The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV that added a more luxurious option to the automaker’s lineup. At its introduction, it was one of the only SUVs with a unibody chassis, while most had a body-on-frame construction. Since 2005, more than three million Grand Cherokee models have been sold, with the most popular model years being the 2016 through 2022.
After crunching the numbers, we were able to determine which Grand Cherokee model years are the best and which are the worst.
If you are searching for a used Jeep Grand Cherokee, use our research to find a great deal. If you own a Grand Cherokee, use this information to help you budget accordingly for repairs or decide if it’s time to sell.
Our data is sourced from thousands of FIXD car scanners installed in Grand Cherokee SUVs. The reliability data pairs with owner survey information and other published reports on fuel economy, KBB values, recalls, and safety ratings to ensure the most accurate rankings.
| Best Years | Why? | Worst Years | Why? |
| 2017-2020 |
Excellent reliability ratings, good safety scores, low cost of ownership |
2005-2007 |
Reduced reliability scores, higher cost of ownership |
| 2021 |
Highest owner satisfaction scores, superior resale values |
2009-2010 |
Highest cost of ownership and extensive issues costing more than $500 to repair |
| 2014-2016 |
Great reliability scores, low cost of ownership, minimal chance of expensive repairs |
2001-2004 |
Low reliability scores, higher likelihood of mechanical failure |
| 2008 |
Owner recommended, minimal repair and maintenance cost |
2011-2013 |
Mediocre reliability scores, elevated risk of transmission and AC/heat repairs |
Jeep Grand Cherokee Engine Reliability Score, Safety Ratings, MPG and Value v.s. Maintenance & Repair Costs – Year by Year
While shopping for a Grand Cherokee SUV, this information makes it easier to decide on the best models. Our four charts help you put the pieces together, so you can easily see the engine reliability, resale values, safety scores, fuel economy, and average repair costs.
If you’re in the market for a car, take a look at our article on the USAs’ most reliable and cheapest to repair cars in the U.S. Don’t get stuck with a lemon, use our data to help you shop.
Engine Reliability Score – Over The Years
Our comprehensive chart illustrates the reliability of the Jeep Grand Cherokee models by looking at these two factors.
- The FIXD Reliability score (Green line) – our data comes from how many check engine lights are thrown by Jeep Grand Cherokee models during every 12,000 miles of driving (1 year’s worth of driving).
- The Owner Reliability score (Gray line) from Jeep Grand Cherokee owners we’ve surveyed.
The charts work on a scale between 1 and 10. 1 is the lowest the Jeep can score, with 10 as the highest. The average score is revealed as a 5.
These two lines reveal similar patterns. In the areas where you see a large gap between the two results, it generally means that owners have an extreme sense of loyalty or the FIXD data hasn’t recorded a large enough pool of Jeep Grand Cherokee owners from that model year. Either way, you want to compare this information with the other charts to ensure you see everything that’s important.
Just as with the majority of vehicles on the road today, the newer Grand Cherokee models tend to be more reliable. There are always exceptions to this statement, but you normally get more life out of a Jeep SUV that is younger in years.
Before you start shopping for a used SUV, look over the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s reliability scores to ensure you are looking at a good model. If you have a particular Jeep model year in mind, there’s more information to read in the next sections.
We also encourage you to learn more about the most common reasons for the check engine lights on Jeep models before you make your final decision.
NHTSA Safety Score – Over The Years
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) supplies consumers with the crash test reports on most vehicles, providing an average safety score for each model year. We take this data and put it in chart format, so you can see which ones are the safest for your family.
The Green line reveals the average safety rating for every Jeep Grand Cherokee model year. This line runs parallel with a Gray line, showing you the average rating among all vehicles we’ve ranked with the NHTSA scores.
This chart illustrates how the 2001-2004 and 2013-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee models have dropped below what’s considered average. Yet, only the 2001-2004 Grand Cherokee models have scores that would seem extremely low.
We recommend choosing an SUV that gets higher safety scores because it’s easier to get cheap car insurance for your used vehicle.
If you live in one of the states listed below, we can show you the cheapest vehicles to insure in yours.
| What Used Cars Are the Cheapest To Insure In: |
| Ohio |
| North Carolina |
| Michigan |
| Georgia |
| Texas |
| New York |
| Illinois |
| Pennsylvania |
| California |
MPG – Over The Years
As a Jeep Grand Cherokee driver, there are a lot of things you can accomplish with your SUV. Whether you commute to work every day or you use the vehicle for family outings, you don’t want to spend more than needed on fuel. Our graph illustrates the average Jeep Grand Cherokee fuel economy by model year. The green line reveals the average mpg for gas models, while the blue line shows the average mpg for diesel models.
You will get more for your money if you choose a diesel model, but these were only produced in certain years (2007-2008, 2014-2016, 2018-2019). If you prefer the most fuel-efficient gas-powered Grand Cherokee, you may prefer the 2016 or 2017 model.
Current Market Value of All Jeep Grand Cherokee Years & Cost Per Year to Repair and Maintain Each
If you are trying to budget for your SUV maintenance and repairs, it helps to look at what other drivers are spending. Vehicle reliability plays a big part in how much you will spend overall because a reliable vehicle doesn’t have mechanical failures as often. With every repair, you also have to consider the time you will be without your SUV, possibly paying for a rental car.
The repairs costs also influence resale values when you go to sell your Jeep Grand Cherokee. Common sense says that a new SUV with only minor issues will get you more money than if you try to sell an older model that can’t stay out of the shop. However, it’s never safe to assume that the newer models are more reliable or will cost less to maintain – always look at the data, the answers may surprise you.
If you are torn between two Grand Cherokee models and they have resale values that are similar and they have comparable reliability, you may prefer the newer car. You’ll enjoy the benefits of upgraded equipment and better features without a huge difference in price (at times).
Our estimated values compare each model year with the average mileage, as it was reported by our survey participants. When determining the KBB value, mileage plays a major role. That’s why you should run a resale report for the particular car in question before you buy or sell.
When shopping for a used Jeep Grand Cherokee, it’s important to keep in mind that not all vehicles are cared for equally. To protect yourself from lemons, take along a FIXD Sensor on your test drive. FIXD connects to a free app on your smartphone to tell you more about the vehicle you’re checking out, including check engine lights and other hidden issues that the owner or dealership may be attempting to hide. Click here to learn more and get FIXD for only $19.99 (regular price $59)!
Important Features Timeline
1996: Improved V6 engine, standard dual airbags released, Selec-Trac four-wheel-drive system upgraded
1997: Newly offered 5.2L V8 in 2WD models, refined ABS
1998: 5.9 Limited includes a 245-hp 5.9L V8 engine, Orvis model discontinued
1999: First model of the 2nd generation includes a new powertrain, 4WD system, rear suspension and updated styling
2000: Laredo receives updated styling, 2WD available with the 4.7L V8
2001: New 5-speed automatic, chrome front tow hooks come with Limited skid plate group
2002: 4.7L V8 engine receives more power, three new trim levels released (SE, Sport and Overland)
2003: Refinements improve handling and ride, new brake calipers
2004: Factory DVD navigation system included in radio, new trim levels include Columbia, Freedom and Special Edition
2005: First model of the 3rd generation includes new 4WD system, better ergonomics, and an independent front suspension
2006: Lineup expands to include Overland trim, stability control comes standard on all models
2007: Diesel engine available
2008: 4.7L V8 now outputs 305-hp, refreshed cabin
2009: 5.7L V8 engine receives a boost in power and fuel economy, SRT8 gets leather interior surfaces and a standard trip computer
2010: Overland trim discontinued, diesel motor and 4.7L V8 engine dropped
2011: First model of 4th generation includes more off-road capability
2012: Improved fuel economy, SRT8 trim returns, Overland Summit trim debuts
2013: New Trailhawk edition debuts, Overland Summit receives new standard features
2014: Refreshed exterior, 3.0L V6 engine released, new 8-speed automatic offered
2015: SRT trim receives boost to engine output
2016: 3.6L V6 includes standard automatic stop-start technology, all trims other than SRT receive standard electric-assist power steering, Overland receives new optional High Altitude package
2017: Trailhawk offers new off-road kit, revised styling for Summit trim, rear parking sensors and a rearview camera standard with all models
2018: Trackhawk trim debuts, 7” touchscreen part of standard equipment
2019: No significant changes
2020: Optional diesel engine discontinued
2021: Limited trim has an optional 80th Anniversary Edition package
2022: Completely redesigned for 5th generation, shorter and less cargo space than the Grand Cherokee L model, offers optional 4xe plug-in hybrid model
The Best Years of the Jeep Grand Cherokee
When all of the data is put together, it’s simple to see where each Grand Cherokee model stands. To pick the top choices, we put a heavy focus on the FIXD Reliability score, but that information is also balanced with the Owner Reliability score, safety ratings, fuel economy numbers, and other data. We also look at the most common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and the recalls shown by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), so you can learn even more about each model.
2017-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee
FIXD Reliability Score: 7-10/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9-10/10
KBB Value: $20,953-$30,000
Fuel Economy: 17-19 mpg (gas), 24-24.5 (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $250-$429
Safety Rating: 4.6-4.8/5
The 2017 to 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee models are all part of the 4th generation. These SUVs have great reliability scores and cost a minimal amount to maintain or repair.
The FIXD Reliability score on the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the best with a 10 out of 10, while the 2017 Grand Cherokee earns a 7 out of 10, the 2019 model gets an 8 out of 10, and the 2020 earns a near-perfect 9 out of 10. Additionally, the Owners Reliability score hits a perfect 10 out of 10 with the 2020 Grand Cherokee and a 9 out of 10 with the other three models.
The NHTSA crash testing score for the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is 4.8 (out of 5). The other three Jeep Grand Cherokee models earned 4.6 (out of 5), which isn’t anything to complain about either.
All four SUVs have a low ownership cost, with the 2019 costing the least of the group at $250 per year. Even on the higher end, the 2018 model is rated at just $429 a year. Yet, some of these Jeep models may still be covered by the factory’s 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty or 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, so the repair costs should be minimal.
With all four SUVs, we see the Evaporative Emission Control System Leak – Small (P0456) trouble code. In some cases, we found that Evaporative System Integrity Monitor (ESIM) Assembly fixed the problem, costing $200 to $560. There’s also the possibility of the Evaporative Emission Control System Malfunction (P0440) DTC, which could require the same fix.
The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee has five recalls and two investigations, while the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee is subject to nine recalls and two investigations. Additionally, the 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee has five recalls and two investigations, with the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee showing only two recalls and one investigation.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
FIXD Reliability Score: 10/10
Owner Reliability Score: 10/10
KBB Value: $26,565
Fuel Economy: 18 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $813
Safety Rating: 4.4/5
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is also part of the 4th generation but needed to be listed separately from the previous models because of the slightly increased risk of repairs.
The FIXD Reliability score on the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is as good as it gets, with a 10 out of 10. On top of that, the Owners Reliability score hits a perfect 10 out of 10.
The NHTSA crash testing score for the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is 4.4 (out of 5). Sadly, this rating does come in slightly lower than the average scores of the other vehicles we have data for, but not enough to be concerned.
While the earlier models have lower repair and maintenance costs, the 2021 data suggests an average of $813 a year. There’s also a higher chance of engine, brake, and AC/heat repairs. Yet, there are some discrepancies with this data. It’s possible that we simply haven’t polled enough 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee owners, so the numbers are skewed slightly. Considering this model is still covered by the warranty, these repair costs shouldn’t be this high across the board.
The most common problem with this Grand Cherokee model is the Evaporative Emissions Control System Incorrect Purge Flow (P0441) code. It could also suffer from the System Voltage Low (P0562) DTC. Both of these could be relatively simple fixes that don’t cost a lot to resolve.
The recalls for the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee also go up slightly over the previous years. While there are no investigations, there are eight recalls.
2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
FIXD Reliability Score: 8-9/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9/10
KBB Value: $12,215-$16,633
Fuel Economy: 17-19 mpg (gas), 24.5 (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $554-$750
Safety Rating: 4.4-4.8/5
Earlier on in the 4th generation, there were these models to choose from. These Jeep SUVs continue to get good reliability scores, and the cost of ownership doesn’t go up too high.
The FIXD Reliability score hits 8 out of 10 on the 2014 and 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee, then it rises even higher to 9 out of 10 with the 2015 Grand Cherokee. In comparison, the Owners Reliability score hits a 9 out of 10 with all three models.
The NHTSA crash testing score gets better with each model. The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee earns a 4.2 (out of 5), while the 2015 model has a 4.6 (out of 5) rating, and the 2016 Grand Cherokee is rated at 4.8 (out of 5).
Considering these are starting to age a little, the cost of ownership is impressive. On the lower end, the 2015 Grand Cherokee averages $554 a year. On the other side of the spectrum, the 2016 model is rated at $750, which still isn’t a terrible figure. Additionally, the chance of an expensive engine or transmission repair is minimal.
The three SUVs do show the Evaporative Emission Control System Leak – Small (P0456) trouble code. In many cases, it needs a new Evaporative System Integrity Monitor (ESIM) Assembly, costing $200 to $560. However, the 2014 and 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee have been showing up with the Coolant Thermostat Temperature Below Regulating Temperature (P0128) code. If this requires an engine coolant thermostat, you could spend between $477 and $512.
The bad news is that the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee is subject to 18 recalls and ten investigations. It gets better with the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee with nine recalls and seven investigations, or the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee with eight recalls and two investigations.
2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee
FIXD Reliability Score: 5/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9/10
KBB Value: $3,836
Fuel Economy: 15 mpg (gas), 19.5 (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $659
Safety Rating: 4.5/5
If you need a lower-cost option but don’t want to sacrifice reliability, the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee might be the answer.
The FIXD Reliability score hits 5 out of 10, which is an average rating. Yet, the Owners Reliability score hits a 9 out of 10, showing that drivers love this SUV.
The NHTSA crash testing score is also impressive. It has a 4.5 (out of 5) rating, so you know it’s going to be a good choice for your family.
Considering the age of this SUV, we are also impressed with the cost of ownership. At an average of $659 a year, you aren’t going to break the bank. However, there’s a slightly elevated risk of expensive brake or fuel system repairs.
There’s also the very common Evaporative Emission Control System Leak – Small (P0456) trouble code. With a new Evaporative System Integrity Monitor (ESIM) Assembly, you may only spend $200 to $560. On the other hand, there’s also the chance for the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code. If this requires a new Powertrain Control Module (PCM), you could spend between $1,021 and $1,505.
Thankfully, there are only five recalls on the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The Worst Years of the Jeep Grand Cherokee
2005-2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee
FIXD Reliability Score: 1-2/10
Owner Reliability Score: 5-8/10
KBB Value: $3,311-$4,641
Fuel Economy: 15 mpg (gas), 19.5 (diesel)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $988-$1,050
Safety Rating: 4.5/5
The beginning of the 3rd generation Grand Cherokee didn’t earn a good reputation. It suffers from higher ownership costs and more expensive repair bills.
The FIXD Reliability score stays at 1 out of 10 for the 2005 and 2007 Grand Cherokee, while the 2006 model earns a 2 out of 10. Yet, the Owners Reliability score is 5 out of 10 on the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 6 out of 10 on the 2005 model, and 8 out of 10 on the 2007 models.
The NHTSA crash testing score remains similar to the better models. It has a 4.5 (out of 5) rating, so it’s still a safe option.
Where these models suffer is with the cost of ownership. On the low side, the 2005 Jeep averages $988, but the other two models hit over $1,000 a year. Among the three models, you could also face higher chances of expensive repairs, with the 2005 and 2006 showing more engine repairs and the 2007 registering higher with the fuel system.
With either of the three, there’s a chance for the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code. However, this may only require spark plugs, costing $58 to $167. Sadly, both the 2005 and 2006 models show a pattern of the Transmission Control System Malfunction (P0700) trouble code. If it needs a new transmission, you could spend $2,528 to $3,045.
The 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee has five recalls and one investigation, while the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee shows six recalls and two investigations. Even worse, the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee has seven recalls and two investigations.
2009-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee
FIXD Reliability Score: 5-6/10
Owner Reliability Score: 7-8/10
KBB Value: $4,900-$5,252
Fuel Economy: 15-16 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $750-$1,313
Safety Rating: 4.5/5
The end of the 3rd generation only fares a little bit better but does top the charts for repair and maintenance bills.
The FIXD Reliability score is 5 out of 10 for the 2009, while the 2010 model earns a 6 out of 10. Yet, the Owners Reliability score is 7 out of 10 on the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 8 out of 10 on the 2010 models.
With a similar NHTSA crash testing score, you know it falls in line with the other models. It has a 4.5 (out of 5) rating, so still a good choice in this department.
Yet, you may go broke paying for repairs. The 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee only averages $750, but the 2009 model hits $1,313. The 2009 Jeep has also dealt with a higher chance of brake repairs, while the 2010 struggles with expensive engine and transmission problems.
The Evaporative Emission Control System Leak – Small (P0456) trouble code is common with both models. With a new Evaporative System Integrity Monitor (ESIM) Assembly, you could pay $200 to $560. The 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee also shows a higher instance of the Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code. If this requires new spark plugs, you could spend between $58 and $167.
On the bright side, the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee only has three recalls, while the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee shows five.
2001-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee
FIXD Reliability Score: 1-3/10
Owner Reliability Score: 5-7/10
KBB Value: $2,494-$3,116
Fuel Economy: 15-16 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $500-$804
Safety Rating: 3.17-3.75/5
These earlier Jeep Grand Cherokee models have low reliability scores and are only one major repair away from the junkyard.
The FIXD Reliability score is only 1 out of 10 for the 2001-2003 models, while the 2004 model is slightly upgraded to a 3 out of 10. In comparison, the Owners Reliability score is 5 out of 10 on the 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 6 out of 10 on the 2003 model, and 7 out of 10 on both the 2001 and 2004 SUVs.
Sadly, the NHTSA crash testing scores are pitiful. With a below-average ranking between 3.17 and 3.75 (out of 5), none of these models stand up against the competition.
What’s interesting is the average cost of ownership among the four models. The 2002 is ranked the lowest at just $500, while the 2004 shows an average of $804. Yet, these models struggle with some mechanical issues that could easily cost more than $500. Engine repairs are more common with the 2002 and 2004 models, while transmission issues occur among the 2001 and 2002 SUVs. All four have a high instance of expensive brake repairs too.
2001-2003 Jeep Grand Cherokees may show a Random, Multiple Misfire Detected (P0300) trouble code. If this requires new spark plugs, you could spend between $58 and $167. The 2002-2004 models also show the System Gross Leak Evaporative System Malfunction (P0455) code. Sadly, the 2001 Jeep also struggles with the Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit Malfunction (P0320) DTC. For a new crankshaft position sensor, you could spend $173 to $304.
Surprisingly, the 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee shows 12 recalls and four investigations, while the 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a whopping 16 recalls and seven investigations. Additionally, the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee sits with ten recalls and four investigations, while the 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee shows 14 recalls and four investigations.
2011-2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee
FIXD Reliability Score: 5-7/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8-9/10
KBB Value: $7,414-$9,514
Fuel Economy: 17 mpg (gas)
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $771-$979
Safety Rating: 4.4/5
The reliability scores on these Grand Cherokee models aren’t bad, but there are some higher instances of expensive repairs.
The FIXD Reliability score is only 5 out of 10 for the 2011 models, while the 2012 and 2013 model earns 7 out of 10. In comparison, the Owners Reliability score is 8 out of 10 on the 2011 and 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 9 out of 10 on the 2013 SUV model.
The NHTSA crash testing does go up from the previous option. Earning a 4.4 (out of 5) is considered good, and this SUV could be a good choice for a family.
The annual maintenance and repair cost is on the higher side, with the 2011 costing an average of $771 a year and the 2012 topping out at $979 a year. Not only that but the 2011 and 2012 suffer from expensive engine and brake repairs, while all three have a higher chance of costly transmission repairs.
We see the Evaporative Emission Control System Leak – Small (P0456) trouble code with the 2011 SUV. If the fix requires a new Evaporative System Integrity Monitor (ESIM) Assembly, you could pay $200 to $560. On top of that, the 2012 and 2013 Jeeps suffer from the Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold – Bank 2 (P0430) code. This repair could be something as expensive as a new catalytic converter.
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is subject to six recalls and five investigations, but the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee gets even worse with 11 recalls and six investigations. The 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee is just as bad, with ten recalls with five investigations.
FAQs
What years of the Jeep Grand Cherokee have engine and/or transmission problems?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee models with a higher chance of expensive engine repairs include the 2002, 2004-2006, 2010-2012, and 2021. There’s also a higher instance of transmission repairs with the 2002 and 2010-2013 SUVs.
What is considered high mileage for a Jeep Grand Cherokee?
There are varying degrees of how well the Grand Cherokee is cared for and treated and it all depends on the previous owner. Maintenance will be the most important factor, especially if you want the SUV to last more than 175,000 miles.
Based on our data, a high-mileage Jeep Grand Cherokee could be considered anything over 135,000 miles.
Older Jeep Grand Cherokee models (2001-2010) show an average mileage range between 130,000 and 184,000. The 2006 has the highest mileage in our surveys, but there are plenty that get close to 175,000 miles. As the mileage increases on Grand Cherokee models, the resale value naturally decreases. Once the Jeep has a lower resale value, it won’t be worth fixing expensive problems.
What other vehicles should I consider?
Jeep focuses heavily on its SUV lineup, so there are plenty of other options to choose from. If you want something sportier, consider the Jeep Wrangler. You could also choose something smaller, such as the Renegade, Cherokee, or Compass. There’s also the larger and more luxurious Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Wagoneer, and Grand Wagoneer.
If you want something outside of the Jeep family, consider the Ford Bronco, Toyota 4Runner, Subaru Ascent, Chevrolet Trailblazer, or Toyota Highlander. You may also like the Honda Pilot, Honda CR-V, or Dodge Durango.
What owners of the Jeep Grand Cherokee like to use their car for:
Percent based x/5-star: 0-10% = 1, 11-20% = 2, 21-30% = 3, 31-40% = 4, 41%+ = 5
| Frequent Use Categories: | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) |
| Family Vehicle | ***** |
| Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) | *** |
| Hauling/Towing | * |
| Office on Wheels | * |
| Sport/Fast Driving | * |
| Luxurious Driving | * |
| Outdoor/Off-Road | * |
A Note About Data and Information Sources
This article has many details about Jeep Grand Cherokee reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.
- FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App.
The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing.
This is an objective score.
- Owner Reliability Score & Data: This data is the result of surveying Jeep Grand Cherokee owners who use FIXD.
The Owner Reliability Score comes straight from owners of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
This is a subjective score.
To determine the Owner Reliability Score we ask each car owner:
How reliable would you say your Jeep Grand Cherokee is?
a. Just point A to point B driving
b. A Daily Commuter
c. Good for a 100 mile road trip
d. Good for a 500 mile road trip
e. I could take a cross-country road trip, no problem
From here we translate their answers into the Owner Reliability Score:
a. = 2
b. = 4
c. = 6
d. = 8
e. = 10
Keep in mind, owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is.
One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.
Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.
Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others.
It’s for this reason that we ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars.
Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these Owner Reliability Scores, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data.
We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the Owner Reliability Score for this reason.
- KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Jeep Grand Cherokee with typical mileage for that respective model year.
- Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
- Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Jeep Grand Cherokee owners
- Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph.
References
- Jeep Grand Cherokee Sales Figures, goodcarbadcar.net. Retrieved June 7, 2023, from https://www.goodcarbadcar.net/jeep-grand-cherokee-sales-figures/
- Jeep Grand Cherokee review, edmunds.com. Retrieved June 8, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/jeep/grand-cherokee/
- Jeep Brand Limited Warranty Coverage, jeep.com. Retrieved June 11, 2023, from https://www.jeep.com/warranty.html
Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he’s not working, he’s tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.
