2011 jeep grand cherokee transfer case problems

Here is an update: since my original post, we have learned a great deal.

First: this is not new - it has been going on since the N23 recall started being rolled out late in the summer of 2013.

Second: Chrysler knows all about it.

I was blown off by Chrysler Customer Care (800 number) on my first two calls. On my third call, the support person said all the right things, and made arrangements to get me into a dealer for a "diagnostic work-up" and the promise that if the problem was, in fact, related to the N23 recall, then I would not have to pay for the workup and a STAR ticket would be generated. I gather that a STAR ticket is kind of a problem escalation procedure, where dealership technicians escalate problem solving to specialist techs in a remote location, and get their help in achieving problem resolution. On the surface, this sounds like a good plan, does it not? Problem is - my dealer in Texas did the diagnostic workup on 4/25/14. The problem recurred in 7 days (as they said it would, since the "reflash" is only a temporary fix). By then, I was 2000 miles away. So why should I go to another dealer, and surrender the car for SEVERAL days so that they can re-diagnose and start the STAR process? I would need to rent a car in the interim and would be subject to any dealer charges unless they can prove that the problem is related to the N23 recall. NOT!

A quick review of the internet shows that many, many Jeep owners are going throught this same process right now, and it seems that dealers are replacing components (like acutators) that do not resolve the problem, but do result in charges to the owners.

We may have solved the problem today!

We called a multitude of "used auto parts" companies around Western New York until we found one that had a Final Drive Control Module that was compatible ... jeeps from 2005 - 2010 used the same component. The Final Drive Control Module is the computer that talks to the transfer case and allows it to shift from 4WD to neutral, or 4WD LOW, etc. The module is located under the rear passenger bench seat (driver side) and it is very very easy to pull the old module and install the new one. It is "plug & play" wiring, but you do need to disconnect the negative terminal from the battery before you do it. Will need some basic tools (18mm socket) to lift the backseat off to access the module. The module itself just slides out of the bracket - easy. The module we found was one generation earlier than the one in our 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee ... it said that it was for 2008-2010 Jeeps.

We plugged it in, and it worked fine, and I was able to put the car into neutral for flat towing! Tested it twice and it worked both times! This module clearly has not had the N23 recall, and we plan to keep it that way! Per the concerns that triggered the recall, we will set the emergency brake each time we park the car.

The really good news is that these folks have more of the modules, and they will ship them to you!!!!! This company is located just east of Rochester, NY

If you need one, you can call:

Wilbert's Lakeside AutoParts

6333 Lakeside Road

Ontario, NY 14519

800-836-8418

we worked with Chris Perrello - but I think that anyone can help you.

http://www.wilbertsinc.com

On a final note: if you Google "final drive control module Jeep" you will see some images that include photographs showing which module is which under that bench seat!

2011 jeep grand cherokee transfer case problems

panneau de signalisation image by Palindra from Fotolia.com

The transfer cases found in Jeep Cherokees are stout units. Over time, however, they can develop issues, especially if the Jeep sees any off-road duty at all. Certain issues can be easily solved by the vehicle owner, while others will require a complete transfer case rebuild or replacement. One important factor to prevent issues is to monitor the fluid level closely. A transfer case that has little or no fluid will not last more than a few miles.

Fluid

The transfer case in your Jeep Cherokee is chain-driven and requires automatic transmission fluid (ATF), as opposed to gear oil, which is found in gear-driven cases on larger vehicles. Use the Dexron-Mercon formulation only, and keep your eye on the level regularly. The ATF not only lubricates the inner workings of the case, but it also cools the unit. An overheated transfer case will let go quickly.

Linkage

If the linkage becomes bent or broken, then the transfer case may have a difficult time shifting into and out of four-wheel drive. If the case is experiencing shifting issues, inspect the linkage under the vehicle for bends, binds or breaks. Parts are readily found at the local off-road , auto parts store or junkyard.

Chain

The chain inside the transfer case has a great deal of stress on it. Over the years, they will stretch. When they stretch, they begin to skip teeth, which will make loud banging or popping sounds and prevent the Jeep from moving quickly when four-wheel drive is engaged. This issue requires removing the transfer case and either rebuilding or replacing it.

Vacuum

On some models of the Cherokee, the four-wheel drive is actuated via vacuum pressure when the transfer case is shifted into 4x4 mode. If the lines have aged and cracked or broken altogether, the Jeep will not be able to get into four-wheel drive. Inspect the lines running from the case to the front axle on a regular basis, especially if your rig sees trail action.

Housing

The housing on the transfer case in your Jeep Cherokee is made of magnesium, which is a soft metal compound. If the transfer case hits something hard like a rock on the trail, the outer shell can become damaged easily. A crack or hole in the casing will surely result in a major fluid leak and put the Jeep out of commission. If the casing cracks, an entire transfer case swap will be necessary.

References

  • Jeep Cherokee 1984 through 2000 (Cherokee/Wagoneer/Comanche) Haynes Repair Manual (Haynes Automotive Repair Manual Series); Bob Henderson; 2000

Writer Bio

Derek Odom has freelanced since 2008 and is also an author of the macabre. He has been published on Ches.com, Planetchess.com and various other websites. Odom has an Associate of Arts in administration of justice.

How do I know if my transfer case is bad on my Jeep?

Here we look at some of the more common signs you may find when you have a bad transfer case:.
Shifting Issues. ... .
Hard to stay in 4WD? ... .
4WD Won't Engage or Disengage. ... .
Fluid Puddle Under the Transfer Case's Location. ... .
Strange Grinding, Growling or Humming Noises. ... .
Possible Causes of a Bad Transfer Case..

What are common problems with 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The most common complaints about the 2011 Grand Cherokee are around electrical issues. Specifically, a defective Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) caused many problems—so many that replacement TIPM parts became scarce. , the TIPM is the distribution center for the car's electrical system.

How much does it cost to replace a transfer case in a Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The average cost for a Jeep Grand Cherokee transfer case shift motor replacement is between $838 and $1,058. Labor costs are estimated between $70 and $89 while parts are priced between $768 and $969. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific model year or unique location.

Is there any recalls on a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The affected vehicles had brake booster shields installed under a previous campaign to prevent water from entering the brake booster and limiting braking ability.