Plate - Planetary
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee powertrain problems
moderate 180 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
180
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
5crashes
1fire
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 180 powertrain complaints filed for the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 180 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Reported failure mileage clusters in the 25,000-50,000 mi band — 6 of 6 complaints with an odometer reading on file land there.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA Vehicles built after on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. All 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the vehicle you are repairing has a crack in the flex plate or failed pump bushing inspect and confirm that both (2) dowel pins
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗NAG1 Transmission Before installing the transmission with the engine, check for dowel pins (2) for alignment. If the pins are missing request to add the dowel pin first and then install the transmission
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗NAG1 Transmission Before installing the transmission with the engine, check for dowel pins (2) for alignment. If the pins are missing request to add the dowel pin first and then install the transmission
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Mechanical rocker arm, intake, 1.7 ratio.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2007 Grand Cherokee powertrain generates three buckets of safety-critical problems that keep coming back. First: engine stalls without warning at highway speeds or stop signs, sometimes killing power to steering and brakes. Owners describe accelerating into traffic and losing all response. The stalls occur with no diagnostic codes or warnings. Dealers have replaced spark plugs, ignition coils, EGR valves, PCV valves, MAP sensors, and harnesses—nothing sticks. One Hemi owner reports the problem started after spark plug replacement and persisted for years despite a Chrysler engineer diagnosing electrical induction from coils and wrapping the harness in foil.
Second: transmission loses ability to accelerate, sometimes capping out at 20–30 mph despite floor throttle. All PRND lights illuminate on the dash as the electronic shift module (ESM) confuses which gear is selected. The vehicle feels like it went into neutral. Owners have had this $750–$1,500 ESM replaced multiple times only to have it fail again months later. One owner replaced it twice in six months; another had it done four times in six years.
Third: the shifter module itself wears through—brushes that drag across contacts shed conductive material and short together, leaving the transmission unable to determine which gear the driver selected. The design is known to be inferior to the touchless magnetic system Mercedes offered at the same time. One service manager at a Jeep dealer memorized the part number from replacing so many. Owners also report the N23 recall (a software reprogram meant to fix neutral-slip-while-parked) instead broke 4WD Low engagement in many vehicles; the replacement part went on permanent back-order.
Dealers consistently say they cannot replicate intermittent faults or find no codes, even after weeks in the shop. Chrysler has issued no recall for these recurring patterns across hundreds of vehicles.
Same Jeep Grand Cherokee powertrain reports on nearby years: 2005 · 2006 · 2008 · 2009 · 2010
Failure modes owners describe
Engine stalls without warning at various speeds
Engine shuts down suddenly while driving on highways, at intersections, or while stopped. Loss of power steering and braking. Vehicle must be restarted by turning key off and back on, or waits to restart on its own. Occurs with no check engine lights or with P0884 code reported in some cases.
When: Reported from 1,157 miles through 138,000+ miles; owners report recurring episodes over months or years
Symptoms owners cite: Complete engine shutdown at highway speeds (35-70 mph) and at stops; Loss of power steering and brakes; Occurs without warning; vehicle loses all acceleration response; Sometimes vehicle restarts on its own; sometimes requires key cycle; Occurs during cold weather in some complaints
Codes mentioned: P0884 (reported in one case), No codes in OBD-II system (multiple cases)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership technician applied foil shielding around upper engine harness to address electrical induction from engine coils; upper engine harness replacement attempted but stalling continued. Spark plugs, EGR valve, ignition coil, PCV valve, and MAP sensor replaced without resolution in other vehicles. Crankshaft position sensor replacement mentioned in one TSB reference.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler engineer suspected electrical induction issue from coils; company has not issued recall despite widespread complaints across forums. TSB available for crankshaft position sensor on pre-June 2007 builds.
Transmission loss of power and inability to accelerate
Vehicle loses ability to accelerate, sometimes limited to 20-30 mph maximum. Transmission may slip, feel like it went into neutral, or refuse to shift gears. PRND lights on dash may all light up, indicating transmission control confusion. Check engine light often comes on. Vehicle must be shut off and restarted to regain power.
When: Reported from 15,000 miles to 62,000+ miles; recurring issues over years
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle will not accelerate past 20-30 mph even with pedal pressed; Feels like transmission is in neutral despite being in drive; Harsh, clunking gear shifts; All PRND lights illuminate on instrument cluster; Transmission stuck in first gear or fails to downshift; Hesitation and jerking on acceleration; Check engine light comes on
Codes mentioned: Code 750 (transmission solenoid issue, reported in one case), No codes in many cases despite symptoms
Repairs/costs cited: Electronic Shift Module (ESM) replaced multiple times at $750-$1,500 with recurring failures. Transmission solenoid pack replacement attempted (noted as on national backorder in one case). Bezel gear selector replaced multiple times. Transmission wiring harness replaced 3 times in one vehicle. Shifter module replaced twice in another. Software updates applied. Dealer suggested full transmission replacement in some cases.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued despite widespread reports. Dealers have replaced shifter modules so frequently that parts reps memorized part numbers. Mercedes shifter modules reportedly used as replacements in some dealerships. Software/recall updates (N23) applied in some vehicles, but problem recurs.
Transmission cannot shift out of park or enters unwanted gears
Vehicle shifts into drive when parked without key in ignition, or refuses to shift out of park. Transmission goes into neutral while driving at highway speed. Vehicle may roll away when parked on inclines. In one case, transfer case would not shift out of 4-High.
When: Primarily in winter below 30 degrees (one diesel owner); recurring over years; post-N23 recall in some cases
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle rolls away while parked, multiple occurrences; Transmission goes into neutral while driving at highway speeds; Engine redlines if cruise control is on when transmission slips to neutral; Vehicle slows quickly when power fails; Transmission stuck in 4-High gear or will not enter Neutral/4-Low
Codes mentioned: No codes reported in most cases
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission rebuilt 3 times; transfer case and transmission completely replaced from another vehicle—problem persisted. Full transmission replacement considered. N23 recall reprogramming of Final Drive Controller Module (FDCM) caused loss of 4WD Low function in multiple vehicles; some owners installed FDCM without N23 recall as workaround.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: N23 recall (13V-175000) performed but created new problems in many vehicles—4WD Low stops working. Transfer case actuator reported on permanent back-order as replacement part. Dealer service manager stated 1 in 3 vehicles have this post-recall issue.
Sudden acceleration without driver input
Vehicle accelerates quickly without driver touching accelerator. Occurred when ignition was turned on, put in drive, but accelerator not touched. Vehicle sped out of driveway rapidly and uncontrollably.
When: Reported once at the moment of shifting into drive while at rest
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle rapidly accelerates without accelerator pedal input; Occurs immediately upon shifting to drive
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle totaled in crash; AAA insurance company determined failure was mechanical, not driver error.
Shifter module mechanical degradation and failure
Gear shift module uses brush contacts that wear over time, causing conductive material to rub off and create short circuits between contacts. When this happens, transmission control module cannot determine which gear is selected and vehicle enters limp mode (20 mph max). Design uses brush-and-contact system instead of touchless/magnetic sensors.
When: Failures reported across vehicle lifespan; chronic and recurring
Symptoms owners cite: All PRND lights lit up on dash indicating module has no idea what gear is selected; Vehicle restricted to 20 mph maximum (limp mode); No warning lights or buzzers when this occurs; Happens while vehicle is moving, creating sudden dangerous speed loss
Repairs/costs cited: Part replacement only solution; new shifter module installed multiple times with recurring failures. Parts reps memorized part numbers due to frequency of failures. Cost typically $750-$1,500. Mercedes shifter modules reportedly substituted in some cases by dealers.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler refuses to acknowledge defect or issue recall. Design known to use inferior brush-contact system versus Mercedes' touchless magnetic system (Mercedes was partner company in 2007).
Transmission over-temperature code and starting failures
Vehicle displays 'Transmission Overtemp' message on dashboard or in data display and will not start. Battery is fully charged, lights and horn work, but engine does not crank. Relay clicking heard but no start. No actual overheating present. Occurs intermittently, sometimes triggered by cold weather.
When: Reported from early 2007 to 2014; intermittent, recurring events separated by days to months
Symptoms owners cite: Will not start; only relay clicking heard; Transmission Overtemp message appears; All other electrical systems work (lights, horn, windows); No error codes stored in OBD-II; Occurs more often in cold weather; Vehicle eventually starts after waiting 30-45 minutes or longer; Family members left stranded multiple times
Codes mentioned: No codes stored (multiple cases)
Repairs/costs cited: Starter replaced after first occurrence, but same problem recurred 4 months later. Transmission Control Module replaced in one case. Right front speed sensor also replaced in one vehicle (caused traction control failure). Multiple visits to dealership over weeks without resolution.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealerships unable to diagnose; cannot replicate issue. Described as 'intermittent issue, usually have to wait until it becomes hard fail before dealership will look at it.'
N23 recall (Final Drive Controller Module reprogramming) causes new failures
Recall 13V-175000 designed to prevent transmission slipping into neutral while parked instead created new problem: 4-Wheel Drive Low function stopped working in many vehicles. Vehicle displays 'Service 4-Wheel Drive System' light. Transfer case cannot be shifted into Neutral or 4WD Low. Replacement part (transfer case actuator) reported on permanent back-order.
When: Post-recall implementation from 2013-2014
Symptoms owners cite: Service 4-Wheel Drive System light illuminates after recall; 4WD Low will not engage; Transfer case cannot shift out of 4-High; Vehicle immobilized in off-road situations (one owner stuck in ice storm)
Codes mentioned: Service 4-Wheel Drive System error
Repairs/costs cited: FDCM and TIPM reprogrammed by dealer without resolution. Transfer case actuator needed as replacement but on permanent back-order. Owners found workaround: undoing the recall 'flash' restores 4WD Low function. Some owners installed FDCM from vehicle that never had N23 recall performed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 13V-175000 (N23) software update created the failure. Service tech manager stated 1 in 3 vehicles post-recall have this problem. Chrysler unable to provide working part or solution for months. Software clearly not adequately tested before recall implementation.
Electrical system issues with lights and instrumentation
Instrument cluster lights flash on and off; dashboard indicator lights flash; exterior lights flash. Headlights fail during dark driving. All PRND lights light up simultaneously on gear selector display. Sunroof opens and will not close. Lights flash when door opened with engine off and no key in ignition.
When: From 2008 onward; intermittent; some ongoing for years
Symptoms owners cite: All indicator lights flash or come on simultaneously; Exterior lights flash without command; Headlights fail, especially dangerous at night; Dashboard lights flash off and on; Sunroof opens unexpectedly and won't close; Interior/exterior lights flash when door opened with no ignition key
Repairs/costs cited: Instrument cluster replaced but problem persisted. Multiple electrical components (window motors, window regulators, relays) replaced. Software updates attempted.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership unable to find root cause after multiple visits.
Harsh transmission clunking and slipping
Transmission makes loud clunking noise when shifting between gears, especially reverse to drive. Vehicle clunks, bucks, and all PRND lights light up simultaneously. Transmission slips when accelerating or turning. Vehicle may slam into gear with force.
When: Reported from 21,000 miles onward; recurring
Symptoms owners cite: Loud clunking when shifting from reverse to drive; Clunking and bucking when all PRND lights light up; Vehicle slams hard into gear unexpectedly; Transmission slips during acceleration from stop; Service Engine light comes on after clunking occurs; Vehicle jerks violently forward
Codes mentioned: No codes registered in some cases despite service light
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer unable to duplicate problem despite vehicle under warranty with only 21,000 miles. Repeated visits without resolution.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer claims no problem found; refuses to acknowledge defect.
Dashboard vibration and drivetrain issues
Vehicle vibrates throughout body when driving over 45 mph. Vibration present from day of delivery on new vehicle. Difficult to diagnose and resolve.
When: Present from delivery and persists
Symptoms owners cite: Vibration throughout vehicle above 45 mph; Present on day of delivery
Repairs/costs cited: Drive shaft replaced; torque converter removed and replaced; Transmission Control Module download/update attempted without resolving vibration. Dealer uncertain of root cause and estimated 2+ weeks for TCM software.
Synthesized from 180 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 7 most recent
In may 2008, 15308 mi on Jeep, slowing for red light, dies, all dash lights com on, no power to steer, no wipers, etc.; starts back on it's own. Took to dealer, no code, no re-act; has happened intermittent since-safety issue in traffic. Now tranny problem, started sept. 2010, 37,600 mi, code 750, changed solenoid pk in tranny, now code for low pressure send circuit, drives a few miles then goes…
Today while driving on a highway at approximately 35-40mph my vehicle stalled. I had come to a complete stop and was awaiting a traffic light change. When the light changed and I stepped on the accelerator the vehicle began to hesitate and jerk and the esp/bas light, malfunction indicator light (check engine) and a message stating transmission over temp came on. I was in the left lane and…
3.0 liter crd has had multiple problems from purchase to include air intake, oil systems, and seals. Engine is unreliable and does not seem to last more than 5,000 miles before needing major repairs. Based off of my experiences I believe the engine is faulty and can lead to safety issues while driving. In a 3 year period vehicle has been quoted as needing in excess of $20,000 in engine…
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Jeep cherokee. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 MPH, the shift module suddenly failed by shifting out of gear and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and then drove to the nearest dealer. The dealer inspected the vehicle and informed the contact that he would need to replace the gear shift module. The vehicle was not…
Jeep 2007 loses power when driving... Gear module is faulty.. Dropped from 55 MPH to 0 ...electrical working fine.. Something is wrong.. Avoided a fatal accident on the highway.. *tr
Driveline vibration on my 2007 Jeep grand cherokee at highway speeds. *tr
I have a 2007 Jeep grand cherokee with about 38,000 miles on it. It has stalled out several times when trying to accelerate almost resulting in a few accidents. I was told the electronic shift module needs to be replaced, which has been a recurring problem for a large number of jeeps this year-make-model. The part alone costs over $700 and is on national back order for over a month. There…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 180 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 166 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 37,359 and 88,744 miles, with the median around 60,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 37,359; a quarter make it past 88,744. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2007/Jeep/Grand Cherokee.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.