What To Know
- Attach the safety chains to the towing vehicle and the Jeep Cherokee to prevent separation in case of a disconnect.
- If your Jeep Cherokee is not equipped with four-wheel drive, you may need to use a tow dolly to support the front or rear wheels.
- If you experience difficulty towing the Jeep Cherokee, check the tow bar or safety chains for proper connection or consult a towing professional.
Towing a vehicle can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. One crucial aspect of towing is putting your Jeep Cherokee in neutral. This allows the vehicle’s wheels to rotate freely without engaging the transmission, ensuring a smooth and safe tow.
Safety First
Before you begin, ensure the following safety measures are in place:
- Park the Jeep Cherokee on a flat, stable surface.
- Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Turn off the engine and remove the key.
Locating the Gear Selector
The gear selector in your Jeep Cherokee is typically located on the center console. It’s usually a lever with markings for different gears, including neutral.
Shifting into Neutral
1. Press the Brake Pedal: Depress the brake pedal firmly with your foot. This disengages the transmission and allows you to shift into neutral.
2. Move the Gear Selector: While holding down the brake pedal, move the gear selector to the “N” (neutral) position.
3. Release the Brake Pedal: Once the gear selector is in neutral, release the brake pedal.
4. Confirm Neutral: The instrument cluster should display “N” to indicate that the Jeep Cherokee is in neutral.
Towing Procedure
Once the Jeep Cherokee is in neutral, you can proceed with the towing procedure:
- Connect the Tow Bar: Securely connect the tow bar to the towing vehicle and the Jeep Cherokee.
- Secure the Safety Chains: Attach the safety chains to the towing vehicle and the Jeep Cherokee to prevent separation in case of a disconnect.
- Disconnect the Battery: If towing over long distances, disconnect the battery to prevent electrical damage.
- Follow Towing Guidelines: Adhere to the towing guidelines specified in your Jeep Cherokee’s owner’s manual for safe and efficient towing.
Additional Tips
- Use a Tow Dolly: If your Jeep Cherokee is not equipped with four-wheel drive, you may need to use a tow dolly to support the front or rear wheels.
- Lubricate the Driveshaft: If your Jeep Cherokee has a rear-wheel drive, lubricate the driveshaft to prevent damage during towing.
- Cover the Interior: Protect the interior of your Jeep Cherokee by covering it with a tarp or blanket to prevent dust and debris from entering.
Troubleshooting
- Gear Selector Stuck: If you cannot move the gear selector into neutral, try jiggling the steering wheel while applying pressure to the gear selector.
- Instrument Cluster Not Displaying “N”: If the instrument cluster does not display “N,” check the brake pedal switch or the neutral safety switch.
- Difficulty Towing: If you experience difficulty towing the Jeep Cherokee, check the tow bar or safety chains for proper connection or consult a towing professional.
Wrapping Up: Tow with Confidence
By following these steps, you can confidently put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral for towing. Remember to prioritize safety, follow the towing guidelines, and troubleshoot any issues promptly. With proper preparation, you can ensure a smooth and successful towing experience.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I tow my Jeep Cherokee in drive?
A: No, towing in drive can damage the transmission. Always put your Jeep Cherokee in neutral before towing.
Q: How far can I tow my Jeep Cherokee in neutral?
A: The towing distance depends on the specific model and year of your Jeep Cherokee. Refer to your owner’s manual for recommended towing distances.
Q: Do I need to disconnect the driveshaft when towing my Jeep Cherokee?
A: Only rear-wheel drive Jeep Cherokees require driveshaft disconnection during towing. Four-wheel drive models do not require this step.