What Is AutoStick in a Jeep? (How It Works and When to Use It)

Unleash the Power of Manual Control

As Jeeper, I love the thrill of off-road adventures and the freedom to conquer any terrain. Our Jeeps are designed to handle the toughest trails. After years of off-roading my Jeep Wrangler Rubicon on steep trails and rocky terrain, I’ve found AutoStick especially useful for maintaining control and using engine braking when it matters most.

There’s a feature that often goes underutilized: the AutoStick. 

This function blends the ease of an automatic transmission with the control of a manual gearbox, offering drivers the best of both worlds. Mastering AutoStick can enhance your driving experience. It has made a difference for me when I tackle the trails. 

Quick Answer: What Is AutoStick in a Jeep?

AutoStick is a manual shift mode in Jeep automatic transmissions that lets drivers choose gears using the shifter without a clutch. It gives more control for off-roading, engine braking, and driving in steep or slippery conditions.

Close-up of Jeep shifters showcasing the AutoStick feature

What is the AutoStick?

The AutoStick is a manual shift mode integrated into Jeep's automatic transmissions. It allows drivers to manually select gears without the need for a clutch pedal. This feature gives you more control over your vehicle's performance, which can be particularly advantageous in off-road scenarios where precise gear selection is crucial.

Why Use the AutoStick?

Enhanced Control: Off-road driving often requires specific gear selections to navigate obstacles, climb hills, or descend steep slopes. The AutoStick allows you to choose the optimal gear for each situation, improving traction and control.

Engine Braking: When descending steep inclines, using a lower gear can help control your speed without over-relying on the brakes, reducing wear and tear.

Performance Tuning: For those who enjoy pushing their Jeeps to the limit, manually selecting gears can enhance performance and response, giving you that extra edge in challenging conditions.

Watch Here ➤➤ How to Use the AutoStick 

Autstick plus and minus

How to Use AutoStick in a Jeep

1. Start Driving in Automatic Mode: Begin your drive in the standard automatic mode. The transmission will shift gears automatically as usual.

2. Shift to Manual Mode: Locate the gear lever. Depending on your Jeep model, you might see a "+" and "-" symbol or simply a side gate. To engage the AutoStick, Tap (move the gear lever) to the side (usually to the left or right) from the "D" (Drive) position into the manual shift gate.

Shifting Gears Manually

Upshifting: To upshift, push the gear lever towards the "+" symbol. This will shift the transmission to a higher gear. Upshifting is useful for gaining speed or driving on level ground.

Downshifting: To downshift, pull the gear lever towards the "-" symbol. This will shift the transmission to a lower gear. Downshifting is beneficial for climbing hills, engine braking, or when more power is needed.

Read more ➤➤ How to Shift into 4Lo

Best Practices for Using AutoStick

Anticipate the Terrain: When approaching obstacles or steep inclines, pre-select the appropriate gear to maintain momentum and control.

Smooth Transitions: Avoid abrupt gear changes. Smoothly shift gears to prevent jerking and maintain stability, especially on uneven terrain.

Monitor RPM: Keep an eye on the tachometer to avoid over-revving the engine. Shift gears within the optimal RPM range to ensure efficient performance.

Use Engine Braking: When descending, downshift to lower gears to utilize engine braking. This reduces reliance on your brakes and prevents overheating.

Practice: Like any skill, mastering the AutoStick takes practice. Spend time in a controlled environment, such as a flat trail or open field, to get comfortable with manual gear selection.

When Not to Use the AutoStick

While the AutoStick offers significant benefits, there are times when it’s best to stick with the automatic mode.

Highway Driving: On highways or smooth, predictable roads, the automatic mode is typically more efficient and less demanding.

Heavy Traffic: In stop-and-go traffic, constant manual shifting can be tiring and unnecessary.

Learning Curve: If you’re new to driving or unfamiliar with manual transmissions, start by getting comfortable with your Jeep's standard automatic mode before experimenting with the AutoStick.

Jeep's Tips: 

Do not downshift for additional engine braking on a slippery surface. The drive wheels could lose their grip and the vehicle could skid.

You can start out from a stop, in first or second gear. Tapping(+) at stop will allow starting in second gear. Starting out in second gear can be helpful in snowy and icy conditions. 

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Jeep AutoStick

Is AutoStick the same as a manual transmission?
No. AutoStick allows manual gear selection, but it does not use a clutch pedal like a true manual transmission.

Can AutoStick damage my Jeep’s transmission?
No. Jeep’s system prevents unsafe shifts and will not allow gear changes that could harm the engine or transmission.

Should I use AutoStick in 4Lo?
Yes. AutoStick is especially useful in 4Lo for crawling, hill descents, and maintaining steady control on obstacles.

Does AutoStick improve off-road control?
Yes. It allows precise gear selection, better engine braking, and improved traction on uneven terrain.

Jeep Check Engine Light Won’t Go Away? My 3.6L Pentastar Diagnosis Journey

 

A Journey of Experience and Expertise 

As a Jeep Wrangler owner, I've experienced firsthand the challenges of dealing with a persistent check engine light. My 2015 Jeep Wrangler's saga began shortly after conquering the Rubicon Trail in July 2020, and it's a story that spans four years and 45,000 miles.

Quick Answer: Why Won’t My Jeep’s Check Engine Light Turn Off?

A Jeep check engine light that won’t turn off is often caused by unresolved mechanical or electrical issues such as engine misfires, oil pressure problems, damaged wiring harnesses, or sensor failures. Even after major repairs, intermittent wiring or oil-related damage can keep triggering fault codes.

Over four years, 45,000 miles, and multiple professional diagnoses, this check engine light taught me how complex Jeep electrical and engine issues can be.

This light lit up my dash for 4 years.

The Saga Begins

For four long years, I drove my beloved Jeep with the check engine light illuminating my dashboard. About two years in I knew the engine was failing, and a replacement was the only viable solution. After becoming financially stable, I was able to afford the engine swap. Working at TNT Customs proved to be a blessing, as it provided me with the perfect opportunity to get the job done right.

The Original Check Engine Light Problem (P0306)

It all started during a scorching Texas day when the check engine light illuminated my dashboard at about 70,000 miles. I had just finished wheeling the Rubicon Trail and was headed to visit my niece. During a pitstop along the journey, I was enjoying some tacos in my air conditioned Jeep, when that dreaded check engine light came on. The code read P0306 - Misfire in Cylinder 6. 

My Niece & I in Corpus Christie

 Troubleshooting Attempts That Didn’t Fix It

I tried everything to fix it:

• Replaced the spark plugs
• Swapped and replaced the ignition coils

But nothing worked. Given my financial situation and some personal challenges, I had to live with that little light on my dashboard.

 Engine Replacement and Compression Findings

After moving to Cheyenne, Wyoming, I had TNT Customs perform a thorough inspection. They discovered a significant compression issue in Cylinder 6, indicating the need for a new engine. They ran a compression test and found 50 PSI in Cylinder 6 compared to 156-160 PSI in the other cylinders. The verdict...Time for a new engine. Eventually, I found a suitable 3.6L engine replacement at a reasonable cost.

My Jeep Doctor Daniel tracing possible solutions.

The Solution

At the time, there was a waiting list for a Jasper remanufactured 3.6 engine, I was number 5 on the list. However, at that time financially, I wasn’t ready. Many months later, I got lucky and found an engine that would work at a reasonable cost.

Sometimes life throws you curveballs, but with a bit of patience and persistence, you can find a way through. Definitely, a lot of patience on my part. 

Check out myYouTube Video My Engine Swap Saga

The Unexpected Twist

June of 2024, I was able to successfully replace the engine where I work, hoping to bid farewell to the persistent check engine light. However, my relief was short-lived. Shortly after the replacement, the dreaded light reappeared, this time the code read P06dd indicating an issue with the oil pressure sensor.

Our troubleshooting journey began:

• We replaced the oil pressure sensor, but the code returned.
• Next, we tried swapping out the oil filter, yet the light persisted.
• The check engine light's erratic behavior continued, turning on and off randomly.
• We even experimented with thicker oil, but the problem remained.

The Unexpected Culprit

As we prepared to warranty the oil filter housing adapter, Daniel, our skilled technician, decided to inspect the knock sensor sub harness. This harness, typically well-protected with metal tape and a cloth protector, held a hidden surprise.

Upon closer examination, he discovered two damaged and exposed wires within the harness. These compromised wires were making intermittent contact during bumps, causing the electrical issues we had been chasing. Or so we thought. 

A close-up view of a worn-out knock sensor harness
 from my Jeep, showing frayed wires that
need repair for optimal engine performance.

A brand new knock sensor harness ready to
replace the damaged one.

The Saga Continues: The Light Refuses to Surrender

The story doesn't end there. Despite our extensive repairs and engine replacement, the check engine light seems to have a mind of its own. Even after meticulously addressing the initial cylinder misfire, replacing the entire engine, and resolving the knock sensor harness issues, this persistent warning light continues to play a frustrating game of electronic hide-and-seek.

My 3.6L Engine

Randomly illuminating and then disappearing without warning, the check engine light has become an unpredictable companion on my Jeep journey. Its erratic behavior defies our previous diagnostic efforts and professional interventions. Determined to uncover the root cause, I dove deep into online Jeep forums, discovering I'm not alone in this mysterious electrical dance. Multiple Jeep Wrangler owners, particularly those with the 3.6L Pentastar engine, have reported similar inexplicable p06dd code. 

I have developed a working theory: the oil pump might be the silent culprit behind these intermittent electrical gremlins. The part has been purchased, and we're now playing a waiting game, scheduling shop time to perform this potentially critical replacement. The anticipation of potentially resolving this long-standing issue is both exciting and nerve-wracking.

I will continue to document this journey, keeping fellow Jeep enthusiasts and curious readers updated on each development. Stay tuned as we unravel the mystery of the perpetually temperamental check engine light.

How the Oil Filter Housing Leak Caused Electrical Damage

One of the issues with this new check engine problem can be traced back to 2022 when my oil filter housing began leaking. Unfortunately, I didn't notice the issue immediately, allowing oil to soak the wire harness for an extended period.

When wires are exposed to oil for prolonged periods, several detrimental effects can occur:

Insulation Breakdown: Oil can cause the wire's insulation to soften, crack, or dissolve, exposing the conductive core.

Corrosion: The oil can trap moisture against the wire, leading to corrosion of the metal conductors.

Electrical Short Circuits: As insulation degrades, wires can come into contact, causing short circuits and erratic electrical behavior.

Reduced Conductivity: Oil residue can interfere with proper electrical connections, leading to intermittent or poor performance.

The engine bay of my Jeep undergoing detailed
maintenance and wiring inspections to ensure optimal performance.

Jeep Momma Jeep Maintenance Tips

• Regular Inspections: Conduct thorough checks of your engine bay, especially after off-road adventures.
• Address Leaks Promptly: Oil leaks can cause significant damage if left unchecked.
• Harness Care: When replacing components like the oil filter housing, consider replacing associated wire harnesses.
• Code Reader: Keep an OBD-II scanner handy for quick diagnostics

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Jeep Check Engine Lights

Can you drive a Jeep with the check engine light on?
Yes, but it depends on the cause. Persistent or flashing lights indicate issues that can lead to engine damage if ignored.

What does code P0306 mean on a Jeep?
P0306 indicates a misfire in cylinder 6, often caused by ignition, fuel, or compression problems.

What does Jeep code P06DD mean?
P06DD usually relates to oil pressure control issues, often involving the oil pump, oil filter housing, or wiring.

Can oil leaks cause electrical problems in a Jeep?
Yes. Oil can damage wiring insulation over time, leading to shorts, sensor failures, and intermittent check engine lights.