Stellantis (FCA US, LLC) has announced a voluntary recall of approximately 63,082 Jeep® Cherokee (KL) models from 2017 to 2019. The recall addresses a potential defect in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU), a critical drivetrain component, which could result in the loss of drive power or park functionality.
The issue is linked to an improperly seated input shaft snap ring in the PTU. This flaw could allow uncontrolled movement of the input shaft, leading to damage in key components such as the range shift sleeve, splines, and range fork. These failures could cause the vehicle to lose motive power or its ability to stay in park, increasing the risk of accidents or injury.
What Are the Warning Signs? –
Affected owners might notice a “Service 4WD” message on the dashboard, along with unusual noise, vibration, or changes in drive quality.
Recall Chronology –
- June 4, 2020: FCA US initiates Recall ID W47 (NHTSA Recall ID 20V-343) for 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee models due to PTU input spline failures.
- March 2023: FCA TSRC opens a new investigation into 2016-2017 Jeep Cherokee PTU failures.
- April 20, 2023: FCA US issues Recall ID 45A (NHTSA Recall ID 23V-302) for additional 2016-2017 Jeep Cherokee models with PTU input spline issues.
- December 12, 2023: Transport Canada sends an information request about PTU issues in 2014-2019 Jeep Cherokee models.
- April 23, 2024: NHTSA sends a Pre-Investigation Request for PTU-related Loss of Motive Power (LOMP) issues in 2016-2019 Jeep Cherokee models.
- June 25, 2024: FCA US TSRC opens a broader investigation into 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokee PTU failures.
- August 16, 2024 – January 8, 2025: FCA US regularly reviews its findings with NHTSA through monthly meetings.
- December 11, 2024: FCA US reviews 14 customer assistance records, 1,064 warranty claims, 43 field reports, and 55 service records related to PTU issues. No accidents or injuries are reported.
- January 9, 2025: FCA US decides to issue a voluntary safety recall for 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokee models under Recall ID 01C.
What Should Owners Do? –
Stellantis is actively developing a remedy for this issue. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed starting February 13, 2025. Until then, owners can contact Stellantis customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or refer to Recall ID 01C.
For additional information, owners may also contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit nhtsa.gov.
