Transmission problems in 2017 Jeep Cherokees have been reported, particularly with the nine-speed automatic. So, do 2017 Jeep Cherokees have transmission problems? The short answer is yes, many owners have experienced issues, but not every vehicle is affected.
This article will walk you through the common complaints, what causes them, and what you can do if you own one. We’ll keep it straight and simple.
Do 2017 Jeep Cherokees Have Transmission Problems
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee uses a nine-speed automatic transmission, which has a mixed reputation. While some drivers have no issues, others report frustrating problems that can affect drivability and safety.
Here is a breakdown of the most common transmission issues reported by owners and mechanics.
Common Symptoms Of Transmission Issues
If you drive a 2017 Cherokee, watch for these signs. They often point to a transmission that needs attention.
- Rough or jerky shifting: The car may lurch or hesitate when changing gears.
- Delayed engagement: There is a pause when you shift from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- Hesitation or surging: The engine revs but the car does not accelerate smoothly.
- Whining or clunking noises: Unusual sounds coming from the transmission area.
- Transmission warning light: The check engine light or a specific transmission light may come on.
- Shuddering at low speeds: A vibration or shaking feeling, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
These symptoms can appear early, sometimes within the first 20,000 miles. They are not rare.
Why The Nine-Speed Transmission Has Problems
The nine-speed automatic in the 2017 Cherokee was designed for fuel efficiency. But it has known weak points.
- Software glitches: The transmission control module (TCM) sometimes gets confused about which gear to select.
- Valve body issues: The valve body, which controls fluid flow, can fail or stick.
- Torque converter shudder: The torque converter may not lock up properly, causing vibration.
- Internal wear: Some units have premature wear on clutches or gears.
These problems are not universal, but they are common enough that Jeep issued several technical service bulletins (TSBs) and even extended warranties for some models.
Are All 2017 Jeep Cherokees Affected
No, not every 2017 Cherokee has transmission problems. But the risk is higher than average for this model year.
Factors that influence reliability include:
- Build date: Early production models tend to have more issues.
- Driving habits: Stop-and-go city driving can stress the transmission more.
- Maintenance history: Regular fluid changes help, but many owners skip them.
- Software updates: Some problems are fixed with a simple reprogramming.
If you are considering buying a used 2017 Cherokee, check its service records. A car that has had updates and fluid changes is a safer bet.
What Jeep Has Done About The Problem
Jeep has acknowledged the transmission issues. They have released multiple software updates to improve shifting behavior.
In some cases, they extended the warranty on the transmission to 10 years or 100,000 miles. This covers certain internal parts and labor.
But not all owners qualify. The extended warranty applies only to specific components and model years. You should check with a dealer using your VIN.
Jeep also replaced valve bodies and torque converters on many cars under warranty. These repairs can be expensive if you pay out of pocket.
How To Prevent Or Fix Transmission Problems
If you own a 2017 Cherokee, you can take steps to reduce the risk of failure. Here is what experts recommend.
1. Check For Software Updates
Visit a Jeep dealer and ask if there are any outstanding TCM updates for your VIN. Many shifting issues are fixed with a reprogramming.
This is often free if your car is still under warranty. Even if not, it is cheaper than a full rebuild.
2. Change Transmission Fluid Regularly
The owner’s manual says the fluid is “lifetime,” but many mechanics disagree. Heat breaks down the fluid over time.
Change the fluid and filter every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. This can prevent internal wear and keep shifts smooth.
3. Drive Gently
Avoid hard acceleration and sudden stops. Let the transmission warm up before driving aggressively.
In stop-and-go traffic, use the manual shift mode to reduce gear hunting. This takes stress off the valve body.
4. Watch For Recalls
Jeep has issued recalls for some 2017 Cherokees related to the transmission. Check the NHTSA website or your dealer for open recalls.
Recalls are fixed for free, even if you are not the original owner.
What If Your Transmission Fails
If your 2017 Cherokee develops a serious transmission problem, you have options.
- Warranty repair: If under the original or extended warranty, the dealer should fix it at no cost.
- Used transmission: A low-mileage used unit can cost $1,500 to $3,000 installed.
- Rebuilt transmission: A professional rebuild runs $2,500 to $4,500.
- New transmission: A brand-new unit from Jeep can cost $5,000 or more.
Some owners choose to sell the car and move on. Others find that a software update or fluid change solves the problem.
It really depends on the severity of the issue.
Comparison With Other Model Years
The 2014 and 2015 Cherokees had even more transmission complaints. The 2016 was slightly better.
The 2017 sits in the middle. It is not as bad as the early models, but it is not as reliable as the 2018 or later versions.
Jeep made improvements to the transmission software and hardware over time. The 2019 and newer models have fewer reported issues.
But if you are looking at a used Cherokee, the 2017 is still a risk. You should budget for potential repairs.
Owner Experiences And Forum Reports
Online forums are full of stories from 2017 Cherokee owners. Some have had no problems at all. Others have been through multiple repairs.
One owner on a popular forum said their transmission failed at 45,000 miles. The dealer replaced the valve body under warranty, and it has been fine since.
Another owner reported a constant shudder at low speeds. A software update fixed it completely.
But there are also stories of people paying thousands for repairs after the warranty expired. It is a mixed bag.
The key takeaway is that the problem is real, but not guaranteed.
Should You Buy A 2017 Jeep Cherokee
If you are considering buying one, here is what to do.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection: Have a mechanic check the transmission specifically.
- Test drive carefully: Drive at low speeds, on hills, and in stop-and-go traffic. Feel for hesitation or shudder.
- Check for recalls and TSBs: Use the VIN to see if updates have been done.
- Ask about the extended warranty: Some dealers will include a warranty if you buy from them.
If you already own one, stay on top of maintenance and updates. Many problems are manageable if caught early.
The 2017 Cherokee is a capable SUV with a nice interior. But the transmission is its weak point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do 2017 Jeep Cherokees have transmission problems with the 4-cylinder engine?
Yes, both the 2.4L four-cylinder and the 3.2L V6 use the same nine-speed transmission. Problems are reported with both engines, though the V6 may have slightly fewer issues due to less strain.
Can a software update fix transmission problems on a 2017 Cherokee?
Often, yes. Many shifting issues are caused by software glitches. A dealer can check for updates and apply them. This is the first step in troubleshooting.
How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a 2017 Jeep Cherokee?
Costs vary. A used transmission can cost $1,500 to $3,000 installed. A new one from Jeep can be $5,000 or more. Rebuilding is usually in the middle.
Is the 2017 Jeep Cherokee transmission covered by an extended warranty?
Jeep offered an extended warranty for some models covering the transmission for 10 years or 100,000 miles. Check with a dealer using your VIN to see if your car qualifies.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee transmission?
Yes, there have been recalls related to the transmission. One recall involved a loss of power due to a transmission issue. Check the NHTSA website for your specific VIN.
In summary, do 2017 Jeep Cherokees have transmission problems? Yes, they are more prone to issues than average, but not every car is affected. With proper maintenance and updates, many can be reliable. If you are buying one, do your homework. If you own one, stay proactive.
The nine-speed transmission is not perfect, but it is not a guaranteed failure either. Know the signs, and you can avoid the worst of it.