2016 Jeep Cherokee: Transmission not working properly
Common wear/failure (not a recall)
Symptoms
Owners of the 2016 Cherokee report: transmission not working properly. CarComplaints.com lists 44 owner complaints, average mileage 24,350 miles.
NHTSA has 636 owner complaints for the 2016 Cherokee in this area. Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11773743 (filed 10/26/2026): “The contact owns a 2016 jeep cherokee. the contact stated that while the vehicle was parked on a slight incline, the vehicle started moving. the contact depressed the brake pedal and became aware that the 4wd warning light was illuminated. the contact stated t…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11772596 (filed 10/21/2026): “Unsafe to drive. ptu failure had it towed to the dealership and i can't afford the repair. they want me to drive it home anyway.…”
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: download latest software patch (4 reports) replace transmission (3 reports) replaced transmission module (3 reports) repair coolant lines (1 reports) replace the transmission (1 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
- CarComplaints.com: Transmission not working properly (2016 Cherokee)
- NHTSA complaints API, 2016 Cherokee
Page last updated .