I have been procrastinating creating this thread because I haven't had the time to go and research all the information I feel should be in it. But if I wait for time to figure all that out, I'll never get it done.
As with the other FAQ's on this forum, please let me know of new information so that I can get this thread updated!
Q: Where can I find lift kits for my new Jeep?
It seems there is a DIY lift kit for the KL! It's 30mm / 1.25" worth of lift
http://www.justaskdave.com.au/kl-cherokee-lift/
Remmons has created a thread with a step by step. With pictures!
http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f428/there-s-hope-off-shelf-cherokee-kl-lift-3655881/
Rocky Road now has a kit http://www.rocky-road.com/jeep-cherokee-lift-kit.html
Q: What is the max tire size?
245/70/17 has been reported to fit. [ Tyler-98-W68 and SeaComms ]
Q: Where can I find quality off-road upgrades for my KL?
Rocky Road Outfitters has a pretty good selection
Gobi has built a rack
If you know of other companies that are making parts, please have some first hand knowledge about the product or manufacturer.
Q: Which 4WD system is better?
Q: Where can I find xx information about my new KL?
That's partially what this FAQ is for. If you have a question you can't find here (Search works pretty well), please feel free to start a thread and ask
Q: My KL is supposed to have 9 speeds. Why don't I ever see 9th?
There seems to be 3 common causes for various electronics issues with the KL.
Q: How do I update the uConnect in my KL?
Q: I've heard stories about how horrible the 9 speed transmission is, how much of that is true?
It's based in fact. A small percentage of the '14 and early '15 models had issues with their transmissions. There seems to be a fix that finally works for those unfortunate enough to have had the issue. It seems that it's not an issue on the late '15 and '16 models.
Most people have not had issues with the transmissions in their Cherokee. That being said, it can be a real hassle to get fixed if it happens.
Q: I want to upgrade my headlights, are there any upgrade kits available?
In most (if not all) states retrofitting HID or LED systems into the factory halogen enclosures is not legal. Discussions around modifications on street Jeeps must be kept legal, or "off road only". And I'm not sure anyone on these forums (yet) has a KL that is never going to hit the street.
Remmons wrote a pretty good post on the subject. It can be found here Are Aftermarket HID (High Intensity Discharge) Lights Legal?
As with the other FAQ's on this forum, please let me know of new information so that I can get this thread updated!
Q: Where can I find lift kits for my new Jeep?
It seems there is a DIY lift kit for the KL! It's 30mm / 1.25" worth of lift
http://www.justaskdave.com.au/kl-cherokee-lift/
Remmons has created a thread with a step by step. With pictures!
http://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f428/there-s-hope-off-shelf-cherokee-kl-lift-3655881/
Rocky Road now has a kit http://www.rocky-road.com/jeep-cherokee-lift-kit.html
Q: What is the max tire size?
245/70/17 has been reported to fit. [ Tyler-98-W68 and SeaComms ]
Q: Where can I find quality off-road upgrades for my KL?
Rocky Road Outfitters has a pretty good selection
Gobi has built a rack
If you know of other companies that are making parts, please have some first hand knowledge about the product or manufacturer.
Q: Which 4WD system is better?
- Active Drive I (Good) - This is the basic 4WD system. It has no Low range. This system has fewer selectable options in the "Selec-Terrain" System. This will get you through the bad weather, and down improved / maintained dirt and gravel roads.
NOTE: This configuration does not have a neutral setting so it won't work for being towed flat.
- Active Drive II (Better) - This is the more advanced 4WD system found in the KL. It does have a Low range, and more selectable options in the "Selec-Terrain" System. This one will get you through bad weather, most roads, and will handle the mud and small obstacles.
- Active Drive Lock (Best) - This is the same as Active Drive II, except it adds a rear locker, and rock mode for Selec-Terrain. This is only 4WD system offered on the Trailhawk, and it is only offered on the Trailhawk. This is the 4WD system that stand the best chance of getting you "off road", and over obstacles due to the availability of the rear locker.
REMINDER: Hill Decent Control works in reverse!
Q: Where can I find xx information about my new KL?
That's partially what this FAQ is for. If you have a question you can't find here (Search works pretty well), please feel free to start a thread and ask
Q: My KL is supposed to have 9 speeds. Why don't I ever see 9th?
Q: My Controls and Electronics are doing strange things, what should I do?
There seems to be 3 common causes for various electronics issues with the KL.
- uConnect Software - The uConnect system has it's claws into just about everything in the new Cherokee. If you're seeing strange things with just about anything (to include blind spot sensors), it's worth checking to see if there's an update. ( http://www.driveuconnect.com/software-update/ )
- Loose battery cable - Seems like a no brainer, but it's one of those things that's so simple it tends to get overlooked. There have also been reports of battery cables being loose from the factory.
- Bad battery - The KL (like most new cars) seems to be more digital than mechanical. If you've tried steps 1 and 2, it's worth getting your battery tested.
Q: How do I update the uConnect in my KL?
- Armed with your VIN, head to http://www.driveuconnect.com/software-update/ and download the latest software updates.
- Watch this video:
- Update your software!
Q: I've heard stories about how horrible the 9 speed transmission is, how much of that is true?
It's based in fact. A small percentage of the '14 and early '15 models had issues with their transmissions. There seems to be a fix that finally works for those unfortunate enough to have had the issue. It seems that it's not an issue on the late '15 and '16 models.
Most people have not had issues with the transmissions in their Cherokee. That being said, it can be a real hassle to get fixed if it happens.
Q: I want to upgrade my headlights, are there any upgrade kits available?
In most (if not all) states retrofitting HID or LED systems into the factory halogen enclosures is not legal. Discussions around modifications on street Jeeps must be kept legal, or "off road only". And I'm not sure anyone on these forums (yet) has a KL that is never going to hit the street.
Remmons wrote a pretty good post on the subject. It can be found here Are Aftermarket HID (High Intensity Discharge) Lights Legal?