Customer Satisfaction Notification W20 Reprogram Powertrain Control Module
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2017 Jeep Renegade powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2017 Jeep Renegade have filed 93 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 25,000 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
93
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2015 Renegade | 163 |
| 2016 Renegade | 70 |
| 2017 Renegade (this page) | 93 |
| 2018 Renegade | 58 |
| 2019 Renegade | 7 |
| 2020 Renegade | 7 |
| 2021 Renegade | 6 |
3crashes
When does it fail?
Of the 93 powertrain complaints filed for the 2017 Jeep Renegade, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 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 93 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.
Among the 8 model years of Jeep Renegade in our records for powertrain problems, this one ranks #2 by owner-complaint volume.
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.
Powertrain Control Module.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Customer Satisfaction Notification W84 Powertrain Software Update
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Customer Satisfaction Notification W84 Powertrain Software Update
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Flash: Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Updates This bulletin involves reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with the latest available software. Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination. Upon further investigation the technician may find the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) have been set: P1D7F - ETC Self-Learning Failure. P1524 - Oil Pressure Out Of Range - Camshaft Advance/Retard Disabled. P0000-00 - Will be displayed in the scan tool, but should really be displaying P0326-00 (Knock Sensor 1 Circuit Performance). In addition, the customer may notice the following condition:After a short trip and shutting the engine off for 5-10 minutes, v
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2017 Renegade's 9-speed transmission is a major complaint focus. Owners consistently report hard, violent shifts and loud clunking—especially at 25–32 MPH during downshifts and in cold weather. It feels like being hit from behind. Dealers claim this is normal clutch engagement, but owners note it did not happen when their vehicles were new. Software updates and flash reprograms have not resolved the issue; some owners face complete transmission replacement at dealership cost, only to find the same transmission type goes back in.
Engine stalling while driving is another widespread failure. Vehicles shut down without warning—sometimes at sharp turns, sometimes on highways, sometimes at traffic stops. Low oil pressure warnings often precede or accompany the stalls. The critical issue: these vehicles consume oil far faster than normal (1–2 quarts between scheduled changes reported repeatedly). Dealerships attribute stalling to a "safety feature" that cuts power when oil runs low, yet owners find their oil dropped 2.5–4 quarts between dealer-performed changes. An oil consumption recall exists for some 2017 Renegades with cracked oil pump, but many affected vehicles are not included in recall VIN lists.
Transmission slipping and severe hesitation during acceleration occur frequently, creating safety hazards on freeway merges. One owner nearly hit a pedestrian at a crosswalk due to transmission lunge; another hit a couch on the freeway because hesitation prevented timely lane change. In reverse, some vehicles will not accelerate immediately after cold start until shifted to Drive—a defect the manufacturer and dealership engineer claim is "working as designed."
Electrical system chaos includes persistent false warnings (oil pressure, check engine, emergency brake, traction control) lighting up simultaneously with no corresponding faults. Power steering fails when ambient temperature exceeds 80°F, shift indicators blink, and shift levers lock immobile. A recall (T50) addresses faulty software causing false warning lights on some 2017 Renegades, but many owners' VINs are excluded from the recall.
Same Jeep Renegade powertrain reports on nearby years: 2015 · 2016 · 2018
Failure modes owners describe
Transmission Hard Shifting, Jerking, and Clunking (25-32 MPH)
9-speed automatic transmission exhibits harsh, violent shifts and loud clunking sounds—especially in the 25-32 MPH range—often during downshifting or in cold weather. Owners report it feels like being hit from behind. Dealers claim this is 'normal' clutch engagement, but owners note it did not occur when vehicles were new.
When: 28,000 miles and beyond; occurs intermittently throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Loud clunk or jerking sensation during shifts; Hard shift at 25-32 MPH range; Occurs during deceleration/downshifting; Worse in cold weather; Vehicle lurches forward when coming to stops
Codes mentioned: No codes thrown; dealer diagnostic unable to isolate
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers applied software/flash updates without resolving issue; some owners faced transmission replacement at dealership cost; no consistent fix identified
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers claim behavior is normal; Manufacturer Campaign W84 (Powertrain Software Update) issued but did not resolve for many owners
Engine Stalling While Driving (Low Oil Pressure)
Engine shuts off without warning while driving—sometimes only at sharp turns, sometimes on highways, sometimes at stops. Often accompanied by low oil pressure warning light that briefly illuminates. Oil consumption far exceeds normal, with owners reporting 1-2 quarts low between scheduled changes. Dealerships attribute stalling to 'safety feature' that cuts power when oil is low.
When: As early as 5,000 miles; recurring throughout ownership; reported at 23,000, 31,500, 45,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden engine shutdown while driving; Low oil pressure warning light (brief or sustained); Vehicle restarts without hesitation after stalling; Excessive oil consumption (1 quart per 2,000–3,000 miles reported); Stalls most common at sharp turns or on hills
Codes mentioned: Low oil pressure warning illuminates, Check engine light may accompany, No stored diagnostic codes in some cases
Repairs/costs cited: Owners report top-end engine replacement attempted in at least one case; oil consumption tests performed with inconclusive results; no permanent fix applied; multiple 2.5–4 quart refills documented between scheduled changes
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall noted for cracked oil pump on some 2017 Renegades, but many affected vehicles not included in recall VIN lists; dealers claim 1 quart per 2,000 miles is 'normal' for this model
Transmission Slipping, Loss of Power, and Inability to Accelerate
Vehicle loses motive power or hesitates severely when attempting to accelerate, especially on freeway merges or during quick getaways. Transmission slips or refuses to engage, causing RPMs to surge without acceleration. In reverse, gas pedal does not engage after cold start until vehicle is shifted to Drive.
When: Throughout ownership; reported at 9,000 miles to 46,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Severe hesitation or complete loss of acceleration; Engine revs (RPMs surge) but vehicle does not move; Transmission slip causing jerking or violent lurching; No acceleration in reverse immediately after start; Vehicle nearly stalls when merging onto highways
Codes mentioned: No codes in many cases, Check engine light may illuminate
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission shift solenoid diagnosed as faulty in at least one case; software updates applied without lasting resolution; dealers unable to replicate in many instances
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer Campaign W84 issued; manufacturer advises software diagnostic; no universal fix confirmed
Catastrophic Engine Failure (Cracked Piston, Loss of Compression)
Engine loses power abruptly with abundant smoke from tailpipe and engine. Diagnosis confirmed cracked piston in cylinder 1 with complete loss of compression. Occurred with immaculate maintenance records and synthetic oil changes every 3,000 miles.
When: 61,881 miles; after years of proper maintenance
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of engine power on highway; Abundant smoke from tailpipe and engine bay; No warning lights or messages before failure; Check engine light only illuminated after power loss
Codes mentioned: No oil temperature reading on dash
Repairs/costs cited: Cylinder 1 piston cracked; engine replacement or top-end rebuild required (~$10,000 estimated cost); two independent certified mechanics confirmed diagnosis
Clutch Position Sensor Failure (Manual Transmission)
Manual transmission model experiences intermittent 'Service Electric Parking Brake' message and failure to shut off from accessory power mode. Check engine light with code P0807 (Clutch Position Sensor Circuit Low) indicated faulty sensor with broken carbon film inside. Owner self-diagnosed and fixed by removing sensor.
When: Intermittent over approximately one year of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Intermittent 'Service Electric Parking Brake' message; Car does not turn off from accessory power mode; windows cannot be rolled down; Difficult to start; requires multiple attempts and clutch manipulation; Code P0807 and ABS code C1220-86 appear when sensor accessed
Codes mentioned: P0807 – Clutch Position Sensor Circuit 1 Low, C1220-86 – ABS related
Repairs/costs cited: Independent shop unable to diagnose; owner removed sensor and discovered broken carbon film section inside; sensor not covered by warranty as clutch component
Electronic Control Module (ECM) Failure
ECM module malfunction triggered extreme vibration, stalling, and loud noise at 25–30 MPH during cold start. Stalling occurred after warming engine for 45 minutes, followed by difficult restart. Diagnostic tool showed no codes on first visit, then 'every possible error code' on second visit. Replacement resolved the stalling but led to hard transmission shifting.
When: Early ownership; one occurrence ~1 month after first incident
Symptoms owners cite: Stalling and loud noise/vibration at 25-30 MPH; All dashboard lights illuminate; Difficult restart after stalling (5-10 minute wait); Difficult to steer after stall due to power loss
Codes mentioned: First visit: no codes, Second visit: all error codes reported
Repairs/costs cited: ECM module replaced; owner believes transmission problems that followed were caused by prolonged ECM failure before replacement
Electrical System Failures and Dashboard Warning Lights
Multiple electrical failures including persistent or false warning lights (oil pressure, engine, emergency brake, check airbags, TPMS, fuel). Four-wheel drive lock button flashes; vehicle cannot engage 4WD in snow. Multiple indicator lights illuminate simultaneously, often without corresponding engine faults. Lights may flash rapidly, cycle, or remain illuminated falsely.
When: Throughout ownership; reported at 69,000 miles in one case; some occurring very early
Symptoms owners cite: Oil pressure warning light remains on despite adequate oil; Check engine light flashing or steady; Emergency brake lock warning with no actual lock; 4WD lock button flashing; 4WD will not engage; Multiple warning lights illuminate simultaneously; Power steering pump becomes inoperative when ambient temperature exceeds 80°F; Shift indicator (PRND) blinking; shift lever becomes immobile
Codes mentioned: No consistent codes; some cases throw multiple codes rapidly
Repairs/costs cited: Oil pressure indicator sensor replaced without resolving; 4WD software updated without success; vehicle cannot be repaired; multiple service visits unsuccessful
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall T50 (Incorrect Software Combination / FMVSS 101) noted for faulty circuit panels, but many affected VINs not included in recall
Fuel Pump Module and Acceleration Issues
Vehicle stalls or loses power when accelerating onto highway or making turns. Fuel pump module recall issued but part unavailable and repairs remain incomplete. Vehicle has been unable to complete acceleration in certain scenarios.
When: Multiple occasions throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Stalling or loss of power during highway acceleration; Stalling or loss of power during turns; Narrowly avoided accidents due to stalling
Repairs/costs cited: Recall parts unavailable; dealer appointments cancelled due to parts shortage
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall issued but parts not available; repair remains incomplete
Transmission Stuck in Neutral or Park Issue
Transmission becomes stuck and cannot be shifted to other gears; vehicle cannot be moved and engine cannot be shut off while shifter locked in neutral or other positions.
When: During normal operation after backing up and attempting shift
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission stuck in neutral after backing up; Cannot shift to Drive from Reverse; Engine cannot be shut off with shifter in any position except Park
Traction Control Malfunction (Unintended Power Loss)
Vehicle loses power during low-speed U-turns on dry pavement. Traction control light flashes erratically. Vehicle appears to shut off power as safety mechanism, believing vehicle is tipping, when in fact U-turn speed is only 5–15 MPH and pavement is dry.
When: Early ownership (before 300 miles); occurred on second occasion as well
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden power loss during U-turn; Traction control light blinking rapidly; Vehicle rolls slightly due to loss of power; Occurs at very low speeds (5–15 MPH) on dry pavement
Codes mentioned: Traction control light illuminates and flashes
Clutch System Failure (Manual Transmission)
Manual transmission clutch system requires replacement at 45,057 miles despite proper operation and maintenance. Owner reports this as second major failure on otherwise well-maintained vehicle.
When: 45,057 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Clutch system failure requiring replacement
Repairs/costs cited: Full clutch system replacement cost approximately $4,500
Oil Pressure False Warnings and Sensor Issues
Oil pressure warning light illuminates and extinguishes intermittently without corresponding oil level changes. Sensor replaced but false warnings continue. Vehicle manual advises not to drive when light is on, but dealer advises to drive anyway.
When: Throughout ownership; sensor replacement ineffective
Symptoms owners cite: Oil pressure warning light illuminates and extinguishes intermittently; No corresponding change in actual oil level
Codes mentioned: Oil pressure sensor circuit fault
Repairs/costs cited: Oil pressure indicator sensor replaced without resolving issue
Rocker Arm / Multi-Air Actuator Failure
Rocker arm attached to multi-air actuator on cylinder 4 broke, causing engine malfunction while on freeway. Mechanic noted this is a recurring issue in Chrysler vehicles, particularly Jeeps.
When: During freeway operation
Symptoms owners cite: Engine malfunction while driving on freeway; Engine died after reaching parking lot
Repairs/costs cited: Multi-air actuator and camshaft replaced; mechanic confirms seeing this issue in other Chrysler/Jeep vehicles
Catalytic Converter Failure (P0420 Code)
Check engine light illuminates intermittently with P0420 code (catalytic converter failure), especially in wet, cold, or hot weather. Code clears in normal temperature conditions. Stellantis/Mopar refuses to acknowledge as defect; catalytic converter replacement parts on backorder.
When: At least one year of ownership; intermittent
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates intermittently; Most frequent in cold, hot, or wet weather; Clears during normal 65°F days
Codes mentioned: P0420 – Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold
Repairs/costs cited: Catalytic converter replacement parts on backorder; manufacturer refuses to acknowledge defect
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Stellantis/Mopar customer service refuses to acknowledge issue
Rear Axle Noise and Tire Wear
Vehicle produces loud noise from rear that increases with speed, initially attributed to tires but later diagnosed as rear drive axle module issue. Rear tires have worn out prematurely in center tread on both sides. Dealer acknowledges Chrysler is aware and seeking fix.
When: Ongoing for over one year
Symptoms owners cite: Loud whining/grinding noise from rear; Noise increases with vehicle speed; Becomes unbearable on freeway; Premature tire wear in center of rear tread
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer diagnosed as rear drive axle module issue; Chrysler acknowledged problem and working on fix
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer states Chrysler is aware and attempting to develop fix
Door Lock and Electrical Accessory Failures
Door locks beep loudly and intermittently or not at all. Door lock function fails; car often will not lock. Sharp edge on AC control knob causes cuts.
When: Throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Loud, irregular beeping from door locks; Door locks fail to engage; AC control knob has sharp edge causing injury
Repairs/costs cited: AC knob to be replaced
Transmission Computer and Solenoid Failures
Transmission computer and shift solenoids fail, causing vehicle to lock in third gear, jerking, and inability to shift. Vehicle replaced transmission computer on first failure, brake shift module (BSM) on second, and received multiple software updates.
When: Multiple instances during ownership; first at ~8,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle jerks and locks in third gear; Check engine light illuminates; Cannot shift to manual mode; Transmission warning lights illuminate
Codes mentioned: Transmission-related fault codes
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission computer replaced; BSM replaced; multiple software updates applied; vehicle still exhibits issues
Synthesized from 93 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 9 most recent
Started having problems with the car shifting very hard at random times and at various speeds while driving. Dealer said there was no problem the first time we had it inspected and could not reproduce it at the shop. We continued to have these problems and started to hear our valves knocking so we checked to oil. The oil was two quarts low and barely on the dip stick. We were only midway through…
My car stalled and turned off while driving. I was in motion turning from one road onto another in july 2020 and again 2x on dec 23rd, 2020 without any warning. In july the dealer told me it was a "safety feature" for the engine to turn off if the oil is low. It had been 4,729 miles since my last oil change done by the Jeep dealer with synthetic oil (which is good for 6,000 miles). When I had the…
Tl* the contact owns a 2017 Jeep renegade. The contact stated that the vehicle exhibited numerous electrical failures. The oil pressure and engine indicators remained illuminated, and the four wheel drive lock button flashed while attempting to engage the four wheel drive system. Stetler giambalvo family Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram (1405 roosevelt avenue, york, pennsylvania 17405, phone (888)…
Transmission keeps skipping every 30mph increment. Now my car out of nowhere shuts off. It's happened now 3 times in a matter of a week. I will be driving and it doesn't let me accelerate and it asks me to put the car in park and turn it back on. When I try turning it back on it takes 3 times before I can start it back up.
While both stationary and in motion on a highway driving under the speed limit specified to safely engage my 4wd lock and snow terrain would not work. Also both the check engine light and the oil pressure fail warning light have turned on and off multiple times while both stationary and driving on the highway and the street. The sensor has been replaced once and has continued to relight. After…
Tl* the contact owns a 2017 Jeep renegade. While turning into an intersection at 5 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle started back up and was driven to the dealer (reedman toll Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, 140 old york rd, jenkintown, pa 19046). It was diagnosed as a safety precaution for the vehicle when the oil was low. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified…
My car just about stalled but it kept going. But then it got stuck in third gear. I drive all the way to the dealership. They said they never heard bout this problem. Well I just bought the vehicle in 2018 february.
Tl* the contact owns a 2017 Jeep renegade. While driving 35 MPH, the contact shifted gears and the transmission seized. Shortly after, the vehicle stalled and "shift to desired gear" appeared on the instrument panel. The vehicle was to be towed to ontario Chrysler Jeep Dodge (1202 auto center dr, ontario, ca 91761, (909) 906-7097) for diagnostic testing. When the contact took the vehicle to the…
Lose of power when accelerating out of parking lot. This now has happened 3 times with no warning light coming on in the car and vehicle is regularly maintained without issues.
Had powertrain trouble with your 2017 Jeep Renegade?
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 2017 Jeep Renegade?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 93 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 68 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 15,984 and 40,000 miles, with the median around 25,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 15,984; a quarter make it past 40,000. 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/2017/Jeep/Renegade.
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.