2017 Jeep Cherokee: Irregular shifting
Common wear/failure (not a recall)
Symptoms
Owners of the 2017 Cherokee report: irregular shifting. CarComplaints.com lists 9 owner complaints, average mileage 14,650 miles.
NHTSA has 650 owner complaints for the 2017 Cherokee in this area. Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11772955 (filed 10/22/2026): “The contact owns a 2017 jeep cherokee. the contact stated that while driving at 45 mph, the “service 4wd” warning light illuminated. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with ptu failure. the contact was informed that the pt…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11771329 (filed 10/15/2026): “Hello, i am writing to follow up on an issue i reported a month ago regarding an unaddressed recall on my 2017 jeep cherokee. the vehicle is currently not drivable due to significant consequential damage to the transmission caused by a failed power transfer u…”
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: computer update (1 reports) replace 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
Page last updated .