Unlocking the Mystery: How to Put a 2015 Jeep Cherokee in Neutral Like a Pro

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you needed to put your 2015 Jeep Cherokee in neutral, but you weren’t sure how? Maybe you were trying to tow it, or perhaps you needed to push it out of a tight spot. Regardless of the reason, knowing how to put your Cherokee in neutral is a valuable skill to have.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of putting your 2015 Jeep Cherokee in neutral, covering everything from the basics to potential troubleshooting tips. By the end of this post, you’ll be confident in your ability to shift your Cherokee into neutral whenever necessary.

Understanding the Gear Selector

Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand the gear selector in your 2015 Jeep Cherokee. The gear selector is a lever or knob located on the center console, and it’s used to control the transmission. It typically has the following positions:

• P (Park): This position locks the transmission and prevents the vehicle from moving.
• R (Reverse): This position engages reverse gear.
• N (Neutral): This position disengages the transmission, allowing the vehicle to coast freely.
• D (Drive): This position engages the transmission for forward driving.
• S (Sport): This position provides a more responsive driving experience.
• L (Low): This position engages low gear for increased engine braking and torque.

How to Put Your 2015 Jeep Cherokee in Neutral: The Basic Steps

1. Apply the Parking Brake: This is crucial for safety, as it will prevent your vehicle from rolling while you’re shifting.
2. Turn the Engine On: Ensure the engine is running for optimal transmission responsiveness.
3. Press the Brake Pedal: This is also a safety precaution, preventing your vehicle from moving while you’re shifting.
4. Shift the Gear Selector to “N”: Carefully move the gear selector from its current position to the “N” position. You might need to apply slight pressure to move it smoothly.
5. Release the Brake Pedal: After confirming your vehicle is in neutral, you can release the brake pedal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, putting your 2015 Jeep Cherokee in neutral can be tricky. Here are some common issues and their potential solutions:

• The Gear Selector Won’t Move: This could be due to a mechanical issue within the transmission or a problem with the gear selector itself. Contact a qualified mechanic for inspection and repair.
• The Vehicle Doesn’t Shift into Neutral: If the transmission isn’t engaging properly, it could be a sign of a transmission fluid leak, a faulty solenoid, or a more serious problem. It’s essential to seek professional assistance.
• The Vehicle Rolls Even in Neutral: If your Cherokee rolls in neutral, it could be a sign of a faulty parking brake. Have it inspected and repaired by a mechanic.

Safety Tips for Shifting into Neutral

• Never shift into neutral while driving: This could lead to a loss of control and a dangerous situation.
• Always apply the parking brake: This is crucial for safety, especially when shifting into neutral.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Ensure your surroundings are clear and safe before shifting into neutral.
• If you’re unsure, don’t attempt it: If you’re not confident in your ability to shift into neutral, it’s best to seek professional help.

When to Put Your 2015 Jeep Cherokee in Neutral

Here are some situations where you might need to put your Cherokee in neutral:

• Towing: If you need to tow your Cherokee, it needs to be in neutral.
• Pushing: If you need to push your Cherokee out of a tight spot, it needs to be in neutral.
• Replacing a Flat Tire: Shifting into neutral can sometimes make it easier to access the spare tire and jack.
• Parking on a Hill: In some cases, shifting into neutral with the parking brake engaged can help prevent the vehicle from rolling.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your 2015 Jeep Cherokee running smoothly. This includes:

• Regular Oil Changes: Changing the oil at the recommended intervals ensures proper lubrication and prevents engine wear.
• Transmission Fluid Checks: Ensuring the transmission fluid level is adequate is essential for proper transmission function.
• Regular Inspections: Having your Cherokee inspected by a qualified mechanic periodically can help identify potential issues before they become major problems.

Beyond Neutral: Exploring Other Transmission Functions

Understanding the different positions of your gear selector can enhance your driving experience. Here’s a brief overview of some other functions:

• Sport Mode (S): This mode provides a more responsive driving experience, with quicker acceleration and sharper gear changes.
• Low Gear (L): This mode engages low gear, providing extra engine braking and torque for steep inclines or off-road driving.

The Final Drive: Mastering Your Cherokee’s Transmission

Knowing how to put your 2015 Jeep Cherokee in neutral is a valuable skill for any driver. By following the steps outlined in this guide and understanding the importance of regular maintenance, you can ensure your Cherokee’s transmission operates smoothly and safely. Remember, if you encounter any issues with shifting into neutral, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I shift my 2015 Jeep Cherokee into neutral while driving?

A: No, it’s extremely dangerous to shift into neutral while driving. This could lead to a loss of control and result in an accident.

Q: What happens if I shift into neutral while the engine is off?

A: You can shift into neutral with the engine off, but the transmission might be more difficult to move. It’s best to shift into neutral with the engine running.

Q: Why is it important to apply the parking brake before shifting into neutral?

A: The parking brake provides an extra layer of safety, preventing the vehicle from rolling while you’re shifting.

Q: What if my 2015 Jeep Cherokee rolls in neutral even with the parking brake engaged?

A: This could indicate a problem with your parking brake. It’s essential to have it inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.

Q: How often should I check my transmission fluid?

A: It’s recommended to check your transmission fluid level every 3,000 miles or as recommended in your owner’s manual.