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9 speed transmission?

24K views 78 replies 20 participants last post by  Darkhawk 
#1 ·
I have about 3500 miles on my Cherokee and I was cruising down the freeway at 75-80 miles per hour and I accidentally moved the shift lever to manual mode and transmission indicator lit up '8'. Moved the lever down to '9' and no change - no tach fluctuation. Is this normal? Why have a 9 speed when only 8 gears are used? Mine also shudders at about 14 mph on an easy acceleration. My thinking is that the tranny is in the wrong gear at 14 mph?
 
#2 ·
A couple of times I've read that you'd have to be doing somewhere over 80 to keep the engine speed in the proper range in 9th gear on the Cherokee.

As for why they'd give you a high gear you can't use, it's probably a combination of marketing (9 speeds is more than 8 speeds) and standardized parts across all markets (some parts of the world have roads where higher speeds are safe).
 
#7 ·
Maybe they should tie the 9th gear to the GPS, so it is only enabled in Montana or Nevada, but not on freeways.

Too bad they don't drop the axle ratios a bit to enable 9th in the 70-90 mph range and give a bit more grunt at the low end.

Stick around for the 2016 Cherokee Spinal Tap model, with 11 speed automatic.
 
#3 · (Edited)
Mine went into 9th gear 2 times by its self going down hill at 80mph. I moved the lever from drive to manual mode and it said 9th and moved it back to auto mode and then back to manual mode it still said 9th so i moved it to 8th and the rpm did go up so i knew it was in 9th. Now today on level ground i was at 82mph i moved it into manual mode and it said 9th so i moved it to 8th and the rpm did go up so i guess it will do it by its self when it wants to lol.
 
#5 ·
Most folks talk about getting 9th from 75+ going downhill or with a stiff tailwind. Others are saying 9 is showing up more as they put more miles on the vehicle.
 
#6 · (Edited)
Hi there,

Based on my understanding, the manual mode of the tranny works differently when compared to what we have been used to; instead of juggling the shifter up & down as we please, the driver pre-programs the highest/top gear that you will be using. When test-driving, I was able to replicate that. So in this sense, it's not a genuinely manual mode, rather a mode that allows you to control the dynamics of your drives.

In terms of the automatic mode, the last three gears are considered overdrive gears, thus are not guaranteed to display in the sequence.
 
#9 ·
I also noticed something weird going down a hill doing 35 mph, the tranny downshifted and the tach went up to almost 3500 rpm until I hit the bottom of the hill and then it upshifted and the tach went back down.
 
#11 ·
I have about 8200 miles on my Trailhawk. I have been everywhere between 75mph and 95mph. I have yet to see this thing go into 9th gear. Even going downhill at those speeds, it never gets above 8th. Even getting into 8th can be elusive. It's irritating cuz that's where the best mpg's are. Still have rough shifts from 1st into 2nd and 2nd into 3rd too. I'm not a fan of this tranny, and I especially hate that it's not an automatic manual like I had in my '13 Dodge Dart.
 
#12 · (Edited)
My TH is a Jan 2014 build, 3.2L and I had similar issues. This week, the dealer "updated TCM per RRT# 14 - 040. Performed drive adaptation relearn process for all clutches per TSB#21-013-13." We'll see how it sorts out with more miles to complete the relearn process.

Desert Hiker
 
#18 ·
Not sure exactly where I found it, but no doubt a Gooooooooooooogle search. If you can't find it, then send me a PM with your email address, and I'll forward the related TSB PDFs that I have.

Desert Hiker
 
#20 · (Edited)
Gang,

This is a great thread with some interesting and factual information, as opposed to "impressions", or "personal opinions" (not that there is anything wrong with those).

Based on my impromptu research it appears that the 9 speed tranny has been created with two key factors in mind: (1) fuel consumption, (2) versatility

Both fully justify the coupled clutch system, and this kind of setup has been used before with relatively good success rates. The potential problem from the hardware standpoint appears to be the form factor; the compact size & dimensions cause some concerns for heat dissipation. Only time can tell how reliable the unit is, and if the concerns are warranted, or not. Personally, I am giving it a benefit of a doubt, for now.

Throughout 2014 Chrysler (Jeep) responded rather aggressively through its dealerships by replacing whole units, regardless if a hardware, or software was to be blamed. The vehicle had just been introduced, and it was considered crucial for brand's well-being in the CUV market. Fast-forward to 2015, we now have vehicles with vastly improved software controllers, and the usual fix is to patch a previous software iteration. If that proves to be the only necessary solution, I will have no problem with living with it; think about this scenario for a second: a few months ago one of passenger's window switches stopped working in my '11 Altima. I reported the fact to the dealership with relative dismay expecting a mechanical failure. Long & behold, two hours later, I got my car back with a note that no hardware fixes were necessary, and it was just software that needed the upgrade (the dealership provided my with an acquire bulletin copy for my review, so no BS).

My take is this: let's all cool down & chill out. Let us run those vehicles for a year, or so and click as many miles/kms as possible with variety of experiences and dynamics. We'll see how well the tranny learns, how it up- & downshifts in different shift configurations triggered by real-life situations.

Myself, I am cautiously optimistic, especially after familiarizing myself with the aforementioned article by the Truth About Cars.

Thanks for sharing all your stories. This what has made the whole thread a very inspiring one to read.

Cheers! :thumbsup:
 
#21 ·
@m_iOS_dev - I agree with your assessment.

I have an impression and that's all it is because I am no expert. It's based on 750 impressive miles in my 2015 Cherokee. The entire drivetrain has performed well so far. I realize this could change drastically in the near or distant future.

The drivetrain's break-in may be more important than usual and the transmission's form factor, as you stated, could be key. I have been taking the following precautions based on comments in two Cherokee forums:

1) Order and do not allow the vehicle to be used in test drives
2) Follow the break-in procedure closely
3) Give it a rest now and then during break-in to allow for heat dissipation
3) Keep an eye on the transmission fluid temperature during break-in and reduce speed when it gets over 165-170 degrees

However, there may be other systems contributing to drivetrain issues such as the Electronic Stability Control/Traction Control Systems. It's possible the transmission isn't causing some of drivetrain issues being reported.
 
#24 · (Edited)
X2
Finally some one else that understands the importance of the break in proceedure. It may be only 300 miles but even more critical than ever.
Overheating the fluid/gears might be all it takes to cause problems down the road. Open that baby up at 200 miles and that could be all it takes.

Another point to back your point up is the trailer tow break in! Thats 500 miles not exceeding 50mph! Thats an entirly seperate break in proceedure. Thats for a reason, tempering those gears as not to overheat them and the fluid. All the gears including differential.
The differencial on a true 4x4 will keep the axle tracking properly, that is allow the wheels to turn at different rates without skipping/wobbling.
You would see that a lot years ago on 4x4's that could only be driven in that mode on slippery surface. If driven on dry pavement damage would follow.
What I think a lot do not understand is the transmission is sealed! Thus if the fluid burns a bit from overheating there is no easy way to check it. Thus ignoring a problem that will cause problems down the road. That is why there is no such thing as lifetime fluid except maybe the Sunday driver.

Yours will be fine! :thumbsup:Software updates have resolved most of the AL issues for 2015's.
Mine was a 12/11 build. Never needed the TSB's and everything is working perfect to date. I did take it easy for the first 1,000 miles till most of the AL was done. Could not be happier with this vehicle. Getting 32-33 on the highway at 70mph is a huge bonus.:)
 
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#22 ·
Well from what I can remember it took me a couple thousand miles to achieve 8th. It was at that point that my mpg's improved rapidly on the highway.
It all seems to be tied to the AL process.
9th started showing up at around 3,000 miles. 9th would only show up for me at 74mph on a slight downgrade with my foot off the gas. But I did see it a couple of times, thus I know it does work.
The TCM will only allow the most optimal gear, based on conditions and speed to maximize mpg, so it seems.
If some one is not achieving 8th at 65mph or over a talk with the dealer is in order.
Check to see if all the TSBs have been done. Mine goes into 8th between 60-65mph.
Under that its in 7th.
Also you can set the highest gear at 9th or even 8th, but if the TCM does not deem that gear appropriate it will not use it.
It would be nice if the Cherokee had a manual mode but it does not.
 
#23 ·
Coming from 2 srt8 this cherokee tranny is way diff in its own way. I am finding out a lot of things just in testing. Yesterday i was in DRIVE and put it in manual mode and it was in 5th gear and slowed up to see if it would down shift into a lower gear my its self with out me moving the lever and it did. From what i have seen the tranny will not let you lug the motor no mater if its in drive or manual mode. Now another time i was on freeway and was coming to a incline so i put it in manual mode to see if it would down shift and it didnt so i down shifted my self BUT i may of not let it lug down the motor enough as i was on the freeway. Now even on my 2012 srt8 there was a big diff in shifting in auto and sports mode and the wife liked the sports mode for shifting but auto mode for the ride. I no 1 thing ill be using sports mode at the track lol.
 
#25 ·
Coming from 2 srt8 this cherokee tranny is way diff in its own way. I am finding out a lot of things just in testing. Yesterday i was in DRIVE and put it in manual mode and it was in 5th gear and slowed up to see if it would down shift into a lower gear my its self with out me moving the lever and it did. From what i have seen the tranny will not let you lug the motor no mater if its in drive or manual mode. Now another time i was on freeway and was coming to a incline so i put it in manual mode to see if it would down shift and it didnt so i down shifted my self BUT i may of not let it lug down the motor enough as i was on the freeway. Now even on my 2012 srt8 there was a big diff in shifting in auto and sports mode and the wife liked the sports mode for shifting but auto mode for the ride. I no 1 thing ill be using sports mode at the track lol.
The 9 speed in the Cherokee is a unique creature on its own.
It is not a manual shift in any way, nor does it have that option. Moving the shifter over(to the left) merely shows what gear you are presently in. Moving it up or down from that position again merely sets the max. gear the transmission is allowed to use. The TCM of the transmission will always determine the best gear to be in or shift to.
As an example I usually set the maximum gear to 7 when towing, thus avoiding extra pressure on the engine. That will over ride the TCM in shifting to 8th.
But I do wish there was a manual option for shifting on this Cherokee. That may be in the wind if they come out with a SRT version of the Cherokee, as rumor has it.
 
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#26 ·
I have been reading about the manual mode on the nine speed transmission regarding manual mode just lets you set the highest gear. I have a 2015 Trail hawk and my manual mode lets me downshift or upshift like the old transmissions used too. Maybe new flash setting.
 
#27 ·
Not really. Nothing has changed in that transmission for MY2015. What you are calling downshifting and upshifting is just between a preselected range when you move the selector to the left. You are just redefining the top and bottom shifts when you do that. The only thing different is the semantics between the posters and how they are describing this. There is no manuel mode with that particular transmission.
 
#29 ·
We are going to have to agree to disagree. I stand by my statement that there is no manual mode in that transmission. I have one of the first Cherokee's built that I custom ordered. I have the exact same transmission that you have. Both transmissions were built in Indiana and there have been no major changes made to them except for some TSB flashes that mostly make things worse and not better. The whole trick to that transmission is in how you break it in. The first 500 miles are extremely important. If you want to throw credentials around. I am 64 years old with 3 earned college degrees. My parents both worked for Chrysler. My dad at the Trenton engine plant and the Trenton chemical (Cycleweld) plant, my mother was a top executive at the Detroit Desoto/Dodge assembly plant. I hope I am wrong on my guess. But if you are acting on information from the Jeep Cherokee Club website be very careful. Nobody screens things over there and lots of bad misinformation has been known to get out from there.
 
#31 ·
I took delivery 2 weeks ago. It definitely downshifts in manual mode when - is pushed. It also upshifts when pushed + I don't know how high the gear will go but I have downshifted from 4 to first and had engine braking and RPM increases as the gears were selected all the way to 1. Maybe I should make a video of the gear selection and you see the rpms increasing but I will need a reward for the effort. LOL I have 455 miles and have not babied it and the transmission works beautifully.
 
#32 ·
The owners manual describes what ERS is designed to do:

Electronic Range Select (ERS) Operation
The Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift control allows the
driver to limit the highest available gear. For example, if
you shift the transmission into 5 (fifth gear), the transmission
will not shift above fifth gear, but will shift
through the lower gears normally.

You can switch between DRIVE and ERS mode at any
vehicle speed. When the shift lever is in the DRIVE
position, the transmission will operate automatically,
shifting between all available gears.

Moving the shift lever to the ERS position (beside
DRIVE) will activate ERS mode, display the current gear
in the instrument cluster, and maintain that gear as the
top available gear. Once in ERS mode, moving the shift
lever forward (-) or rearward (+) will change the top
available gear.

To exit ERS mode, simply return the shift lever to the
DRIVE position.

NOTE: To select the proper gear position for maximum
deceleration (engine braking), move the shift lever into
the ERS position, then simply press and hold it forward
(-). The transmission will shift to the range from which
the vehicle can best be slowed down.

The 2015 Chrysler 200C with 9-speed transmission has paddle shifters. Maybe that one is a true manual-automatic. Don't know. From Chrysler.com:

Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters are included on Chrysler 200C V6 engine-equipped models. The paddle shifters allow you to keep both hands on the steering wheel while shifting with a tap of your finger.
 
#35 ·
Guys, the manual also says we have an ECO mode. Why is it still difficult for people to understand that my transmission will downshift through the gears with the manual mode + or -... It will also upshift with the + Maybe I have the Chrysler 200 trans. LOL Maybe Jeep heard everyone crying about not be able to do it and made an update to the software. As stated, I took delivery 2 weeks ago had my trailhawk on order since 06-24 and ordered every option. MSRP window sticker 43,673.00 Maybe someone who took delivery in the last few weeks should go try it and report back. You guys are going to make me make a video and then have you all begging for an accepted apology. Have an open mind, things change, including auto features. :)
 
#36 ·
Gents,

The whole thread had made me wonder about this problem: how does one break in this tranny? The consensus seems to be that the first 500 miles are vital to its smooth operation, and potentially its longevity.

Suggestions?

OT, a photo of October in the Maritimes. Enjoy! Natural landscape Nature Reflection Water Water resources
Tree Leaf Red Plant Green
Leaf Plant Tree Flower Red



Sent from my iPhone using JeepGarage
 
#38 ·
Gents,

The whole thread had made me wonder about this problem: how does one break in this tranny? The consensus seems to be that the first 500 miles are vital to its smooth operation, and potentially its longevity.

Suggestions?

OT, a photo of October in the Maritimes. Enjoy! View attachment 47737 View attachment 47738 View attachment 47739


Sent from my iPhone using JeepGarage
Follow the manual for break in and you will be fine. don't baby it, note the part below about doing full throttle acceleration

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS
A long break-in period is not required for the engine and
drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km).
After the initial 60 miles (100 km), speeds up to 50 or
55 mph (80 or 90 km/h) are desirable.


While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within the
limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good break-in.
Wide-open throttle acceleration in low gear can be detrimental
and should be avoided.
 
#37 ·
I have purchased more than 15 brand new vehicles almost everyone ordered. I have not had any problems except a 1978 corvette L82 4 speed that had a vibration and discovered all the flywheel bolts were not installed. I have not babied my Cherokee at all and the transmission works flawlessly. Full throttle acceleration , manual shifting, high speed etc...I was a little easy for the first 150 miles now I drive like it was meant to be driven. The only thing I question is the low speed crash mitigation. Asked the dealer if we could test another unit to see if it performed like mine and wasn't interested in the test. haha.
 
#39 ·
If this 'break in' period is so critical, why don't the dealerships go over this before you take delivery. My dealer said nothing about break in. But the service write up guy at this same dealership also said that moving the shift lever to the left puts it in manual mode. :slapfight:
 
#40 ·
You are giving dealerships too much credit for actually knowing about their product. I had to school my salesman, sales manager, dealership owner, and Chrysler zone rep about the Cherokee as well as how to order one. They didn't have a clue. My service manager asked me for the web address for Jeep Garage as he wanted to learn about the Cherokee. I am going to remind people one more time, people are used to the old automatics that did have a manual mode. The new 9 speed automatic in the Cherokee DOES NOT HAVE A MANUAL MODE. What it does have is a mode where you can define the top and bottom shifts. That is not the same thing as a manual mode. You can call that defining mode what ever makes you happy but technically it is not a manual mode. I think part of the problem is that there is another Cherokee web site that does not screen their information and is giving out bad information.
 
#42 ·
The jeep 9 speed automatic works just the same as any other manual mode in other automatics. You can limit the upper gear the transmission will max out to and it will shift up to that gear selected. you could actually do this to the others but they did not have 9 gears. I had a 67 GTO ram air 400 with the shift gate 1,2,3 Automatic, A 1970 SS 454 Chevelle 450 horse with the HD turbo hydromatic , a 2012 Cadillac 3.6 V6 6 speed and all shifted the same way. They wont downshift to a lower gear outside of the RPM limits but you can upshift through the gears and downshift. In the Chevelle I could put it in 2 and it would start in 1st shift to 2nd but not into 3rd. It limited the highest gear, only had 3 to pick from. LOL.
 
#44 ·
My dealer said nothing about break in procedure. And that was even knowing I was driving back home 300 miles!
Basically its not their job, period. Its the consumer's job to read, read and read more.
But my salesperson did preset most of my u-connect and par the phone for me.
He also set and explained the Tech group to me. He went through Navigation with me and set "go home" for me.
I did read the manual on line before I picked up the vehicle.
So I knew not to exceed 50 for the first 60 miles and 50-55 for 300 miles. And other things.
I also knew that most of this was so not to overheat the system especially the gears and fluid. That is Trans and axle. Avoid stress on a new system and it will last longer.
So I did pull over 4 times on the way back just to let everything cool down.
I also went up to 1,000 miles before I really started pushing it.
Was it needed? It was my vehicle and I believe it was. Now at 6,000 miles I could not want anything more. MPGs at 70 mph are in the low 30's with a V6 and AD2.
The 9 speed is perfect now even with never getting any TSB's on a 12/11 build.
There is also the other philosophy of putting the peddle to the medal.
I can respect that as long as its the other persons vehicle.
 
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#46 · (Edited)
@Jeepster910 - I followed break in process like you did. At 1400 miles 9 - speed is great. Maybe our attention to break in will pay off in long run. Good to hear yours is performing at 6K.

BTW, my 4-speed V8 pickup is feeling a little sluggish compared to the Cherokee and the pickup gets 17 mpg combined.
 
#48 ·
@Jeepster910 - I followed break in process like you did. At 1400 miles 9 - speed is great. Maybe our attention to break in will pay off in long run. Good to hear your's is performing at 6K.

BTW, my 4-speed V8 pickup is feeling a little sluggish compared to the Cherokee and the pickup gets 17 mpg combined.
Its all in the gears............................... on this 9 speed I would guess.
I had a Grand Cherokee V8 before this Cherokee. This V6 Cherokee runs much lower RPMs on the highway than the V8 (4spd w/ OD) ever did.
What's interesting is at 70 mph my mpg is increasing and on my Grand (V8) it was decreasing. Something like 19 mpg (V8) vs 32+ on the V6 Cherokee. That's huge and likely a lot to do with the 9 speed.

The pay off will be there for us for sure. I just wish that Chrysler would put a wrap around on the visor or something to warn the customer of proper break in. I think it would save them a lot of grief. For some reason I think this Cherokee is susceptible to bad things if not broken in or stressed early on. I know differentials are very susceptible to damage with excessive heat and improper/damaged lube. I went through that with my 2001 Cherokee Sport w/off road pkg. The dealer used reg. axle lube instead of synthetic which was called for with the tow group. The only reason for that was heat produced when towing on those gears.
You have many, many good miles ahead for you with this great vehicle!
 
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