186 complaints reported

2018 Jeep Cherokee Power Train

Owner-reported problems and safety issues filed with NHTSA. Review common failures, severity levels, and complaint trends over time.

Reports
186
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
0

Complaint Timeline

Chronological view of owner reports

Oct 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Mar 2025
Oct 2025

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 had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Oct 2025
Sep 2025

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

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jan 2025
Sep 2025

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, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed beginning February 13, 2025. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated November 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 01C. Notes

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jun 2025
Sep 2025

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 vehicle would roll away while parked on an incline and required that the vehicle be parked on level ground. The contact stated that the electric parking brake was inoperable. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle made an abnormal humming and vibrating sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the contact was informed that the humming sound was coming from the transfer case. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was confirmed that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train). The vehicle was not repaired and was parked in the garage. 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 and provided rental assistance for 30 days. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Feb 2025
Aug 2025

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

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: May 2025
Aug 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Apr 2025
Aug 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Aug 2025
Aug 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: May 2025
Jul 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jul 2025
Jul 2025

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

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jul 2025
Jul 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Apr 2025
Jul 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jun 2025
Jul 2025

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.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Sep 2025
Jul 2025

Power Transfer Unit is bad. Vehicle 4WD light came one and after getting it diagnosed at Jeep Dealership, they determined that my PTU had a code C14A7-97 | Stored. PTU Motor-Component or System Operation Obstructed or Blocked. The PTU part alone costs close to $2,000 alone. With labor at the dealer I’m at approximately $2,500. Vehicle is not safe to drive due to 4WD system stalling when attempting to accelerate and kicks.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jan 2025
Jul 2025

In October 2024 I brought my car into the dealership because my 4WD service light had come on. Upon diagnosis they told me that I had to get my PTU motor and actuator replaced. Recently I have discovered that there has been a recall #25E-003 that matches my same issue that my PTU motor and actuator went bad. When I looked up my vin # [XXX] it said that my jeep did not have any recalls. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Oct 2024
Jun 2025

Driving down the Freeway when the car had a warning message please service 4wd so I pulled over but I was unable to put the car in park, all the lights next to the shifter were red and when I tried to shift to park it said please service shifter. With my foot on the brake I pushed the power button to turn the car off counted to 30 and when I turned the car on none of the red lights were lit up and all it said was please shift to park. I contacted the dealer and have an appointment Tuesday. I do know there is a current recall with the PTU that has not been remedied in a reasonable amount of time. I fear for mine and my childs safety.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Dec 2025
Jun 2025

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 made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jan 2025
Jun 2025

The dealership diagnosed a failing PTU (power transfer unit) with metal shavings in the oil and a severe fluid leak onto the exhaust system, which presents a clear fire hazard. I’ve been told not to drive it due to the safety risk, but I rely on this vehicle to work and I have no alternative transportation. This issue is part of Recall #01C, but I was informed that Chrysler has no replacement parts available at this time. In addition to the fire risk, this issue is also causing noticeable power loss, drivetrain instability, and worsening mechanical symptoms. I am requesting immediate assistance — either a loaner vehicle or rental support — until the recall repair can be completed. Please escalate this to Chrysler Recall Support and respond promptly. I am not in a position to purchase or rent another vehicle for a defect that Chrysler is already aware of and has recalled.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jun 2025
Jun 2025

The contact’s husband owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact’s husband 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 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jun 2025
Jun 2025

After my husband started my Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk today he shifted into 'DRIVE' and pulled the vehicle out of our garage. While in 'DRIVE' and with his foot on the brake waiting for the garage door to close, he noticed that a 'Service Shifter' message had appeared in the center of the dash screen. A few seconds later we both noticed that all of the red lights were lit on the gear selector console. Typically, only the light next to the letter 'D' would be lit when the Jeep is in 'DRIVE'. This is the first time that this problem has occurred on our Jeep. As we made our way to the graduation party we were attending, I did some research re this message on my phone while my husband drove. A few miles later, we pulled off the road, shut the engine off, and 30 seconds later re-started the vehicle. This cleared the message and also all of the red lights on the shifter console. When he shifted into 'DRIVE' only the light next to the 'D' was lit. The problem did not show up again today but I wanted to file this report after reading online that this same problem has been occurring for many years on various JEEP models.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jun 2025
Jun 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while driving approximately 25-35 MPH, the vehicle was jerking abnormally. The contact stated that while accelerating from a stop sign, the rear end of the vehicle was jerking hard. The vehicle shifted to high gear, and the driver's side rear swayed. The failure progressed over time. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V011000 (Power Train). The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that the PTU was the cause of the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was approximately 127,000.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Mar 2025
Jun 2025

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

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Jun 2025
Jun 2025

"Service 4WD" light on the dashboard. 4WD will not disengage which from what my mechanic says is caused by issues related to the transfer case / faulty actuator

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Mar 2023
May 2025

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 manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Type: Vehicle, Vehicle: 2018 JEEP CHEROKEE, Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
Incident: Aug 2025

Trend Over Time

Complaints by year

Quick Summary

The 2018 Jeep Cherokee has 186 Power Train complaints on file. 1 crashes have been reported. Review the timeline above for detailed owner experiences.