Worst Jeep Grand Cherokee Years To Avoid
Wondering which Jeep Grand Cherokee years to steer clear of? The 2011 and 2014 models come to mind first. They have major mechanical and electrical issues.
These problems make them a risky buy. The 2011 model got a shocking 741 complaints, mainly for engine troubles. Fixing fuel pump failures costs around $1,000 on average.
At about 50,000 miles, TIPM faults become a headache. This resulted in nearly 755 complaints — a huge jump from 75 in 2010.
The 2014 model also had its fair share of issues. It gathered 499 complaints and saw 12 recalls for serious flaws. Issues ranged from brake fluid leaks to electronic glitches.
Engine, airbags, and gearbox problems caused major safety worries. These years are problematic, making up over 20% of all complaints about Jeeps.
They brought about 3,000 complaints across different years. The 2011 and 2014 models are known for their high upkeep costs and reliability issues.
As we move into the main content, we’ll share more about the common issues. This info will help you dodge the bad years and make a smarter choice.
Introduction to Jeep Grand Cherokee
The *Jeep Grand Cherokee* came out in 1992 for the 1993 model year. It quickly became known for its great off-road skills and smooth ride on roads.
Over time, it has kept a balance between being tough and luxurious, standing out among *midsize SUVs*. It has gone through five generations, each improving over the last.
The newest, fifth-generation model (WL) came out in late 2021. It has a strong 3.6-liter V6 engine with 293 horsepower.
For more power, there’s an option for a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 357 horsepower. The *Grand Cherokee 4xe* plug-in hybrid goes further with 375 horsepower, showing the brand’s push for innovation.
The *Jeep Grand Cherokee* could use better fuel efficiency compared to other *midsize SUVs*. The fourth-generation (WK2) started in 2010 and ended in 2022.
It had a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine from 2011, making 295 horsepower. Yet, the *Jeep Grand Cherokee* has had its rough years.
The 2011 fourth-generation model had many complaints about transmission problems. But some years have shown great *Jeep reliability*.
The first generation (1993-1998) models in 1996 and 1998 were known for their durability.
The third generation (2007-2010) got praise for its advanced interiors and strong HEMI V8 engines.
Knowing the history of the *Jeep Grand Cherokee* helps in making good choices. It’s famous for its off-road ability and luxury trims.
But it’s important to know the best and worst model years for a good ownership experience.
Common Issues Across Multiple Model Years
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is well-liked but has had some ongoing problems. These include issues with the electrical system, transmission, and brakes.
These problems affect the vehicle’s dependability. Now, let’s look into these common issues more closely.
Electrical Problems
Many Jeep Grand Cherokee owners have faced electrical problems. These problems often involve faulty wiring and issues with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM).
Electrical faults can cause many problems, like the failure of lights, fuel pumps, and even the engine stalling. The models from 2011 to 2013 had TIPM issues that led to recalls.
Transmission Troubles
Transmission issues are a big worry for Jeep owners. People have complained about the gears shifting roughly and an unreliable park shift lever.
This was especially the case for models from 2014 to 2017. The 8-speed transmission introduced in 2014 was known for shuddering and hard shifting.
An update in 2018 tried to fix these problems, but the older models still have issues.
Brake System Failures
There have been major concerns about Jeep’s brake system. A big issue is the brake booster’s design, which can reduce braking power.
This decreases the driver’s confidence and poses safety risks. From 2011 to 2014, recalls were made to address problems with the brake booster and power brake assist.
Here’s a detailed comparison of issues by model year:
| Model Year | Electrical Problems | Transmission Issues | Brake System Faults |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | High (TIPM issues) | Moderate | High |
| 2014 | Moderate | High (8-speed shuddering) | High |
| 2015 | Moderate | High (8-speed shuddering) | Moderate |
| 2017 | Low | Moderate | Low |
| 2018 | Low | Low (850RE introduction) | Low |
2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee kicked off the fourth generation with lots of problems.
It’s key to know about significant 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems to dodge big repair bills.
There were over 755 complaints, mostly about electrical failures due to the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM).
This problem often caused the vehicles to stall or not start, leading to a class-action lawsuit.
This model also had transmission issues, hurting its reliability. These problems caused rough shifts and increased repair costs.
This is why it’s smart to avoid the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It had far more problems, especially with the engine, compared to other years. For example, the 2010 model had only 37 complaints.
Here’s a breakdown of complaints for various model years:
| Model Year | Number of Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 755 |
| 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 499 |
| 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 303 |
| 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 101 |
| 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 37 |
TIPM failures in the 2011 model usually happened around 50,000 miles, with fixes costing over $1,000.
There were also multiple recalls for issues like wiring defects and brake booster problems.
With these troubles, people looking to buy should avoid the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee to avoid extra costs and problems.
2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, a newer model in its fourth generation, has several flaws. It’s known for transmission problems that can lead to the vehicle rolling unexpectedly.
There are also many recalls for issues like the engine and software that affect how the car drives and its safety.
It has the most complaints on the NHTSA compared to other Grand Cherokee years.
This model’s issues include rough shifting, unexpected halts, and sudden power loss. There are also more recalls for this year than usual.
- Transmission issues: Problems such as rough shifting and sudden loss of power.
- Electrical problems: Issues with the alternator and other electronic components.
- Engine recalls: Numerous recalls related to engine and software vulnerabilities.
People report many transmission failures with this SUV, especially before hitting 40,000 miles.
Gears might shift to neutral on their own. This makes the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee a particularly difficult model year.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Common Issues | Repair Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Over 2,100 | 12 | Transmission failures, engine stalls | $3,000 (Powertrain) |
| 2015 | Around 1,400 | 10 | Rough shifting, engine stalling | $3,500 (Powertrain) |
The 2014 model needs more upkeep and has many reported issues. Knowing these problems can help you decide which model years to avoid.
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee has some Jeep Grand Cherokee model years with issues. If you’re thinking about this car, you should know a few things.
It has a lot of problems, like transmission troubles that haven’t improved from past models.
Owners often complain about how the gears shift, especially when merging or in traffic, making it a notable issue among the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee defects.
The air conditioning system also doesn’t work right sometimes. This is a big problem, especially when it’s very hot or cold. There are also electrical issues.
The Uconnect system often fails, which can ruin the driving experience. Also, the 2015 model had many recalls and investigations, showing it’s not reliable.
The diesel version had specific problems with the EGR system. This caused the engine to perform poorly and pollute more, which is important to know before buying.
Because of issues like bad gear shifting, faulty air conditioning, and electrical problems, this model year is not well-regarded.
Many recalls have been made, highlighting the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s troubles.
| Problem Area | Common Issues |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Hesitation, rough shifting, and gear-shift malfunctions |
| Air Conditioning | System failures, inconsistent performance |
| Electrical | Uconnect system freeze, lighting failures |
| Diesel Variant | EGR system problems, increased emissions |
Knowing these 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee defects helps in making a wise choice. Being informed of the Jeep Grand Cherokee model years with issues can prevent future regrets.
2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee had some big problems that potential buyers should watch out for. It faced troubles with its electrical systems and the suspension.
Electrical Malfunctions
A major worry with the 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee is its electrical hiccups. Owners reported issues with essential features like lights and the A/C. These problems can lead to frequent and expensive fixes.
Suspension Problems
Jeep Grand Cherokee suspension faults are another big problem for 2004 models. The suspension can’t always handle even small bumps well, making for a bumpy ride.
This not only makes it uncomfortable but also raises safety red flags.
Though the 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers nice engine options and good towing ability, the 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee electrical issues and suspension troubles make it less reliable.
Think carefully about these issues if you’re looking at this model.
2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee has its issues but isn’t as bad as some others. It has electrical and mechanical problems to think about.
If you want a car you can count on, you might look at a different year. Know the problems before buying.
Experts say to avoid some Jeep Grand Cherokee models because of constant issues. Below is a comparison of complaints across years:
| Model Year | Total Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 755 |
| 2014 | 499 |
| 2012 | 303 |
| 2013 | 101 |
| 2017 | 59 |
| 2016 | 52 |
| 2018 | 12 |
| 2019 | 6 |
| 2020 | 0 |
| 2021 | 2 |
Knowing about these issues can lead you to a better choice. The 2005 model may not have as many complaints, but it’s wise to be careful.
This helps show why some Jeep Grand Cherokee models are best avoided.
High Maintenance Costs of Specific Models
The Jeep Grand Cherokee, especially the 2011 and 2014 models, has high upkeep costs. These models often have technical issues.
This leads to frequent repairs and part changes, increasing the total cost of owning one greatly. Data shows the average 10-year cost for all Jeep models is $10,930.
This is much more than the industry’s average, which is $8,419. The Jeep Grand Cherokee stands out because its 10-year average is $10,872.
This is $7,635 more than the industry average. This issue of high maintenance costs isn’t only about the Grand Cherokee. It affects other Jeep models too.
Here’s how their 10-year upkeep costs compare:
| Jeep Model | 10-Year Average Maintenance and Repair Cost | Additional Cost Compared to Industry Average |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | $10,872 | $7,635 |
| Jeep Wrangler | $10,662 | $7,425 |
| Jeep Cherokee | $10,607 | $7,370 |
| Jeep Compass | $10,500 | $7,263 |
| Jeep Renegade | $10,462 | $7,225 |
Also, there’s a 31.91% chance a Jeep will need major repairs in its first 10 years. This is 29.83% higher than other car makers.
Despite their popularity, Jeeps, like the Grand Cherokee, can be pricey to keep running. This is an important fact for potential buyers to think about.
Considering all ownership costs—maintenance, repairs, insurance—the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s upkeep costs stand out. It’s crucial to understand these expenses well before buying.
Investment in Later Models
Looking at the newer Jeep Grand Cherokee models, you’ll see they’ve gotten much better.
Models made after 2018 come with new tech that makes driving safer and more enjoyable.
Technological Upgrades
The newest Jeep Grand Cherokee models have a lot of new tech. They have big touchscreens and easy-to-use systems to keep you entertained.
They also have tools like adaptive cruise control and emergency braking to make driving safer. These updates have made the Jeep Grand Cherokee more dependable than ever.
Increased Reliability
The newer models are way more reliable. Take the 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee, for example; it’s known for lasting a long time.
Jeep fixed old problems like bad electronic shifts and engines that stall. Now, these Jeeps are smoother to drive and don’t need as much fixing. This means you save money and worry less when driving.
| Year | Technological Advancements | Reliability Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Limited tech enhancements | Low |
| 2014 | Intro to Uconnect system | Moderate |
| 2019 | Advanced safety features | High |
Choosing a recent Jeep Grand Cherokee model is smart. It means getting a car that’s both reliable and packed with the latest Jeep tech.
Known Problems Affecting Resale Value
The Jeep Grand Cherokee resale value is hurt by its known issues. These problems include electrical malfunctions and transmission failures.
These issues are especially common in the 2014 and 2015 models. Here, transmission troubles are widespread.
In 2015, the Jeep Grand Cherokee had a major transmission problem. This issue greatly lowered its resale value.
After three years, its value might drop to about $30,528 from an initial $39,535. Such reliability issues scare away people looking to buy it used.
The older Pentastar V6 engines also present problems. These issues decrease the Grand Cherokee’s appeal in the used market.
Compared to this, models like the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator keep their value better. This makes them more attractive for those worried about value retention.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee tends to lose about 38% of its value after five years. However, some model years do better in keeping their value.
These are the 1995, 2008, 2013, and 2019 editions. But, it’s best to avoid the 2005, 2011, and 2012 models due to reliability problems.
These known issues have a big impact on the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s resale value. For instance, a used 2015-2016 model with 40-50k miles might sell for around $24,000.
This price shows what buyers think of its reliability. Despite the problems, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has its perks.
Still, it’s important to think about how these issues could affect its resale value. Considering both the good points and the potential depreciation is key when looking to buy.
Alternative Years to Consider
Both the 2009 and 2010 models are top picks for the best Jeep Grand Cherokee years.
They stand out for their great performance and having fewer problems. This makes them perfect for anyone who wants a reliable SUV.
2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2009 model shines with its ability to handle rough terrains and its powerful engine options. Fewer engine and transmission issues were reported by owners.
It has attractive maintenance costs and holds its value well, making it an excellent choice for everyday use and adventure drives.
2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2010 model continues to impress with its dependability and performance. Its all-wheel drive is great for tough roads and cold winters.
It also boasts a strong engine and good climate control. With fewer maintenance worries and steady value, the 2010 model is a smart pick for those looking for a trustworthy Jeep Grand Cherokee.
| Year | Key Features | Performance | Reliability | Average Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Off-road capabilities, strong engine, fewer mechanical issues | Robust engine performance | High | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| 2010 | All-wheel drive, dual-zone climate control, snowy winter adaptability | Strong engine, stable drive | High | $12,000 – $18,000 |
Consumer Sentiments and Reviews
Looking at Jeep Grand Cherokee consumer reviews, we see mixed feelings based on the model year. Many people talk about reliability problems with the Jeeps.
For example, the 2011 model had 755 complaints, mainly due to the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) problems which made starting the car difficult.
Some other issues include screens freezing and parking cameras not working. These problems may seem small but they make people question the car’s reliability.
Views on the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe models are split. Some drivers like the hybrid feature, while others think it doesn’t compare well with top EVs like Tesla or Hummer.
This feedback shows the struggle between the car’s cost and what buyers feel they should get for that money.
People who buy Jeep EVs and PHEVs expect great performance for the high price they pay. Even minor problems can greatly affect their happiness with the car.
Complaints are often higher for these models, maybe because they’re more complex and harder to get used to. Concerns about warranties are common.
Many hope their car’s issues will be fixed while it’s still under warranty. There’s a big difference in complaints between model years.
For instance, the 2012 model had 303 complaints, but the number went down a lot in later years.
This table shows the ups and downs in what people think of different Jeep models:
| Model Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 755 |
| 2012 | 303 |
| 2013 | 101 |
| 2014 | 499 |
| 2016 | 52 |
| 2017 | 59 |
| 2018 | 12 |
| 2019 | 6 |
| 2020 | 0 |
| 2021 | 2 |
The table shows a clear trend towards fewer problems with newer Jeep models.
However, the mixed feelings from earlier versions show the need to fix small but ongoing issues for better customer happiness.
Conclusion
When picking a Jeep Grand Cherokee, it’s key to think about the good and bad of different years.
Though the Grand Cherokee is well-liked, some years have big problems. For example, the 2011 model had over 1500 complaints and recalls for transmission and electric troubles.
The 2014 version also had many recalls and big issues with the 3.6-liter V6 engine. But, some years are known for their great reliability and performance.
The 2010 Grand Cherokee earned a 4.5 out of 5 for reliability thanks to its strong engine choices, including the 5.7L HEMI V8.
The 2015 and 2016 models also got high reliability ratings. They introduced the fuel-saving EcoDiesel V6 and the 8-speed auto transmission, making them more fuel-efficient and pleasing to owners.
To make the most of your money, go for models like the 2009 and 2010 Grand Cherokees. They combine reliability with fewer maintenance worries.
Stay away from years with high upkeep costs and ongoing problems, like the 2011 and 2014 models.
Doing this, you can enjoy the powerful features of a Jeep Grand Cherokee while avoiding common issues.
FAQs
What Jeep Grand Cherokee years should I avoid?
Be wary of the 2011 and 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. They have big mechanical and electrical problems. These issues lead to high maintenance costs and many recalls.
What are common electrical problems in the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Common issues are bad wiring and TIPM failures. These can stop the engine from starting and cause other problems.
Are there specific Jeep Grand Cherokee models with transmission issues?
Yes, the 2014 and 2015 models have transmission problems. You might notice rough gear shifts and the car rolling unexpectedly.
What are the main problems with the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The 2011 model has big issues like a faulty TIPM that stops the engine from starting. There are also many recalls for wiring and brake booster problems.
How does the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee fare in terms of reliability?
The 2014 model has big flaws with its transmission. It also has been recalled many times for engine, wiring, and software issues.
What electrical issues are associated with the 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The 2004 model has ongoing electrical issues. These affect the lights and air conditioning.
Why might the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee be less desirable?
The 2005 model has less severe but still troubling electrical and mechanical issues. This makes it less reliable than other years.
What are the high maintenance costs related to certain Jeep Grand Cherokee models?
High maintenance costs come from ongoing technical issues and the need for lots of repairs. This is especially true for the 2011 and 2014 models.
Are newer models of Jeep Grand Cherokee more reliable?
Yes, models after 2018 are more reliable. They have better technology and safety features. This means a better experience for the user.
