Towing nightmare? here’s how to effortlessly put your jeep cherokee in neutral for hassle-free transport

When towing your Jeep Cherokee, it’s crucial to put it in neutral to prevent transmission damage. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a detailed walkthrough of how to put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral for towing, ensuring a safe and efficient towing experience.

Understanding the Importance of Neutral for Towing

When towing a vehicle, the drive wheels need to be free to rotate without being powered by the engine. If the vehicle is left in gear, the transmission will be forced to engage, which can cause overheating and damage to the transmission components. Shifting into neutral disengages the transmission and allows the drive wheels to rotate freely.

Safety Precautions Before Towing

Before starting the towing process, it’s essential to ensure the safety of both the towing and towed vehicles. Here are some crucial safety precautions to consider:

• Park the Jeep Cherokee on a flat, stable surface.
• Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
• Disconnect the negative battery terminal to disable the electrical system.
• Consult your Jeep Cherokee’s owner’s manual for specific safety instructions and towing guidelines.

Step-by-Step Guide to Putting Jeep Cherokee in Neutral for Towing

Step 1: Locate the Shift Lever

The shift lever is typically located on the center console of your Jeep Cherokee. It may be covered by a plastic trim or shift boot.

Step 2: Remove the Shift Boot (Optional)

If there’s a shift boot covering the shift lever, gently pry it loose to expose the lever.

Step 3: Press the Shift Lock Release Button

Most Jeep Cherokees have a shift lock release button located next to the shift lever. Press and hold this button while shifting into neutral.

Step 4: Move the Shift Lever to Neutral

With the shift lock release button depressed, move the shift lever towards the “N” (Neutral) position.

Step 5: Release the Shift Lock Release Button

Once the shift lever is in the neutral position, release the shift lock release button.

Alternative Method for Older Jeep Cherokees

If your Jeep Cherokee does not have a shift lock release button, follow these alternative steps:

• Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “Accessory” position.
• Locate the neutral safety switch override button, which is usually a small, black button near the steering column.
• Press and hold the neutral safety switch override button while shifting into neutral.

Verifying Neutral Status

To ensure that your Jeep Cherokee is successfully in neutral, perform the following steps:

• Try to move the vehicle forward or backward. If the vehicle does not move, it is in neutral.
• Check the instrument cluster. The “N” (Neutral) indicator should be illuminated.

Reconnecting the Battery

After putting your Jeep Cherokee in neutral, reconnect the negative battery terminal to restore electrical power to the vehicle.

Summary: Ensuring a Safe Towing Experience

By following these steps, you can safely put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral for towing. Remember to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions and always prioritize safety during the towing process.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I tow my Jeep Cherokee with all four wheels on the ground?
A: No, it is not recommended to tow with all four wheels on the ground, as this can damage the transmission.

Q: How far can I tow my Jeep Cherokee in neutral?
A: The maximum towing distance in neutral varies depending on the model year and transmission type. Consult your owner’s manual for specific guidelines.

Q: What are the warning signs of transmission damage during towing?
A: Warning signs include overheating, grinding noises, difficulty shifting gears, and leaks. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop towing immediately.