2015 Jeep Cherokee: Rough shifting
Common wear/failure (not a recall)
Symptoms
Owners of the 2015 Cherokee report: rough shifting. CarComplaints.com lists 66 owner complaints, average mileage 19,550 miles.
NHTSA has 1007 owner complaints for the 2015 Cherokee in this area. Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11774041 (filed 10/27/2026): “Svc 4 wd warning light always on. several diagnostics bring me to the ptu needing replaced. i am told by the dealer that the part alone is upwards of $2500 and is a severe warning that the vehicle will just stop functioning and place a whole lot of vehicles an…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11773534 (filed 10/25/2026): “Whilst driving on the highway at approx 65mph there was a clunk from under the car, followed by lack of acceleration, smoke was coming out from under the hood. we were unable to pull onto the shoulder immediately due to highway construction. we eventually pull…”
Likely causes
Sources do not establish a single root cause; diagnosis is needed. Owner-reported fixes are listed below.
Fix, in plain English
Most common owner-reported solutions on CarComplaints.com: reset transmission (7 reports) update shifting software (5 reports) replace transmission (2 reports). Check for open recalls and extended warranty coverage with a dealer before paying out of pocket.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Diagnosis needs a scan tool; repair or replacement needs a lift, transmission jack and the manufacturer's fluid fill/relearn procedure. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range: get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
AutoZone · O'Reilly · Advance · RockAuto
Sources
Page last updated .