Best & Worst Jeep Grand Cherokee Years | Years To Avoid

We’ve identified two Jeep Grand Cherokee years to avoid. See which ones (and why) so you can approach your used car shopping process with confidence.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been around since 1992 and is a popular mid-size SUV. Its popularity factors include reliability, rugged design, and off-road capability. Grand Cherokee has improved and modernized throughout its five generations. Users also like the high-quality construction material, luxury interior, and advanced infotainment options.

Here Are The Jeep Grand Cherokee Years To Avoid

Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a high-end interior while maintaining strong off-road performance. Overall, it is an SUV that will meet your performance and luxurious needs. Sadly, all model years of the SUV are unequal, and many have a few problems.

We have discussed the best and worst years of the Jeep Grand Cherokee based on the following parameters:

  • User ratings and reviews
  • CarComplaints complaints number
  • J.D. Power reliability ratings
  • Repairpal reliability ratings
  • NHTSA complaints number
  • KBB consumer ratings
  • Edmunds consumer ratings, etc.

If you are looking to buy a new or old SUV from the Grand Cherokee lineup, you should know about the best and worst model years. Our article aims to inform you about the best and worst years of the Jeep Grand Cherokee to help you choose a suitable SUV.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee debuted in 1993 and immediately established itself as a popular midsize SUV. The fourth generation, which debuted in 2011, was redesigned numerous times throughout the years and, while popular, presented new issues for the Grand Cherokee. Jeep has an extremely loyal following, but models can still have their fair share of problems. Here are the Jeep Grand Cherokee years to avoid.


Jeep Grand Cherokee Generations

There have been five generations of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV. A few facelift edition models are also included here. Jeep Grand Cherokee generations are as follows:

Jeep Grand Cherokee Generations
  • 1st Gen (1993-1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ)
  • 1st Gen Facelift (1996-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ)
  • 2nd Gen (1999-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ)
  • 3rd Gen (2005-2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK)
  • 3rd Gen Facelift (2008-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK)
  • 4th Gen (2011-2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2)
  • 4th Gen Facelift (2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2)
  • 4th Gen Facelift 2 (2017-2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2)
  • 5th Gen (2022-Now Jeep Grand Cherokee WL)

Some SUVs have many issues between these generations, while others are solid. You should choose from the best years and avoid the worst years.

Quick List: 2011, 2014

Regardless of model, it’s a good general rule to avoid model years with many customer complaints, mechanical difficulties, and expensive upkeep, just like any other product you buy. Grand Cherokee model years 2011 and 2014 are the most likely to have mechanical flaws and, therefore, some of the worst to buy.

Complaints by Year

  • 2021 – 2
  • 2020 – 0
  • 2019 – 6
  • 2018 – 12
  • 2017 – 59
  • 2016 – 52
  • 2014 – 499
  • 2013 – 101
  • 2012 – 303
  • 2011 – 755
  • 2010 – 37
  • 2009 – 29
  • 2008 – 80
  • 2007 – 71

CarComplaints.com is an excellent place to start your search and get a general review of each model year by complaints, recalls, etc. With 3,000 complaints overall model years, the Grand Cherokee accounts for more than a fifth of all Jeep complaints. Electrical issues have been the most common problem category over the years.


Jeep Grand Cherokee Model Year to Avoid: 2011

With 741 total complaints, the 2011 Grand Cherokee is the model year you should avoid over all others considering its significant maintenance cost at reasonably low mileage.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Model Year to Avoid: 2011

Issues:

  • TIPM
  • Interior styling
  • Electrical wiring 

This TIPM issue was reported with the engine failing to start or delayed, written by over 200 separate owners. There have been ten times as many complaints about the Grand Cherokee having engine trouble in 2011 as in 2010, and it was enough for a class-action lawsuit to be launched. By the next model year, complaints had reduced by nearly 80%.

It’s the first model of the fourth generation, which may explain why it receives the most complaints. In general, a pioneer model will usually have more flaws than its predecessors. Even though the newly remodeled version had completed testing, it lacked the time for genuine customer development or refinement.

Recalls:

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee was recalled several times due to the high number of issues reported for similar complaints. The following are the primary causes behind each:

TIPM: Failure with the fuel pump caused the vehicle to stall suddenly, The TIPM fault showed up around 50,000 miles on average, and it cost over $1,000 to fix. 

Central Brake Booster: Major rusting caused freezing and poor brake performance, which is crucial for an SUV that encourages driving through elements.

Wiring: A few rare short circuit cases on the sun visor created a fire hazard while driving.


Jeep Grand Cherokee Model Year to Avoid: 2014

The 2014 Grand Cherokee was improved as a later model of the fourth generation, with a more powerful engine, improved electrical system, and a more elegant and comfortable interior. Nonetheless, there were several concerns concerning the engine, interior accessories, and brakes of the vehicle.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Model Year to Avoid: 2014

Issues:

  • Engine
  • Airbags
  • Shifting and acceleration control

The 2014 Grand Cherokee’s biggest flaw is its gearbox, especially its harsh or jerky gear changing. There were injuries from rolling cars, even with a disengaged motor because of a failed shift from drive to park.

Recalls:

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued 12 recalls for this Grand Cherokee model. The following were the significant issues:

Engine: Brake fluid leaks were common, causing the actual fluid to be used at a higher rate than average, requiring faster replacement.

Wiring System: Short circuit difficulties prevented drivers from turning off the cruise control; thus, the car maintained or increased its speed, even after its desired use.

Speed Control: Like the wiring system for cruise control, when the driver releases the accelerator pedal, the car may continue to accelerate, posing a hazard to the driver, passengers, and those around.

Airbags: Due to a defective Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module, front and side airbags were sometimes disabled. Some users have reported issues with the malfunction indicator light failing to glow to alert them. 

Brake Booster Shield: Corrosion was a problem with the central brake booster shield. When it rusted, it let water in, which subsequently froze, resulting in reduced braking efficiency.

Electronic Stability Control: Due to software problems with the Steering Column Control Module, the ESC might have been disabled. As a result, the driver could not maintain proper control of the car, increasing the likelihood of a collision.

Alternator: The SUV was prone to stalling without warning due to a sudden alternator failure. This is a common way that increases the likelihood of a collision on a busy road.

Electronics: Software vulnerabilities were discovered in radio-equipped units. As a result, unauthorized third-party access to, modification, and control of parts of the vehicle’s control systems might have occurred on these failed units.

Automatic Transmission: Shifting and locking the gear into park was a typical report by drivers, making it difficult to park, especially on sloped roads.


What are the Good Model Years?

Most experts favor the 1998 and 1999 versions over the 1990s models because several changes made them quicker and better for off-roading. Because of its strong on-road and off-road capabilities, the 2005 model would be the ideal pick for the 2000s. Furthermore, the engine design guarantees that performance and fuel economy are balanced. The 2017 and 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokees are highly recommended among the newest versions. They offer contemporary amenities and visually attractive leather seats to make your trip more pleasant and elegant.

However, if you’re looking for the most reliable Jeep Grand Cherokee models that aren’t that old but not entirely new, consider these two:

2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Although the 2009 Grand Cherokee is now more than a decade old, it remains one of the more reliable years. This model year impressed both critics and consumers alike with its rugged design, off-road capability, and strong engine choices. It doesn’t have best-in-class safety ratings during its time, but it has enough features to keep occupants safe.

2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Owners claimed that the controls were easy to use and operate, but navigating the menus has a bit of a learning curve.

2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2010 model year marked the end of the third-gen Grand Cherokee (2005-2010). With that said, the 2010 Grand Cherokee is one of the banner carriers for Jeep’s legendary off-road tenacity. Aside from its off-roading prowess, the 2010 Grand Cherokee features an upscale interior unusual for off-road vehicles.

2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2010 Grand Cherokee isn’t just an off-road warrior; it’s also a top-quality, comfortable SUV. The base trim comes with a 3.7-liter V6 engine and rear-wheel drive. If you get the Grand Cherokee SRT8, you’ll love the incredible 6.1-liter Hemi V8 powertrain.


Jeep Grand Cherokee Common Problems

The most common Jeep Grand Cherokee problems are electrical, engine, transmission, and interior accessories problems. These are the common issues of the problematic years, too. Let’s discuss the most common problems of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Common Problems

1. Electrical Problems

Electrical problems are the most problematic issue of the 2011 and 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee. TPM malfunction, blown alternator, sudden power loss, and erratic electric issues are the common electric issues. Users faced the issue at 50-60k miles.

Most users face TPM failure. It is a very costly module to replace. The alternator replacement cost is over a thousand dollars. Other common electric issues take a few hundred dollars to repair or replace.

2. Engine Problems

The most common engine-related problems are stalling, noisy operation, misfiring, not starting, and engine failure. The Grand Cherokee’s 2011, 2012, and 2014 model years have engine issues. These problems usually pop up when you hit 35,000 miles or more. Dealing with engine issues can put pressure on your wallet, as maintenance is costly. It may cost you $750 to over a thousand dollars.

3. Transmission Issues

Some common transmission problems are shifting problems, gear slipping, stuck gear, unreliable automatic shifting, stuck gear, jerking during shifting, and transmission failure. 2014 and 2015 Grand Cherokee models face most of the transmission issues. Other models also face some transmission issues, but not that severely.

These transmission issues may show up at 10,000 miles to over 30,000 miles. Transmission problems are very annoying and may require replacement or rebuilding. It will cost you over $1000 to repair the transmission, and if you replace it, it can easily cross $6,000.

4. Interior Accessories Issues

General interior accessories issues of the Jeep Grand Cherokee include cracked, melting, bubbling, and falling apart dashboards. There are many complaints about the dashboards for the SUV’s 2011, 2012, 2014, and 2015 models. Some other model years also have dashboard issues.

Users face dashboard issues at 40,000 miles or later. The cost of repairing the dashboard starts at $500 and goes up to $2100. Other minor interior accessories issues are a malfunctioning radio, seats not heating, equipment issues, etc.


Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability by Year

Reliability is a very important factor in a vehicle. A vehicle with bad reliability will make your life harder. Knowing the reliability ratings will help you choose a good vehicle.

We made this reliability chart of the Jeep Grand Cherokee based on J.D. Power reliability ratings:

Jeep Grand Cherokee Model YearJ.D. Power Reliability Rating (Out of 100)
200778
200881
200980
201077
201180
201279
201381
201477
201579
201683
201782
201881
201980
202080
202182
2022N/A
202379
202479

As you can see, some model years have higher reliability ratings, and some have lower ratings. Reliability ratings over 80 are considered very good ratings. If you buy a Jeep Grand Cherokee, choose an SUV with a higher reliability rating and avoid vehicles with lower reliability ratings.


Jeep Grand Cherokee Problem Counts by Year

The number of user complaints is another important factor in determining a vehicle’s quality. Lower complaint numbers indicate better vehicles. Before purchasing one, you should know the number of complaints for different model years.

CarComplaints and NHTSA-based complain chart of Jeep Grand Cherokee is as follows:

Jeep Grand Cherokee Model YearComplaints Number (CarComplaints)Complaints Number (NHTSA)
2000751883
2001871131
2002971475
200348757
20041151292
20051322046
20061191288
2007741101
200884724
200933133
201039116
20117941611
20123301592
2013126773
20145842241
20152631196
201676270
201779284
201863677
201920182
202010117
2021160
202230
202370
2024N/A26

We have seen the number of complaints for the 2000 to 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Some model years have many complaints, and others have fewer. When you choose a vehicle, choose a vehicle with lower complaints for a better experience.


Jeep Grand Cherokee Recall

Vehicle manufacturers recall the vehicle to solve issues. Lower the recall, lower the problems and higher the reliability. There have been 101 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs recalls from 1998 to 2018.

You should also look at the recall history of the Jeep Grand Cherokee to know about all the model years before choosing one:

Jeep Grand Cherokee Recall YearReasons for Recall
1998Seat belts malfunction.
1999Seat belt issues.
2000Airbags, steering, fuel system, and seat belt problems.
2001Engine and child seat problems.
2002Electrical system, airbags, equipment, and steering issues.
2003Airbags replacement.
2004Airbags, powertrain, electrical system, suspension, exterior lighting, and service brakes issues.
2005Power train, electrical system problems.
2006Service brakes, electrical system, powertrain issues, etc.
2007Powertrain, airbags, electrical system, wiring, and suspension problems.
2008Ignition module, electrical system, powertrain, and suspension maintenance.
2009Powertrain, airbags, electrical system, wiring and suspension problems.
2010Ignition module, powertrain, electrical system, equipment, service brakes, hydraulic, and instrument panel issues.
2011Electrical system, service brakes, hydraulic, interior lighting, fuel pump relay, and electrical wiring problems.
2012Electrical system, service brake, hydraulic, interior lighting, engine, and engine cooling issues.
2013Service brakes, electrical system, interior lighting, electrical wiring, and hydraulic problems.
2014Electrical system wiring, alternator, service brakes, hydraulic, engine, and engine cooling, electrical system, powertrain, equipment, airbags, electronic stability control, vehicle speed control, and exterior lighting issues.
2015Engine and engine cooling, electrical system wiring, powertrain, service brakes, hydraulic, suspension, and equipment problems.
2016Airbag-related problems.
2017Equipment, engine and engine cooling, electrical system wiring issues, etc.
2018Electrical system wiring, equipment, powertrain, transmission, and fuel system problems.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety Ratings

Safety is a very important concern of a vehicle. You must choose a vehicle with better safety ratings. So, you will need to know the safety ratings of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

We made this safety rating chart by NHTSA:

Jeep Grand Cherokee Model YearSafety Ratings by NHTSA (Out of 5.0)
20004.0
20013.0
20023.0
20033.0
20044.0
20054.5
20064.5
20074.5
20084.5
20094.5
20104.5
20114.0
20124.0
20134.0
20145.0
20154.0
20165.0
20175.0
20184.0
20195.0
20205.0
2021N/A
2022N/A
20235.0
20245.0

How Many Miles Can a Grand Cherokee Jeep Last

The Jeep Grand Cherokee itself is quite durable and sturdy. With proper maintenance, it can run for years upon years. A well-looked-up Jeep Grand Cherokee may last 200,000 to 300,000 miles. It will need just a few minor maintenance and no major breaks during that time.

Follow these rules to make your vehicle last for a long time:

  • Change the engine oils and filters every 10,000 miles and check the fluid level routinely.
  • Replace the air and fuel filters every 20-30,000 miles.
  • Check the battery, brake, and transmission fluids every 30,000 to 60000 miles.
  • Replace the spark plug and timing belt every 60 to 90,000 miles.
  • Visually inspect the vehicle, lights, wipers, and tire pressures regularly.
  • Keep a log of every maintenance and follow the manufacturer’s suggestion on repair.
  • Keep an eye out for TSB for recalls.

Following all these, your Jeep Grand Cherokee may last over 500,000 miles.


How Reliable Are Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a reliable mid-size SUV. It has a 3.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating in Repairpal. The SUV provides a luxurious interior with a rugged and performative exterior. The best years for the SUV are 2009, 2010, 2016, 2017, and 2019—present model years.

The worst years of the SUV are 2011, 2012, 2014, and 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The article discusses these best and worst years with their user reviews, complaints number, reliability, safety ratings, recall history, etc. Suppose you are ready to purchase a Jeep Grand Cherokee. In that case, we suggest you review all the available model years and choose a vehicle with a higher reliability rating and fewer complaints.

Avoid the worst years, which have higher complaints and lower reliability ratings. I hope we could help you find the desired Jeep Grand Cherokee.


Frequently Asked Questions: Jeep Grand Cherokee Years to Avoid

Which model years of the Jeep Grand Cherokee are recommended to avoid?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee model years most recommended to avoid are 2011 and 2014. These years have been identified as having the most mechanical issues and complaints, leading to potentially expensive maintenance and repairs.

What were the central issues reported with the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee had significant issues, notably with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), which caused engine starting problems or delays. Interior styling and electrical wiring were also problem areas, and the TIPM issue was severe enough to spark a class-action lawsuit.

What recalls were issued for the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and why?

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee faced several recalls due to TIPM failure affecting the fuel pump, central brake booster rusting causing brake performance issues, and potential fire hazards due to short circuits in the sun visor wiring.

What are considered the most reliable Jeep Grand Cherokee model years?

The most reliable Jeep Grand Cherokee model years are generally considered to be 1998, 1999, 2005, 2017, and 2018. These years are favored for their strong on- and off-road capabilities, engine performance, fuel economy balance, and modern amenities.


Conclusion

For the most part, Jeep has built an iconic vehicle with the Grand Cherokee. Born out of a popular and basic platform that showed great potential, the vehicle truly earned its positive and grand reputation as a capable and versatile SUV. Alas, not all model years are equal when it comes to reliability. The 1998 ZJ, 2003 WJ, and 2019 WK models stand out as some of the best years, offering a good balance of durability, capability, and modern features. Any fifth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee WL might be a nice buy right now, but it is too early to determine if this new batch has the chops to last.

Leave a Comment