Finding a Jeep Cherokee service shifter light on is never a good sign; it indicates an issue with the fuses or a software glitch that you must repair.
This article is all about issues, possible fixes, repair costs, and everything else you need to know about the service shifter message in Jeep Cherokee.
Let’s get started.
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Contents
Jeep Cherokee Service shifter light on: What it means?
What does service shifter on a Jeep Cherokee mean is a common question of Jeep owners. The service shifter light indicates some hardware or software damage to your shifter. Either its fuses have broken, or the shifter needs an upgrade.
Therefore, whenever you see a shifter service light on, it is best to troubleshoot the problem yourself or go to a professional mechanic.
Causes of a service shifter message on Jeep Cherokee
Whenever you see the service shifter light on, there might be the following reason behind it.
1: Physical damage
The biggest reason for the flashing of the Jeep Cherokee service shifter light is physical damage. Either the shifter stick gets cracked, or the shifter knob breaks down.
Due to this, the system cannot communicate signals between the shifter and the transmission. Therefore, problems like Jeeps stuck in parking or reverse gear occur.
2: Faulty wiring
The second issue that plays a part in the popping of the service shifter light is the bad wiring issue.
Since all the parts are interconnected through different types of wires, if any of the fuses go bad or the wiring gets loose, the whole interlinked system starts malfunctioning. The service shifter light comes up due to short circuits, stripped, or torn wires.
A symptom of bad wiring is smoke or a bad smell coming from the fuse box. Pay attention to this warning sign, and take your Jeep immediately to the mechanic.
3: Software upgrade needed
Modern Jeep runs with the help of an Electronic Control Module (ECM), which runs a set of software that synchronizes other system parts like shifter, dashboard, and LED.
Therefore, another common problem appearing in shifter lights is software upgrades. Most of the time, software needs an update annually. Although it gets updated on its own, the software upgrade sometimes needs to be improved.
How to fix the service shifter message on Jeep Cherokee
Identifying the problem and fixing the service shifter requires some professional knowledge. Here are some of the solutions you can employ to repair it:
1: Replace the shifter
Replacing the shifter stick (bezel) is not a DIY solution for some laypersons. Moreover, it is a pricey option; therefore, I always recommend you seek a professional’s advice for a good process.
Because you might be able to replace the shifter stick at home, but it starts making noise during functioning due to improper alignment. There you will be left at the mercy of a mechanic to take the bezel out and refit it appropriately.
2: Upgrade the software
Electronic Control Module (ECM) is responsible for the software updates. Suppose the software is not updated on time or is corrupted. In that case, you must contact your dealership for an upgrade, as local mechanic shops don’t have specified software for characteristic models.
Furthermore, trusting local shops can also result in an expensive dupe of software that might stop working after certain days or weeks.
3: Claim your warranty
Replacing a shifter is not an affordable option for some. That is why consider asking your dealership to do it if your Jeep still comes in the warranty period.
However, if your Jeep has surpassed it, take the extended warranty dealership because Jeep dealers have trusted mechanics with expertise in tackling these complex jobs.
Moreover, if you cannot extend your warranty, ask your dealer to still do this job for you by charging an adequate amount, as trusting aftermarket components could be a significant risk too.
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What is the Jeep service shifter repair cost?
It depends on the fixing it needs. Either the shifter needs a slight repair or a complete replacement.
However, replacing the Jeep Cherokee’s whole shifter will cost you around $400 to $1000. It is quite an expensive job as it depends on the upgrade you need.
Make sure that whether your Jeep comes under the warranty or not. If yes, you wouldn’t have to pinch your pocket for this replacement.
Can you drive your Jeep with the service shifter light on?
No need to panic when the shifter light comes up. This problem can be dealt with peace once you reach a safe place.
It is better to pull over at a side, turn off and restart your engine; if the light persists, contact your mechanic and ask him for guidance.
Remember, this is not urgent, but you must immediately consider it. Just reach a safe place and get your shifter checked by the mechanic as soon as possible.
Is there any Jeep Cherokee service shifter recall?
There is no such significant number of recalls on shifter service issues. However, in 2014 a severe case came up in which the shifter went into neutral mode, which was quite dangerous.
Generally, the complaints about the service shifter message include Jeep not going into parking mode or the transmission shifting on its own. These types of complaints should be fixed as soon as they appear.
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Conclusion
When the Jeep Cherokee service shifter light flashes, there might not be a serious issue that must be dealt with immediately. But things can go in other directions too. Therefore, it is always recommended that you safely park your Jeep at a side and inspect it visually. If everything seems right and there are no such issues as self-gear shift or resistance of gear shift, then you can easily buy some time reaching a garage.
Hopefully, this article provided you with complete knowledge about the causes of the Jeep Cherokee service shifter light on and its possible fixes.
FAQs
1: Is there any DIY fix for the service shifter message?
Fixing the service shifter message has yet to have a quick DIY solution. Because the mechanic will troubleshoot the problem using onboard diagnostics like the OBDII scanner and then replace parts accordingly.
It is a complicated process where the professional will first try different repair methods. If he fails, he will replace the shifter.
2: Is it safe to drive with a service shifter light on?
Generally, driving with the service shifter light on is safe if you don’t see any other symptoms like an automatic gear shift or driving mode resistant to moving from parking or reverse mode.
However, the service shifter light comes on when there is faulty wiring at the backend, the shifter needs a little cleaning, or the software needs an update. These issues are quietly safe to drive with.
But remember to inspect the issue when you return to a safe place. And if you are unable to do so, contact your mechanic.