2019 Jeep Cherokee: Transmission & Axle Ratios
AI-generated reference. Always verify torque values, fluid capacities, intervals, and procedures against the manufacturer's service manual or OEM repair information before performing work. Repairius is not liable for damage from acting on this content without verification.
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Transmission Gear Ratios
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with the ZF 948TE 9-speed automatic transmission across all trims.
| Gear | Ratio |
|---|---|
| 1st | 4.71 |
| 2nd | 2.84 |
| 3rd | 1.91 |
| 4th | 1.38 |
| 5th | 1.00 |
| 6th | 0.81 |
| 7th | 0.70 |
| 8th | 0.58 |
| 9th | 0.48 |
| Reverse | 3.81 |
Available Axle Ratios
| Ratio | Available With | RPO/Axle Code | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.251 | 2.4L Tigershark I4 | N/A | Fuel Economy |
| 3.517 | 2.0L Turbo I4 | N/A | Balanced |
| 3.734 | 3.2L Pentastar V6 (Standard) | N/A | Balanced |
Note: Unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks and SUVs, the Jeep Cherokee (KL) platform uses a Power Transfer Unit (PTU) and Rear Drive Module (RDM) instead of conventional solid axles with ring and pinion gears. The gear ratio is fixed based on the engine choice and is not typically selectable as a standalone option. The ratios listed are the final drive ratios.
How to Identify Your Axle Ratio
For most vehicles, identifying the axle ratio involves checking a sticker in the door jamb or a tag on the differential itself. However, for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, the process is simpler as the final drive ratio is tied directly to the engine installed from the factory.
- VIN Decoder: The most reliable method is to use a VIN decoder. This will provide a complete build sheet for your specific vehicle, confirming the engine and, consequently, the final drive ratio.
- Vehicle Documentation: Your original window sticker or purchase documentation will list the engine type.
Towing vs. MPG Impact
While the axle ratios on the Cherokee are not selectable in the way they are for a Wrangler or Grand Cherokee, the principle of how a gear ratio affects performance remains the same.
- Numerically Higher Ratio (e.g., 3.734): A "shorter" gear. This ratio provides more torque to the wheels, which is beneficial for acceleration and towing capability. The trade-off is that the engine needs to run at a higher RPM on the highway, which can negatively impact fuel economy.
- Numerically Lower Ratio (e.g., 3.251): A "taller" gear. This ratio is optimized for fuel efficiency, especially during highway cruising, as it allows the engine to operate at a lower RPM. The compromise is reduced towing capacity and slightly less aggressive acceleration.
The 9-speed automatic transmission is designed to mitigate these trade-offs by providing a very wide spread of gear ratios, offering a low first gear for acceleration and multiple tall overdrive gears (6th through 9th) for economical cruising.
Common Issues
The ZF 9-speed transmission in early model years of the KL Cherokee was known for some software-related issues, such as rough or delayed shifts. By 2019, many of these concerns had been addressed through factory software updates. If you experience erratic shifting behavior, the first step is often a visit to a dealer or qualified shop to ensure the Transmission Control Module (TCM) has the latest software version. Hardware-related failures are less common but can occur.
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More specs for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Towing Capacity & Payload
Max tow, payload, GVWR/GCWR, hitch class by trim.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2019 Jeep Cherokee Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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