Jeep Commander Transmission Speed Sensor Failures and Replacement (2006-2010)
If your Jeep Commander is shifting hard or the speedometer is acting up, the transmission speed sensors are the most likely cause.
- The Jeep Commander has two identical transmission speed sensors; a failing one causes severe shifting issues that mimic transmission failure.
- Symptoms include getting stuck in gear (limp mode), harsh shifts, and a dead speedometer.
- This is a common, inexpensive, and easy DIY repair. It is highly recommended to replace both sensors at the same time.
- No recalls have been issued for this part; it is considered a standard maintenance/wear item.
Transmission Speed Sensors vs. Wheel Speed Sensors
It is important to know that your Jeep Commander has multiple speed sensors. This guide focuses on the two transmission speed sensors, which are the most common cause of sudden shifting problems. Your Commander also has four wheel speed sensors (also called ABS sensors), one at each wheel. While a bad wheel speed sensor can also cause shifting issues and warning lights, the symptoms and replacement are different. The transmission sensors are located on the driver's side of the transmission case.
Symptoms of a Failing Transmission Speed Sensor
A failing transmission speed sensor can make you think your entire transmission is failing. The symptoms are often sudden and severe. You may notice:
- Harsh Shifting: The transmission may slam into gear, especially when moving from Park to Drive or Reverse.
- Limp Mode: The transmission may get stuck in a single gear (usually 2nd or 3rd) and refuse to shift up or down. This is a protective measure to prevent damage.
- Erratic Speedometer: The speedometer needle may jump around, show the wrong speed, or not move at all.
- Cruise Control Failure: The cruise control will not engage or will shut off unexpectedly.
- Check Engine Light: A sensor failure will almost always trigger the Check Engine Light and store trouble codes like P0716 or P0721. 🎬 See a detailed breakdown of what the P0716 code means.
A Common Point of Failure
The input and output speed sensors on the 45RFE and 545RFE transmissions used in the Jeep Commander are a well-known failure point. 🎬 Watch a professional mechanic swap sensors on an RFE transmission. The symptoms can appear suddenly, but the fix is typically simple and inexpensive.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When shopping for a replacement, you have several options. For a critical electronic part like this, brand quality matters. A low-quality sensor can fail quickly or be dead-on-arrival.
- OEM-Equivalent Brands (Highest Quality): Brands like Delphi and Standard Ignition (SMP) are often original equipment manufacturers for many car brands. They are known for high-quality electronics that meet or exceed factory specifications. Choosing one of these brands is the safest bet for a long-lasting repair.
- Jeep Specialist Brands: Crown Automotive specializes in Jeep parts. For a common part like this, their sensor is a reliable mid-tier option that is often more affordable than OEM.
- Standard Aftermarket Brands (Value-Oriented): Brands like Holstein, Rostra Powertrain, and Walker Products offer a good balance of price and performance. They are a significant step up from no-name online parts and provide a cost-effective solution for this repair.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
The input and output sensors are identical parts, located next to each other, and have the same lifespan. Most mechanics recommend replacing both sensors at the same time. This saves you from having to do the same job again in a few months when the other original sensor fails.
Cost to Replace Jeep Commander Speed Sensors
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor (Each) | $23 - $60 |
| New OEM Mopar Sensor (Each) | $40 - $70 |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 |
| Estimated Total (DIY, Both Sensors) | $46 - $120 |
| Estimated Total (Shop, Both Sensors) | $190 - $300 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary by location and supplier. The high end of the inventory price range ($408.11) is not typical for this part and may represent a different component or kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many speed sensors does my Jeep Commander have?
Your Commander has two identical transmission speed sensors (one input, one output) and four ABS wheel speed sensors. This article focuses on the two transmission sensors, which are the common culprits for shifting issues.
Where are the transmission speed sensors located?
Both sensors are on the driver's side of the transmission. The input sensor is toward the front of the vehicle, and the output sensor is a few inches behind it, toward the rear. You will need to safely get under the vehicle to access them.
Can I replace the speed sensors myself?
Yes, this is a very DIY-friendly job. The replacement involves disconnecting a wiring clip and removing a single bolt for each sensor. 🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing the sensors yourself. The main challenge is safely lifting and supporting the vehicle on jack stands.
Is a bad speed sensor the same as a bad solenoid?
No. The speed sensor is a magnetic pickup that reads rotation. A solenoid is an electronic plunger inside the transmission that directs fluid flow to change gears. However, a bad speed sensor can prevent the computer from telling the solenoids to work correctly, so the symptoms can seem similar.
Do I need to perform a transmission relearn procedure after replacement?
Generally, no. After replacing the sensors and clearing the check engine light codes with a basic scanner, the computer should recognize the new sensors and resume normal operation after a short drive cycle.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4799061AB 04799061AB
Two-pin magnetic sensor for the 45RFE/545RFE automatic transmission. Input and output sensors are the same part number.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Jeep Commander:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Transmission Speed Sensors vs. Wheel Speed Sensors
- Symptoms of a Failing Transmission Speed Sensor
- A Common Point of Failure
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
- Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
- Cost to Replace Jeep Commander Speed Sensors
- Frequently Asked Questions
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