2019 Jeep Cherokee

​NHTSA ODI Case Update – Supplement to Complaint #XXX ​Vehicle: 2019 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Plus (VIN: [XXX] ) Subject: Dealership Deflection Tactics and Denial of Recall Repair Verification ​This statement is submitted to update my ongoing federal safety complaint regarding the catastrophic failure of the Mopar Two-Speed Power Transfer Unit (PTU) and the resulting loss of motive power/rollaway risks. ​On May 19, 2026, the vehicle was evaluated by an authorized FCA dealership, St. Helens Auto Center (Repair Order #XXX). The certified technician, Don Stockdale, explicitly confirmed the mechanical failure of the recall-associated components, stating in writing: “the propeller shaft at the rear of the PTU feels as though it is dry inside. Very loose and clanking around.” ​Despite verifying this severe manufacturing safety defect, Service Manager April McCall formally refused to submit a corporate Goodwill or Warranty Extension claim to FCA unless I paid out-of-pocket to replace three CV axles, which she claimed were "loose and dry." ​To verify this claim, the vehicle was immediately taken to a secondary licensed automotive facility (Dr. Auto LLC, Invoice #XXX) on May 27, 2026. The independent inspection confirmed that the dealership’s diagnosis was fraudulent. All CV axle boots are completely intact and sealed, meaning the internal grease has not escaped. The front axles have zero play, and the rear axles exhibit only normal, minor factory play. ​The dealership intentionally used a loaded 4-post lift to misdiagnose the vehicle, leveraging the high-frequency vibrations of the failing central PTU to fabricate secondary, non-covered user-pay repairs. This is a deliberate corporate tactic used to deflect financial liability for a known federal safety defect onto the consumer. I am requesting that the NHTSA review these attached service documents as evidence of predatory dealership behavior surrounding the Cherokee PTU failures. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552

My 2019 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Plus is exhibiting a persistent metallic rattling and grinding noise originating from the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) and the propeller shaft interface. The noise is most prominent during acceleration and coasting at speeds under 20 mph. Confirmed through Dr. Auto LLC, in Warren, OR. That it is in fact PTU unit attached to the propeller shaft. Plan to go through a dealership soon. ​This failure mirrors the symptoms described in NHTSA Recall 23V-302 (FCA Recall 01C). Although my specific VIN is currently not included in this recall, the mechanical symptoms—specifically vibration and grinding at the PTU output—indicate a premature failure of the input shaft splines. ​This presents a significant safety risk, as the failure of these splines can lead to an abrupt loss of motive power while in motion and a loss of the "Park" function, which could lead to an unintended vehicle rollaway. I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate whether the current recall scope should be expanded to include additional 2019 Jeep Cherokee units, such as mine, that were manufactured with the same defective PTU components. Im afraid to lose power to my wheels while im driving with young kids in my vehicle and I am afraid to lose parking function that could injure someone or cause property damage.

Had to have the PTU replaced in May of 2023 due to the sv 4wd light that came on. Now fast forward to January of 2025 I needed to replace the rear differential. Also new tires once again! Correlation? Who knows. I keep hearing from dealerships I’ve dealt with this is a common issue for the 2019 Jeep Cherokees. I’m hoping enough customers put in complaints so we can get compensated. It makes me want to tell everyone to avoid purchasing Jeeps. ( At least 2019) This has been expensive and frustrating and worrisome about my family and I safety. I do have pictures upon request from the dealership(s) that have worked on my vehicle.

This is a known issue with Jeep. But they refuse to repair it at no cost. My emergency brake has become corroded due to water leaking into the module and from time to time the emergency brakes will get stuck to the point my car will not move. This recently happened last night when my vehicle was parked in the garage. I had recently been driving through a major rain storm. And upon trying to use my vehicle the next day... The emergency brakes would not release. My mechanic brought his computer over and verified the check engine light was related to the emergency brakes not releasing. This is a definite safety hazard! I have also noticed that certain safety features are being disabled due to the emergency brake not working properly. For example if I leave my Jeep in drive and open the door the emergency brakes should automatically engage disabling roll away. This feature no longer works. Another future, if my driver seat seat belt was not buckled my emergency brake would engage. This is no longer working. I am very concerned about this. There are countless other reports of emergency brake errors. Please issue a recall!