2014–2019 Jeep Cherokee: Sudden loss of drive or car rolls in Park (power transfer unit recalls)
Likely causes, ranked
- Worn PTU input splines$0–$0Shop
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
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Symptom: A sudden loss of power to the wheels while driving, a grinding or clunk from the front driveline, AWD warnings, or the vehicle moving while in Park.
Likely causes
- Worn PTU input splines. Jeep's recalls describe the splines between the transmission and the PTU wearing until drive is lost.
DIY or shop?
Dealer. Recall repairs are free.
Useful steps
- Check your VIN for every PTU recall.
- Use the parking brake when parked.
- Get it checked if you hear grinding from the front.
Vehicle focus: 2014–2019 Jeep Cherokee.
Safety / mechanic note
Losing drive in traffic or rolling in Park can cause a crash. Verify with a mechanic or dealer.
Recalls & service bulletins
Recalls
- 20V343000 2014–2017 Cherokee with the two-speed PTU: worn splines can disconnect the transmission from the front wheels, causing loss of drive or Park. Software keeps rear drive and applies the parking brake if this happens. Details
- 23V302000 2016–2017 Cherokee: expansion with a further software update. Details
- 25V011000 2017–2019 Cherokee: dealers update software and replace the PTU as necessary. Details
- 26V290000 2019–2023 Cherokee: the PTU may fail. Software updates and PTU replacement as needed. Details
NHTSA complaints: 3,654 keyword-matched complaints for Jeep CHEROKEE 2014–2019 (of 9,494 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.