You may find a transmission case leak on a 2019 Jeep Cherokee equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Inspect the transmission tag under the shifter cable for the plant code and build date.
It may be necessary to remove the PCM and the two bolts holding the shifter cable to view the tag. Inspect and note the tag numbers. Reinstall the shifter cable bolts and tighten the M6x1.0x20 bolt to 71 in-lb or the M6x1.0x35 bolt to 88 in-lb. Reinstall the PCM.
Refer to the tag information for the Plant code J or Z as follows.
PLANT CODE J
Date ranges Affected Examples
Calendar day 249 to 365, Calendar year eight Date code with J3018 >
Calendar day 001 to 182, Calendar year nine Date code with J0279 >
PLANT CODE Z
Date ranges Affected Examples
Calendar day 249 to 365, Calendar year eight Date code with Z3018>
Calendar day 001 to 095, Calendar year nine Date code with Z0279>
If the tag falls under the above, remove the belly and skid plate (if equipped). Verify the leak is at the split in the transmission case. If the leak is at the split (and not from a higher point), remove the cross under the exhaust pipe for access, if needed. Remove the transmission mount bracket. Starting with bolt eight and working to bolt one, torque bolts to 26 ft-lb. Do not rotate bolts counterclockwise at any time. Reassemble and check for transmission fluid level, topping off as needed. Start the engine and verify that transmission fluid temperature is above 122 degrees Fahrenheit, and verify that no leaks are now present.
About the Author
Mike Mavrigian
Motor Age Editor
Mike Mavrigian has written thousands of automotive technical magazine articles involving a variety of specialties, from engine building to wheel alignment, and has authored more than a dozen books that crisscross the automotive spectrum. Mike operates Birchwood Automotive, an Ohio shop that builds custom engines and performs vintage vehicle restorations. The shop also features a professional photo studio to document projects and to create images for articles and books.