2017 Jeep Patriot transmission issues
The Patriot has certain mechanical issues, and its gearbox system is one that both owners and auto experts have expressed concern about. Over time, some problems have been documented with the 2017 Jeep Patriot, particularly with variants that utilize a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). If ignored, these issues can progress from minor hitches in performance to more significant mechanical failures.
Typical Issues with the 2017 Jeep Patriot's Transmission
Although the 2017 Jeep Patriot is praised for its practical design and cost, several owners have expressed dissatisfaction with its transmission, especially the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Performance, fuel economy, and driving comfort can all be impacted by transmission issues. You can identify early warning indicators and take action before they become more serious and require expensive repairs if you are aware of the most commonly reported problems.
Overheating CVT transmission
The CVT overheating is one of the most frequent problems, particularly when traveling on the highway for extended periods of time, towing, or climbing steep hills.
Potential Reasons:
- limited cooling capability in the architecture of the stock gearbox
- The car being driven in hot weather without enough breaks
- inadequate, poor-quality, or outdated CVT fluid
Why It Matters: Ignoring overheating can hasten internal wear, necessitating costly repairs or possibly a replacement transmission.
Gear Engagement Delay
This hesitancy may indicate more serious internal problems and be inconvenient in traffic.
Potential Reasons:
- Transmission fluid that is low or polluted
- Wear on clutch parts or internal seals
- Issues with shift solenoids
Further damage can be avoided by promptly addressing it with component inspections or fluid changes.
Shuddering or jerking when accelerating
Another sign of CVT wear is a jerking or shuddering sensation when accelerating.
Potential Reasons:
- wear on the pulleys or CVT belt
- Problems with the torque converter
Why It Is Important
Continuous shuddering increases wear on other drivetrain parts in addition to reducing driving comfort.
Odd Transmission Sounds
Transmission-related noises like grinding, whining, or humming frequently indicate lubrication issues or mechanical wear.
Potential Reasons:
- Wear or damage to the bearings
- Low fluid levels resulting in insufficient lubrication
- Damage to internal gears or pulleys
Why It Matters: Odd sounds frequently indicate an issue before anything else does.
Signs to Look Out for
These early indicators can assist you in identifying issues before they become serious, even though transmission breakdowns frequently begin with little adjustments.
Caution Dashboard lights
Sensors in contemporary cars, like the 2017 Jeep Patriot, keep an eye on the transmission's operation. Overheating, fluid problems, or mechanical flaws may be indicated if the check engine light or transmission temperature light illuminates.
Always pay attention to dashboard alerts. As soon as you can, have a skilled mechanic examine the car.
Slow or Delayed Gear Change
Low fluid pressure, damaged seals, or an impending internal breakdown could be the cause of any hesitation you observe when changing gears, such as a wait before continuing after choosing "Drive."
Advice: To keep the issue from getting worse, take prompt action to fix any delays, no matter how small.
Vibration or Shuddering When Accelerating
A healthy transmission is indicated by a smooth acceleration. The CVT may be having trouble maintaining the right gear ratios if your Patriot starts to tremor or shudder when you step on the gas pedal.
Advice: Since this condition frequently gets worse with time, getting a diagnosis early is essential to preventing significant repairs.
Power Outages While Towing or on Hills
This indicates that engine power is not being efficiently transferred to the wheels by the transmission.
Advice: Keep a careful eye on performance and think about other cooling options if you frequently drive in difficult terrain.
Odd Sounds Coming from the Transmission Region
Noises emanating from underneath the car that sound like whining, grinding, or humming may indicate lubrication issues, pulley damage, or bearing wear. These noises frequently precede more significant harm.
A Burning Odor
This may occur if the fluid is past time for replacement or if the CVT is subjected to prolonged stress.
Advice: Regularly check the quality of the transmission fluid and replace it at the prescribed intervals specified by Jeep.
Tips for Preventive Maintenance
One of the greatest strategies to maintain the smooth operation of your 2017 Jeep Patriot for many years to come is to take a proactive approach to transmission maintenance. Because the transmission is a complicated and expensive part, minor problems can be avoided before they become significant repairs with routine maintenance. Here are some doable maintenance tips to safeguard the gearbox and guarantee dependable operation of your Patriot.
Check and replace CVT fluid on a regular basis.
For optimal performance, the 2017 Jeep Patriot's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) needs pure, premium fluid. Heat and friction degrade fluid quality over time, making it less effective at cooling and lubricating internal components.
The best method:
- At least twice a year, check the condition and fluid level.
- If you frequently drive in harsh conditions, replace your CVT fluid sooner rather than later, as advised by the manufacturer.
- To prevent incompatibilities, only use CVT fluid that has been approved by Jeep.
Keep an eye on the transmission temperature.
- For added protection, think about adding an auxiliary transmission cooler if you frequently drive over steep terrain or reside in a hot region.
- To enable the transmission to smoothly adjust gear ratios, accelerate gradually.
- Use the brake instead of the accelerator to keep the car moving on steep inclines.
- To make sure the fluid circulates correctly, warm up the car for a few minutes before driving in chilly conditions.
Stay Up to Date with Software Upgrades
- Plan on visiting the dealership on a regular basis to see what updates are available.
- Inquire about any known transmission-related servicing campaigns or recall warnings.
Arrange for Regular Inspections
- Any leaks, discolored fluids, or strange noises should be fixed right away.
Costs of Repair and Replacement
Replacement of Solenoid or Valve Body
Cost Estimate: $500 to $900
Labor and Extra Expenses
Reducing the Cost of Transmission Repairs
- Take care of minor problems before they become serious ones.
- Examine quotes from several reliable stores.
- If you intend to maintain the car for a long time, think about getting mechanical breakdown insurance or extended warranties.
Maintain Proper Fluid Maintenance
- Ideally, you should check the CVT fluid every six months.
- For best results, always use CVT fluid that has been recommended by the manufacturer.
Drive with Consistent, Smooth Inputs
- To prevent undue stress on the CVT when it adjusts gear ratios, accelerate gradually.
- Whenever feasible, keep your speed constant, especially when traveling on a freeway.
- Steer clear of abrupt changes between "Drive" and "Reverse" without fully stopping.
Steer clear of excessive heat
- Do not exceed your Patriot's rated capacity when towing large cargo.
- Installing an extra transmission cooler might assist regulate temperatures if you frequently drive in hot or mountainous areas.
Keep up with Service Bulletins and Software Updates
- Check for available updates or technical service bulletins (TSBs) by visiting your Jeep dealer on a regular basis.
Pay Attention to Early Warning Signs and Take Action
- If you observe signs like delayed gear engagement, trembling, or warning lights on the dashboard, take immediate action.
Keep the entire drivetrain in good condition.
- To prevent overheating, keep the cooling system in optimal condition.
