Why do Jeeps have so many failing transfer cases? The CAR WIZARD explains on this '13 Grand Cherokee

Why do so many Jeeps have a reputation for failing transfer cases? The CAR WIZARD 🧙‍♂️ shows you how it happens on this 2013 Grand Cherokee, and why it costs over $3,000 to fix.
🔮🔧 AMAZON AFFILIATE STORE: www.amazon.com/shop/omegaauto... 🔧🔮
🇬🇧🇬🇧 UK AMAZON STORE: www.amazon.co.uk/shop/omegaau... 🇬🇧🇬🇧
🧰 BENDPAK LIFTS: www.bendpak.com 🧰
👕 CAR WIZARD MERCH: teespring.com/stores/carwizard 👕
📷 INSTAGRAM @therealcarwizard 📷

[@rdj0981]

I left daddy doug talking about working quirks and features, to watch the wizard talk about failed quirks and features

[@chasyho]

THE LAFORZA???? same!!🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@usmanhaider8490]

I like how we're all calling him Daddy Doug because that name *fits*

[@ultraguy8771]

I had already watched the Laforza vid by the time this was uploaded.

[@onlyhereonce7290]

I see a VW Bug under a cover in the background. And that gorgeous Mazaratti. I'm sure that's broken big time. !!

[@rdj0981]

Tbh, I was being honest. The weeeezards voice and tone and professionalism are all quirks and features

[@sg_atukr4247]

I think its is worthy mentioning the Transfer Case control unit, which is located under the drive's seat. I had the same symptoms you mentioned, and all that needed to be replaced was this $200+/- unit. I DID NOT HAVE TO REPLACE THE TRANSFER CASE!!! Sometimes these control units go bad because water gets inside, but mine was perfectly clean and dry, yet it was the cause of months worth of investigation and unneeded work to be done - including opening the transfer case cover to investigate its condition, changing the small motor that is attached to the side of the transfer case and the position sensor. Guys, before you listen to JEEP mechanics (or any mechanics) and change things that cost $1000k or more, please look into the smaller and cheaper causes of the problem.

[@Delekham]

This is the post I was wondering about! The "Wild Card"!

[@johnng4139]

do you have the part number?

[@ZMAN_420]

Well then after you put in the new transfer case it still wouldn't work.

[@phillcc8524]

not even the TCM ,which is a "slave " unit , the console selector switch ! have a 2011 JGC and at 120k km had the "transmission service reqd" light show up , replaced the transfer case , 1 month later same problem , random comment on JGC Forum mentioned switch , changed same , problem disappeared , car now has 225k km and is faultless , blaming tyres is a wild guess at fault explanation

[@sg_atukr4247]

@@Delekham ?

[@tomfarmer6571]

I had the transfer case go out on my 2012 JGC. I never had miss matched tires on this vehicle. You can’t always blame the costumers. The car companies sometimes need to own up to to the inadequacy.

[@jamesonzip]

But did you follow the 30k fluid change interval recommended? It’s a clutch pack transfer case so it needs clean fluid.

[@user-tb7rn1il3q]

@@jamesonzip You shouldn’t need to change it. It’s a weak transfer case. These are POS vehicles.

[@maurice2014]

@@user-tb7rn1il3q they literally give you the intervals.. what do you mean you shouldn't have to

[@gsc512]

@@user-tb7rn1il3q if taking care of quadra drive is the absolute king off-road in the SUV market, especially luxury SUVs. You're crazy if you don't think you should maintain something that's premium. When you have wear items in the drivetrain. The debris gets into the fluids. Of course you need to change the fluid out. On a motorcycle you have to stay particular about your oil change too because of the wet clutch. If you want true 4x4 whether it be vehicle can literally send power to anyone. Wheel quadra drive 2 is the only system that does it right now. My only complaint is I can't get it with a hemi on the new Jeep Grand Cherokee. Most of the time it is the customer that screws it up by either power launching the vehicle or trying to do burnouts or not. Even keeping the tires inflated to the proper pressures and waiting for the vehicle to tell them that the tires deflated. Because the system will try the compensate for the ones higher that's low and slip the clutch and you'll burn it out either in the rear axle or the transfer case. The front axle uses the brakes to transfer the power from side to side on the axle. It's really a $20 maintenance item. Valvoline ATF plus 4. 2 quarts it's like $9 a quart. Plus thread sealant... And I added tad bit of archoil To be completely honest though, Jeep could have done better because they could have put dielectric grease in the terminals on several of my Chrysler vehicles. I've noticed that components that are exposed to moisture are not properly insulated for the moisture that they're going to experience. And the Jeep the clear coat can crack on the rims and you'll get really slow leaks. There is a fluid you can add to the rims. It's not fix a flat. It's that's only a temporary fix. There's one that has aramid fibers. That's a permanent fix. Tire ject bead sealant.

[@Thundarr995]

Having uneven tire pressure can cause unnecessary wear on drivetrain parts on AWD vehicles too.Try to keep the tires within about 2 psi of eachother. And its not just mismatched tires. If you get a flat tire on an AWD vehicle,and it can't be repaired. You'll have to replace all 4. This happened to my parents Subaru. And holy smokes, boy did they squeeze that Hemi engine in there. That definitely does not look fun to work on.

[@brandonwortman2172]

I sold a transfer case to a shop back when I was a commercial specialist for a parts store. The core unit that we got back from that dodge journey had a crack in the case. Three of the tires were almost bald, and the 4th had like 1000 miles on it.

[@angrymannumber1]

Wizard is my favorite KZbin mechanic. No fluff. No hyperbole. Just good information presented honestly and without bias.

[@cutehumor]

True, but are there any how to car repair videos on the wizard's channel?!?!?

[@Natethegreat200c]

@@cutehumor I’ll take that over the drunk dummy over at the other place. U know who I’m talking bout.

[@labourlawact7826]

@@Natethegreat200c Who? Certainly not Scotty Kilmer?

[@Natethegreat200c]

@@labourlawact7826 haha yes. Drunken Kilmer.

[@bdawg8907]

No fluff? Almost 9 minutes into the video before he states his opinion on why the transfer cases fail.

[@dangerousmythbuster]

I'll just stick with a vehicle that requires manually engaging the transfer case. No need to automate everything.

[@kenyonworthenii7389]

Ok boomer

[@colelockridge5816]

@@kenyonworthenii7389 well I mean from a reliability standpoint he ain't wrong...

[@neondemon5137]

Ok Boomer

[@Zzus321]

With a manual transmission. Millennial antitheft device

[@kenyonworthenii7389]

@@Zzus321 Yeah because not a single millennial knows how to drive a manual!! Dipshit

[@itsnotme07]

Wow, that's interesting to know. My brother had one of these Cherokees and never had an issue with it...but did complain one day about having to buy 4 new tires after a blowout. I didn't ask him why....but see that, some people do follow the suggestions...and proves the point. He put over 150k miles on his before selling, no issues other than usual maintenance.

[@Kennethah81]

They are fairly solid if treated well. Great cars to drive to! :)

[@tcpnetworks]

Subaru is the same - always 4 tyres at the same time - no exceptions ever. Don't change the tyre dimensions, no one-ups.. Don't change rims, etc...

[@thetechlibrarian]

@@tcpnetworks any full time awd is the same I believe

[@tcpnetworks]

@@thetechlibrarian Sorry - was responding specifically to a particular comment. Yes - any xfer case that is "full time" will want to see stable geometry on both sides of the case.

[@lookwhatsnext]

@@tcpnetworks they do not want anything and cannot see anything, unless you have some transfer cases with AI.

[@Channel-cm7yc]

Love the common sense attitude and relaxed delivery of all information on this channel!!! 👍👍

[@GtotheC88]

Sold my ‘97 Grand Cherokee with a quadratrac transfer case with 225,000 on all original powertrain. They don’t make them like they used to

[@lanceislateagain]

I'm not positive, but those come with viscous coupling, I think, to connect the front and rear driveshafts, not the clutch-driven one in these new ones. I imagine the tradeoff is efficiency vs longevity.

[@commanderstud2417]

@@lanceislateagain yep you’re right. The wheel size still applies on these.

[@mikiscruf]

You drive your jeep to the grocery store spotless all around, to the soccer field, to the office - never been off-road but breaks down because of tires? Such a good car!

[@jl8853]

its long been known that awd and 4wd vehicles need four matching tires. customers and even managers at shops say bullshit but its not and never has been.

[@altergreenhorn]

you lack of basic knowledge how permanent 4wd works, but then again you are from merica so it is kind of normal.

[@labourlawact7826]

Jeeps are rubbish made by Stellantis scumbags

[@joer8854]

@@labourlawact7826 Car owners are rubbish and don't do the maintenance and follow procedures and blame the car.

[@Nevy21]

@@joer8854 But toyota's still run on pretty much only oil changes

[@kc360awareness]

Had an 2002 Ford Explorer do the same thing. Too sensitive electronics if you ask me. Thanks for taking time to shake hands and show us around the shop yesterday. You’re a humble gentleman David,

[@SafeerJ]

More people need to watch this video. This is a great explanation as to why all tires should be replaced in certain vehicles. Thanks again Wizard!

[@CreationsVibration]

Car Wizards theme is a reflection of Car Wizard himself. Get in there, do the job, and its done

[@OOICU812]

@Niel Barnesyes he is. 😄

[@tonebonebgky2]

... and charge a Fortune doing so.

[@bartwaggoner2000]

Thank you, that was a great and powerful explanation of why you need to buy all 4 tires when you get a flat on an AWD vehicle. I did not know this could happen!

[@baileyhatfield4273]

Cheap buisness owners in trucks only throwing two abck tires on...and they're either worse than the fronts, or brand new and the fronts are roasted. Everything gets eaten up

[@roberttaylor465]

Should say in the owners manual, thing is not many read it. To be fair any tyre fitter should know this information and inform the owner accordingly.

[@nirfz]

It depends on the awd system. (If there is an open center diff and everythign else is by brakes you won't have a problem) You also can have the same thing with LSDs in RWD and FWD cars. I remember when i had a flat (RWD car), and the mechanic, before ordering 1 new rear went around to ahve a look at the tire on the other side. I had bought the tires 2 months before, so pretty much no difference. And before someone asks: The tires i have/had on the car are not legal to be repaired. They are rated for 300kph+ and the car is too. (might be different in other parts of the world, but here this is how it is)

[@The_Touring_Jedi]

@@nirfz I wann buy exact same like this in the video...how could I check that transfer case when buying? Any tips?

[@nirfz]

@@The_Touring_Jedi Sorry, i am not the right person for that. I couldn't give you any more advise the Wizard includes in this video. I am very interested in the general working principles of awd systems or things like LSDs, hence my comment, but for what you need, you are more likely to get usefull info or tips from a trusted experienced mechanic (that could check it or it's service history for you) or a maybe a dedicated Jeep forum.

[@yoranw4608]

Videos like that prove why you are *the Car Wizard* . Congrats for sharing with us such deep knowledge.

[@craighearn747]

Thanks for the varied vehicles you highlight and you easy presentation style. Mrs. Wizard is a great addition and she sure is kept busy. Continued success in all you both attempt.

[@Rockinrn]

I love the fact that Mrs. Wizard has the responsibility for vehicle interiors. Good choice because she does an outstanding job!

[@VacMaster2020]

Same way on a Subaru if you don’t replace all four tires you’re going to have Transmission problems because Subaru has transfer case and the transmission as one unit

[@tomdelisle8955]

Yep, my buddy had to replace all four tires on his Subaru after one needed to be replaced due to road debris.

[@jl8853]

mismatched tires force the differential/transfer case/transmission units to work harder than normal to match wheel speeds. this causes the lubricating fluids/wear materials to break down much faster than normal. and then premature failure.

[@VacMaster2020]

You should always replace your tires if you have a symmetrical all wheel drive system

[@406Steven]

As long as you can track down the exact same tire (including load range, speed rating, etc.) you can have the new tire shaved down to match, saves you a bundle if your tires still have some meat on them and aren't ready for replacement yet--Subaru allows up to 2/32" of wear difference between the tires but when we do the shaving it's always to make a perfectly matched set.

[@VacMaster2020]

@@406Steven Interesting

[@barryhunter2309]

Thanks Wizard. This is great information. I have a 2012 with 156,000 miles on it. I've been really happy with it since new and want to keep it going. I have the MOPAR unlimited mileage warranty but stuff like this keeps me up at night. I try really hard to maintain it and avoid problems.

[@grand2425]

Thanks guy. A breath of fresh air to get straight answers that's clear like this. I like how you gave it straight. Some mechanic wouldn't say a word just to have a customer come back 😂. Thanks 👍🏽

[@VeloceOrangeDesign]

Had this issue on a 15 WK2 Grand Cherokee at something like 55 or 65k. Transfer case control unit went haywire, forced the transfer case to constantly engage and disengage resulting in the unit burning itself up. I highly recommend anyone experiencing this type of issue to contact FCA warranty support as they are well aware of the issue and split the repair bill (although they should have covered more) under ‘warranty’ just outside of specified mileage.

[@31dknight]

Another great video, thanks wizard.

[@agent807]

I learned while working in the tire shop not only do transfer cases love it when the vehicle has all four of the same tire, they also love when directional tires are mounted in the correct direction as well.

[@dennismiller2385]

Thanks for the tips Wizard. I just bought one of these and now I know more about it, and what to watch out for. Thanks Wizard, you're the best.

[@teseract4755]

That open space where the spare is 'missing' is used for the DEF tank on diesel models. The spare tire is under the floor inside the vehicle. On the Durango which shares a platform with the Grand Cherokee it does have the spare there to allow for the floor to be flat for the third row of seats.

[@rustler08]

Meanwhile, the Hilux laughs in indestructibility.

[@aaryeshg.6526]

That is because Toyota added RWD lock out on those (so you can drive with mismatched tyre for a while if you wanted to). This Jeep doesn't have that...

[@stevelacker358]

And a 1999 Cherokee with a 4.0, AX15, NP231, and half million miles laughs at the Hilux…

[@traviskorda3262]

One of my local tire shops has a tire shaving machine so that if you have to get one or 2 new tires and your others have adequate life they will shaving the new one(s) down to match exactly. This applies to pretty much all AWD vehicles. Subaru, Toyota etc all require your tires be within a couple tenths of each other

[@user-tb7rn1il3q]

This is why you always buy 4 new tires. If one tire goes the rest aren’t far behind.

[@todatkinson4781]

That’s retarded…Buy 2 new tires just to have them shave down to match one lol that’s straight idiocy! Why not just buy four brand new tires and get an extra 50,000 miles out of them. It’s people like you they make money off of…. Read What you’re saying lol let me pay Toyota to make my new tires used tires…. Dum as they cum

[@danbooher5843]

I need a haircut 😂😂

[@obsoleteprofessor2034]

Buddy of mine operates several 60's 6x6 army trucks. His yard is filled with mounted tires with the circumference written on them. When he needs to replace a tire, sometimes he has to remove all 4 rears to make up a set of the proper size. He uses the smallest tires on the front because of a sprag that lets the rear tires overrun the fronts. He says if the fronts are larger, they try to pull the entire truck along. He says when the sizes are right, the truck rolls along much more free.

[@aussie2uGA]

Same thing on the BMW X3/X5 - always makes sure you have the same tread depth on all tires.

[@ua7pyro591]

Woah, the failure was caused by uneven tires! Holy wow. What a mistake!!!!!! No freaking way.

[@dodgeplow]

Subaru is the same.

[@NightRiderBUICK]

Honda Toyota Acura lexus

[@pgtmr2713]

Pay attention to tire rotation and air pressures? My XJ came with 153k miles, 4wd still worked. 183k when I blew it up... my fault.

[@eppyz]

Well if I'm not mistaken this particular type of transfer case allows the car to be like an all-wheel drive vehicle and in any all-wheel drive vehicle if you have different tire sizes or mismatching tires on the car it can cause the burnout of the transfer case so that doesn't just apply to Chrysler products that's any all-wheel drive car.

[@oambrosia]

@@dodgeplow Except every decent tire shop will tell a Subaru owner they need to replace all 4 tires because it is a universal requirement for every Subaru sold in the last 30 years or so. The real issue here is it only applies to Jeep models with this particular 4WD system. You have to really know your stuff to realize which trim levels this applies to, etc.

[@rjnation5042]

I kept a huge amount of spare tyres for my old BMW Z3 2.8ltr, was blowing side walls on my dirt driveway, had to change both sides at once, not all 4, so I just started keeping the undamaged as a spare, so sometimes I didn't need to buy a new one, also kept buckling rear rims on the inside lip, finally just changed the rim's, Rj in Oz

[@SharifRamsey]

Great content Car Wizard! I learned a lot this episode! Really have been interested in the Jeep Grand Cherokee for a while and now I know what else to look out for when attempting to purchase one from a dealer or private seller. Your videos are always so informative. Thank you! Keep up the great content! Can't wait to see more on the Ferrari!

[@Lowry7724]

Excellent video wizard as usual... what about the awd v6 with no low range? Does it have the same issue with tire size?

[@rogerzepp1044]

My daughters 2015 cherokees just went last month at 45,000 miles .Thank God we had purchased an extended warranty .

[@andrewthomas7654]

Excellent explanation....this man knows his stuff...GREAT VIDEO!!!!

[@albertreeves6633]

That was so informative. My nephew bought a used Grand Cherokee within weeks of using it had already started having to replace the transfer case. Thanks for the info.

[@sinist3rprime928]

I definitely appreciate all the information on the transfer case! My sister's jeep has the same problem. As I've never had to work on one before. Came here to do homework while scoping out what was needed for this job. You helped out a lot with that. Thank you for going above and beyond on that. That being said, and this is just my humble opinion, everyone's got one. Maybe next time just start with the topic at hand. I only say this because I almost clicked off the video and wouldve missed out on very valuable information concerning the transfer case. I'd hate for others to lose out on this information simply because of the first 5-10 min of the video with the covering of the exterior and interior features of the specific vehicle you were showcasing the work on. Just kind of felt like filler content and out of place with the real reason most are even watching the video for in the first place. Came for information on jeep transfer cases not the different model options. Not being rude at all, just a simple feed back suggestion from one tiny member of your audience. Other than that, I applaud your channel and the knowledge you have with this trade. Grew up in 3rd generation garage, dad and grandad were mechanics. So I'm all too familiar with how many people claim to be one when in all honesty they legally shouldn't be allowed to fill a gas tank. It's nice coming across a channel that is actually very knowledgeable. Keep up the good work!

[@joespencer5342]

My friend has 2014 overland overland quadra-trac 2 hemi motor for like I have like come on similar symptoms that he's describing about it feeling ideas kicking in the four-wheel-drive clicking noise underneath the vehicle he took the dealer first he also needed a new transfer case$7,000! He has only 60,000 mechanical type I told him to bring it on down and we would scan it and take a look at it did a little research on the Jeep forum many folks on there but turned out to be the transmission control unit under the front seat failed $275 bucks, and the transfer case shifter motor gear had broke 175 bucks so $450 sound a lot better $7,000 so we fixed! 2 years later still running driving fine no lights no codes!

[@joespencer5342]

I also heard this mechanic said that the engine scan indicated the codes indicated clutch addition that's what the dealer tried to say about my friends transfer case indicated clutch failure! But that code was being thrown because the transfer case shift motor therefore couldn't shift it out of 4-wheel drive but I am sure that if my friend would have continued to drive it more than he did I'm sure this mechanics right it would have burned the transfer case up

[@LarsDcCase]

I agree with you. The first few minutes had nothing to do with the main issue.

[@joelantler6660]

Thank you for discussing tire wear and its impact on transfer cased and 4wd components. I can't tell you how many times I had to explain that to people that just wanted to pay for 1 tire.

[@Halfnibble]

I bought 4 at a time. Didn't help me any. Still got a ruined transfer case at 100K miles.

[@GRSAFseventhousand]

Wow It's my first 4x4 jeep thank goodness I haven't had the need to replace tires but going forward ill do all 4 each time. rather spend 1k on tires then 3-6k on a transfer case lol.

[@mehmetguner5729]

I just learnt something new in regards to 4 new tyres every time due to transfer case Thank you for the heads up

[@jjcoulterxxx]

My 2011 Hemi Grand Cherokee and I appreciate the great advice!!!

[@Ingens_Scherz]

My brother in law had a slightly older one of these beauties. Lovely design and drive with a gorgeous interior, but he put a heck of a lot of miles on it for his business which often involved towing quite heavy stuff. When it finally started to complain in earnest, this is EXACTLY what had gone wrong. So he got rid of it and bought a Range Rover. Out of the frying pan...

[@jochenstacker7448]

That's the definition of progress. To make something more expensive, complicated and prone to failing without giving you any practical benefit other than not having to press a button.

[@Lon1001]

same with pushbutton start that requires all kinds of expensive electronics to work (securely)

[@MaddJakd]

@@Lon1001 yet, I as well as most haven't heard of push button starts giving anyone issue, so yeah. Lets not complain just for the sake of it

[@Lon1001]

@@MaddJakd they work fine except they add $1k+ onto the price of the car, they are less secure, make the ignition system more complicated, the fobs go through batteries quickly and if you lose the fob they are very expensive up replace. But yeah I guess it's convenient for entry and you don't have to take your key out of your pocket or purse or have to listen to your keys jingle as you drive over bumpy roads

[@alex10294]

Disposable too. Once 3 of the 100 electronic systems are out of service, the car is mechanically totaled if its 8 years old.

[@AlexandarHullRichter]

Literally every AWD and full-time/real -time/automatic 4wd has this problem. Subi owners can tell you about it.

[@flukedogwalker3016]

Thanks for listing the Jeep's transfer case strongpoints and what it is going to cost you to maintain that level of mechanical perfection just for that transmission.

[@soniarena5250]

Thank you for this, I have a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee. I'll be sure to keep an eye out for this issue.

[@DominikBehr]

Hah, mine had faulty connector to TC shift motor so dealer had to replace the connector and the motor. I guess manufacturing problem? Otherwise I love WK2. They are awesome comfy highway cruisers that do very well for light offroading or camping.

[@peterbustin2683]

Ahhh ! Mrs Wizard's gentle voice - so soothing !

[@maddog4390]

Creep

[@JavierCR25]

Thanks Wiz, super helpful insight

[@samspace81]

I have a 2013 Hemi 4x4 Grand Cherokee, great video I learned something

[@thnktank1]

Best Husband and wife team in the auto world!❤✌

[@AgaetiAlex]

I think it's a tie between them and South Main Auto

[@CRAPO2011]

@@AgaetiAlex Neutral Drop is my favorite mechanics

[@jonhettrick7969]

👍🤎

[@jsun3117]

It's pretty much the case for all awd vehicles on the market, even Toyota. Gotta replace all tires at the same time or you risk damaging awd components.

[@crazzywolfie]

makes me appreciate the np241 in my suv. 30 years old and still works like it should

[@Eweyouhew]

Excellent Video! Thanks for keeping it simple,and not using auto tech terms and abbreviations 👏

[@brianhind6149]

If memory serves, going back into the 70ies or 80ies , the Jeep "Quadra-Track " system also required that all 4 tire dimensions had to be the same, or the system would destroy itself. Great videos !

[@edjackson4389]

Same height only. Its still that way on any 4wd

[@LarsDcCase]

Yes, that is correct.

[@robertb3409]

What a great and informative video. The transfer case reminds me how the C5 traction system works. The computer knows the tires are 1" in diameter different from front to back. The transfer case uses the same logic except the 4 tires have to be exact. Thank you for the video!!! :)

[@sg8256]

Thanks

[@johnniejones5890]

Yep, it's the same with the Infiniti G35x. A good number of AWD systems say the same thing about replacing tires in their manuals.

[@JREwing78]

So, I'm glad that the Car Wizard covered this, because I bought a '18 GC a few months ago from a reputable online vendor where they had replaced just the rear tires. Annoyingly, the owner's manual states you can safely do this - it states you just have to replace both on the same axle. Had I seen this beforehand, I would've negotiated for replacement tires all the way around, Thankfully, I caught this video soon enough that I was able to replace the mismatched front tires with the same exact model in the same exact size, and avoided having to shave tires to match the tread depth. I'm hoping that my transfer case stays happy for awhile and that I didn't drive on the mismatched set long enough to cause problems. But I wish I had this information sooner. It's not enough to just match the tire size - it has to be the SAME EXACT brand, model, AND size. The diameter of the tire can very greatly between different brands and models despite reporting the same tire size, and of course different tires wear at different rates. Even if you started with brand new tires, but different brands/models on each axle, there can be enough of a mismatch in diameter that causes the clutches to burn up. The front tires on mine (prior to replacement) were a full 1/2" shorter in diameter despite the sidewall stating they were the same size.

[@terrybaptist795]

I dont need a computer to shift my own gears when i can do it myself.

[@robertwhall]

I have a ‘14 GC Limited with the 3.6, it’s been fine so far. 50k miles. Put 170k on my previous one, an ‘00 with the 4.0 6.

[@MrShlee1]

Thank you car wizard, I just picked up a 2023 grand Jeep Cherokee, Quadra Trac 1 - I’m assuming this is something I should also be aware of with my tire wear and just very good tire rotation as I have 17’s on here. So far I love it. I’m coming from Front Wheel Dr., Honda’s for the past 13 years. I will tell you the new five link suspension is incredible. I am floating on the ground it’s beautiful.

[@BigMike_6872]

Very informative Wizard, thanks for this video. My dad has a ‘16 Grand Cherokee with the 5.7L, great vehicle so far, very minimal issues but I’ll be sure to look out for this.

[@califaern3sto]

Maybe they switched manufacturer company for the transfer case for that 2016

[@Cris_MUC]

...same story for BMW xDrive, they even specify special tyres with with a star 😅 Mine seems to work fie after 200000km

[@roberth7894]

Always read your owner's manual. Trying to save a couple hundred turns into a multi-thousand dollar bill.

[@kewrock]

A couple hundred?? Have you bought tires lately?

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

lol Four tires for this beast installed is probably $800.

[@SkylineFTW97]

@@kewrock And the transfer case is several thousand. You'll still be in the hole for more by cheaping out on tires.

[@kewrock]

@@SkylineFTW97 I'm not saying you shouldn't do it. I'm saying you shouldn't have to. Having to replacing 3 good tires because the fourth blew out is appalling.

[@SkylineFTW97]

@@kewrock I agree. I don't think 99% of people benefit from having AWD. I think it's a waste. More points of failure from improper maintenance, reduced gas mileage, it's extra resources down the drain because people are scared of driving in a light snowdrift or a rainstorm, which you by no means need AWD for. I actively encourage people to avoid getting it whenever possible.

[@stevenbrown3692]

Thanks ✌ I think I will pass these up... my 97 xj is still looking good to me

[@allans7281]

Excellent video thanks for sharing

[@mikedx2706]

Thanks for this video. I have a Jeep Grand Cherokee and will always replace tires in full sets after this. You might also want to do a video about the failing rocker arms/lifters/lash adjusters on the Chrysler Pentastar V6 engines used in these Jeep’s, as well as in millions of other Mopars.

[@99jeepxjguy97]

Or the Ford 5.4 that chews itself to pieces.

[@user-tb7rn1il3q]

I never hear a quiet 3.6. They are a garbage motor. People just keep driving them till failure because they have no resale value.

[@garyalford9394]

Or the chrysler Hemi !!!@@99jeepxjguy97

[@Henchman1977]

A transfer case that can't handle slight variation (wear) in tire size isn't fit for purpose.

[@oveidasinclair982]

It is at Fiat-Jeep -Chrysler, this is where they make the bulk of the money off these cars....In the dealership repair shop.

[@getchasome6230]

Aka junk. A paperweight. Crap. Shit. Basically typical dodge

[@stevengoetz6773]

@@oveidasinclair982 every full time AWD behaves the same. If you run unequal sized tires, you'll kill the transfer case, on Subaru, Audi, Toyota, Honda, Chevrolet, Ford, Mercedes, BMW. All of them.

[@quadrifoglio6058]

you just described the every Full-Time AWD system built. Your issue is with AWD not Chrysler, but yeah keeping playing that tune.

[@quadrifoglio6058]

@@stevengoetz6773 Steven just stop wasting your time on these fools. You clearly have a good understanding of auto mechanics while the vast majority here are just ignorance's that love to run their mouths in pure blissful ignorance.

[@rclip213]

I like videos like this. It's good to have that knowledge when looking for used cars.

[@crazyeyez1502]

Tire size difference is no joke. GM g80 locker hates the oem spare. Luckily I wasn't far from home. I didn't know better, tho i should have....

[@matthewalbers31]

FYI on different sized tires - my VW Tiguan 4Motion has the same requirement - change them all the dealer said.

[@imchris5000]

@@matthewalbers31 if the 3 tires are still in good shape you can just get a new tire shaved down to match the other tire

[@thetechlibrarian]

I though you could be within 2/32

[@kennethmelnychuk9737]

I’m a proud owner of a 2011 Grand Cherokee Laredo with a 3.6 L V6. I have had the T-Case replaced as well and I can say: Just eMPTY eVERY pOCKET

[@jasonthirlaway7412]

taking the Wheel Mud covers out of thw wheel well you have complete access to the Exhaust bolts. Much easier to grind, drill and retap the broken heat shields top bolt combo.

[@magnifiscence3]

Wow! i did not know that. Thank you for the advice. They look so nice I had been thinking of getting a summit one they look so nice.

[@clifbradley]

My son's gf sister bought a 2019 Jeep Cherokee and I specifically told her not to. She said life was too short not to make mistakes and knew the Jeep wasn't very good and also got a bad deal on financing. So far she's had to get the engine worked on

[@clifbradley]

@@JohnSmith-uy2jg yep. She wanted the Jeep because she wanted a Wrangler, but all the different packages confused her and the Cherokee was in this cool orange color. They guy threw some numbers at her, she put 40% down on it, financed the rest amd within 4 months, the engine was surging bad. They told her it was a bad 'plug'. Then that didn't fix it, and said it was the throttle position sensor. She knows nothing about cars and I tried telling her they were full of crap, but it has a year left on the warranty and they are fixing it for 'Free', even though she paid a $75 service fee. That's not free. But whatever. Some people you can't tell anything to at all.

[@Vadim_Andr.]

@@clifbradley you need to see a psychologist

[@clifbradley]

@@Vadim_Andr. based on empirical evidence of?

[@egardner5978]

If you buy any car awd on not, budget for a set of 4 tires minimum.

[@bkad6238]

Really like the wide variety of vehicles. Getting to here and learn about them from truly qualified persons point of view.

[@XUBERish]

Awesome and good explanation bro... Thanks

[@anthonybass8395]

You would think in the age of electronics and computer controls that the vehicle with know it had different size tires for they were the same and be able to compensate for that

[@mcf3778]

they do.... its all about getting you to waste money on tires so they can void a warranty

[@ivertranes2516]

@@mcf3778 obviously they can't detect the difference in tire sizes or the transfer case would not burn up. Did you not watch the video??

[@jl8853]

why would a manufacturer incorporate an expensive and non trivial technology (adding an entire system) into a vehicle when they could simply state "you need four matching tires at all times or damage to driveline will ensue"

[@jl8853]

@@kingoftaurus the abs system does not possess the technology to accurately know what tires are on the car and change the behavior of the powertrain to compensate. how can abs detect the tread pattern of a tire? tread depth? abs relies primarily on wheel speed data. knowing how fast a wheel is spinning cant possibly give the data points needed for these calculations.

[@noobeenaut]

That's a very expensive solution to a very trivial problem

[@scottfirman]

My daughters went our right after they purchased it . They got it used at a dealer under warrenty, they had to replace it. It's been back to the shop every 3 months. I would not buy one, ever.

[@MaddJakd]

166000 miles and still going strong! All about how you take care of it (with a dose of being a goldilocks ride off the assembly line)

[@quadrifoglio6058]

So they were sold a crappy used Cherokee. I assume that when they purchased it from the dealer it came with a warranty?

[@Silvertoburn]

Thanks for the info my dude!

[@freedom_aint_free]

Amazing info ! I didn't know about the jeep's transfer case issue, very informative !

[@nb7466]

You would think a transfer case would be the strong point in a jeep. I guess not when it's a fiat jeep.

[@ipdjbt]

How original of you. You sound like a child who just discovered Jeep is now owned by Fiat and wants the entire world know of this giant revelation.

[@umad42]

No, weak transfer cases is at least a 25 year tradition lol. The NP249 was a weak ass transfer case too and that was a Chrysler-Jeep era part.

[@nb7466]

@@umad42 we used to offroad the ild cherokeess wjen I was in highschool. We never blew one up. Even water logged the 4.0. It kept running

[@nb7466]

@@ipdjbt you must not have much of a social life.

[@AlessandroGenTLe]

Apart the fact that Jeep wasn't FCA in 2013... They got it on 12 ottobre 2014 and still models coming out from there have been "pure Chrysler" for years (it doesn't take 1 month to go from design to test to mass produce a vehicle). Now that you've showed your ignorance, you can put back on your donkey hat.

[@martt.8159]

Same rule for Tires applys for pretty much every 4wd car. Also on Subarus

[@kemosabe5120]

AWD not 4WD. If it has a 2WD to 4WD select dial you won't have this problem

[@kwal0001]

Thank you Sir for your advice. Those are good information to know about Jeep. So thanks

[@jasonweikert1922]

Thanks for the info!

[@GDLutz]

I had a 2011 Grand Cherokee with the 5.7 that had MDS. Cam lifter seized at 128k miles and messed up the camshaft. I sold it broken because I was tired of repairs and it was half the value of the Jeep to fix the lifter and cam.

[@richardclark5187]

@@labourlawact7826 Stellantis, sounds like a new Medication for E.D. !!!

[@quadrifoglio6058]

@@labourlawact7826 you mean Toyota that had to recall and replace over 100,000 engines in 2020 due to a serious manufacturing flaw that can cause the engine to blow up and cause a fire. Go away, Sheep

[@t5ruxlee210]

Given that speed sensors are at work sending data from all wheels, you might think some sort of comparator circuit would be included to set off an alarm on such an expensive time bomb. Full time AWD systems on other brands can also give out for the same reason or even worse, buying two tires and somebody manages to fit the wrong tire size to your vehicle.

[@treelineresearch3387]

Not even a circuit, the computer just needs to look at the telemetry and throw a "critical service needed" message and code if any wheel rotation rates are more than off. Really nanny ecus could put it in limp mode until reset.

[@Lon1001]

yeah there is no reason the programming couldn't have been written to notice when a single half-shaft/axle is ALWAYS rotating precisely some ratio slower or faster than the others. Instead they only half-committed to a design and made it contingent on the 4 tires having the exact same circumference with no tolerance.

[@lexlayabout5757]

@@Lon1001 Agreed. You would think the system could be programmed to "learn" any continuous tyre diameter differences, eg measured at speed on a presumably open road, and then factor in those differences when looking for wheel slippage.

[@zesulant]

This also applies to the same size tires diameter on back of 2WD limited slip differential to prevent excessive wear on clutch packs.

[@ChadVader24]

I have a 2013 Grand Cheeroke and did not know this. Good to know about this

[@timokuusela5794]

My late -94 GC had the transfer case with a viscous coupling assisting the central differential. Even with same-size tires, it somehow had overheated the viscous coupling, maybe when off-roading, and as it overheats and sort of leaks the inner fluid to the transfer case oil, it sucks oil in it when it cools. Then it seems to turn even more viscous, and in parking halls the tires start to squeal. Then the TC is in permanent "almost locked 4 wheel drive"-mode... An amphetamine junkie stole it and totaled it, so I did not have to fix it. It also is like a negative lottery win here in Finland, as drug junkies are so rare species that cops know who to arrest when something spesific happens, so they just went to his place and arrested him telling his DNA was found in the Jeep. He confessed and was jailed. I then bought a H3. That is way better than the Jeep, off-road or anyplace. Almost as good as my -79 Blazer...

[@jamesg8246]

You should mention that tire shaving services are available if you need to replace one tire well before the rest need replacing. Also proper rotation of the tires is important so all 4 wear evenly. You need not necessarily replace all 4 tires.

[@LarsonChristopher]

I think that is a last resort option only as your tire traction is critical for acceleration, turning and stopping. Maybe consider a FWD car if buying 4 tires at once is a problem.

[@jamesg8246]

@@LarsonChristopher Tire shaving makes the new tire the same size as the other three. It doesn't have anything to do with the things you mentioned. Obviously if the other three are unsafe you wouldn't shave a new tire to match the unsafe 3 tires. You just buy 4 tires. That's what we've done for years, just get 4 new tires.

[@TM-tg4yn]

Wow. Great video! I looked at a 2011 GC Overland today with the svc 4wd light on. 2 new tires in front 2 banana skins in the back! I did not buy it but told the guy I needed to do some research first. I’ll try for the lower price tomorrow and if he says no, then I’ll pass. Too bad. Was one of the nicest ones I’ve seen in months otherwise. Thanks for the video!

[@jussiketels151]

Thanks for the video, the old ML (163) had the same issues..

[@ETr4d3]

I had to replace rear axle after just 80k miles / 6 years, and transfer case this winter - 16 years, on my 2005. I still love it and will never sell it.

[@snsproduc]

help me I have mis matched tires on mine for a while now but I dont drive it that much. I can just replace to tires and be Fine.

[@JohnSmith-pl2bk]

@@snsproduc Just do it.... Maybe you were very lucky and though the tires were mismatched the outside diameter was by luck...the same. The trans doesn't care about the brand name or tread pattern...only the outside diameter......

[@treborg777]

Audi Quattro and Volvo all-wheel drive systems also require all four tires to be the same size.

[@mjfm4]

Yeah, I always had matched tires, but my case burned out shortly after the brake caliper seized the front driver side tire. During that time, the tire was not spinning properly...makes sense now.

[@keithburt4734]

Very good information. I have one for years. If your a shade tree mechanic they are not extremely difficult to swap out. One of the most accessible parts on a vehicle these days.

[@badopinionsrighthere]

I'll never forget when I realized this and swore off Jeeps forever, for a vehicle said to be reliable, they sure do break a lot Granted I think that's more Chrysler infecting it, but even my old XJ and ZJ models broke a whole lot more than I would consider a reliable

[@American-Motors-Corporation]

Sounds like operator error, I owned 80s and 90s Jeeps never had a problem the last one I got rid of was a 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo limited it had over 200,000 miles on it still ran strong!! Course it also had the 4.0 inline 6 cylinder in a which of course in cubic inch displacement is literally a 242 in line 6!

[@kewrock]

I have a '98 XJ, 225k miles. Nothing but rust holding it together. Runs great.

[@xephael3485]

Wow said they were reliable?😂

[@xephael3485]

@@American-Motors-Corporation ooh 200k miles, whooptie do...

[@Cautionary_Tale_Harris]

@@xephael3485 Hey, don't make fun of the Jeep guys. Let them enjoy their little milestones.

[@audiosmackdown]

basically the Subaru issue. replace one, replace all

[@czechnolike]

That's what I was wondering

[@darcycuttlefish3981]

Sorry but I’ve had 5 Subarus since 1996 and I’ve never done this and not had any transmission problems on any of them. And I’ve replaced about 50 tires!

[@quadrifoglio6058]

@@darcycuttlefish3981 ODD because Subaru themselves tell you to change all 4 tires and since I work as a mechanic I have seen tons of Subu's with transferase problems because the owners had mismatched tires.

[@islandlazy99]

Nice review of a used Jeep Cherokee Limited. Good shot of a new transfer case already installed.

[@KevinSmith-wr1sy]

More great advice from the one and only Mr. Wizard!

[@terbennett]

This is why I'd never buy a used car with AWD, unless the owner can show me receipts that all four tires were replaced at the same time, every time with brand new tires. People talk about how reliable Subarus are, but I have seen so many with driveteain issues caused by neglect. I see more drivetrain issues than the notorious headgasket issues on Subarus. This rule applies to any AWD vehicle.