Your Guide to the 2013-2023 Jeep Cherokee Automatic Transmission Mount
Feeling a clunk or vibration when you shift? Your Cherokee's transmission mount could be the problem.
- A loud clunk when shifting into gear is the most common sign of a failed transmission mount on a Jeep Cherokee.
- While there are transmission recalls for this Cherokee, none are for the mount itself; the symptoms are different.
- Aftermarket brands like Anchor and Westar are affordable but may not offer the same longevity or vibration dampening as OEM Mopar parts.
- It is highly recommended to inspect the engine mounts at the same time, as a failure of one mount puts stress on the others.
Is Your Jeep Cherokee's Transmission Mount Failing?
When a transmission mount wears out, the rubber cracks or separates, allowing the heavy transmission to move and shake more than it should. This creates distinct symptoms that you can often feel and hear from the driver's seat. Ignoring these signs can lead to damage to other parts like driveshafts, CV axles, and exhaust components.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Mount:
- Clunking or Banging Noises: This is the most common sign. You may hear a loud 'clunk' or 'bang' when you shift gears, especially from Park to Drive or Reverse. The noise is the sound of the transmission assembly moving excessively and hitting the vehicle's frame. 🎬 Watch: 7 common signs of a bad transmission mount
- Excessive Vibrations: You might feel new or unusual vibrations through the floor, seats, or steering wheel. This is often most noticeable when the vehicle is stopped but still in gear (like at a red light) or during heavy acceleration.
- Rough Shifting: As the mount fails, the transmission can move out of its proper alignment. This can interfere with the shifter linkage and internal components, making gear changes feel harsh or jerky.
- Visible Movement: A quick way to check is to have a helper watch the engine bay. With the parking brake on and their foot firmly on the brake pedal, have them shift from Park to Drive. If you see the engine and transmission lurch or move significantly, the mounts are likely worn out.
Known Issues: Transmission Recalls vs. Mount Failure
The 2013-2023 Jeep Cherokee has been subject to several recalls related to its 9-speed automatic transmission, including software issues causing unexpected shifts to neutral and problems with internal components. However, it's important to know that there are no active recalls specifically for the transmission mount itself. The symptoms of a bad mount (clunking, vibration) are different from the symptoms of the recalled transmission issues (sudden loss of power, inability to shift).
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Transmission Mount
When replacing your Cherokee's transmission mount, you'll choose between an original equipment (OEM) part from Mopar or an aftermarket part. For a vehicle like the Cherokee, the choice involves a trade-off between cost and potential quality.
- OEM (Mopar): Generally considered the highest quality option. OEM mounts are designed specifically for your vehicle and often use materials that provide the best vibration absorption and longevity. However, they are the most expensive choice.
- Aftermarket (Anchor, Westar, Pioneer): These brands provide a more affordable solution. For many drivers, they are a perfectly adequate replacement for daily driving. However, forum discussions among Jeep owners show mixed experiences. Some users report that budget brands may use harder rubber, which can increase cabin vibration, or have slight fitment issues that complicate installation. They may not last as long as an OEM part.
Pro Tip: If your primary goal is to restore the original smooth, quiet ride for the long term, investing in an OEM mount is often recommended. If you are on a tighter budget and need a functional replacement to solve a clunking issue, an aftermarket mount is a cost-effective choice.
How Much Does a Replacement Cost?
The cost to replace a transmission mount on a 2013-2023 Jeep Cherokee depends on the part you choose and who does the work. The job is straightforward enough for many DIY mechanics to complete at home.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) Part | $150 - $250 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $101 - $132 |
| Shop Labor | $74 - $108 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket) | $175 - $240 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I be sure the transmission mount is bad?
The best way is a visual inspection. Look for cracks, tears, or separation in the rubber part of the mount. You can also use a pry bar to gently check for excessive movement between the transmission and the crossmember where the mount is located. If it moves easily or you see the rubber is torn, it needs to be replaced.
Should I replace my engine mounts at the same time?
It's a good idea to inspect them. The engine and transmission mounts work together to hold the entire powertrain. If one mount fails, it puts extra stress on the others, causing them to wear out faster. If you're replacing the transmission mount on a higher-mileage Cherokee, replacing the engine mounts as a set is a smart preventative measure.
🎬 Watch this video for tips on replacing your motor mountsIs this a difficult DIY job?
For someone with basic tools and experience, it is a manageable job. It requires safely supporting the transmission with a jack and a block of wood, removing some components for access (like the fuse box on some models), and then unbolting the old mount and installing the new one. The difficulty is moderate.
🎬 See this step-by-step 2014-2018 Cherokee mount replacement guideWill a new mount fix my Cherokee's jerky shifting?
It might. If the jerky shifting is caused by the transmission being out of alignment due to a bad mount, a new mount will solve it. However, the 9-speed transmission in these Cherokees is also known for jerky shifting due to software issues. If a new mount doesn't fix the shifting feel, you may need to have a dealer check for transmission software updates.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68192832AE 68192832AC 68192832AB 68192832AF 68192832AD
The transmission mount for the 2013-2023 Cherokee is a side-mounted isolator design, typically located on the passenger side of the engine bay. It consists of a metal housing and a rubber isolator that bolts to both the transmission and the vehicle's frame to secure the powertrain.
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.
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