Chrysler Cherokee Production Back on Track

Chrysler Group LLC says it is ready to resume second-shift production of the redesigned 2014 Jeep Cherokee SUV at its factory in Toledo, Ohio, after completing powertrain software updates sooner than expected.

The company suspended the shift on Sept. 23 because its factory stockpile of vehicles awaiting the upgrades had ballooned to some 12,000 units, according to Automotive News.

Chrysler blamed the delay on needed software tweaks to improve the operation of the Cherokee's new 9-speed transmission and a fuel-saving four-wheel-drive system that disconnects the driveshaft and rear differential under certain conditions.

Chrysler initially expected dealers to begin selling the new model by mid-August. Now it indicates that ample supplies won't arrive on retail lots until about mid-October.

AN says Chrysler also is taking the unusual step of test-driving each Cherokee before it is shipped to a dealer.