Jeep recalls 61,711 Cherokees over defect that can cause rollaway while parked
If you drive a Jeep Cherokee from the last few years, this is worth checking. More than 61,000 vehicles are being recalled after regulators flagged a defect that can cause loss of power while driving, or worse, unexpected movement while parked.
The issue centers around something called a power transfer unit (PTU), a key part of the drivetrain. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the PTU can fail. When that happens, two things can go wrong. The vehicle can lose drive power completely or it can roll away unexpectedly, even when parked.
Both scenarios increase the risk of crashes or injury.
As for the vehicles affected, the recall covers certain Jeep Cherokee models from 2019 to 2023. Across those models, about 61,711 vehicles in the U.S. are included.
Most recalls come with a clear next step that sounds like “Bring your car in, we’ll fix it.” This one does not, as FCA U.S. LLC and the NHTSA say the remedy is still being developed.
Instead, the recall has the first letter going out on June 25 explaining the risk, with plans to send a second notice once a fix is available.
What owners can do
If you think your vehicle might be affected, you’ll be able to check your VIN through the NHTSA website, NHTSA.gov. You can also contact FCA customer service via 1-800-853-1403 and reference recall #40D.
And as mentioned earlier, do watch for official notification letters. You’ll receive one explaining the safety risk of the vehicles and then an additional one once the final remedy becomes available
Until a fix is available, it’s mostly about awareness. Whatever you do, this is not something to ignore.
Sources: USA Today, CNY Central
