Jeep Wants Another Look at Cherokees for Power Loss Issue

Sport utility vehicles and others are often coveted for all-wheel drive systems that allow them to handle a wide variety of inclement weather. Of course, those systems have to actually work as designed.

Jeep is recalling some 67,000 Cherokee vehicles because of an all-wheel drive defect. The issue, which impacts Model Year 2017 vehicles, could prevent affected vehicles from being able to continue moving while in Drive or remain stationary while in Park, the company recently told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

“A loss of motive power can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning,” Jeep said in a defect notice filed with NHTSA. “A loss of Park function can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning and/or injury to others outside the vehicle.”

Some Jeep Cherokee vehicles were built with a Power Transfer Unit, “that allows relative movement between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft,” according to the company. Differential input splines in the PTU are subject to wear and tear over time, making them inoperable.

Toyota told Consumer Reports that the company is aware of one accident caused by the defect and that the crash did not result in any injuries. The company will notify owners of affected vehicles and repair the defect.

Earlier this year, Jeep announced that it was recalling about 3,000 Wrangler vehicles because of a loose axle issue. The company said the defect could cause the axle to separate, resulting in a crash. 

How the California Lemon Law Works

The Jeep recall is just the latest example of the serious defects that often come with new cars, putting everyone on the road at risk.

The California lemon law is designed to protect drivers and others by requiring car manufacturers to make certain repairs to vehicles while they are under warranty. 

If the car manufacturer is unwilling or unable to make those repairs, it is obligated under the law to buy the vehicle back. That includes picking up the tab for the purchase price, financing fees, repair costs and other related expenses. Although the manufacturer can offer to replace the car instead, it is ultimately the owner’s choice to accept or reject that alternative arrangement.

How a California Lemon Law Lawyer Can Help

If you are a car owner or lessor who is grappling with a manufacturer over repairs, an experienced California lemon law lawyer can help. A lawyer can help you weigh your rights and options to ensure that the carmaker is held fully accountable.

At the Bickel Law Firm, we have represented hundreds of clients in defective vehicle cases in Southern California and across the state. We work tirelessly to get the people we represent the compensation they deserve.

Our offices are conveniently located in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco.  Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law lawyer today.