About this problem
The power transfer unit, or PTU, is the small gearbox that sends engine power to the rear wheels on all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions. It holds only a small amount of gear oil and sits close to the hot exhaust, so the oil can break down and leak. When the PTU or its sensors fail, the car turns on a "Service 4WD" warning and may drop back to front-wheel drive, or the PTU can grind and stop turning altogether.
Across all owner complaints filed about the Jeep Cherokee since 2012, 1,533 (15.1%) describe "Service 4WD" and power transfer unit failure, the second most reported problem we track on the Cherokee. The reports cluster on the 2016, 2017 and 2019 model years, and the 2019 drew the most, with 468. It tends to show up at higher mileage: half of the owners who gave a mileage were between 62,000 and 115,000 miles. 13 reports describe a crash or fire linked to it. 4 recalls are related to it, and recall repairs are free at any dealer.
What owners report
Owners of 4WD Cherokees report a 'Service 4WD' warning, whining or grinding at speed, and loss of power to the wheels. The usual cause is the power transfer unit (PTU), which can leak fluid and fail. The 2016, 2017 and 2019 cars drew the most reports.
How it gets fixed
The fix is replacing or rebuilding the PTU and, if caught early, a fluid change and seals. Jeep issued a recall for some PTU parts.
Typical cost: A replacement PTU costs about $2,500 to $4,000.
Complaints by model year
In owners' words
"Service light on dash "svc 4wd" took it to the dealership, and they told me in 30 minutes it was the transfer case gone bad. 2014-17 had a recall on the same issue, and they already knew what was wrong with it."
2019 Jeep Cherokee, 93,000 miles
"Our brand new vehicle has been in for maintenance several times, due to service shifter and service 4x4. This is all due to a faulty shifter bezel and faulty wiring to the shifter bezel."
2017 Jeep Cherokee, 200 miles
"We're getting the 'service 4wd' warning again. This isn't the first time it happened."
2016 Jeep Cherokee, 36,000 miles
Excerpts from public owner complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, lightly trimmed.
Related recalls
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a two-speed Power Transfer Unit (PTU).
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee vehicles.
Recall repairs are free at any dealer. Check a specific car by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Service bulletins and warranty extensions
Jeep has sent dealers 51 bulletins that mention this problem on the Cherokee. A bulletin tells technicians how to fix a known fault. It is not a recall, so the repair is usually free only while the car is under warranty or covered by an extension.
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Broken Input Spline - X89 Warranty Extension This bulletin involves replacing the PTU assembly with an updated part.
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Broken Input Spline XJ1 Warranty Extension Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination.
Flash: Drivetrain Control Module (DTCM) Updates Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) or warning lamp illumination.
Service 4wd Light On, AWD System Service Required Message Illuminated.
Power Transfer Unit If considering PTU Assembly replacement related to DTCs C14A7-97 or C1494-92, please be aware of updated diagnostic procedures in the service library which may indicate the smart actuator replacement (PN 683...
Power transfer unit - none
Before you buy a Cherokee
- Watch for a 'Service 4WD' message on the drive.
- Listen for whining at 40 to 70 mph.
- Look under the car for gear oil leaks around the front axle.
Questions
Which Jeep Cherokee years have "Service 4WD" and power transfer unit failure?
Complaints are highest for the 2016, 2017, 2019 model years. The 2019 drew the most, with 468 reports.
At what mileage does it usually start?
Among owners who gave a mileage, the middle figure was about 86,000 miles, and half reported it between 62,000 and 115,000 miles.
How much does it cost to fix?
A replacement PTU costs about $2,500 to $4,000.