2017 Jeep Cherokee
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 1,334 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 6th highest complaint count among 12 Cherokee model years with reports.
Of the 2017 reports, 24 involved a crash and 6 involved a fire. 27 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Power trainApr 29, 2025
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may become damaged and disengage the transmission and differential, resulting in a loss of drive power and/or loss of park function.
A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash. A loss of park function can cause an unintended vehicle rollaway, which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Dealers will update the drivetrain control module and PTU software and replace the PTU, as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning February 19, 2026. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 01C.
Campaign 25V011000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmissionApr 27, 2023
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may become damaged and disengage the transmission and differential, resulting in a loss of drive power or loss of park function.
A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash. A loss of park function can cause an unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 11, 2023. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 45A. This recall expands previous recall number 20V-343.
Campaign 23V302000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, driveline, differential unitJun 11, 2020
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a two-speed Power Transfer Unit (PTU). Relative movement in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft may cause some input spline teeth to wear off, which may eventually cause a loss of engagement between the transmission and the differential inside the PTU. If this occurs, power cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission which results in a loss of drive while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the Park function while stationary.
A loss of drive can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning. A loss of the Park function can cause unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update that will maintain vehicle propulsion by engaging rear wheel drive and prevent rolling in Park by activating the electronic parking brake if a failed input spline occurs. This recall began July 14, 2020. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is W47.
Campaign 20V343000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, wiringMay 17, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Campaign 18V332000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsAug 31, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The tire and rim size information required to be on the Certification label was omitted during manufacturing, which may result in an incorrect tire and rim combination being installed on the vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
The missing tire and rim designation information may lead to an incorrect combination being installed on the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners and will provide a corrected certification label, free of charge. The recall began October 13, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T53.
Campaign 17V543000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, knee bolsterNov 2, 2016
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured October 13, 2016, to October 17, 2016. Improper welds on the driver's knee air bag inflator may prevent the air bag from properly inflating.
If the driver's knee air bag does not properly inflate, there is an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's knee air bag module, free of charge. The recall began November 9, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S84.
Campaign 16V799000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: power train
647 reports, newest first. Show all
Power train, Sep 22, 2021
Frequent service shifter light comes on but goes away after restarting car, transmission slipping
Steering, Power train, Electrical system, Sep 12, 2021
Car stalls without warning or indicator lights and will not restart in a safe manner. There are dozens of reports concerning this situation online and it is a SERIOUS safety issue that has received no attention. There is apparently and “incomplete” notice from JEEP that has failed to reach all customers. This has now happened to me three times — 2 of which were in situations that created significant safety risk.
Power train, Electrical system, Aug 28, 2021
While driving the warning chimed with a “service shifter” message on the dashboard screen. All of the lights (P, D, N, R) were light in the shift indicator. Due to the warning message I was not able to see any other information on my dash. I wasn’t sure if I could even keep driving leading me to panic for fear that I couldn’t even put the car in park. After some research I have come to find this is a recurring problem with 2014-2019 Jeep Cherokees. Since this occurred on a weekend I intend on leaving the car parked for safety and calling a dealership Monday morning.
Power train, Aug 26, 2021
The Service Shifter warning comes on the dash and all of the LED's on the shifter turn red. It used to only happen when the vehicle was turned on. We would shut off the car and restart it and it would go away. Lately, it's been getting progressively worse. We have to turn off the car and restart it multiple times, sometimes running it through the gears to get the warning to go off. But, now it's turning on while driving. We haven't been to the dealership yet, but there are numerous complaints about SERVICE SHIFTER on the 2017 Jeep Cherokee. I hope they don't wait too long to issue a recall.
Power train, Electrical system, Aug 17, 2021
“Service Shifter” message appears and all gears (P, R, N, D, etc.) light up on the gear shift. I purchased my vehicle brand new and this has been happening since 28K miles. When I contacted the dealership, I was told it was not covered under warranty or a recall; it would cost about $400 with parts and labor to repair. I was also told if I did not repair it, that it could eventually turn into a safety hazard where my engine would lock up and stall and I would be stranded on the side of the road and it would not start up again. What happens if this is occurs on the highway. This is a safety issue that needs to be addressed. Others all across the nation are experiencing the exact same problem. https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-t68742_ds990296
Power train, Aug 11, 2021
On the morning of 8/11/21, my 2017 Jeep Cherokee turned off on its own while I was still parked in my driveway. I took the key out and waited several seconds before turning the car on again. The car appeared to function correctly - no warning lights or messages. I went on to start my usual 30-minute commute to work. Approximately 15-minutes into that commute, a "service shifter" message appeared on the dashboard. The gear shift lights all turned red. I immediately pulled over and put the vehicle in park. The gear shift lights were all still red and I was only able to confirm that my vehicle was in park via the dashboard. This put my safety at risk as I did not know if my vehicle would remain in drive or if it would change to reverse as I attempted to safely pull over. Luckily, I was alone and my young child was not in the vehicle with me. After safely pulling over and parking, I took the key out and let the vehicle sit for nearly a minute. I turned the vehicle back on and everything appeared to be back to normal. I immediately called my local Jeep dealership to seek service advice and was told that this is a common issue. I asked if my vehicle was safe to drive now that the message was not appearing on the dash. I was told it was NOT safe to drive but to call them the next time the warning message appeared and they would TRY to schedule me for service. No service appointments were available for the next two weeks so there was nothing they could do to help me. This response is grossly irresponsible and putting vehicle owners at risk. A quick Google search will uncover that this is a known issue and Jeep has done nothing to issue a recall.
Power train, Aug 10, 2021
Service shift warning message. Same as the complaints already filed by other people. Happens too often. Dealership never fixes the issue but wants to charge even though it will continue to happen .
Power train, Electrical system, Jul 26, 2021
On July 3, 2021 I stopped at STOP sign, then when I stepped on the gas car wasn't moving, when I looked at the gear shift I noticed all the lights are on, all P R N D AND "-" AND "+" NEXT TO THE GEAR (PICTURE ATTACHED). Then I stopped the engine and restarted the car to move on. On July 16, 2021 I took the car for oil change and showed the picture to the mechanic at the JEEP Service Center in Morgan Hill California (on Church Street in Morgan Hill, CA). The service guy said we know this problem it is a recall, he said it is wiring harness problem for the gear, he said they will fix it when they receive the part at no cost. Then, on July 26, 2021 I went back to see if they have received the part to fix the problem This time the service guy said it is not covered, JEEP will not pay for it. Well, if it is electrical wiring harness problem why should I pay for it. Such thing is a design/manufacturing problem, it is not wear and tear. Why should I pay for the problem created by manufacturers fault. Such electrical problem could well cause for an accident Please inform me what should I do? is it a recall? or is a new recall candidate? Sincerely, [XXX] email:[XXX] cell: [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Power train, Jul 26, 2021
Service shifter indicator lights on console & display. Comes on while driving & scared to drive due to not knowing if it will fail & cause an accident and/or fatality
Power train, Jul 23, 2021
SERVICE SHIFTER - I RESEARCHED THE PROPBLEM AND APPRENTLY THERE IS A FAULTY ERROR WITH A LOT OF JEEP CHEROKEE IN REGARDS OF THIS MATTER PLEASE INVISTIGATE. THANK YOU
Power train, Engine, Jul 14, 2021
My service shifter light came on and all the lights on the shifter console came on (PRND21). At first, I could turn the car off to reset it. This was dangerous because I had to pull over wherever I was. As time has gone on it pretty much stays on. My car has 33000 miles on it but is past the 3-year mark. I took it to the dealership and they told me the previous years had this problem but was recalled. It cost me $500.00 to replace a plastic bezel. I have saved all dealership repair paperwork. The dealership confirmed this is a very common problem.
Power train, Engine, Jun 25, 2021
I received an engine shutoff signal which disabled the car immediately without prior warning. It was due to the protection signal for low oil. The vehicle had a oil change 5,000 miles prior with synthetic oil. Over the course of 5,000 miles it "burned" the oil to the point of low level. Upon discovery, I noted many customer complaints (online) of this issue. There was no prior warning to the low oil level (no low pressure light or indicator.) I purchased this vehicle for my daughter and had she been driving on a busy highway, it would have disabled her car without any power to safely navigate this from the road, probably leading to a major accident. A newer vehicle with no mechanical issues does not "burn" oil excessively, this is a major engine issue. Some oil loss is understood and normal (in older cars), this newer vehicle used over 3 quarts of oil in the span of one oil change. Had I known about this issue, I would have been vigilant in monitoring this issue. Not knowing about this issue led to a very unsafe shutdown of the vehicle.
Power train, Jun 18, 2021
My daughter was driving her car. It started "jerking". She pulled into a parking lot because she was worried. Her granddad went to pick it up and it drove fine for him. He said the parking brake was on- she did NOT put the parking brake on. I drove it down the street the next day- it jerked then also- and then stopped in the middle of the road. I was able to get it started back up and pull into my driveway. The next day my husband got it towed to a repair shop. It wouldn't work at all! The shop says it needs the transmission rebuilt or a new one. I feel my daughter's safety was at risk, because she is a newly turned 16 year old driver. If she had been driving it when it completely stopped it could have been bad. There were no warning lamps or messages beforehand- except that the parking brake was on- when it was not.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Jun 8, 2021
Hello, In March I received a performed recall W84 for my 2017 Jeep Cherokee. A recall W84 the PCM and TCM modules. Since then I have had on the cluster a warning light which came on stating 'Service Shifter'. When this happened, all the lights on the shifter turned red. This happened when driving. This was a intermittent issue that was becoming more consistent. I went to McKevitt for reparation. It costed me $735! $360 for diagnosis, $120 for parts and $235 for labor!
Power train, Jun 8, 2021
Randomly weekly multiple times the car screen says service shifter across dash screen. Which causes most of the gauges to be hidden and a huge distraction. The car will not stop saying this message until you pull over and shut it off. After restarting the car is back to normal. I contacted local dealer about this issue multiple times and they said they know of the issue happening to this model but there is no fix for it at this time.
Power train, Electrical system, May 17, 2021
At traffic stop light, vehicle transmission disengaged and acted as though in a neutral or park position even though shift position was in drive. Warning lights indicated "Service Shifter". Placed shifter into park and turned off engine. Restarted and placed shifter into drive. Appeared to drive normally to destination. Next engine start, warning indicator of Service Shifter returned with no apparent drive issues. Next engine start, warning indicator did NOT appear.
Power train, Electrical system, May 11, 2021
SERVICE SHIFTER APPEARS ON DASH BOARD. CAR KEEPS STALLING AND TELLS ME TO TO PUT IN SHIFT GEAR. I HAVE TO PULL OVER AND RESTART MY CAR
Power train, May 7, 2021
DRIVING 45MPR SERVICE SHIFTER LIGHT COMES ON, ALL GEARS P.R.N,D L LIGHTS COMES ON CAR JERKS WHEN POSITIONING IN AND OUT OF PARK
Power train, Electrical system, May 4, 2021
THE "SERVICE SHIFTER" COMES ON AT RANDOM TIMES. THE VEHICLE MUST BE RESTARTED TO CLEAR THE CODE.
Power train, May 4, 2021
'SERVICE SHIFTER' MESSAGE COMES ON AND ALL LIGHTS LIGHT UP ON THE SHIFTER WHILE DRIVING.
Power train, Apr 29, 2021
MY 2017 JEEP CHEROKEE DISPLAYS "SERVICE SHIFTER". I'VE SEEN MULTIPLE ONLINE REVIEWS/COMPLAINTS FOR THE SAME ISSUE, YET THIS $900 TO REPAIR ISSUE HAS NOT BECOME A RECALL. WHAT RECOURSE DO WE ALL HAVE AND WHY WON'T JEEP FIX THIS ONGOING PROBLEM? THE MESSAGE HAS BEEN GOING ON/OFF INTERMITTENTLY SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE IN 2019, HOWEVER, AT THAT TIME, THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT SAID IT PROBABLY WASN'T CRITICAL TO HAVE IT REPAIRED AT THAT TIME. NOW, THEY'RE SAYING THE SHIFTER NEEDS TO BE REPLACED.
Steering, Power train, Other or unspecified, Apr 4, 2021
DOESN'T SEEM TO BE TURNING RIGHT. A LOT OF CLICKING MAKING NOISE WHEN I BACK UP. AND TURN WHEEL.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Apr 3, 2021
THE CAR IS CONSTANTLY STALLING WHILE DRIVING AND THEN SHUTTING OFF IMMEDIATELY. IT DOESN'T MATTER IF I AM ON THE EXPRESSWAY OR SIDE STREETS. THIS HAS NOW HAPPENED TWO DAYS IN A ROW. IT IS VERY DANGEROUS! LITERALLY HAVE TO SIT STRANDED IN A PLACE UNTIL THE CAR STARTS BACK UP. YESTERDAY APR 2, 2021, IT STALLED IN THE MIDDLE OF 57TH AND COTTAGE GROVE IN CHICAGO AND TODAY APT 3, 2021, IT STALL ON INTERSTATE 80 AT THE CALUMET EXIT HEADING WEST, WITH MY CHILD IN THE CAR... REGULAR MAINTENANCE HAS BEEN DONE. NEW OIL CHANGE AND STILL STALLS AND SHUTS OFF. IT'S HAPPENING ONCE A WEEK AND THE DEALERSHIP ACTS LIKE THEY HAVE NO IDEA. TAKING IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR AN APPOINTMENT ON 4/13!
Power train, Electrical system, Apr 1, 2021
OUR SERVICE SHIFTER LIGHT STARTED COMING ON PERIODICALLY AT AROUND 20K MILES. IT HAS HAPPENED NO LESS THAT 10 TIMES NOW. THIS IS PROBLEMATIC SINCE IT WILL HAPPEN WHILE DRIVING AND THE POWERTRAIN WILL SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL CAUSING THE DRIVER TO HAVE TO PULL OVER WHILE IN TRAFFIC. I TALKED TO THE JEEP DEALER WHO SAID THIS IS OUT OF THE BUMPER TO BUMPER 3 YEAR/36K WARRANTY AND NOT COVERED BY THE POWERTRAIN WARRANTY. WHEN THIS HAPPENS THE SERVICE SHIFTER LIGHT COMES ON AND THE GEAR SHIFT LIGHTS ARE ALL RED,P,R,N,D, THE VEHICLE LOSES POWER AND GOES NUETRAL. THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF POSTS ABOUT THIS ISSUE. SEE HTTPS://WWW.CARGURUS.COM/CARS/DISCUSSION-T68742_DS990296 . HOW CAN THIS NOT BE A RECALL OR COVERED UNDER POWERTRAIN WARRANTY? DOES MY TEENAGE DAUGHTER NEED TO HAVE THIS HAPPEN AND THEN GET PLOWED INTO BY A TRUCK TO MAKE YOU OR JEEP TAKE ACTION? PLEASE DO WHAT IS RIGHT AND SAFE FOR ALL OF US JEEP OWNERS EXPERIENCING THIS ISSUE.
Power train, Mar 27, 2021
WHEN ACCELERATING IT FEELS LIKE THE ENGINE IS NOT SENDING ENOUGH POWER AS IF THE TRANSMISSION WAS ON A HIGHER GEAR AND ALSO THUDS AS IF THE TRANSMISSION WAS HAVING TROUBLE SHIFTING.