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
1,334 reports, newest first.
Power train, Aug 4, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the "Service 4WD" warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact also stated that the vehicle slightly hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who retrieved an error code related to the power transfer unit. Upon investigation, the contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train). The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 107,000.
Power train, Aug 4, 2025
Transfer case failure. Transfer case cracked and created hole no warning or indication
Power train, Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Aug 1, 2025
I purchased a used 2017 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk in March 2025 for $13,000. Four days later, the transfer case failed while driving, leaving me stranded in traffic and requiring a tow. The dealership replaced the transfer case using a used part, but did not disclose that to me at the time. Roughly four months later, the vehicle failed again, this time grinding gears and failing to shift properly out of Park or into Drive. It began rolling forward while supposedly in Park, and now requires the emergency brake to be engaged at all times to prevent it from moving. This makes the vehicle unsafe to operate or park and creates a serious safety hazard for myself and others. There were no dashboard alerts or warning lights before either failure. The most recent symptoms appeared suddenly in July 2025 and have persisted. The initial failure was confirmed by the dealership, but I have not had the second failure diagnosed due to lack of trust in the dealership's work. The issues are plainly visible and reproducible. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer or insurance representatives. I have filed complaints with the New York Attorney General, DMV, and BBB. I later discovered that an open NHTSA safety recall on the powertrain was issued before the date of sale, but the dealership had me sign a document stating there were no recalls and failed to disclose this recall entirely. I am working with a lawyer and seeking resolution through consumer protection laws and formal complaints.
Power train, Jul 29, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Electrical system, Jul 28, 2025
I have had this vehicle since 2017. Over the years the shifter lights have flashed but I turn off the car and it’s fine. I believe there are electrical issues with these models. Yesterday my car randomly shut off. It could have been due to the heat but it was very dangerous. My brights have gone out and it could be because of an electrical issue. I’ve had to change my thermostat twice. I will be looking into trading this car out soon. It could be dangerous as I travel often.
Power train, Jul 26, 2025
I had received the recall notice 01C about the PTU; however, it was noted that parts were not available and no action could be taken at that time. On April 30, I heard a very loud noise as if I had hit something, but nothing was in my way. The car would not go into gear or park. Fortunately this happened on my property and my husband was able to use his truck to pull my car out of the way and no one was injured and no other vehicle damage was incurred. The car was towed to a repair facility and confirmed that the transfer case had failed.
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Jul 24, 2025
Service Shifter light came on dash, all gears on shifter , red lights came on. I was driving at 55 mph and could tell the car wasn’t accelerating and was slowing down . That’s when I noticed the Service Shifter light on dash. I was in a lot of traffic and couldn’t safely pull over , I was almost rear ended by the car behind me. I coasted to the side of the road and turned car off and back on . The light went off . This was yesterday , today I start the car and it starts rough ( which it usually doesn’t ) and the service shifter light is back on. This is a very serious , dangerous and possibly deadly issue . I was so scared when it happened as I had no control of speed of the vehicle . I see many , many reports on this issue for several years and it shows past repairs have not corrected the issue. A recall should be issued ASAP before someone gets hurt or dies from this very common problem . Customers should not have to pay to repair and issue that has been reported thousands of times for many years . Please give direction on how to get this properly and fully fixed . I am afraid to drive the vehicle for fear of a traffic accident .
Power train, Jul 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated while attempting to drive from a complete stop on a busy bridge, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact shifted to park(P) and exited the vehicle; however, the vehicle started to roll away, almost causing a crash. The contact immediately entered the vehicle and engaged the parking brake. The contact's new-born baby was occupying the vehicle at the time of the failure. The contact stated that a Police Officer assisted the contact in blocking traffic and pushing the vehicle to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed and parked at the residence. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the PTU had failed, and the failure was related to the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and offered partial reimbursement for a vehicle rental. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Power train, Jul 23, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with power transfer unit failure. The contact was informed that the power transfer unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the parts were on back-order. In addition, the contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V343000 (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 84,000.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Jul 21, 2025
The vehicle has excessive clicking in the rear. Shifter service light required light on dash . Went to dealership and got diagnosis . They Found Left rear Axle at differential has excessive movement. Rear drive shaft center bearings are loose. Both recommend replacing rear differential. I have quotes from two different auto repair places including jeep dealer service . Vehicle only has 50k miles on it and is driven only around town. I am the original owner. I strongly believe that this issue is connected with the Recall 01C/W47. I feel my vehicle is unsafe to drive and the out of pocket cost is extremely high for a repair on a vehicle with such low mileage.
Power train, Jul 19, 2025
PTU issue u able to shift from or to park the shift entire panel lights up red
Suspension, Power train, Jul 18, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that when the vehicle accelerated, the vehicle was shaking erratically. The vehicle was taken to two independent mechanics where the vehicle was diagnosed with a failed rear differential. The contact was informed that the rear differential needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact was informed that the failure was due to a failed PTU. The vehicle was then taken to two Chevrolet dealers where the failure was diagnosed as a failed rear differential. The contact was informed that the rear differential needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that only parts listed in the recall were covered under the recall. The contact was informed that additional parts were not covered under the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 80,941. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Power train, Electrical system, Jul 14, 2025
I drive a 2017 Jeep Cherokee and have experienced repeated instances of power loss while driving. The vehicle will suddenly jerk, hesitate, or feel like its struggling to maintain momentum, especially at lower speeds or when turning. On one occasion, it felt like the transmission slipped and I briefly lost acceleration, which was very alarming and could have caused a crash if I been merging or crossing traffic. I've also had the "Service 4WD" warning light appear intermittently. I took the vehicle to both a jeep dealership and an independent shop for diagnostics, but neither was able to find an active trouble code. However, the symptoms have continued and are getting worse. After reading about the recent recall (NHTSA Campaign 25V011) involving the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) in 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokees, I believe this may be an issue I am experiencing. At this time, Jeep has not released a fix, and I'm concerned that the vehicle is unsafe to drive until the PTU can be inspected and repaired. This seems to be a known and widespread issue that puts drivers at risk, and I'm hoping this report helps move the investigation forward.
Other or unspecified, Jul 12, 2025
Vehicle suddenly loss power while driving and not accelerating properly. Had vehicle to stop stopped while driving and message appear where I had to put car in park before I could move again. I continue to have acceleration issues.
Power train, Jul 11, 2025
My Cherokee has a recall due to an improperly seated input shaft snap ring in the two-speed Power Transfer Unit ("PTU"). The recall came in January and all owners began receiving their recall notices on February 15th. I received mine and my truck lost drive/park power on February 27th. The recall is still not fixed and they don't have a solution after 5 months of declaring the recall and are not offering any sort of compensation, such as a loaner, rental asstance, etc.
Power train, Engine, Back over prevention, Jul 8, 2025
Lost power on thruway in 2017 jeep Cherokee, light came on reading"service electronic stability control ", followed by check engine light. Car is not drivable, been sitting at dealership for almost 3weeks now, currently no remedy for safety recall, and no timeline. I have no vehicle at moment, work fulltime, and am still making payments. Was told I can't have loaner car, both by dealership, and Mopar, and am left in disbelief. Vehicle was already inspected by jeep dealership, said their certain its related to recall. My life is upside down currently, am hopeless
Other or unspecified, Jun 29, 2025
It says service shifter and then every gear lights up meaning park,drive,reverse and netural are all lit
Suspension, Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Jun 26, 2025
I SUBMITTED A COMPLAINT ABOUT THE SERVICE SHIFTER THAT I BEEN HAVING SINCE 2020 RIGHT AFTER I FINANCE THE CAR WITH DEALERSHIP. THE PROBLEM CONTINUED AND IT HASNT BEEN RESOLVED EVEN AFTER TAKING IT BACK FOR REPAIRING. RECENTLY ON 6/24/2025 MY CAR STOPPED ON THE EXPRESSWAY, THE SERVICE SHIFTER CAME ON AND ALSO ELECTRICAL THROTTLE SERVICE CONTROL. MY CAR STARTED TREMBLING AND IT WOULD TURN ON BUT I COULDNT DRIVE IT. THE EXPRESSWAY ROAD ASSISTANCE WAS ABLE TO PUSH ME OUT THE EXPRESSWAY AND IN THE PROCESS MY CAR STARTED TO RUN BUT SHAKY STILL AND I WAS ABLE TO GET IT BACK HOME.
Suspension, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jun 26, 2025
I BOUGHT MY CAR IN 2020, IN THAT SAME YEAR I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER BECAUSE "SERVICE SHIFTER" LIGHT KEPT COMING UP. IT WOULD COME UP IN MOMENTS WHERE I WOULD BRAKE OR GAS AND THE CAR SKIPPED BEFORE COMPLETING THE TASK. I ENDED SPENDING $600 FOR THE 'REPAIRMENTS" FOR IT TO NOT GET FIXED. I TOOK IT BACK AGAIN TO GET IT CHECKED OUT AND THE DEALER SAID IT WAS FINE. ITS 2025 NOW AND IM STILL HAVING ISSUES WITH IT AND IT ONLY GOT WORSE. ITS MORE OF A ROUGHER SKIP WHILE BRAKING AND GASING, IT ALSO DOES IT UNEXPECTEDLY AND I GET WORRY THAT IT MIGHT CAUSED A CRASHED AT SOME POINT. IT HAS ALSO AFFECTED THE INITAL ACCELERATION OF THE CAR BECAUSE I HAVE TO PUSH THE GAS ALL THE WAY FOR IT TO GAIN MOMENTUM
Power train, Jun 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the “Service 4 Wheel Drive” warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the power transfer unit (PTU) was damaged and needed to be replaced. The dealer replaced the power transfer unit. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V011000 (Power Train) and 25E003000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recalls. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 51,000.
Power train, Jun 21, 2025
At 38,700 miles, the PTU started to fail. 4WD service unavailable message displayed permanently as well as svc 4WD light. Sometimes while driving there is a loud buzzing sound. June 2025 Dealership found code C14A7-97 and states replacement is needed. Due to low mileage, should be considered for the warranty recall.
Structure, Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Jun 18, 2025
Electronic parking brake engaged and wouldn't release. Possibility of occurrence while driving. Problem has been confirmed by independent service center to have been caused by water leakage into the area where the parking control module is located. Water was found pooling in parking control module which corroded connecters. Vehicle has not been inspected by anyone but the service center. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure.
Steering, Power train, Vehicle speed control, Jun 17, 2025
I believe the PTU is malfunctioning and causing the transmission to slip or jerk. I am experiencing uncontrolled movement while driving. The vehicle is available at any time for inspection upon request. This puts myself and 2 small children at risk while driving, therefore my ability to use this vehicle is extremely limited and high risk. I have taken it to a jeep dealership in porterville ca who stated my transmission needed replacement. they verbally stated my ptu was ok but never confirmed it with documentation. i have taken it to private mechanics who could not find any issues saying that the problem is internal. the mechanics i have taken it to in the past year have not come to a solution other than to suggest i wait for a resolution to the recall. The service all wheel drive light came on/off about a year ago and was consistant for several months but has turned off for awhile now.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jun 17, 2025
Service shifter alert
Electrical system, Jun 13, 2025
When the car is in park, all of my shifter lights turn red and I receive a Service Shifter warning. It does not happen all of the time but over the past day, it has happened when the car is in park.