2018 Jeep Cherokee
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 686 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 8th highest complaint count among 12 Cherokee model years with reports.
Of the 2018 reports, 11 involved a crash and 5 involved a fire. 7 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
Electrical system, wiring, front underhoodAug 9, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles and 2018-2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid vehicles. The powertrain control module may be equipped with a voltage regulator chip in the circuit board that may fail, causing a stall or a no start condition.
A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began October 2, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U87.
Campaign 18V524000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, axle assembly, axle shaftJul 26, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Cherokee all-wheel-drive vehicles. The bearing cage for the right front halfshaft assembly may not have been properly heat treated, possibly resulting in the bearing cage breaking and a potential halfshaft assembly failure.
If the halfshaft bearing cage breaks, the halfshaft may not be able to transmit engine power, causing a loss of drive or it can allow the vehicle to move while in the "Park" position. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front right halfshaft assemblies, free of charge. The recall began September 20, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U78.
Campaign 18V494000 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
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsMay 1, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a 2.4L engine. These vehicles may have been manufactured with a fuel tube that may leak fuel into the engine compartment.
A fuel leak in the presence of the ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel tube, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 24, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U39.
Campaign 18V282000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, engineOct 24, 2017
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Cherokee and Compass vehicles equipped with 2.4L engines. The engines may have a cracked oil pump housing that can result in oil pump failure.
If the oil pump fails, the engine will stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the oil pump, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 5, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T65.
Campaign 17V670000 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
Representative owner complaints: power train
295 reports, newest first. Show all
Power train, Nov 10, 2025
This safety recall is 10 months old and has not been addressed or has no remedy to date. We spoke with the Jeep dealership today, Nov. 10-2025, and they don't know when there will be a fix. This is a serious safety issue and the length of delay is inexcusable.
Power train, Nov 7, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the message “Service Shifter Soon” was displayed. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the shifter harness and shifter bezel needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired; however, the contact ordered the parts for the repair and intended to repair the vehicle personally. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 87,155.
Power train, Nov 6, 2025
Driving on the highway going around 60mph and my transmission disengaged and all of my sensors turned off and i had no power at the gas pedal. I was able to pull over and the warning message told me to put put it in park and turn it off in order to fix the issue
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Nov 4, 2025
Due to the unresolved recall I have experienced alot of issues. The most terrifying is the loss of power, my jeep has just stopped moving sometimes allowing me to het to 30 mph but no more. This has happened to me 3x all of which were on the highway. I no longer have use of my 4wd, which is extremely frustrating since it was the only reason I purchased this vehicle. It has released itself from the parking position. And my "service shifter" light it constantly on. I did put my car in the shop over a year ago they "fixed" it, unfortunately it broke shortly after since it is a recalled part.
Power train, Oct 28, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that while turning the steering wheel to the left or right, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from under the floorboards. The contact stated that the message "4WD Unserviceable" was displayed. Additionally, the contact noticed that the vehicle intermittently lost motive power. While depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the power transfer unit (PTU) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000.
Power train, Oct 10, 2025
While driving the car was stalling not getting up in speed on a hill and the 4wd service came on. We took it to Jeep in Jenkintown for a diagnostics test and it was the Power transfer unit.
Power train, Oct 8, 2025
My Trailhawk has severe vibrations/ grinding from the PTU. When accelerating from a stop or making turn, the vehicle hesitates and vibrates from the rear which almost caused a bad accident when I was pulling out to the main road.
Power train, Sep 25, 2025
The car is having loss of power and issues with parking or turning at low speeds. I took it in and it needs a new power transfer case. There are metal shavings in it. I see there is a recall for 2017-2019 but the dealership is saying my vin is not affected
Steering, Power train, Other or unspecified, Sep 24, 2025
Regarding Recall Transport Canada Recall 2025-012, also known as Safety Recall 01C and NHTSA ID Number: 25V011000 My Jeep has the service 4WD message displayed on the dash along with the noise/vibration/grinding as described in the same recall for other Jeeps for my model year. I'm not sure if this recall needs to be expanded but I'm curious to know what the process looks like as my problem is identical to the other Jeeps effected by this recall but my Jeep isn't listed.
Power train, Sep 18, 2025
My wife was driving in auto on the shift knob. There was a load noise coming from under the car that sounded like medal was dragging. The dash had a warning come on that the 4wd was not working and need to be serviced. The warning disappeared but a warning light came on that t is 4wd/ser. We looked up and found there is a recall for this problem and could cause the unit to roll on its own when on a hill. Took car to dealership to have diagnosed and symptoms diagnosed it to be the same problem has the safety recall. The car year falls in to this but doesn't show up for the recall. We would like this to be taken care of under the recall and not out of pocket. I am attaching the dealership diagnostics along with info on recal .NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 25V011000 Loss of Drive Power from Damaged PTU 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. NHTSA ID Number: 25V011000 Manufacturer Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) Components POWER TRAIN Potential Number of Units Affected: 63130 Summary 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. Remedy Dealers will update the drivetrain control module software and replace the PTU, as necessary free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed beginning February 13, 2025. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated November 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 01C. Notes
Power train, Other or unspecified, Sep 16, 2025
I own a Jeep Cherokee 2018 ( [XXX] ) it has less then 60k miles on it. The dashboard recently - 4WD System unavailable" lit up and remains lit. I took to non dealer for diagnosis- stated it is a known issue in Jeep Cherokee, transfer case internal failure. I verified online there is a recall for faulty power transfer (25V011000.) but my VIN is not reflected. I believe my Vin should be included in the recall and was omitted. What can I do to have it reviewed and added to the recall list? I app;reciate your assistance. Thank you!!! [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Sep 3, 2025
The car is in the shop for defective rear diferential. Once replaced the car now throws a code for the TPU being defective. Jeep issued a recall in jan 2025 for the TPU components on jeep cherokee 2017-2019. The VIN for my jeep is not showing as part of the recall. I want to report my car so it can be added to the recall.
Power train, Sep 2, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 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 that while stopped and about to drive forward, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The contact believed that a part underneath the vehicle had fractured. The contact was unsure if a warning light was illuminated. The vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) had failed. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. 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 failure mileage was unknown.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Aug 30, 2025
Vehicle: 2018 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk VIN: [XXX] Recall: Manufacturer #01C / NHTSA #25V-011 Complaint: On January 16, 2025, FCA US (Stellantis/Jeep) issued a recall (01C, NHTSA 25V-011) for 2017–2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles due to improperly seated input shaft snap rings in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU). The recall summary itself acknowledges that this defect can cause uncontrolled input shaft movement, spline damage, and/or range fork damage, leading to loss of motive power while driving or loss of PARK function while stationary — both creating a serious crash and injury risk. The recall notice states that the remedy will be a reprogramming of the Drivetrain Control Module (DTCM) with software to detect excessive wear and replace the PTU if needed, along with a warranty extension. However, as of this filing, the recall status for my vehicle remains “Incomplete, Remedy Not Yet Available.” Owners are being left to drive vehicles with a known risk of sudden power loss or loss of PARK, and Stellantis has failed to provide a timeline for the remedy, a loaner vehicle, or interim safety protections. This constitutes an unreasonable delay in providing a remedy to a recognized safety defect under 49 U.S.C. Chapter 301. I request NHTSA investigate Stellantis for failing to make the remedy available in a timely manner, and to compel the manufacturer to expedite corrective action. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Aug 28, 2025
Have had intermittent lights for 4wd problem, has an open recall for it that I got notice along time ago but still no fix
Power train, Aug 14, 2025
A component (Power Transfer Unit (PTU)) in my 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude has failed but my VIN is not included. The power transfer unit has failed. This appears to be a manufacturing defect identical to those listed under the current 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokee PTU recall. I am requesting immediate inclusion and repair under the recall provisions.
Power train, Aug 12, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 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 that the dealer had been contacted several times; however, the contact was informed that parts were still not available. The contact was concerned about the failure occurring while driving the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the contact’s concern. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Power train, Aug 4, 2025
While driving, my "service 4WD" light came on, on my dashboard. I took the car to the Jeep dealership where it was purchased and always serviced. They ran a diagnostic check, and it showed I need a new PTU unit. This was on May 13th, 2025. I was told I could drive it home, but not to drive it and they would notify me when the part arrived at the dealership. I would be scheduled for the necessary repairs. The car had a total of 33,740 at that time at the dealership. It is now August 4, 2025, and they still have not received the proper part or PTU unit. They have instructed me that now, after almost 3 months, I can still drive my car, though they said I could not drive it at all except to drive it home on May 13, 2025. Never mind the fact that it could cause further damage and cause me to have an accident if it completely goes out while driving it. It has been a real inconvenience, not to mention the risk involved of having a real accident. I have never received any kind of manufacture's recall concerning this vehicle.
Power train, Jul 24, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The vehicle was purchased from an independent mechanic, and the contact was informed about NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train). The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the brake warning light illuminated. Additionally, on several occasions while driving at various speeds on several occasions, the vehicle lost power and the brake warning light flashed on the instrument cluster. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road and restarted, and the accelerator pedal was pumped several times; however, the vehicle was losing power. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the failure was linked to the recall; however, the part to repair the vehicle was not yet available. 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 not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 140,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Power train, Jul 23, 2025
Component: Power Transfer Unit (PTU) 1c4pjmdb6jd567547, but my VIN is not included. The power transfer unit has failed. This appears to be a manufacturing defect identical to those listed under the recall. I am requesting immediate inclusion and repair under the recall provisions
Power train, Jul 14, 2025
There is currently a recall for jeep cherokee ptu units. Our vehicle is experiencing all the same issues listed in the recall. The manufacturer claims that our vehicle does not fall in to the recall. Any assistance would be appreciated.
Power train, Jul 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle began to vibrate. The 4WD warning light was illuminated. 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 vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed with codes related to the PTU. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but no assistance was provided. 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. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Power train, Jun 21, 2025
Driving down the Freeway when the car had a warning message please service 4wd so I pulled over but I was unable to put the car in park, all the lights next to the shifter were red and when I tried to shift to park it said please service shifter. With my foot on the brake I pushed the power button to turn the car off counted to 30 and when I turned the car on none of the red lights were lit up and all it said was please shift to park. I contacted the dealer and have an appointment Tuesday. I do know there is a current recall with the PTU that has not been remedied in a reasonable amount of time. I fear for mine and my childs safety.
Power train, Jun 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 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 made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were 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 issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Power train, Jun 17, 2025
The dealership diagnosed a failing PTU (power transfer unit) with metal shavings in the oil and a severe fluid leak onto the exhaust system, which presents a clear fire hazard. I’ve been told not to drive it due to the safety risk, but I rely on this vehicle to work and I have no alternative transportation. This issue is part of Recall #01C, but I was informed that Chrysler has no replacement parts available at this time. In addition to the fire risk, this issue is also causing noticeable power loss, drivetrain instability, and worsening mechanical symptoms. I am requesting immediate assistance — either a loaner vehicle or rental support — until the recall repair can be completed. Please escalate this to Chrysler Recall Support and respond promptly. I am not in a position to purchase or rent another vehicle for a defect that Chrysler is already aware of and has recalled.