2016 Jeep Cherokee Owner Complaints

The Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failed on my 2016 Jeep Cherokee at 126,000 miles, throwing code C14A7-97 and causing a sudden, dangerous loss of 4WD drivetrain engagement. A certified Jeep dealer confirmed the mechanical failure (Repair Order 8051781) but stated my VIN is excluded from Safety Recalls W47 / 45A and Warranty Extension XJ1. This VIN exclusion leaves a vehicle with an identical, dangerous drivetrain defect on the road without manufacturer remedy.

NHTSA ID

11776006

Incident

Nov 4, 2026

My jeep stalled while attempting to accelerate from a stopped position at a stop light at a busy intersection on or around June/July 2026. The car remained on, the gear shifts were moveable, but the vehicle would not move despite pressing on the gas. I scheduled a tow. After ten minutes, it randomly accelerated about a block before stalling again. This continued about two more times as I tried to get the vehicle out of the middle of the road. The car then overheated and I was able to park it a few blocks away at my mom's house. In August/September 2026, I had the car towed to Complete Automotive, and Corwin Jeep for inspections. Progressive Insurance also inspected the issue and ruled out any residual effects from a 1.25.25 parked car front end hit and run collision. Complete Auto found an empty coolant reservoir, oil and coolant leaks, drive belt issues, PTU code, and warning light indicators; Corwin found PTU code and recommended a transfer case. The exact cause remains unknown. The vehicle has had ongoing hose and overheating issues since the day of purchase in 2018; and has underwent hose and radiator replacements that have not seemed to properly fix the issues surrounding sloshing noises, shuddering, shaking, grinding, intermittent lightening, brake fluid, oil, and coolant leaks, and overheating and engine light. Immediately before the vehicle stalled, there were no warning lamps; those messages indicating overheating lit up while attempting to move myself and the car to safety. The unexpected loss of propulsion presents a serious collision risk, especially in traffic, in rush hour at a busy intersection. The recurring overheating and coolant loss also create risk of sudden failure while driving, which has happened on a busy highway requiring repairs. These problems and safety risks have continued despite substantial repairs and repeated dealership inspections. The vehicle remains inoperable awaiting repairs at the Corwin Jeep Dealership.

NHTSA ID

11774678

Incident

Jul 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked on a slight incline, the vehicle started moving. The contact depressed the brake pedal and became aware that the 4WD warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to shift into 4WD. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V343000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The dealer was contacted and determined that the vehicle had experienced a PTU failure. The dealer stated that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.

NHTSA ID

11773743

Incident

Oct 20, 2026

Mileage

142,000 mi

Unsafe to drive. PTU failure had it towed to the dealership and I can't afford the repair. They want me to drive it home anyway.

NHTSA ID

11772596

Incident

Oct 17, 2026

1. Start/stop light always comes on since I purchased the vehicle in 2024 2. Svc 4wd light is always on within the past several months 3. Vehicle System Report indicates 10 items needs attention including the DTCM 4. Receiving error code C1494 for PTU Symptoms: A. Vibrating floor bed at left drivers side foot B. Slipping and sliding in the rear tires. The VIN has been excluded from all safety recalls, but I am experiencing a severe failure of the AWD/4WD. The dealership that I bought it from will not assist me in paying because my car was excluded. I have all the signs of a failed PTU.

NHTSA ID

11772310

Incident

Apr 25, 2024

The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the 4WD warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failed and required replacement. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.

NHTSA ID

11771142

Incident

Sep 25, 2026

Mileage

81,000 mi

Warning message of 4 Wheel drive overheating and disengaging. a few minutes later a loud pop occurred, and flames overtook the engine and drive train. I pulled off the road and the fire department came and put out the fire. It is a total loss. I believe that this is a safety recall but I was never notified of any repairs needed.

NHTSA ID

11769081

Incident

Oct 2, 2026

i took my 2016 jeep cherokee trailhawk to big star chrysler jeep dodge ram in webster tx. for campaign 23v302 (fca recall 45a). The first time i took the vehicle they performed the recall update on the ptu and charge me a service fee of over $200. after picking up the driving it for about a week the vehicle started stalling and actually died in the middle of an intersection twice. Then the vehicle started displaying all sorts of dtcs about no communication, 4 wheel drive not available, speed sensor not reading and so on.. So i had the vehicle parked in my driveway for a few months until i was able to take it back to the same dealership and explained to them what was happening. So after about two weeks they said they replaced my PTU and speed sensor and my vehicle was ready to be picked up and the cost was going to be over $900 . When I got there and I disputed the cost and replied absolutely not. They botched the update on the ptu that should have been fixed the first time. so they said ok well will cover the speed senor cost and I would just pay for the inspection fee. Again I disputed this cost. Then agent left and came back and told me that i would owe nothing but they could not service my vehicle anymore. Well after a week went by i heard a slapping sound in between me slowing down and the transition of me speeding back up. Well after doing some investigation/troubleshooting i found that the drive shaft that connects to the ptu (which they replaced) had play in it because i was able to move it up and down to make slapping sound i was hearing in the transition of slowing down and speeding back up. Now I stuck with an unsafe vehicle (that i took in for a recall and they did not fix properly)to drive because the big star chrysler in webster tx. blacklisted and told me they will not service my vehicle anymore and now i wait while corporate decides on what actions to take.

NHTSA ID

11768968

Incident

Sep 9, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle was leaking fluid. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined the cause was the PTU and transmission, and there were metal flakes inside the transmission. The contact was informed that the PTU needed to be removed for the repair. The dealer advised the contact not to drive the vehicle. The dealer informed the contact that the check engine warning light was not illuminated, and the repair was not covered under warranty. The vehicle was towed to the residence. There was an abnormal burning odor before the failure. The customer service was contacted by phone. Upon research, the contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V302000 (Power Train). The approximate failure mileage was 102,900.

NHTSA ID

11768488

Incident

Sep 21, 2026

Mileage

102,900 mi

I was driving home from work, the digital display (center)!showed my speed at 82m/h and revving the engine, the actual speedometer showed the actual speed I was doing of 32m/h…(right side of display). Computer reading lights and license plate light not working, yet they are. Took to repair shop and they could only reset, but it returned almost immediately. Gear shift malfunction. The lights on the gear shift and the alert in the display saying gear shift malfunction… all within 2 days… car has @97 000 miles…

NHTSA ID

11761867

Incident

Sep 2, 2026

The vehicle suffered a complete internal failure of the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) drivetrain assembly. Authorized dealership Milford Auto Group diagnosed the vehicle on Invoice #45604 and confirmed in writing: "THE PTU HAS FAILED INTERNALLY AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED".The manufacturer (FCA US LLC) issued a 15-year extended warranty campaign (XJ1) specifically to address safety hazards related to internal PTU mechanical failures causing loss of power. However, FCA US LLC and the dealership are refusing to remedy this documented defect under the warranty extension due to fault code C14A7-97, demanding $4,600+ tax out-of-pocket. Chrysler’s own internal publication, STAR Case S1721000016 Rev. A (MC-10247452-9999), explicitly confirms that fault code C14A7-97 is triggered by damage and debris on the internal PTU mode/range shaft splines and collars, requiring complete PTU replacement. Operating the vehicle with a compromised, internally disintegrated PTU creates an immediate safety hazard of sudden drivetrain lockup, loss of vehicle propulsion while driving, or rollaway risk. The manufacturer's refusal to honor their written warranty extension based on code technicalities forces the vehicle to remain in an unsafe, hazardous condition.

NHTSA ID

11761066

Incident

Jul 4, 2026

I was involved in a significant front-end collision while driving my 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The vehicle sustained extensive front-end damage, including substantial damage to the hood, front bumper, and front structural/components area. Despite the severity of the collision, none of the airbags deployed. I sustained injuries to my neck, shoulders, and back as a result of the collision. I am concerned that the non-deployment of the airbags may have contributed to the severity of my injuries. Prior to the collision, I was not aware of any airbag warning lights, warning messages, or problems with the airbag/SRS system. I am concerned that the airbag system may not have functioned as intended during the collision. I am requesting that the non-deployment be investigated as a potential safety issue. The vehicle has been declared a total loss but remains intact at a tow facility and has not been dismantled or disposed of. It is currently available for inspection.

NHTSA ID

11760722

Incident

Aug 17, 2026

My PTU/transfer case has failed and our Jeep is currently in the shop. They are stating that this exact issue is part of an ongoing recall and that our vehicle should also be added to the recall list due to this part being the exact reason for the recall. They told me that it is unsafe to drive due to power transfer failure while driving, and potential vehicle rollaway. The problem initially was severe grinding noises noted while driving and it was confirmed by our mechanic at our local dealership. He then inspected the unit and noted the failure. I received no warning messages on my vehicle dash prior to this issue. The grinding has been ongoing for about 6 months to a year prior to this but was much less and I kept being told it was either the tires rubbing whilst turning or that my 4WD was "just having a hard time" by other mechanics which I now know was not the case). Please consider my vehicle to be added to this recall. This fix is entirely too expensive for a mom of two young kids, in the state of this economy, who needs their car back as soon as possible.

NHTSA ID

11756490

Incident

Feb 1, 2026

My 2016 Jeep Cherokee developed severe grinding/scraping noise and vibration associated with the PTU. In 2023, I brought it to Larry H. Miller Jeep 104th for PTU-related Safety Recall 45A and also reported abnormal noise. The noise was not documented and the PTU was not replaced, despite Warranty Extension XJ1 already being in effect. In 2026, after the noise worsened, I returned to an authorized Jeep dealer and specifically reported the PTU concern and XJ1. The dealer stated the PTU tested normally and attributed the noise to other issues. I obtained an independent ASE-certified inspection from Wesley Automotive. Wesley documented PTU noise/vibration, a magnetic plug coated in metal, excessive ferrous metal in the PTU fluid, and a faulty PTU requiring replacement. After unrelated wheel-bearing and brake repairs, Wesley documented that the PTU concern remained and provided a photograph showing metal debris on the plug and written diagnostic findings. A subsequent authorized Jeep representative stated XJ1 would not apply without fault code P1720-00 or P215C-00 even if metal were present in the PTU, while acknowledging that the metal condition presented a safety concern. Despite documented PTU failure and metal contamination, it remains unrepaired because Jeep has conditioned XJ1 replacement on specified fault codes rather than physical findings. This follows the 2023 PTU-related recall visit, a later authorized dealer reporting no applicable codes and stating the PTU tested normally, and AutoNation requiring me to authorize a $295 diagnostic fee for yet another evaluation. Stellantis continues to require additional dealer evaluation despite this history and independent physical evidence of PTU deterioration. I am concerned continued operation puts my family and me at risk of PTU failure, sudden power loss, or loss of drivability. The vehicle remains in service with a faulty PTU and metal contamination.

NHTSA ID

11756027

Incident

Aug 4, 2026

Good afternoon, my 2016 Jeep Cherokee is currently at the Local Jeep Dealer in Savannah, Georgia. I have been informed by the dealership that my Power Transfer Unit has failed and has to be replaced. I went to your website and this is an ACTIVE CAMPAIGN for this issue, it is #23V302000. This is a known recall issue and thus the RECALL was issued. Problem, my vehicle's VIN is not listed on your or Mopar's website. I get it, if the VIN is included it is an automatic issue and it will be repaired. My Jeep has the exact mechanical issue covered by the recall, but its not on the list. My question, can my Jeep / VIN be added to the recall? My VIN is [XXX]. I'm a US Veteran with [XXX] of service, I'm on Social Security, and I'm [XXX] old. This repair will be very expensive and I have limited resources. Anything you can do, would be greatly appreciated. I thank you in advance for your time and consideration in this matter. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11753337

Incident

Jul 24, 2026

Took a hard Impact to the rear driver side tire and rear driver door corner small dent(near rear tire), and was spun 180° causing being propelled into a light pole on the passenger front and side. No airbags deployed in the entire vehicle. Multiple people in the vehicle in the vehicle sustained concussions, one also hit their head off the side window which resulted in a large bump forming, and also sustained a fractured rib. No warning lights were on and vehicle had recently been inspected. Currently there is a case opened with JEEP regarding the lack of deployment of the airbag system related to this accident.

NHTSA ID

11751477

Incident

Jul 15, 2026

The vehicle show code B0020-13. This is a fault in the wiring system for the airbags. Caused by Jeep engineering being bad. This has nothing to do with how is driven or used and is a massive safety issue and shuts the entire airbag system down. It requires fix 10-001-20. This issue is so common they have issued a bulletin. The fix is $1100. The fact that this isn't covered by Chrysler is an abomination to safety and is absolutely ridiculous. Then being allowed to not fix air bag issue they know they have caused should be illegal. I'm embarrassed to even have to write this. This is going to kill someone.

NHTSA ID

11750881

Incident

May 1, 2026

Gear shift locks up and car must be turned off and restarted.

NHTSA ID

11748678

Incident

Jun 26, 2026

The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked abnormally with the message "Service 4WD" displayed. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the PTU had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V302000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The contact was informed that the parts to repair the vehicle were currently on backorder. The failure mileage was 86,000.

NHTSA ID

11746481

Incident

Jun 7, 2026

Mileage

86,000 mi

Bad PTU/Transfer case.

NHTSA ID

11745384

Incident

Dec 31, 1969

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 86,778 and at the time of the vehicle's oil change, it was discovered that on the last oil change the mileage was 90,003.

NHTSA ID

11744614

Incident

Jun 1, 2026

Mileage

90,003 mi

The contact owns a 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 25 MPH, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The contact pulled over into a parking lot, turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle operated as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the power transfer unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 23V302000 (POWER TRAIN) and 20V343000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the VIN was not included in the recalls. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 69,177.

NHTSA ID

11744543

Incident

Apr 14, 2026

Mileage

69,177 mi

The parking brake has engaged on it's own 4 times. Twice while I was driving and twice while I was parked in my driveway with car started and attempting to leave. When parked it will not let me roll. When driving the vehicle shimmies and acts like it has serious problems like the wheel is about to fall off. One time there was a yellow exclamation point as a warning light as it was having the issue. The other time there were no warning lights. I never use my parking brake. It came on when I was about a mile down the road. I believe the first 2 times were in March. The last 2 were in May 2026

NHTSA ID

11741684

Incident

May 8, 2026

I pressed button to open back hatch. It started raising and then all of a sudden it closed down and almost knocked me out. My head is very sore where it hit me. I had not pressed button to close it. It just closed on it's own without warning. This happened once before right after I bought the car. I just thought it was a fluke, so i did not report it at that time. I have not taken it anywhere to get checked out. I work so it is challenging to take it during business hours.

NHTSA ID

11741437

Incident

Jun 1, 2026

My jeep Cherokee isn’t catching gears when I drive it also has the svc 4wd light on

NHTSA ID

11737741

Incident

May 8, 2026