How to Turn Off Auto Park Jeep Grand Cherokee

Turning off the Auto Park system in your Jeep Grand Cherokee is simpler than you might think. The process varies slightly depending on your model year and trim level, but generally involves accessing the settings menu through your vehicle’s infotainment system. Once disabled, you’ll need to manually engage the parking brake when parking your vehicle.

When Jeep designed the Grand Cherokee’s Auto Park system, they aimed to make parking easier and more convenient for drivers. This feature automatically applies the parking brake when you shift into park, eliminating the need to manually engage the parking brake lever. However, many Jeep owners find themselves wanting to turn off this automated system for various reasons.

Perhaps you prefer the traditional feel of manually applying your parking brake, or maybe the Auto Park system isn’t working correctly in your vehicle. Whatever your reason, disabling this feature is straightforward once you know where to look. Let’s walk through the complete process together.

Key Takeaways

• Understand Your System: The Auto Park feature uses sensors and electronic controls to automatically apply the parking brake when you shift into park.
• Access Settings Menu: Most Grand Cherokees require navigating through the Uconnect infotainment system to disable Auto Park.
• Manual Override Required: After turning off Auto Park, you must manually apply the parking brake each time you park.
• Model Year Matters: The exact steps vary between 2018-2023 models due to different infotainment system versions.
• Safety First: Always ensure the transmission is in park and the engine is off before relying on manual parking brake operation.
• Re-enable Option: You can typically turn Auto Park back on through the same menu system if needed.

Understanding the Auto Park System

The Auto Park system in your Jeep Grand Cherokee is part of Chrysler’s broader ParkSense suite of parking assistance technologies. This system works by automatically applying the parking brake when you shift the transmission into park position. It’s designed to work seamlessly with the electronic parking brake system found in most modern vehicles.

How Auto Park Works

When you’re finished driving and want to park, simply shift your Grand Cherokee into park. The Auto Park system detects this action and automatically engages the electronic parking brake. This happens almost instantly, usually within a second or two of shifting into park.

The system is controlled by your vehicle’s computer modules, which communicate through the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus system. Sensors monitor the shifter position and trigger the parking brake actuation motor to engage when appropriate.

Why Disable Auto Park?

There are several legitimate reasons why Jeep owners might want to turn off the Auto Park feature. Some drivers simply prefer the tactile feedback of manually engaging the parking brake. Others may experience malfunctions where the system doesn’t engage properly or engages unexpectedly.

In some cases, the electronic parking brake motor itself may be faulty, making the Auto Park function unreliable. By disabling this feature, you can rely on the manual override function of the parking brake lever while still maintaining the ability to use the electronic release function.

Disabling Auto Park in 2018-2020 Models

If your Jeep Grand Cherokee falls within the 2018-2020 model years, you’ll primarily use the Uconnect infotainment system to disable Auto Park. These models feature the second-generation Uconnect system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen display.

Navigating to Settings

Start by turning on your vehicle’s ignition without starting the engine. This powers up the infotainment system so you can access the necessary menus. Look for the Settings icon on your touchscreen display, which typically appears as a gear or wrench symbol.

Tap on the Settings option, then look for Vehicle Settings or Driver Assistance in the menu list. These options may be under different headings depending on your specific trim level and software version.

Finding the Auto Park Option

Within the Vehicle Settings menu, you should see an option labeled Park Assist, Auto Park, or Parking Brake Settings. The exact wording varies by manufacturer and model year.

Select this option, and you’ll be presented with the Auto Park toggle switch. Move this switch to the Off position. You may need to confirm your selection if your vehicle has additional safety prompts enabled.

Once you’ve disabled the feature, test it by shifting into park. You should notice that the parking brake doesn’t automatically engage. Remember to manually apply the parking brake using the lever or button near your driver’s seat.

Disabling Auto Park in 2021-2023 Models

Newer Grand Cherokee models from 2021 to 2023 feature updated versions of the Uconnect system, often with a 10.2-inch touchscreen. While the general process remains similar, the menu structure has been refined in these newer systems.

Modern Uconnect Interface

Begin by pressing the Drive Mode button on your dashboard or shifting into park, then accessing the settings through the touchscreen. The newer interface is more intuitive and often displays frequently used settings on the main screen.

Look for the Vehicle tab at the bottom of your screen, then select Driver Assistance Systems. Here you’ll find the Auto Park setting, which can be toggled on or off according to your preference.

Alternative Method Using Physical Controls

Some 2021-2023 Grand Cherokee models offer an alternative method for disabling Auto Park. Check your owner’s manual for a physical button combination, as some trims allow you to disable the feature using the parking brake button along with other controls.

If your vehicle supports this method, press and hold the parking brake button while simultaneously pressing the OK button on your steering wheel controls. This should bring up a menu allowing you to disable the Auto Park function directly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you’re having trouble finding or disabling the Auto Park feature, several common issues might be preventing successful configuration. Understanding these problems can help you troubleshoot more effectively.

Missing Menu Options

Some owners report that the Auto Park option doesn’t appear in their settings menu at all. This typically occurs in vehicles where the feature wasn’t properly configured at the factory or where the infotainment system needs a software update.

Try performing a soft reset of your Uconnect system by holding the volume and power buttons simultaneously for about 10 seconds. After the system restarts, check the settings menu again for the Auto Park option.

Feature Won’t Stay Disabled

Another common issue is that the Auto Park setting reverts back to enabled after you turn it off. This usually indicates a software glitch or a need for a system update.

Try disconnecting your vehicle’s battery for about 15 minutes to clear any temporary memory issues. After reconnecting, attempt to disable the Auto Park feature again. If problems persist, visit your dealership for a professional diagnostic scan.

Safety Considerations and Best Practices

While disabling Auto Park gives you more control over your parking brake operation, it’s important to follow proper safety procedures. The electronic parking brake still functions normally for release, even when Auto Park is disabled.

Proper Parking Procedures

After turning off Auto Park, always follow these steps when parking your Grand Cherokee: come to a complete stop, shift into park, then manually apply the parking brake using the lever or button. This ensures your vehicle won’t roll even if the transmission doesn’t fully engage the park pawl.

On inclines, consider using your foot brake to hold the vehicle while you shift into park and apply the parking brake. This prevents stress on the parking mechanism and reduces the chance of the vehicle rolling.

Testing Your System

After disabling Auto Park, test the system by parking on a slight incline. Ensure the vehicle holds firmly without rolling. If you notice any movement, the parking brake may need adjustment or there could be an issue with the transmission.

Remember that even with Auto Park disabled, you can still use the electronic parking brake release function. Simply press the parking brake button, and the system will automatically release the brake when you start the vehicle.

Re-enabling Auto Park When Needed

Don’t worry if you decide you want to restore the Auto Park functionality later. The process for re-enabling this feature is identical to disabling it, just in reverse.

Quick Restoration Process

Return to the same settings menu where you originally disabled Auto Park. Find the toggle switch and move it to the On position. Some models may require you to drive a short distance after enabling before the system becomes fully active.

Test the feature by shifting into park and confirming that the parking brake engages automatically. If it doesn’t work immediately, try turning the ignition off and on again to reset the system.

Maintenance Tips for Your Parking System

Whether you keep Auto Park enabled or disabled, regular maintenance of your parking brake system is essential for safe operation. The electronic components in newer Grand Cherokees are generally reliable but benefit from periodic inspection.

Professional Inspection

Schedule a parking brake inspection during your regular maintenance visits. A qualified technician can check the electronic actuators, cables, and switch operation to ensure everything functions correctly.

If you’re experiencing intermittent issues with the parking brake, don’t wait for a complete failure. Early diagnosis can prevent expensive repairs and ensure your safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use the electronic parking brake if I turn off Auto Park?

Yes, absolutely. Disabling Auto Park only prevents the automatic engagement when shifting into park. You can still manually press the parking brake button to engage or disengage the electronic parking brake as needed.

Will turning off Auto Park affect my warranty coverage?

No, disabling the Auto Park feature does not void your warranty. This is a user-configurable setting that manufacturers expect owners to adjust according to their preferences.

How do I know if Auto Park is currently enabled or disabled?

Most Grand Cherokees will display a notification on your instrument cluster or infotainment screen when the parking brake is automatically applied. Additionally, you can check the settings menu to see the current status of the feature.

What should I do if I can’t find the Auto Park settings in my menu?

First, ensure your infotainment system is up to date with the latest software. If the option still doesn’t appear, consult your owner’s manual or visit a Jeep dealer for assistance with your specific model year.

Does disabling Auto Park mean I need to manually release the parking brake?

No, the electronic release function remains operational regardless of the Auto Park setting. When you start your vehicle, the parking brake will typically release automatically, or you can press the parking brake button to release it manually.

Is it safe to drive with Auto Park disabled?

Yes, it’s completely safe to drive with Auto Park disabled. You’re simply choosing to manually apply the parking brake instead of relying on the automatic system. Just remember to engage the parking brake manually when parking.