For many drivers on the road, the Jeep Cherokee’s blend of rugged capability and everyday comfort is exactly what makes it an appealing SUV choice. However, some owners have reported transmission problems across certain model years. These issues can range from rough shifting and delayed acceleration to more serious drivability concerns, with repair costs that vary widely depending on the cause.

Often linked to software glitches, calibration problems, or hardware-related shortcomings, Jeep Cherokee transmission problems aren’t always easy to diagnose at first. Understanding why these issues occur, which model years are most affected, and how to identify warning signs early in your vehicle can help you stay safe on the road and avoid more expensive Jeep repairs down the line.

Cherokee Transmission Types by Model Year and What’s Different

Jeep Cherokees have featured a wide range of transmission designs throughout the years, with many of those types having their own quirks. The early 2014 Jeep Cherokee and 2015 Jeep Cherokee models made use of the ZF 9-speed automatic transmission with the goal of improving fuel economy and performance. However, it soon became a frequently reported area of concern among some owners, with many owners reporting harsh shifting, sudden downshifts, or hesitation when accelerating.

Software updates and mechanical tweaks that were meant to address some of these bugs were released. There was a couple-year period of reprieve, but then the 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokees had TSBS or recall notices issued due to the input shaft on the power transfer unit (PTU) potentially not being seated correctly. This posed the risk of causing the driving power to fail.

Even newer models through the 2021 model year saw issues, including jerky gear changes and check engine lights related to the transmission control module. The core difference between the early and later Cherokee models all comes down to software calibration and improved solenoid operation. Many Cherokee vehicles perform as intended when properly maintained and updated, but early programming flaws tend to cause miscommunications between the engine and the transmission.

5 Common Problems Drivers Report and What They Indicate

Transmission issues in the Cherokee can show up in a variety of ways, often starting subtly and growing far worse over time. Some of the most common reported transmission issue symptoms across model years include:

1. Hard or delayed shifting: This is often due to software calibration errors or faulty shift solenoids, causing problems with the gear shifts.
2. Lurching or hesitation when accelerating: This may indicate a torque converter issue or an adaptive learning problem in the transmission control system itself.
3. Transmission warning light (Check Engine or “Service Transmission”): This can signal an internal fault, low fluid, or total TCM failure.
4. Grinding, clunking, or whining noises: Usually associated with internal wear, low transmission fluid, or a failing bearing.
5. Fluid leaks: A bad transmission pan gasket or worn seals can lead to low fluid levels, causing slippage or overheating.

Delaying diagnosis or repair may allow issues to worsen over time. Issues can cause small problems to escalate, which is why professional diagnostics and early repair intervention are critical.

Repair Options for Your Jeep Cherokee

When you find yourself faced with transmission issues, there are several repair paths you can consider depending on the diagnostic of the problem and the mileage of your vehicle:

• Software Updates: Many 2014-2019 models, including the 2016 Jeep Cherokee, required software reprogramming to correct shift timing, as mentioned previously, and this is often the first and least expensive step. Some dealerships may perform it for free under warranty or recall.
• Solenoid Replacement: If the problem lies in one or more shift solenoids, the repair cost is moderate, typically $300 to $600, depending on current labor rates.
• Transmission Service: Routine service helps maintain long-term performance, and Jeep recommends checking fluid regularly and servicing around 60,000 miles.
• Rebuild or Replacement: Severe cases of transmission breakdowns, such as internal clutch damage or bearing failure, require a full rebuild or replacement, with costs ranging from $5,700 to $6,300, not including rental or downtime expenses.

An extended warranty or vehicle service contract can significantly offset these costs. These plans may cover major powertrain components, including transmission, solenoids, and control modules, minus a deductible and subject to contract terms. For perspective, three of the most common plans at Endurance Warranty, the Secure Plus, Supreme, and Superior plans, offer coverage for transmission-related components, depending on the contract.

Cost Range, Vehicle Downtime, and Choosing a Qualified Shop

Transmission repair costs will vary drastically depending on what caused the repair and the turnaround time for that fix. Typically, drivers should expect the following in terms of cost and vehicle downtime.

Choosing the right shop will make a big difference in both accuracy and cost for the fix of your Cherokee. Jeep dealerships are typically the best equipped for software and recall-related fixes, whereas certified independent repair shops are often more convenient for more extensive repairs. For instance, RepairPal partners with over 3,900 certified and vetted repair shops nationwide, which aim to promote transparent pricing and warranty-backed repairs.

Maintenance and Driving Tips to Reduce Future Issues

Preventative maintenance is still the best way to avoid major repairs under the hood of your Cherokee. To that end, consider some of the following tips to help extend the life of your Jeep Cherokee:

• Stay on top of fluid checks, as low or dirty fluid is the number-one cause of premature wear
• Avoid heavy towing or aggressive acceleration, as these can strain internal gears and clutches
• Update your software regularly and keep note when Jeep periodically releases TCM updates to optimize performance
• Let your car warm up, especially in cold climates, as giving the transmission a minute before driving can help fluid circulate properly
• Consider an extended warranty plan that may help offset the cost of covered repairs

These tips can help you reduce the likelihood of unexpected financial surprises and logistical headaches that could otherwise arise when a major component, like if the transmission fails.

Protect Your Cherokee for the Road Ahead

Transmission problems can quickly turn your dependable Jeep Cherokee into a costly challenge, but by taking the time to understand the causes, symptoms, and repair options, you can act quickly before small issues compound into something worse. Just a little proper maintenance and prompt service can help you ensure you enjoy your Jeep’s signature off-road capabilities and daily comfort.

Taking the extra step and investing in a vehicle service contract from Endurance can help you take your transmission protection to the next level. Additionally, each contract comes with a year of our Elite Benefits, which includes bonus perks such as up to $500 in windshield protection against road-hazard-caused chips or cracks, key fob replacement, collision discounts, and complete tire coverage.*

To learn more, reach out to an Endurance representative at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE email quote. You can also shop our eStore to see your plan recommendations and pricing right away!

Check out our Vehicle Guides for info on similar models like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Renegade, and Jeep Wrangler.