2018 Jeep Cherokee complaints

The PTU went bad and had to have replaced. And after researching, see that it is a known issue and not sure why my VIN number isn't covered when I had the exact issue that is being recalled.

The vehicle experienced a powertrain failure involving the Power Transfer Unit (PTU). On June 19, 2025, the vehicle was inspected at Dobbs Tire & Auto at approximately 154,548 miles after a grinding noise and drivetrain noise were observed. The shop found metal shavings in the rear differential fluid and advised the vehicle be taken to a Jeep dealership. Because the vehicle was originally purchased from Cassens Jeep, it was taken there for further diagnosis. On August 28, 2025, the vehicle was inspected at Cassens Jeep at approximately 158,011 miles. The dealership confirmed internal drivetrain noise, metal contamination, and a PTU-related fault code. The vehicle experiences knocking noises at low speeds, lurching while driving, and intermittent drivetrain and 4WD warning indicators. The dealer advised replacement of the PTU and rear drivetrain components. This condition is associated with the active PTU powertrain recall originally issued on January 23, 2025. On January 22, 2026, a representative from Cassens Jeep confirmed that there is currently no available repair remedy, no estimated timeline for completion, and that required parts remain on backorder. This creates an ongoing safety risk due to potential loss of drive power and possible unintended vehicle movement related to park function failure. Service work orders and inspection reports from both repair facilities have been attached to support this complaint.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the “Service 4-WD” warning light was illuminated. While driving at various speeds and accelerating, there was a clunking sound coming from underneath the vehicle. Additionally, the mileage was flashing while the instrument panel was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not diagnosed. The dealer informed the contact that the remedy was not available and referred the contact tothe NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 131,021.

PTU/transfer case issues under 50,000 miles, jeep randomly shuts off 4wd in dangerous areas without any warning

Less than 57,000 miles on vehicle. January 3, 2026. Parking brake engaged and froze. Interrupted driving. Got vehicle home. "Service Brake" came on. Attempted all recommended actions to disengage Parking Brake. Parking Brake continued engagement and the Vehicle cannot be driven.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (POWER TRAIN). However, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the representatives at the Mopar Hotline would disconnect the call ,and the Mopar website was always down. The contact had not experienced a failure.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, there was smoke coming from underneath the hood with a burning odor. The contact pulled over to the side of the road to allow the smoke to clear. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to drive to the residence. The vehicle was later towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the power transfer unit had failed and needed to be replaced; however, the recall remedy part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.

Loss of 4x4 system, dashboard warning light

See attached document for complaint.

The vehicle is experiencing a malfunction involving the Power Transfer Unit (PTU), which is currently subject to an open safety recall. The vehicle has developed severe drivability issues consistent with PTU failure. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This condition places my safety and the satety of others at risk because the PTU defect can result in loss of drive power and/or failure of the vehicle to remain securely in park, increasing the risk of a crash or unintended vehicle movement. I contacted an authorized Jeep dealership to schedule service for the safety recall. When I presented the vehicle for the recall appointment, I was informed that no remedy was available and the vehicle was not inspected. As a result, the problem has not yet been confirmed through a full dealership inspection. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, law enforcement, or insurance representatives. Prior to seeking recall service, the vehicle exhibited drivability symptoms consistent with PTU malfunction, including: loss of drive power while moving, the Electronic Stability Control light appearing, consistent and loud shaking/clanking of the vehicle while driving, which becomes incredibly severe with speed, preventing me from driving on the interstate. These symptoms prompted me to schedule the recall appointment. I was turned away without inspection due to the lack of an available remedy.

A common issue with Jeeps with plastic oil filter housing is the oil filter housing cracks leading to oil leaks and engine damage.

My PTU actuator has failed on my Jeep. I know there is a recall for the two-speed actuator and mine is a single speed, but I have the fact same failure and think my vehicle should also be recalled. I have had many issues that I have paid out of pocket for parts failing in my Jeep that are common problems with jeeps and always recalled except mine. It makes no sense to me. How can I have all the same failures but not qualify?

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the front wheels. The 4-WD warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The vehicle remained at the dealer pending a diagnostic test. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the failure persisted, and the vehicle was no longer driven. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown.

My PTU has failed and my safety is at risk as my car could at any point loose power causing harm to me and others involved. This appears to be a manufacturing defect identical to those listed under the recall. I am requesting immediate inclusion and repair under the recall provisions

Svc 4wd light came on - PTU bad confirmed at Jeep Dealership- Recall for 2017-2019 models but not my VIN.

Car started spitting out liquid and smoking while driving. Pulled over and had it towed to a shop that confirmed the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) is broken and the part is not able to be ordered at this time. Mechanic unable to obtain the part due to the already existing recall on jeeps of the same year, make, and model. It is available for inspection upon request. safety was put at risk because the car was inoperable while driving. No warning lights or warning symptoms prior to the incident.

PTU/Power transfer unit issues

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic light, the START/STOP feature failed to function as intended. In addition, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from the transmission. The contact stated that the floorboards vibrated and felt as if something had fallen. The contact stated that the transmission failed to shift gear. The contact was unable to drive the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) had failed, and an unknown item had sheared off in the process. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 158,000. The VIN was not available.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that after shifting to park(P), the vehicle rolled unintendedly. The contact activated the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling away. While driving and attempting to accelerate, the vehicle hesitated and accelerated slowly. The “Service 4WD” warning light was illuminated. The failure occurred intermittently and occurred while driving at various speeds. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic and was diagnosed with Power Transfer Unit(PTU) failure. The dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that the part was not available. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 92,500.

I fastened seatbelt. It retracted, but heard a rolling noise, which sounded like a can or bottle rolling in the floor behind me. Paid no attention to it and forgot about it. Next time I drove the Jeep, it happened again, so I got home and checked. There was nothing there to make that noise. Another short drive and I realized the seat belt wouldn't tighten, even though I attempted to tighten it some. Reading online, I found a suggestion to pull it out, release it slowly and listen for the racheting sound. It does not make the sound so I checked passenger side to see if it was different. Passenger side does rachet as the belt is slowly released. I've been wearing my seatbelt religeously since 1964, when one saved my life. I panic without it!

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The “Check 4WD” warning light was illuminated, and the Auto START/STOP system failed to restart the vehicle. The contact would disengage the parking brake, place the vehicle in park, and restart the vehicle to continue driving. The failure was intermittent. The contact stated that water was leaking into the cabin from the sunroof, causing a shortage in the electrical system. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who had repaired the electrical system, including systems with the starter. The dealer confirmed that parts for the repair of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train) were unavailable. The contact was able to start the vehicle; however, the Auto START/STOP system needed to be disengaged to drive the vehicle. Additional repairs were made; however, the contact was unable to confirm what the additional repairs were. Some repairs were performed by another dealer, Jacksonville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Arlington (9600 Atlantic Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32225). The contact stated that there was a rattling noise coming from the front end, and the vehicle would surge forward and take an extensive amount of time to come to a complete stop. The failures were intermittent. The vehicle was taken to a

This safety recall is 10 months old and has not been addressed or has no remedy to date. We spoke with the Jeep dealership today, Nov. 10-2025, and they don't know when there will be a fix. This is a serious safety issue and the length of delay is inexcusable.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the message “Service Shifter Soon” was displayed. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the shifter harness and shifter bezel needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired; however, the contact ordered the parts for the repair and intended to repair the vehicle personally. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 87,155.

Driving on the highway going around 60mph and my transmission disengaged and all of my sensors turned off and i had no power at the gas pedal. I was able to pull over and the warning message told me to put put it in park and turn it off in order to fix the issue

Due to the unresolved recall I have experienced alot of issues. The most terrifying is the loss of power, my jeep has just stopped moving sometimes allowing me to het to 30 mph but no more. This has happened to me 3x all of which were on the highway. I no longer have use of my 4wd, which is extremely frustrating since it was the only reason I purchased this vehicle. It has released itself from the parking position. And my "service shifter" light it constantly on. I did put my car in the shop over a year ago they "fixed" it, unfortunately it broke shortly after since it is a recalled part.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that while turning the steering wheel to the left or right, there was an abnormal grinding sound coming from under the floorboards. The contact stated that the message "4WD Unserviceable" was displayed. Additionally, the contact noticed that the vehicle intermittently lost motive power. While depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the power transfer unit (PTU) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000.

While driving the car was stalling not getting up in speed on a hill and the 4wd service came on. We took it to Jeep in Jenkintown for a diagnostics test and it was the Power transfer unit.

My Trailhawk has severe vibrations/ grinding from the PTU. When accelerating from a stop or making turn, the vehicle hesitates and vibrates from the rear which almost caused a bad accident when I was pulling out to the main road.

The car is having loss of power and issues with parking or turning at low speeds. I took it in and it needs a new power transfer case. There are metal shavings in it. I see there is a recall for 2017-2019 but the dealership is saying my vin is not affected

Regarding Recall Transport Canada Recall 2025-012, also known as Safety Recall 01C and NHTSA ID Number: 25V011000 My Jeep has the service 4WD message displayed on the dash along with the noise/vibration/grinding as described in the same recall for other Jeeps for my model year. I'm not sure if this recall needs to be expanded but I'm curious to know what the process looks like as my problem is identical to the other Jeeps effected by this recall but my Jeep isn't listed.

My wife was driving in auto on the shift knob. There was a load noise coming from under the car that sounded like medal was dragging. The dash had a warning come on that the 4wd was not working and need to be serviced. The warning disappeared but a warning light came on that t is 4wd/ser. We looked up and found there is a recall for this problem and could cause the unit to roll on its own when on a hill. Took car to dealership to have diagnosed and symptoms diagnosed it to be the same problem has the safety recall. The car year falls in to this but doesn't show up for the recall. We would like this to be taken care of under the recall and not out of pocket. I am attaching the dealership diagnostics along with info on recal .NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 25V011000 Loss of Drive Power from Damaged PTU A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash. A loss of park function can cause an unintended vehicle rollaway, which can increase the risk of a crash or injury. NHTSA ID Number: 25V011000 Manufacturer Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) Components POWER TRAIN Potential Number of Units Affected: 63130 Summary Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may become damaged and disengage the transmission and differential, resulting in a loss of drive power and/or loss of park function. Remedy Dealers will update the drivetrain control module software and replace the PTU, as necessary free of charge. Interim notification letters, n

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, the instrument panel light, dome light, and center console continuously flickered off and on with the battery voltage charge erroneously fluctuating up and down from 10 to 14 Volts. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who replaced the alternator, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer who determined that the PCM was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V524000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 133,000.

I own a Jeep Cherokee 2018 ( [XXX] ) it has less then 60k miles on it. The dashboard recently - 4WD System unavailable" lit up and remains lit. I took to non dealer for diagnosis- stated it is a known issue in Jeep Cherokee, transfer case internal failure. I verified online there is a recall for faulty power transfer (25V011000.) but my VIN is not reflected. I believe my Vin should be included in the recall and was omitted. What can I do to have it reviewed and added to the recall list? I app;reciate your assistance. Thank you!!! [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Service shifter light is on been on for a long time. When driving it takes a min to pick up speed . My dash said that there is something wrong with my air bag.

Received notification of a recall for my jeep called and they stated that there is no fix but if something happens while I’m driving that jeep would have to consume the cost this is unacceptable! This was 3/15/25 still no fix

My Jeep Cherokee is under NHTSA Recall 25V-011 / Manufacturer Recall 01C for a defect in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) that can cause sudden loss of power while driving or loss of PARK while stationary, both posing crash risks. The recall was issued in January 2025 and as of September 2025 the remedy is still not available. The defect has not been inspected or confirmed by a dealer since FCA/Stellantis has not released the fix.

The car is in the shop for defective rear diferential. Once replaced the car now throws a code for the TPU being defective. Jeep issued a recall in jan 2025 for the TPU components on jeep cherokee 2017-2019. The VIN for my jeep is not showing as part of the recall. I want to report my car so it can be added to the recall.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while stopped and about to drive forward, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The contact believed that a part underneath the vehicle had fractured. The contact was unsure if a warning light was illuminated. The vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) had failed. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown.

Vehicle: 2018 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk VIN: [XXX] Recall: Manufacturer #01C / NHTSA #25V-011 Complaint: On January 16, 2025, FCA US (Stellantis/Jeep) issued a recall (01C, NHTSA 25V-011) for 2017–2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles due to improperly seated input shaft snap rings in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU). The recall summary itself acknowledges that this defect can cause uncontrolled input shaft movement, spline damage, and/or range fork damage, leading to loss of motive power while driving or loss of PARK function while stationary — both creating a serious crash and injury risk. The recall notice states that the remedy will be a reprogramming of the Drivetrain Control Module (DTCM) with software to detect excessive wear and replace the PTU if needed, along with a warranty extension. However, as of this filing, the recall status for my vehicle remains “Incomplete, Remedy Not Yet Available.” Owners are being left to drive vehicles with a known risk of sudden power loss or loss of PARK, and Stellantis has failed to provide a timeline for the remedy, a loaner vehicle, or interim safety protections. This constitutes an unreasonable delay in providing a remedy to a recognized safety defect under 49 U.S.C. Chapter 301. I request NHTSA investigate Stellantis for failing to make the remedy available in a timely manner, and to compel the manufacturer to expedite corrective action. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Have had intermittent lights for 4wd problem, has an open recall for it that I got notice along time ago but still no fix

Service Shifter warning light comes on

A component (Power Transfer Unit (PTU)) in my 2018 Jeep Cherokee Latitude has failed but my VIN is not included. The power transfer unit has failed. This appears to be a manufacturing defect identical to those listed under the current 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokee PTU recall. I am requesting immediate inclusion and repair under the recall provisions.

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the dealer had been contacted several times; however, the contact was informed that parts were still not available. The contact was concerned about the failure occurring while driving the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the contact’s concern. The contact had not experienced a failure.

While driving, my "service 4WD" light came on, on my dashboard. I took the car to the Jeep dealership where it was purchased and always serviced. They ran a diagnostic check, and it showed I need a new PTU unit. This was on May 13th, 2025. I was told I could drive it home, but not to drive it and they would notify me when the part arrived at the dealership. I would be scheduled for the necessary repairs. The car had a total of 33,740 at that time at the dealership. It is now August 4, 2025, and they still have not received the proper part or PTU unit. They have instructed me that now, after almost 3 months, I can still drive my car, though they said I could not drive it at all except to drive it home on May 13, 2025. Never mind the fact that it could cause further damage and cause me to have an accident if it completely goes out while driving it. It has been a real inconvenience, not to mention the risk involved of having a real accident. I have never received any kind of manufacture's recall concerning this vehicle.

My 2018 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk (VIN: [XXX] ) is affected by safety recall NHTSA #25V-011 (Recall #01C – 2017-2019 KL Two Speed PTU Failure). The recall was issued on 01/23/2025, but Jeep/Stellantis has not provided a remedy or timeline for repair. This issue poses a serious safety risk, and the manufacturer’s failure to supply a remedy in a timely manner is unacceptable. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate and require the manufacturer to provide an immediate fix or interim solution. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The vehicle was purchased from an independent mechanic, and the contact was informed about NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train). The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the brake warning light illuminated. Additionally, on several occasions while driving at various speeds on several occasions, the vehicle lost power and the brake warning light flashed on the instrument cluster. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road and restarted, and the accelerator pedal was pumped several times; however, the vehicle was losing power. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the failure was linked to the recall; however, the part to repair the vehicle was not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 140,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Component: Power Transfer Unit (PTU) 1c4pjmdb6jd567547, but my VIN is not included. The power transfer unit has failed. This appears to be a manufacturing defect identical to those listed under the recall. I am requesting immediate inclusion and repair under the recall provisions

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle began to vibrate. The 4WD warning light was illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed with codes related to the PTU. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but no assistance was provided. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

There is currently a recall for jeep cherokee ptu units. Our vehicle is experiencing all the same issues listed in the recall. The manufacturer claims that our vehicle does not fall in to the recall. Any assistance would be appreciated.

All lights on the gear shift light up and a message on the display says service shifter. Happens randomly. Have to turn car off and back on to get to clear. Yesterday I had to turn car off and back on 3 times before error would reset. Found online this is happening to a lot of Jeep cherokees and most common fix is to replace the shifter bezel and wiring. So I replaced the shift bezel and wiring harness yesterday.