What just happened?

Cerriwin · Feb 25, 2015

I was backing out of parking spot at work this AM, and shifted into drive from reverse when my transmission went *THUNK*, the engine shut off, and the EVIC displayed "low battery voltage". I continued to roll downhill with the power steering off to turn into an empty area of the garage where I was able to stop, restart the car and drive away with no problems. No warning lights were on when I started the car. It was about 15 degrees this morning even in the parking garage. I drove it again this afternoon with no problems.

Aside from some rough shifting, I've had no problems with this car. I fear (irrationally or not) that this is the beginning of some serious issues. This is a 2014 FWD I4 limited, which I've had for 14 months and 8k miles. I am taking it in this week due to a recall and the new available software update, so I will have them look at it, but unfortunately my dealer's service department tends to dismiss my concerns -- I think because I am young and female. I have had to be very vocal and speak to several people in order to get the previous software flash installed, as well as a couple of other issues (like my car being returned to me with a flashing odometer).

Found this thread that seems like a sort of similar situation? http://jeepcherokeeclub.com/33-engi...com/33-engine-technical-discussion/104946-2015-cherokee-steering-locked-up.html

Any advice is appreciated!

MarinR00 · Feb 25, 2015

I can't speak to your specific issue, but I think most service departments will dismiss your concerns - there are many a story on this forum about that. In fact, a lot of folks have taking to making YouTube videos about the noises, clunks and other malfunctions their Cherokee's make so the dealer will listen to them.

That said, I wouldn't let anyone push you around. My father-in-law is a retired Subaru mechanic, and he saws tons of people per day. Says you kind of go on auto-pilot. My advice is to use this forum (its a great resource), see if you can find others with similar issues (looks like you did) and go in with a specific list of things wrong (like your post). Document what they say and keep any paperwork they give you. If it crops up again, you can hit them with that and maybe not have to pay.

I'm not sure that is much help - but regardless of size or gender - don't let a dealership push you around. Its YOUR safety after all, not theirs.

COJeep303 · Feb 25, 2015

MarinR00 said:
... My advice is to use this forum (its a great resource), see if you can find others with similar issues (looks like you did) and go in with a specific list of things wrong (like your post). Document what they say and keep any paperwork they give you. If it crops up again, you can hit them with that and maybe not have to pay....

I have to agree. I dropped my TH off just mentioning the R01 recall on Owners Connect. After I had to call for a status update and ended up speaking to the service manager, I was pretty specific in my concerns and requests. I told him I was very much aware of the "situation" with FCA/ZF transmissions, and the moment I mentioned "the Cherokee forums", he kind of changed his tone and leveled with me. They had it for a week.

Anyway, document EVERYTHING. I started a Google Sheet. These cars DO have a 3 year/36,000 mile factory bumper to bumper warranty, which I know doesn't cover loaner/hire cars in most cases.

JRSJEEP · Feb 25, 2015

I would let the service advisor know that you received a battery voltage error message in the EVIC that caused the engine to shut off. As such, you fear for your safety and would like the battery, alternator, and charging system checked to ensure that they are working properly! There have been several on here that have had their battery replaced due to being defective from factory.

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onefunkar · Feb 25, 2015

no problem found at this time..

What just happened?

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