Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep, has issued a major recall affecting over 63,000 Jeep Cherokee vehicles due to a critical issue with the power transfer unit (PTU) that could lead to a loss of drive power or unintended rollaway.
The recall, announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on January 24, impacts the 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokee models.
History Behind the Recall
The recall was initiated after NHTSA identified a defect in the power transfer unit that could cause the transmission and differential to disengage. This may result in:
- Loss of drive power which can make crashes more likely.
- Loss of park function, meaning the vehicle may roll away unexpectedly, increasing the risk of crashes or injuries.
Both scenarios pose significant safety risks for affected drivers and others on the road. Stellantis has not disclosed any reports of accidents or injuries caused by the defect, but the issue is serious enough to warrant immediate attention.
Which Models Are Affected?
The 63,000 recalled vehicles include the 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokee. Owners should check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to confirm whether their vehicle is part of the recall.
What Owners Need to Do Next
At this time, Stellantis has not yet developed a remedy for the issue. However, affected vehicle owners will receive notification letters by February 13, 2025, with further instructions.
Owners are encouraged to:
- Call Jeep customer service at 1-800-853-1403 and reference recall code 01C for more details.
- Visit the NHTSA recall database at www.nhtsa.gov to check their recall status.
- Monitor updates from Jeep and Stellantis regarding when a fix will be available.
Until a repair solution is provided, Jeep Cherokee owners should take extra precautions, engage the emergency brake when parked, and avoid driving if they notice any power loss while in motion.
How Jeep Owners Can Take Back Control
While recalls have been communicated to owners, many continue to be unhappy with the solutions provided by automakers. These problems have the potential to escalate into further action, just like this – underlining the importance of protecting consumer rights.
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