2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Transmission sticks in 2nd gear and wont upshift
Common wear/failure (not a recall)
Symptoms
Owners of the 2023 Grand Cherokee report: transmission sticks in 2nd gear and wont upshift. CarComplaints.com lists 1 owner complaints, average mileage 800 miles.
NHTSA has 58 owner complaints for the 2023 Grand Cherokee in this area. Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11770356 (filed 10/10/2026): “I am writing to formally request a review of an unresolved safety recall on my 2023 jeep grand cherokee. i recently received a notice regarding safety recall 89d/nhtsa 26v-562, which indicates a serious rear coil spring hazard. currently, replacement parts are…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11765560 (filed 09/19/2026): “Severe front end noise left and right side steering feels loose rear suspension also makes clunking noises and doesn't feel safe to drive transmission doesn't shift properly make a thumping noise when putting vehicle in drive or reverse very poor fuel economy …”
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: none clearly reported. Check for open recalls and extended warranty coverage with a dealer before paying out of pocket.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Differential/driveline noise diagnosis and gear work need a lift and specialty setup tools. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range: get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
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