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Jeep Grand Cherokee Problems

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been a popular midsize SUV since 1993, but its reliability record is mixed at best. With over 78,000 complaints and 164 reported deaths, this is a vehicle that demands careful year selection. Some generations have proven durable, while others are plagued by serious mechanical and electrical failures that can strand owners or worse.

78,054
Total Complaints
173
Total Recalls
38
Model Years
164
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2014 2005
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1989 1990 1991

Common Problem Categories

Electrical System 14,828
Power Train 9,432
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 5,978
Engine 5,324
Air Bags 4,454

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2026 0 2 0 0 Good
2025 126 2 6 0 Good
2024 486 13 12 0 Good
2023 1,070 17 46 4 Average
2022 736 9 24 2 Good
2021 1,252 12 66 22 Average
2020 610 3 78 16 Good
2019 1,002 7 50 8 Good
2018 2,284 11 150 28 Average
2017 1,072 6 76 8 Average
2016 842 9 84 22 Good
2015 3,396 10 354 66 Below Average
2014 6,684 19 446 116 Avoid
2013 2,202 10 82 82 Average
2012 4,596 11 140 288 Below Average
2011 4,824 6 178 178 Below Average
2010 342 4 36 10 Good
2009 390 1 18 0 Good
2008 1,968 2 70 14 Average
2007 2,954 2 94 30 Average
2006 3,496 2 158 18 Below Average
2005 5,466 2 274 68 Avoid
2004 3,144 3 298 66 Below Average
2003 1,774 2 120 34 Average
2002 3,540 2 196 46 Below Average
2001 2,256 0 190 42 Average
2000 3,710 0 264 48 Below Average
1999 4,638 0 314 42 Below Average
1998 2,698 1 388 36 Average
1997 2,866 1 286 56 Average
1996 2,500 1 312 52 Average
1995 1,966 1 292 88 Average
1994 1,550 1 284 78 Average
1993 1,568 1 136 74 Average
1992 8 0 4 0 Good
1991 14 0 2 4 Good
1990 10 0 0 2 Good
1989 14 0 0 2 Good

Jeep Grand Cherokee Years to Avoid

The 2014 Grand Cherokee stands out as the worst model year, with widespread reports of transmission failures, electrical gremlins, and engine stalling at highway speeds. The 2011-2015 generation overall should be approached with extreme caution due to persistent transmission issues with the 9-speed automatic. The 2005 model year suffered from electrical problems and TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) failures that could cause random stalling. Avoid the 1999-2004 models if you see signs of head gasket issues, which were common on the 4.7L V8. The 2015 and 2016 years continued many of the 2014 problems before Jeep made improvements.

Best Jeep Grand Cherokee Years

The 1992-1998 ZJ generation Grand Cherokees, particularly with the legendary 4.0L inline-six engine, are considered bulletproof and still command a loyal following. The 2017-2019 models saw significant improvements after Jeep addressed the transmission calibration issues, making them much more reliable choices. If you want a newer model, the 2021 and later WL generation has shown promising early reliability data with fewer major complaints.

Frequently Asked Questions