P0973 on Jeep Cherokee
Shift Solenoid A Control Circuit Low
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Jeep Cherokee context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P0973.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What P0973 Means on Your Jeep Cherokee
P0973 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Shift Solenoid A Control Circuit Low. This code relates to the transmission system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Jeep Cherokee Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"The electronic parking brake came on while turning slowly. It triggered an error code in the Shift Solenoid A Control , error code P0973. When I turn off the car, wait then turn it on again, it works fine. This has been happening for about 2 years every few months."
"The electronic parking brake error system keeps coming on while I am driving. The warning lights come on for no apparent reason. Once, when I was about to start up, and about to drive, the parking brake slammed on violently. This has not happened while I am driving."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Jeep Cherokee
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.