6 Best And Worst Years For Jeep Grand Cherokee

The American SUV, Jeep Grand Cherokee, has been known as one of the most comfortable SUVs for your family to ride in.

As the new models of this vehicle are getting better, however, some might not be as reliable as you think.

Therefore, learning about the best and worst years for Jeep Grand Cherokee is crucial so you can make the decision accordingly.

You might be wondering; which year is the Jeep Grand Cherokee the most reliable, and what year is the Jeep Grand Cherokee I should avoid?

To simplify, the most reliable year is the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and you should most definitely avoid the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Moreover, here are the best and worst years that you must know about.

Best Years for Jeep Grand Cherokee:

1. 2008
2. 2009
3. 2010
4. 2016
5. 2018
6. 2019

Worst Years for Jeep Grand Cherokee:

1. 2005
2. 2011
3. 2012
4. 2013
5. 2014
6. 2015

With the help of this article, you will recognize the functions and the weaknesses of these models, which will make the decision-making process easier.

List Of The Best Years For The Jeep Grand Cherokee: What Years To Buy

These were considered the best years for Jeep Grand Cherokee because of the remarkable features and fewer complaints from buyers.

These models have been upgraded and assured to provide you with the best comfort and safety you desire from a vehicle.

It is worth spending your money on these models as they will also require less money on repairs.

Another great thing is that all these models are quite affordable so you will be saving a lot of money.

So, here is the list of best years: I will explain everything in detail about each model’s quality, features, and efficiency for sufficient knowledge.

#1 Best Year: 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been a great off-road vehicle. This vehicle consists of a luxurious interior design and has a bunch of alternatives and five powerful engine options.

In addition to that, this SUV has a brand new feature that contains a 4.7-liter V8 engine that can empower a 24 percent improvement in horsepower and an improvised fuel economy compared to the previous V8.

This is one of the best choices for you and your family. You will be happy to know that the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee can last up to 300,000 miles.

Though there are some doubts that it can only last around 200,000 miles, there still have been various users who reported that they were eligible to drive up to 300,000 miles after the odometer has turned.

This vehicle model is a must-have as you will not be required to pay too much for repairs either.

#2 Best Year: 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Another great model worth investing in is because various test drivers have said that this is a pleasant SUV in an overview.

The great thing about this 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is that drivers can comfortably pass it through blizzards or even boulder-strewn trails.

Additionally, you will not have to spend a lot of repairs as it does not require as much repairing as other vehicles do.

Although it has an average fuel economy, it can still run pretty well for most. Keep in mind that this model can also effortlessly go above 200,000 miles.

#3 Best Year: 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee

As mentioned earlier in the article, this model is one of the most reliable and best models for the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

It is a comfortable SUV as it has been upgraded with a dominant double-wishbone layout, which will provide smoothness while driving, especially over bumps.

You will be happy to know that this model barely had recalls or complaints from buyers.

Moreover, it is a reliable model because of the few electrical problems with the Integrated Power Module (TIPM).

Another great thing is that it provides high mileage and is considered quite affordable.

#4 Best Year: 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee

This 2016 model of the Jeep Grand Cherokee has an impressive interior design, also includes muscular powertrains and remarkable off-road potentials.

You can be carefree because this vehicle barely had any recalls or complaints.

Although it is on the average level for reliability, it still hasn’t had many problems faced by drivers, so it is on the safe side.

Furthermore, this model can be as quiet and comfortable as you want. It also has an admirable sense when it comes to stability around turns.

You will be happy to know that the V6 power can be utilized well because of the eight-speed automatic transmission so your vehicle can run smoothly.

#5 Best Year: 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee

This model is stated to transmit well on and off-road performance. With that ability, you can drive on any bumpy road comfortably.

Speaking of comfort, this model has been designed with a comfortable interior cabin with soft-touch fabrics, so you and your family do not feel any distress.

This vehicle also includes a user-friendly infotainment system and has made various changes such as the track hawk trim, the Apple CarPlay, the Android Auto, and the standard 7-inch touch screen.

Keep in mind that this upgraded model also offers a unique turbo-diesel and is so much better than its rivals. As well as the V6 base engine and three powerful V8s included.

#6 Best Year: 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee

This 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee is designed to be used by everyone but especially families who might be interested in off-roading.

This upgraded version consists of trail hawk trim which can tackle rugged trails as it is also designed with a four-wheel-drive system.

It is worth mentioning that this model’s cost starts from about $32,195.

Moving on, the features of this SUV include the eight-speed automatic transmission ability, with the 3.6 litersPentastar V-6 will work amazingly for the 295 horsepower and the 260 pounds torque.

Overall, it is a great investment and a must-have vehicle for sure.

List Of The Worst Years For The Jeep Grand Cherokee: What Years To Avoid

Although there were some happy and best years for this vehicle, there were still some bad years in the middle that I must advise you to avoid.

This is because these years’ models were quite problematic for users as there were various issues in the vehicle’s functionality.

Due to these problems, many people had complaints, and these models have been recalled several times.

If you plan to buy a Jeep Grand Cherokee, you need to discard these models’ years as you will be bound to be extra for repairs and replacements.

Although these vehicles are affordable, they will still cost you a lot because of the extra payments for fixing the issues most of the time.

#1 Worst Year: 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee

This model is considered one of the worst years for Jeep Grand Cherokee. This is because it consists of various problems that make users uncomfortable.

Due to these reasons, there are many recalls and complaints reported. This model has wind noise, especially when driving and hitting 40mph or even more.

It usually comes from the door loves or the wheel bearings. There are issues with the seat belts as they will not retract or engage at all.

This model also has water leaks issues and can be very disturbing as it comes from the handlebar, glove compartment, or either side of the passenger seat.

Besides that, other countless issues include the steering system, vehicle’s interior system, the braking system, issues with the transmission and the engine fuel system, etc.

It would help if you avoided this model because there are way too many problems that will keep adding to your bill as you will continuously be forced to fix these issues.

#2 Worst Year: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

So this model has been declared the worst year for Jeep Grand Cherokee and must be avoided at all costs.

You will be surprised to know that this vehicle has approximately 2000 complaints on the website of CarComplaints.com.

This model has also been recalled five times and has been considered a problematic vehicle by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

This model has complaints regarding the electrical system of the vehicle.

Specifically, the Integrated Power Module (TIPM). It also includes engine and fuel system problems as well as suspension problems.

It is stated that these problems started to increase so much that the TIPM became scarce.

#3 Worst Year: 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee

This model is also considered the worst gear for Jeep Grand Cherokee.

This is because users have reported various problems and recall who were left disturbed by this vehicle functionality.

It is stated that this vehicle tends to break down quickly, which is a huge safety risk.

Most of the problems involving this vehicle will require high repairing costs to fix these issues entirely.

Various issues regarding this model include electrical issues such as a faulty system, engine failure, steering wheel difficulties, and fuel system problems.

All of these are important parts of the vehicle that need to function properly so your vehicle can perform well and you can drive safely.

#4 Worst Year: 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee

It is worth mentioning that the most problematic model years of the Jeep Grand Cherokee were 2011, 2012, and 2013.

Now coming to the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee, it is considered the worst because of the transmission failure issue.

This is also because of the gear shifter design, as it will not be able to function properly at all.

As a result, this issue caused the gears to slip or sometimes delay shifting. This can be dangerous when driving on the road at high speed.

You need to know that this vehicle has been recalled nine times by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Other issues reported by the owners of this vehicle include engine starting or stalling problems, electrical issues, and body and paint difficulties.

It is best to avoid this year at all costs.

#5 Worst Year: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee

You should not buy the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee at all.

Although there have been various complaints regarding the transmission failure, this vehicle is well known for its electrical and engine problems.

This model has approximately 200 complaints reported, and about 36% of these complaints regarded the transmission problems that made it difficult for the owners to use this vehicle.

The major problem is that the transmission can unexpectedly shift to neutral, leading to serious accidents on the road.

As for the engine, all three engines in this vehicle face a particular faulty lifter problem. Lastly, the electrical parts of this vehicle wouldn’t function properly.

#6 Worst Year: 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The problems with this 2015 model are so much like those with the 2014 model of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

However, this year was considered the worst due to the higher repair costs included and lower mileage problems.

Various complaints were regarding the rough shifting, including jerking or blocking when the gears shift. This model also faces transmission problems.

Moreover, the main transmission problems are electronic shifting. This problem occurs when you reach 12,000 miles which can cost you about $7500 to fix it completely.

That’s not all. This problem can also happen either at 6100 miles or at 7200 miles. This makes it difficult to drive, so it is best to avoid it.

What Are The Most Common Problems With The Jeep Grand Cherokee?

While researching these models, I found the most common problems with the Jeep Grand Cherokee that you must know about so you can test these issues before you plan on buying this vehicle.

It is worth mentioning that this vehicle has somewhat positive or average performance and reliability ratings since some models are worth investing in.

But due to these problems, various recalls and complaints make you not want to buy it at all. It is considered one of the problematic models due to the electrical issues involved.

So here are the most common crises faced by people with their model years for better insight:

1. Unpredictable Electronic Shifting

The Jeep Grand Cherokee was recalled by the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) in 2016.

The main reason why this happened was because of a manufacturing error that caused the part to have a loose electrical connection.

This is because of the defective brake transmission shift interlock solenoid, which makes the vehicle stay either in the park or neutral mode despite changing positions of the gears.

Due to roughly 32,000 units to deal with the reported transmission problems. Moreover, the 2014 and 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee also faced a similar transmission issue.

This happened because of the gear shift design, as it was difficult for drivers to identify the vehicle was in park mode.

This can be dangerous when driving on the road and result in serious injuries or death.

2. Integrated Power Module (TIPM) Problem

This problem commonly occurred in 2011, 2012, and the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokees.

The main reason behind this issue is that these models suffered from engine difficulties affected by a faulty fuel pump match in the Integrated Power Module (TIPM).

If this module fails to function, the vehicle will not be able to start or might make the engine stall unexpectedly during driving.

As a result, various owners complained to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) since their jeep left them stranded on the road.

Moreover, the FCA also recalled all these 2011-2013 models to deal with the issue.

But the automakers refused to accept any mistakes in the TIPM. This issue can lead to serious road injuries, so repairs must be done sooner.

3. Alternator Disappointment

The models 2012, 2013, and 2004 had the alternator issue, which can lead to a serious issue right away, such as the vehicle catching on fire while the SUV is being driven.

This can be dangerous for you, passengers, and other people driving on the road as there are high chances of explosion.

Alternator failure can cause the energy in the electrical system to drain, which can make the vehicle systems shut off completely.

As a result, the anti-lock brake system and the electronic stability control system, along with other components, were disabled.

Many people who faced this issue noticed groaning noises, smoke, and even burnt odors appearing from the hood.

Related: Why Won’t My Jeep Grand Cherokee Start?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What Is The Most Reliable Year For The Jeep Grand Cherokee?

It is stated that the best and the most reliable year for the Jeep Grand Cherokee is 2010. This is because they had fewer issues as compared to other rival years.

If you cannot find a 2010 model, then 2009, 2010, or 2016 years is also a considerable choice as they are cheap.

Q2. What Is Considered High Mileage For A Jeep Grand Cherokee?

It is said that whatever above 300,000 miles is considered to be high mileage for a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Do keep in mind that this vehicle can last up to 200,000 miles.

However, owners have various reports stating that they are still comfortable riding this model even after the odometer has reached 300,000 miles.

If you are lucky enough, your vehicle might still perform efficiently.

Related: How Long Do Jeep Grand Cherokees Last?

Q3. Is Jeep Grand Cherokee A Good To Buy?

Yes, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a good buy. It has a lot to offer, power, functionality, and an amazing innovative design that you can get at a considerable value.

Another great thing is that this option is best for economic consumers and can get the most out of it by enjoying the ride, the luxurious design, and the spacious cabin.

Q4. Are Jeep Grand Cherokees Expensive To maintain?

Although this mainly depends on how you use the vehicle, the cost of maintaining a Jeep Grand Cherokee will be about $10,484, and the repairing, which will be included for the early ten years of service.

This is considered a lot of money compared to the industry average outstanding SUV models, which are by $1600.

It is also worth mentioning that there can be a 31.13% chance for a Grand Cherokee to cost a lot more for repairing during the ten years.

Conclusion

I hope this article helped you determine the best and worst years for jeep grand Cherokee.

If you consider investing your money in buying this mid-size SUV, it should undoubtedly be the 2010 model.

As you know, it is the most reliable and comfortable automobile compared with others.

Additionally, you will not have to pay an extra amount of money for repairs because it will perform most of the time efficiently.

And the list of worst years must be avoided as they are risky options, and you will be bound to fix issues or even end up stranded on the road since the problems with them can lead to serious situations.