2020 Jeep Cherokee All-Wheel Drive Operation
With its amazing All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, the 2020 Jeep Cherokee is a stunning example of the Jeep brand’s signature combination of off-road prowess and on-road smoothness. The Cherokee is a versatile and dependable option for drivers looking for both adventure and everyday practicality thanks to its AWD drivetrain system, which improves the Cherokee’s ability to handle a variety of terrains and weather situations.
We’ll delve into the salient characteristics and benefits of the 2020 Jeep Cherokee’s All-Wheel Drive system in this introduction. The AWD Jeep Cherokee offers a superb blend of toughness and comfort, setting it apart in the fiercely competitive SUV market of its year, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a suburban commuter, or anything in between. Let’s look at how this amazing car mixes tradition and technology to provide a unique driving experience.
FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE OPERATION
1-SPEED FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE (4X4) — IF EQUIPPED
This feature provides on-demand four-wheel drive (4X4). The system is automatic with no driver inputs or additional driving skills required. Under normal driving conditions, the front wheels provide most of the traction. If the front wheels begin to lose traction, power is shifted automatically to the rear wheels. The greater the front wheel traction loss, the greater the power transfer to the rear wheels.
Additionally, on dry pavement under heavy throttle input (where one may have no wheel spin), torque will be sent to the rear in a pre-emptive effort to improve vehicle launch and performance characteristics.
CAUTION
All wheels must have the same size and type of tires. Unequal tire sizes must not be used. Unequal tire size may cause failure of the power transfer unit.
2-SPEED FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE (4X4) —IF EQUIPPED
2-Speed 4×4 Switch
2-Speed 4×4 Switch (with Rear Lock)
The Four-Wheel Drive is fully automatic in the normal driving mode. The Selec-Terrain buttons provide three selectable mode positions:
- 4WD LOW
- REAR LOCK (If Equipped)
- NEUTRAL
When additional traction is required, the 4WD LOW range position can be used to provide an additional gear reduction, which allows for increased torque to be delivered to both the front and rear wheels. 4WD LOW is intended for loose, slippery road surfaces only. Driving in 4WD LOW on dry, hard-surfaced roads may cause increased tire wear and damage to driveline components.
When operating your vehicle in 4WD LOW, the engine speed is approximately three times that of the normal driving mode at a given road speed. Take care not to overspeed the engine, and do not exceed 50 mph
(80 km/h). Proper operation of four-wheel drive vehicles depends on tires of equal size, type, and circumference on each wheel. Any difference will adversely affect shifting and cause damage to the driveline components. Because four-wheel drive provides improved traction, there is a tendency to exceed safe turning and stopping speeds. Do not go faster than road conditions permit.
SHIFT POSITIONS
For additional information on the appropriate use of each 4WD system mode position, see the information below:
NEUTRAL
This range disengages the driveline from the powertrain. It is to be used for flat towing behind another vehicle.
Refer to “Recreational Towing” in this chapter for further information.
WARNING
You or others could be injured or killed if you leave the vehicle unattended with the power transfer unit in the NEUTRAL (N) position without first fully engaging the parking brake. The NEUTRAL (N) position disengages both the front and rear driveshafts from the powertrain and will allow the vehicle to roll, even if the transmission is in PARK. The parking brake should always be applied when the driver is not in the vehicle.
4WD LOW
This range is for low speed four-wheel drive. It provides an additional gear reduction which allows for increased torque to be delivered to both the front and rear wheels while providing maximum pulling power for loose, slippery road surfaces only. Do not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h).
NOTE:
Refer to “Selec-Terrain — If Equipped” for further information on the various positions and their intended usages.
SHIFTING PROCEDURES
Shifting Into 4X4 LOW
With the vehicle at speeds of 0 to 3 mph (0 to 5 km/h), the ignition in the ON mode and the engine running, shift the transmission into NEUTRAL, and push the “4WD LOW” button once. The “4WD LOW” indicator light in the instrument cluster will begin to flash and remain on solid when the shift is complete.
NOTE:
If shift conditions/interlocks are not met, a message will flash from the instrument cluster display with instructions on how to complete the requested shift.
Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting To know Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
Shifting Out Of 4X4 LOW
With the vehicle at speeds of 0 to 3 mph (0 to 5 km/h), the ignition in the ON mode and the engine running, shift the transmission into NEUTRAL, and push the “4WD LOW” button once. The “4WD LOW” indicator light in the instrument cluster will flash and go out when the shift is complete.
NOTE:
- If shift conditions/interlocks are not met, a message will flash from the instrument cluster display with instructions on how to complete the requested shift. Refer to “Instrument Cluster Display” in “Getting To Know Your Instrument Panel” for further information.
- Shifting into or out of 4WD LOW is possible with the vehicle completely stopped; however, difficulty may occur due to the mating clutch teeth not being properly aligned. Several attempts may be required for clutch teeth alignment and shift completion to occur. The preferred method is with the vehicle rolling 0 to 3 mph (0 to 5 km/h). If the vehicle is moving faster than 3 mph (5 km/h), the 4WD system will not allow the shift.
NEUTRAL Shift Procedure
For the neutral shift procedure refer to “Recreational Towing” in this chapter for further information.
WARNING
You or others could be injured or killed if you leave the vehicle unattended with the power transfer unit in the NEUTRAL (N) position without first fully engaging the parking brake. The NEUTRAL (N) position disengages both the front and rear driveshafts from the powertrain and will allow the vehicle to roll, even if the transmission is in PARK. The parking brake should always be applied when the driver is not in the vehicle.
- Bring the vehicle to a complete stop on level ground and shift the transmission to PARK.
- Turn the engine off.
- Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN mode, but do not start the engine.
- Press and hold the brake pedal.
- Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.
- Using a ballpoint pen or similar object, push and hold the recessed power transfer unit NEUTRAL (N) button (located by the selector switch) for four seconds. The light behind the NEUTRAL (N) symbol will blink, indicating shift in progress. The light will stop blinking (stay on solid) when the shift to NEUTRAL (N) is complete.
- After the shift is completed and the NEUTRAL (N) light stays on, release the NEUTRAL (N) button.
- Start the engine.
- Release the parking brake.
- Shift the transmission into REVERSE.
- Release the brake pedal for five seconds and ensure that there is no vehicle movement.
- Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL.
- Apply the parking brake.
- Shift the transmission into PARK, turn the engine OFF, and remove the key kob.
Repeat steps 1-7 to shift out of NEUTRAL.
FAQs
The Active Drive 4×4 system, which is essentially an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system that automatically adjusts to different road conditions, is available on the 2020 Jeep Cherokee.
Yes, the 2020 Cherokee’s AWD system can manage light off-road challenges, making it appropriate for short trail excursions.
In order to maximize stability and performance, the 2020 Cherokee’s AWD system uses sensors to track wheel slippage and driving conditions. Power is then sent to the wheels with the best traction.
It’s true that you can manually choose between various driving modes, including “Snow,” “Sport,” and “Sand/Mud,” to adjust the AWD system’s performance to the particular circumstances you’re dealing with.
Depending on the engine option, fuel economy might vary, although AWD normally yields a slightly lower MPG compared to the front-wheel-drive variant.
When not necessary, the AWD system can disengage the back axle to increase fuel efficiency, but it can also engage in milliseconds if slip is detected.
Towing is possible with the 2020 Cherokee with AWD, with the maximum towing capability varying by engine and configuration.
In icy or snowy situations, the AWD system can aid in enhancing traction and stability, making it a smart option for winter driving.
While 4WD offers more control and capacity in more difficult off-road circumstances, AWD is often better suited for on-road and light off-road settings.
Given routine maintenance, Jeep’s AWD systems are renowned for their dependability and durability.
The AWD system in the 2020 Cherokee only runs when it is necessary to maximize traction; it cannot be manually converted to 2WD.
The AWD system is intended to improve control and stability, which can improve ride quality, particularly in challenging situations.
The AWD system is normally covered by a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty as part of the warranty coverage.
Checking and replacing fluids, inspecting the drivetrain parts, and ensuring correct tire maintenance are all part of routine AWD system maintenance.
While adding aftermarket improvements is possible, it’s crucial to get professional advice to assure compatibility and preserve warranty coverage.
2023 JEEP CHEROKEE Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)
Useful Links
View Full pdf: 2020 Jeep Cherokee Owner’s Manual
2020 Jeep Cherokee Transmission Quick Guide
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