NHTSA Service Bulletin 10218442: 2014-2020 Jeep Cherokee
Official manufacturer communication context for 2014-2020 Jeep Cherokee, with affected products, buyer checks and links into Carchieve recall, problem and VIN research.
Reviewed June 2026 from NHTSA manufacturer communication and service bulletin records. Carchieve is independent and not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer or government agency.
DIFFERENTIAL, Rear Axle (KL 4WD w/DK4 = 2-SPEED RDM) The Differential, Rear Axle (aka RDM) design, pump design, Driveline Control Module (aka DLCM) hardware & software and pressure sensor have all changed in the past few years. The chages are not interchangeable and each had a separate implementation date. Please comprehend it to avoid repeat repairs. There are 2 sections each with 3 sub-sections: 1) For 2014/5 VINs with DK2 = 1-spd RDM 2) For 2016 and later VINs with DK2 = 1-spd RDM 1) For 2014/5 VINs with DK4 = 2-spd RDM 2014 - 2015 VINs built with a 2-speed RDM used a 24 plate clutch design. Service RDMs (DK4: 68545100AA and DK4 + AWL: 68545101AA) have a 20-plate design. 1.1) If replacing the RDM 24-plate and 20-plate design RDMs are NOT interchangeable unless the Drive Line Control Module (DLCM) is also replaced. Both 68545100A$ and 68545101A$ service RDMs have a 20 clutch plate design Not all 20 plate RDMs have the new pump design. The new pump requires a new DLCM. All new service RDMs are shipped with the new pump design. If a new 20 plate service RDM is installed, then replace the DLCM with new DLCM 68383660AE - 2-spd designed for the 20 plate RDM. 1.2) If replacing the DLCM but not the RDM or pump assembly, then If the RDM is the original 24 plate design then use 68540646AA - 2-spd, 24 plate DLCM AND also replace the pump with 68551790AA new pump. If the RDM is the new 20 plate design then use 68383660AE - 2-spd, 20 plate DLCM AND also replace the pump with 68551790AA new pump unless the RDM previously had a 68551790AA installed. 1.3) If replacing the pump assembly, then use 68551790AA (new pump) AND also replace the DLCM with the version that matches the correct version of the RDM (24 or 20 plate). Use 68540646AA for the 24-plate RDM with a new pump. Use 68383660AE for the 20-plate RDM with a new pump. 2) Early 2016 were built with 24 plate RDMs. These include p/n?s 68090615AJ (2spd std), and 52123642AJ (2spd locker). Use Secti
What this bulletin may mean before buying
Treat this as service research, not a verdict on one car. Before you buy, compare this communication with official recall campaigns, model-level owner complaint patterns, and the exact vehicle’s VIN-decoded specifications. A bulletin can help you ask a seller or dealer sharper questions about software updates, known repairs, warranty extensions and service history.
Affected products listed in this communication
Buyer checklist
- Run the 17-character VIN and confirm the year, make, model, engine and equipment match the listing.
- Check recall campaign pages for safety actions that may require dealer repair.
- Compare this bulletin with common problem pages for the same model and component area.
- Ask the seller or dealer whether the bulletin procedure, update or inspection has already been completed.
- Use the used-car buying checklist and get an independent inspection.
Frequently asked questions
What is NHTSA service bulletin 10218442?
DIFFERENTIAL, Rear Axle (KL 4WD w/DK4 = 2-SPEED RDM) The Differential, Rear Axle (aka RDM) design, pump design, Driveline Control Module (aka DLCM) hardware & software and pressure sensor have all changed in the past few years. The chages are not interchangeable and each had a separate implementation date. Please comprehend it to avoid repeat repairs. There are 2 sections each with 3 sub-sections: 1) For 2014/5.
Is a service bulletin the same as a recall?
No. A recall is a safety campaign with a required remedy for affected VINs. A service bulletin or manufacturer communication usually describes diagnostic, repair, software, warranty or service information.
How should a used-car buyer use this bulletin?
Use it as a research signal. Compare it with recalls, owner complaints, service records, a VIN report and an independent inspection before buying.
Check the exact VIN before you buy
Model-level pages show public safety patterns. A full VIN report helps confirm the exact vehicle, decoded specs, recall applicability and buyer checks.
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