Jeep Grand Cherokee Common Problems

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a large five-seat SUV, and most used examples here are the WK2 (2011 to 2021). It launched with the 3.6 Pentastar V6 petrol and 5.7 HEMI V8, adding the VM Motori 3.0 CRD turbo-diesel V6 in mid-2011 and the 6.4 SRT8 in late 2012. A five-speed auto was fitted until the Series II update in mid-2013 brought an eight-speed auto across the range. Overland and Trailhawk models have Quadra-Lift air suspension. The WL generation, sold here from 2022, added the seven-seat Grand Cherokee L. The WK2 is a capable, comfortable tow vehicle, but it has a long recall list and a patchy reliability record, so history matters more than usual.

Camshaft and rocker arm wear (3.6 Pentastar V6, 2011 to 2021)

The roller bearings in the Pentastar's rocker arms can fail, which then wears the camshaft lobes quickly. The first sign is a ticking or tapping noise that gets louder as revs rise. Jeep made several running changes, but changes as late as 2018 and 2019 helped little, and once the noise starts the usual fix is a new camshaft and rockers, which is likely to run into thousands of dollars. Separately, Pentastar engines built before 25 July 2012 can misfire on cylinders 2, 4 and 6 because of cylinder leakage in the left cylinder head. Jeep's fix, where a leak-down test failed, was a replacement left head.

Stalling and no-start faults (all engines, 2011 to 2020)

Several electrical faults can make a WK2 refuse to start or stall while driving. The fuel pump relay inside the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) failed on 2011 to 2013 cars, and some replacement relays were later recalled again. Alternator diodes could fail on 2012 to 2014 cars with electro-hydraulic power steering, and crankshaft position sensors could fail on cars sold from 2013 to 2020. Intermittent no-starts and unreliable keyless entry can also come from software faults in the TIPM or wireless ignition module, which need reprogramming. Recall repairs are free, so confirm they have been done.

EGR cooler and fuel pump failures (3.0 CRD diesel, 2011 to 2021)

The diesel's EGR system is a weak point. On 2011 to 2013 cars the EGR cooler hose could weep coolant, and on 2018 to 2021 diesels the EGR cooler itself could crack, letting coolant vapour into the intake with a fire risk. Both were addressed by Jeep, the second by recall. A 2023 recall covered the high-pressure fuel pump on 2011 to 2021 diesels: it could fail and send debris through the fuel system, causing a loss of power. Outside recall cover, contaminated fuel system repairs are expensive. A cold-start tapping rattle is reported on these engines and is often blamed on the injectors; replacing them may only be a temporary fix.

Harsh shifts, clunks and shudder (5-speed and 8-speed autos, 2011 to 2021)

Some owners of early five-speed cars report clunks on take-off and problems with first and second gear. On the eight-speed, Jeep issued software updates for a harsh bump on 2-1 downshifts in 2014 cars and for shift quality and gear hunting on the SRT8. Shudder when accelerating or coasting can need the drivetrain control module reprogrammed. Outright failures are also reported. A transmission specialist's rebuild usually costs less than a dealer replacement. The 2014 to 2015 electronic shifter was also recalled because drivers could leave the car without selecting Park.

Suspension and four-wheel drive faults (air suspension and e-LSD models, 2011 to 2021)

On 2011 to 2014 cars with rear load-levelling, the rear shock absorbers can make a rattling noise over low-speed bumps, which Jeep fixed with new shock mounts. On 2011 to 2013 models with an electronic limited-slip rear diff, a flashing 4x4 light with rear diff actuator codes means the diff motor needs reprogramming or replacing. Quadra-Lift air suspension adds air springs, a compressor and height sensors that can wear with age, so an older air-sprung car needs a careful check. The power tailgate motor can also fail.

Recalls and safety

The WK2 has a long recall list. Themes include brakes (corroding brake boosters on 2011 to 2014 cars, front calipers on 2015 to 2016 cars, and an ABS unit on 2017 to 2019 cars that could let the car shift out of Park without the brake pressed), cruise control software, the stalling faults above, the 2014 to 2015 shifter, a 2014 airbag control module, a 2016 3.6 fuel rail leak, and the diesel EGR cooler and fuel pump. The WL has been recalled for steering shafts, rear coil springs and upper control arm bolts. Have a Jeep dealer check the VIN for open recalls, and see our recalls page.

Buying a used Jeep Grand Cherokee? What to check

• Pentastar tick: Listen to a 3.6 V6 at idle and while revving. A tick that rises with revs points to rocker and camshaft wear.
• Recall paperwork: Ask for proof that every recall has been done, especially fuel pump relays, crank sensors, brakes and the diesel fuel pump.
• Cold start: Start the car from cold. Hesitant starting, warning lights or a long diesel rattle need explaining.
• Diesel coolant: On a 3.0 CRD, check the coolant level and look for leaks around the EGR cooler and hoses.
• Gearbox: Drive through every gear, including gentle downshifts to a stop. Clunks, shudder or flaring shifts need a specialist's opinion.
• Air suspension: On Quadra-Lift cars, check the car sits level after standing, raises and lowers in every mode and shows no warnings.
• Four-wheel drive: Make sure the 4x4 light does not flash and test the Selec-Terrain modes. Listen for rear diff noises.
• Electrics: Test keyless entry, push-button start, the power tailgate, the screen and every warning light.

Run a PPSR check for finance owing and write-off records, and use our Jeep Grand Cherokee buying checklist at the inspection.

The verdict

Look for a Series II WK2 (late 2013 to 2021) for the far better eight-speed auto, ideally a 2017 to 2021 car with every recall done and a full service history. The 3.0 CRD is the towing pick, but confirm the EGR cooler and fuel pump recalls. With a 3.6 V6, listen for the rocker tick and be wary of 2011 to 2012 engines without head or camshaft records. Avoid neglected air-sprung cars. The WL is still young; check its recalls and warranty status.