schroed911

After towing a ski boat on a number of 100 mile trips I ran into a problem yesterday. After slowly going over a speed bump while trailering a ski boat the car refused to accelerate in drive and the check engine light came on. Numerous shutting off and restarting didn't resolve. Disconnecting the electronics to the trailer did not resolve. Called two Jeep dealers and they suggested sending a tow truck. Took the trailer off and the car started running normally. The check engine light turned off 200 miles and a day later. I'm taking it to the dealer next week.

Anyone else have this problem?

Is there a way to avoid this problem?

If this occurs is there a sequence that will resolve the problem? Disconnect the battery? Let sit for a specific amount of time?


2013 Grand Cherokee Laredo
5.7L
Tow package

jeff2285

you should have brought it to the dealer right away its under warranty and its at no cost to you. and no disconnecting the battery wont clear the CEL in any vehicle newer than 1995 (obd2 started in 96)

ol"blue

Welcome to CF. On the ZJ I had, and the WJ we still have, when towing, the owners manual stated to never use Overdrive. Could that be your issue? The following info comes from the WK2 site: >->http://www.wk2jeeps.com/wk2_transm.htm

Overdrive The overdrive automatic transmission contains an electronically controlled fourth and fifth speed (Overdrive). On prior generation models, the Overdrive "On/Off" button was mounted to the front side of the shifter. For 2005-up models, the button is on the center instrument panel switch array and is labeled as "Tow/Haul". The transmission will automatically shift from 3rd gear to Overdrive if the following conditions are present:

• The transmission selector is in D (Drive)
• The engine coolant has reached normal operating temperature
• Vehicle speed is above approximately 30 mph (48 km/h)
• The "Tow / Haul" button has not been activated
• Transmission has reached normal operating temperature

NOTE: If the vehicle is started in extremely cold temperatures, the transmission may not shift into Overdrive and will automatically select the most desirable gear for operation at this temperature. Normal operation will resume when the transmission fluid temperature has risen to a suitable level.
If the transmission temperature gets extremely hot, the transmission will automatically select the most desirable gear for operation at this temperature. If the transmission temperature becomes hot enough, the "TRANSMISSION OVERTEMP" message may display and the transmission may downshift out of Overdrive until the transmission cools down. After cooldown, the transmission will resume normal operation.
In high ambient temperatures with sustained high engine speed and load, an upshift followed shortly thereafter by a downshift may occur. This is a normal part of the overheat protection strategy when operating in the "Tow / Haul" mode. The transmission will downshift from Overdrive to the most desireable gear if the accelerator pedal is fully depressed at vehicle speeds above approximately 35 mph (56 km/h).



When To Use Tow/Haul Mode (all models except SRT8)
When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, etc., and frequent transmission shifting occurs, press the "Tow / Haul" button. This will improve performance and reduce the potential for transmission overheating or failure due to excessive shifting. When operating in "Tow / Haul" mode, the transmission will shift to 3rd gear and 4th will be enabled under steady cruise conditions.
The "Tow / Haul" light will illuminate in the instrument cluster to indicate when the switch has been activated. Pressing the switch a second time restores normal operation. If the "Tow / Haul" mode is desired, the switch must be pressed each time the engine is started.