift into neutral without warning. The shift can cause the Jeep to abruptly lose power or allow it to roll away if it should be in “Park.”
One owner stated that he brought his Cherokee in for service five times for this issue. It shifts into neutral on the highway, which can easily cause an accident. Each time, Jeep claimed to fix the problem with an update. The vehicle currently has 70,000 miles.
Jeep has issued a few recalls and numerous software updates to fix this problem. It’s unclear if it has actually been fixed, given the success rate Jeep has had with fixing these issues.
Considering a Jeep Cherokee?
If you are considering a Jeep Cherokee, it’s advisable to avoid the 2014 and 2015 models. Before you make a decision, you should visit Vehicle History. You’ll find owner and expert reviews and a full list of specs.
You can also perform a VIN search. This can reveal any problems the vehicle has had in the past, and it may help you avoid problems with your vehicle.
