Jeep Cherokee PTU Recall 26V-290 (40D): Which Cherokees Are Covered, Where the Fix Stands, and the Three Earlier PTU Recalls

Updated October 23, 2026. Jeep recall 26V-290 (FCA recall 40D) covers 61,711 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokees built with the two-speed power transfer unit (PTU), and the fix is still not available. FCA estimates 0.5% of those Cherokees have the defect: a failed part inside the PTU that can cut drive power at any speed or let the vehicle roll while in Park.

It is the fourth Cherokee PTU recall since 2020, so every model year from 2014 to 2023 is in at least one of them. Below: which recall applies to your year, what to watch for, the unlimited-mileage PTU warranty extensions FCA has filed, and how to get paid back if you already paid for a repair. Every fact comes from FCA's filings with NHTSA and NHTSA's own records, linked in the sources at the end.

Which Cherokees Are in the PTU Recalls? All Four, by Model Year

FCA has recalled the Cherokee's two-speed PTU four times. Each recall covers a different production window and, except for the 2019-2023 one, a different known cause. All four apply only to Cherokees built with the two-speed PTU, which FCA's dealer documents identify as sales code DK4.

The quick way to read it by model year, using the years NHTSA lists for each recall:

Three things to know about who is in and who isn't:

• Build date, not model year, decides it. FCA picked the vehicles from supplier and assembly records. The 01C window ends February 20, 2019 and the 40D window starts December 12, 2018, so a Cherokee built between those dates can fall inside both windows. Only the VIN lookup tells you which recalls are open on yours.

• Not every Cherokee has the part. FCA's reports say Cherokees not included either have no PTU, have a PTU of a different design, or were built outside the suspect window.

• Earlier fixes don't close later recalls. FCA's letters say that even if you had earlier repairs or got reimbursed, you may still need the recall repair. A 2019 Cherokee built in the overlap can have two PTU recalls on its record.

What the PTU Does, and What Goes Wrong

On an all-wheel-drive Cherokee, the PTU is the gearbox bolted to the transmission that holds the front differential and turns the rear driveshaft. FCA's dealer instructions for replacing it have the technician remove the right front halfshaft and disconnect the rear driveshaft from the PTU, which shows how central it is. The transmission it bolts to is the 9-speed automatic FCA's bulletin calls the 948TE.

Because the front differential sits inside the PTU, a failure there can break the link between the transmission and the front wheels. FCA's 2020 report spells out the result: power can't reach the wheels while you're moving, and Park stops holding when you're stopped. The 2020 fix for W47 reflects that: software that keeps the Cherokee moving by engaging the rear wheels and holds it with the electric park brake if the spline fails. FCA's W47 instructions list no parts for it.

What FCA found inside the PTU, recall by recall:

• W47 and 45A (2014-2017): relative movement between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft can wear the spline teeth off.

• 01C (2017-2019): an input shaft snap ring that isn't fully seated lets the input shaft move inward, which can damage the range shift sleeve, the splines or the range fork.

• 40D (2019-2023): FCA's latest amendment calls it an "unknown internally failed component(s)" within the PTU. The cause had not been named as of September 29, 2026.

The Warning Signs

FCA's recall reports for 01C and 40D list the same signs before a failure:

• A Service 4WD message on the dash

• Noise from the drivetrain

• Vibration

• A change in drive quality

FCA is also clear that a failure can come with no warning at all: its reports say a loss of drive power can cause a crash without prior warning, and a vehicle that rolls in Park can hurt someone outside it. The older W47 and 45A reports listed no warning signs, and their software adds a malfunction light that comes on if the spline fails.

Where the 40D Fix Stands

The remedy for 40D is not out. FCA's plan, from its September 29, 2026 report, is to reprogram the drivetrain control module, the PTU and the electronic park brake with new software, followed by a PTU replacement if needed. FCA describes the software as a flash that will "detect, and monitor for, internal failure within the PTU."

• Interim letters went out June 25, 2026. They say the remedy is not currently available and that FCA will service the vehicle free of charge, parts and labor, once it is.

• A second letter comes by mail when the remedy is ready. NHTSA's record on October 23, 2026 still says "Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy becomes available."

• The launch will be phased. That is the word FCA's report uses for the remedy notification date. No launch date has been published.

• Stop sale. FCA's May 14, 2026 dealer notice put the recalled Cherokees under a stop sale and reminded dealers that federal law requires the recall to be done before a new vehicle in inventory is delivered.

Warranty Extension XG2: Unlimited Years, Unlimited Miles

This is the part most coverage of the recall leaves out. FCA's recall report says it "will provide a Warranty Extension (FCA campaign ID #XG2) for all impacted customers experiencing messaging related to the defect to replace the PTU. Warranty Extension terms are unlimited years/unlimited mileage."

In plain words: if your 40D Cherokee shows warning messages tied to this defect (FCA's reports name the Service 4WD message as one warning sign), FCA's filing says the PTU replacement is covered with no time or mileage limit. The report does not say whether XG2 starts before the 40D remedy launches, so ask the dealer or FCA at 1-800-853-1403 and quote XG2 by name. The 2017-2019 recall has its own version: FCA's 01C report names Warranty Extension XX1 on the same unlimited terms.

The 2017-2019 Recall 01C: Fix Available Now

If you drive a 2017, 2018 or 2019 Cherokee, recall 01C may be open on it, and its fix is ready. FCA began mailing remedy letters on February 19, 2026.

• The repair: the dealer reprograms the drivetrain control module and the PTU with software that watches for excessive wear inside the PTU. FCA's owner letter puts the reprogramming at about 30 minutes, plus check-in time, and more if the PTU needs replacing.

• The test: FCA's dealer instructions say a PTU that arrives failed gets replaced. Otherwise the dealer updates the software, test-drives the Cherokee and replaces the PTU if code C1494-07, PTU Fork Position - Mechanical Failures, sets.

• How many are done: FCA's July 17, 2026 quarterly report counted 19,879 of the 63,130 recalled Cherokees remedied, roughly 31%. NHTSA posted FCA's reminder mailing to owners on October 14, 2026.

• The odds: FCA estimated 2% of the 01C population has the defect.

If you got a reminder card for 01C, book it. FCA's letter asks owners to bring the letter and to ask the dealer about alternate transportation while the vehicle is in.

Already Paid for a PTU Repair?

FCA's owner letters for both 01C and 40D give the same reimbursement path for owners who already had this specific condition and paid to repair it:

• Online: submit the request at fcarecallreimbursement.com.

• By mail: send original receipts and proof of payment to FCA Customer Assistance, P.O. Box 21-8004, Auburn Hills, MI 48321-8007, Attention: Recall Reimbursement.

• Timing: FCA says reimbursement is sent within 60 days after it receives and verifies the documents.

• Afterward: FCA notes you may still need the recall repair done, even after an earlier repair or a reimbursement.

Keep the repair order that names the PTU, the VIN and the mileage. That paperwork is what FCA verifies.

How We Got Here: Six Years of Cherokee PTU Recalls

FCA lists Dauch Corporation of Detroit as the PTU supplier for 40D, and American Axle & Manufacturing for the three earlier recalls. One PTU part number, 68333255AB, appears in both the 01C and 40D reports.

Where an Independent Shop Fits

The recall repairs and the XG2 and XX1 extensions are free and run through Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram dealers. Don't pay anyone, including us, for work FCA covers. Start with the dealer and your VIN.

Rohnert Park Transmission comes in for the Cherokee drivetrain problems those programs don't reach:

• A Cherokee outside all four recalls with a Service 4WD message, a drivetrain noise or vibration, such as one without the two-speed PTU or one the VIN lookup shows as clear

• A second opinion after a dealer says a problem isn't covered by the recall or the warranty extension

• The 9-speed automatic the PTU bolts to, when the problem turns out to be the transmission rather than the PTU

• Buying a used 2014-2023 Cherokee: run the VIN, ask for the recall repair orders, and get a pre-purchase inspection before you sign

What changes the cost of a drivetrain repair outside the recalls: whether FCA's programs cover it after all, whether the problem is the PTU, the transmission or the rear driveline, parts availability, and how long the vehicle ran with the problem.

Our ASE-certified technicians handle 4WD and AWD diagnosis on Jeeps from across Sonoma, Marin and Napa counties. We're at 305 Laguna Dr in Rohnert Park. See our transfer case and AWD service page for how we approach drivetrain work, transmission repair in Rohnert Park for the 9-speed side, Jeep repair in Rohnert Park for everything else, or get a pre-purchase inspection before you buy. Call (707) 584-7727 to ask about your Cherokee and get a free estimate.

Is the Grand Cherokee Part of This?

No. All four recalls list the Jeep Cherokee only. The Grand Cherokee is a different vehicle with a different drivetrain, and none of these PTU recalls name it. For Grand Cherokee transmission problems, see our Grand Cherokee transmission guide. Run any Jeep's VIN for its own open recalls.

If the Dealer Can't Fix It in a Reasonable Time

FCA's owner letters give the escalation path: if a dealer fails or is unable to remedy the defect without charge and within a reasonable time, send a written complaint to the Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E., Washington, DC 20590, or call the Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-888-275-9171). You can also report a safety problem to NHTSA online, which puts your Cherokee's failure on the federal record.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Jeep Cherokee PTU recall 26V-290?

It is NHTSA recall 26V-290, FCA recall 40D, filed May 7, 2026. It covers 61,711 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokees built from December 12, 2018 to February 24, 2023 with the two-speed power transfer unit (PTU). FCA says an unknown part inside the PTU can fail and cause an unexpected loss of drive power at any speed, or let the vehicle roll while in Park. FCA estimates 0.5% of these vehicles have the defect.

Is there a fix for the Jeep Cherokee PTU recall yet?

Not for 26V-290 (40D) as of October 23, 2026. NHTSA's record still says additional letters will be sent once the final remedy becomes available. The planned fix is new software for the drivetrain control module, the PTU and the electronic park brake, followed by a PTU replacement if needed. The older recalls do have fixes: W47, 45A and 01C remedies are all available at Jeep dealers.

Which Jeep Cherokee years have a PTU recall?

Every model year from 2014 to 2023 appears in at least one of four PTU recalls: W47 (20V-343) for 2014-2017, 45A (23V-302) for 2016-2017, 01C (25V-011) for 2017-2019 and 40D (26V-290) for 2019-2023. Each recall only covers Cherokees with the two-speed PTU, sales code DK4, built in its production window, so run your VIN to see which, if any, apply to yours.

Is there an extended warranty on the Jeep Cherokee PTU?

Yes, two. For 40D, FCA's recall report says it will provide Warranty Extension XG2 to replace the PTU for customers who get messages related to the defect, for unlimited years and unlimited miles. For 01C, the report names Warranty Extension XX1 on the same unlimited terms. Both are FCA programs handled through Jeep dealers.

What are the warning signs of a failing Cherokee PTU?

FCA's recall reports list a Service 4WD message, noise, vibration or a change in drive quality. The failure can also come without warning: FCA says a loss of drive power can cause a crash without prior warning. If you see any of those signs, call a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or Ram dealer and give them your VIN.

Is it safe to drive a Cherokee with an open PTU recall?

NHTSA's records show no do-not-drive or park-outside advisory for any of the four Cherokee PTU recalls. But FCA describes the risk plainly: the PTU can fail at any speed and cut drive power, or the vehicle can roll while in Park. Watch for the warning signs and call a Jeep dealer if a Service 4WD message, a new noise or a vibration shows up.

I already paid for a PTU repair. Can I get my money back?

FCA's owner letters say you can request reimbursement at fcarecallreimbursement.com, or mail original receipts and proof of payment to FCA Customer Assistance, P.O. Box 21-8004, Auburn Hills, MI 48321-8007, Attention: Recall Reimbursement. FCA says it pays within 60 days of receiving and verifying the documents. FCA also says you may still need the recall repair done afterward.

Are there any other recalls on Jeep Cherokees?

Yes. Besides the four PTU recalls, NHTSA lists other Cherokee recalls by year, for example 11 for the 2015 model year as of October 23, 2026, covering items such as the liftgate, seats, air bags and wiring. Enter your 17-character VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls or recalls.mopar.com to see every open recall on your Cherokee.

Was there a recall on the PCM for the 2015 Jeep Cherokee?

Yes. NHTSA recall 16V-529 (Chrysler recall S55) covers certain 2014-2015 Cherokees with the 9-speed automatic. Insufficient crimps in the transmission wire harness could let the transmission shift into neutral unexpectedly. Dealers reprogram the powertrain control module and transmission control module and replace the transaxle range sensor wire harness if necessary, free of charge. That recall began November 7, 2016.

What does the C14A7-97 code mean on a Jeep?

We could not find an FCA or NHTSA document that defines C14A7-97, so we won't guess at it. The PTU code FCA's own 01C dealer instructions name is C1494-07, PTU Fork Position - Mechanical Failures: after the software update, the dealer test-drives the Cherokee and replaces the PTU if that code sets. Any C-code with a Service 4WD message is worth a dealer visit with your VIN.

Do Jeep Grand Cherokees have the same PTU problem?

Not in these recalls. All four recalls list the Jeep Cherokee only, and the Grand Cherokee is a different vehicle with a different drivetrain. Grand Cherokee transmission problems are a separate topic, covered in our Grand Cherokee transmission guide.

Can an independent shop do the Cherokee PTU recall?

No. FCA's owner letters send recall repairs to Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram dealers, free of charge for parts and labor, and the XG2 and XX1 warranty extensions also run through FCA. An independent shop helps with what those programs don't cover, such as a drivetrain problem on a Cherokee outside the recalls or a second opinion before you decide.

Sources

• FCA Part 573 Safety Recall Report 26V-290, amendment 2, September 29, 2026: 61,711 vehicles, build dates, the defect, warning signs, 0.5% estimate, supplier and part numbers, chronology from 2020, remedy plan, Warranty Extension XG2 and the phased schedule.

• FCA dealer notice for recall 40D, May 14, 2026: sales code DK4 and the stop sale. NHTSA's acknowledgement, May 11, 2026: remedy under development and VINs searchable May 14, 2026.

• FCA interim owner letter for 40D: no remedy yet, free repair when available, recalls.mopar.com sign-up, reimbursement and NHTSA complaint path.

• FCA Part 573 report 25V-011, January 15, 2026, 01C owner letter, 01C dealer instructions, revision 4, June 2026, 01C quarterly report, July 17, 2026 and 01C reminder mailing, posted October 14, 2026.

• FCA Part 573 report 23V-302, September 19, 2023 and 45A dealer instructions, August 2026.

• FCA Part 573 report 20V-343, June 11, 2020 and W47 dealer notice.

• NHTSA recall records for 26V-290, 25V-011, 23V-302, 20V-343 and 16V-529, and its Cherokee recall list by model year, read October 23, 2026 at NHTSA.gov/recalls.

Bottom Line

If you drive a 2019-2023 Jeep Cherokee, run the VIN, sign up for the 40D remedy notice, and treat a Service 4WD message, a new drivetrain noise or a vibration as a reason to call a Jeep dealer and ask about Warranty Extension XG2. On a 2017-2019, check for 01C, which can be fixed now. For Cherokee drivetrain problems the recalls don't cover anywhere in Sonoma, Marin or Napa County, call Rohnert Park Transmission at (707) 584-7727.