Key points
- For maximum safety and to prevent damage to your Jeep Cherokee’s drivetrain, it’s recommended to use a flatbed tow truck.
- While the above steps provide a general guide, it’s always best to consult a professional tow truck operator or a qualified mechanic for specific instructions tailored to your vehicle and situation.
- If your Jeep Cherokee has a manual transmission, it’s crucial to engage the clutch and put the transmission in neutral before towing.
Towing your Jeep Cherokee can be a lifesaver in situations where it’s unable to drive under its own power. But before you hit the road, it’s crucial to understand how to put your Cherokee in neutral for towing. This ensures a safe and smooth towing experience, protecting both your vehicle and the tow truck.
Why Putting Your Jeep Cherokee in Neutral is Essential
Towing a vehicle in gear can lead to serious damage. Here’s why:
- Transmission damage: When a vehicle is towed in gear, the transmission is forced to rotate without the engine providing lubrication. This can cause significant damage to the transmission components, leading to expensive repairs.
- Drivetrain damage: The constant stress on the drivetrain can cause damage to other components like the axles, differentials, and transfer case.
- Safety concerns: Towing a vehicle in gear can cause it to roll uncontrollably, especially on inclines or declines.
By putting your Jeep Cherokee in neutral, you eliminate these risks and ensure a safe and efficient towing process.
Understanding Your Jeep Cherokee’s Transmission
Before we jump into the steps, it’s important to understand your Jeep Cherokee‘s transmission. Most modern Jeep Cherokees come equipped with an automatic transmission, which has a “Neutral” (N) position on the gear selector.
Step-by-Step Guide to Putting Your Jeep Cherokee in Neutral for Towing
1. Park your Jeep Cherokee on a level surface: This is crucial for safety and prevents the vehicle from rolling while you’re working.
2. Apply the parking brake: This helps secure the vehicle and prevents it from rolling during the towing process.
3. Turn the ignition to the “ON” position: This will power up the electrical system and allow you to access the gear selector.
4. Engage the parking brake: This is an extra safety precaution to prevent the vehicle from rolling when you shift into neutral.
5. Shift the gear selector into “Neutral” (N): Locate the “N” position on your gear selector and carefully move the lever into this position.
6. Turn the ignition to the “OFF” position: This will shut down the engine and ensure the transmission stays in neutral.
7. Remove the key from the ignition: This is an important safety step to prevent accidental starting of the engine.
8. Release the parking brake: This will allow the tow truck to easily move the vehicle.
Additional Tips for Towing Your Jeep Cherokee
- Check your owner’s manual: Your Jeep Cherokee’s owner’s manual will provide specific instructions on towing procedures and any additional precautions you should take.
- Use a flatbed tow truck: For maximum safety and to prevent damage to your Jeep Cherokee’s drivetrain, it’s recommended to use a flatbed tow truck.
- Secure your vehicle: Once your Jeep Cherokee is on the tow truck, ensure it’s securely attached using proper straps and chains.
What to Do If You Can’t Shift Into Neutral
If you’re unable to shift your Jeep Cherokee into neutral, it’s crucial to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
The Importance of Professional Assistance
While the above steps provide a general guide, it’s always best to consult a professional tow truck operator or a qualified mechanic for specific instructions tailored to your vehicle and situation.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Safety and Efficiency
Knowing how to put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral for towing is vital for safe and efficient transportation. By following these steps and consulting with professionals, you can ensure your vehicle is towed safely and minimize the risk of damage.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I tow my Jeep Cherokee in neutral with the engine running?
A: No, it’s generally not recommended to tow a vehicle with the engine running in neutral. This can cause overheating and damage to the transmission.
Q: What if my Jeep Cherokee has a manual transmission?
A: If your Jeep Cherokee has a manual transmission, it’s crucial to engage the clutch and put the transmission in neutral before towing. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Q: What are the risks of towing a Jeep Cherokee in gear?
A: Towing a Jeep Cherokee in gear can lead to transmission damage, drivetrain damage, and safety concerns due to uncontrolled rolling.
Q: How long can I tow my Jeep Cherokee in neutral?
A: It’s best to minimize the towing time as much as possible. Consult with the tow truck operator for specific recommendations based on your vehicle’s condition and the distance being towed.
Q: What should I do if my Jeep Cherokee is stuck and I can’t put it in neutral?
A: If you’re unable to shift your Jeep Cherokee into neutral, call a professional tow truck operator or a qualified mechanic for assistance. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.