Used Jeep Grand Cherokee Quick Facts
- The original Grand Cherokee owes much of its design to American Motors Corporation, which Chrysler later took over.
- Thanks to numerous 4×4 systems, the Grand Cherokee can go places most family SUVs only dream of.
- The Grand Cherokee didn’t get a third-row seat option until 2021.
Writing about a used Jeep Grand Cherokee has proven the most vexing of all the used car reviews I’ve produced. Why? Because, over its many decades of existence, the Grand Cherokee has been described as both brilliantly capable and maddeningly unreliable. It has as many loyal fans who swear by it as it does disgruntled first-time buyers.
The Grand Cherokee is both a near-luxury SUV and a tenacious off-road warrior. It has numerous iterations between these two extremes, running the gamut from a simple 2-wheel drive grocery getter to a tire-scorching 707-horsepower lightning bolt on wheels. The Grand Cherokee is neither the most spacious SUV nor the most fuel-efficient in its category. Its cargo space is modest, its suspension is sometimes soft, and it can be a pain in the backside to work on. Yet, for all its flaws, a used Grand Cherokee remains an SUV that rides and handles better than most of its competition. It also offers luxury and safety features ahead of its time. Overall, it qualifies as one of the best off-road SUVs money can buy.
- What Is the Best Model-Year Used Jeep Grand Cherokee?
- Jeep Grand Cherokee by Generation: Which Trim Should You Buy?
- Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee a Good Off-Road Vehicle?
- How Much Can the Jeep Grand Cherokee Tow?
- Does the Jeep Grand Cherokee Offer a Third-Row Seat?
- Does the Jeep Grand Cherokee Offer a Hybrid or Plug-in Engine?
- What are the Most Reliable Years for the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
- What are the Least Reliable Years for the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
- Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee a Good Vehicle?
- What Are Some Known Issues with the Jeep Grand Cherokee
What Is the Best Model-Year Used Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Answering this question depends largely on what you want your Grand Cherokee to do. If you’re looking for a dependable five-passenger SUV with basic safety features, but not a lot of high-tech, with exceptional off-road credentials, then an older third-generation (2005-2010) or fourth-gen (2011-2020) makes a lot of sense. If you want something that turns heads, the 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk will do the trick, thanks to its 707-hp supercharged V8. If you want something more modern, with advanced driver-assist or hybrid technology, then the fifth generation (2021-current) is the obvious choice. A newer Grand Cherokee also offers the possibility of warranty coverage, either carried over or added via a certified pre-owned (CPO) program.
See used Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs near me.
Jeep Grand Cherokee by Generation: Which Trim Should You Buy?
Fifth Generation: 2021 – Current Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep launched the three-row Grand Cherokee L in 2021, followed by the five-passenger Grand Cherokee in 2022. If you’re looking for the latest in tech, a luxury car-like interior, rugged off-road capability, and a choice of engines, including a plug-in hybrid, aim for something in this time frame.
The fifth-generation Grand Cherokee (designated as WL in the series) grows larger than the last, adding a third-row seat, an incredibly opulent interior, and some of the best audio options in any SUV. In typical Jeep fashion, the Grand Cherokee offers a dizzying number of trims. They include the Laredo, Limited, Altitude, Trailhawk, Overland, and Summit. This group has even more sub-trims, such as the Laredo X. There’s also the 4xe plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).
Go with the most basic trim and you’ll get a 293-hp 3.6-liter V6. Optional is a 357-hp Hemi V8 and a plug-in hybrid in the 4xe trims, comprising a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and dual electric motors good for 375 hp. An 8-speed automatic is standard across the board.
Most Grand Cherokees come standard with rear-wheel drive, but Jeep offers three 4×4 systems. Quadra-Trac I is a full-time system that lacks a low range; Quadra-Trac II adds a two-speed transfer case, and Quadra-Drive II is a full-time system with an electronic limited-slip rear differential.
Even the base Laredo comes well equipped, including such upscale features as a digital instrument cluster, a power driver’s seat, the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and second-row captain’s chairs (L model).
Standard driver assistance includes forward collision warning and emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic detection, rear emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and rear parking sensors. Higher trims open the door to auto high-beam headlights, a 360-degree monitor, Active Driving Assistant, a digital rearview mirror, a head-up display, and night vision.
Other features that are bound to impress include a passenger-side touchscreen, ventilated and massaging seats, a 950-watt 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, a panoramic sunroof, a hands-free power liftgate, Nappa or Capri leather upholstery, auto-dimming power-folding mirrors, and ambient lighting.
Regrettably, new doesn’t necessarily mean better. The fifth-generation Grand Cherokee has had its share of issues, which probably explains its middle-of-the-road resale values. Among the things to look for are frozen or slow-to-respond touchscreens, transmission glitches, front suspension and steering problems, and some build quality complaints. To date, there are more than 10 recalls for this generation. You can see a complete list of complaints and recalls by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.
Model Year Changes
2025: No significant changes.
2024: No significant changes.
2023: Jeep drops the V8 and makes the Trailhawk PHEV only trim. More trims get high-end audio options, while the Limited and Overland trims gain navigation.
2022: Two-row, five-passenger model debuts.
See 2021 to current Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs near me.
Fourth Generation: 2011-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The fourth-generation Grand Cherokee (WK2) debuts in 2011 and continues for nearly 10 years, right up to the 2021 changeover. That’s a long run for any vehicle, so Jeep made several improvements and upgrades to keep its most popular SUV competitive. If you want to buy a reasonably priced used Grand Cherokee, you’ll want to shop this generation. This version of the Grand Cherokee shares a number of its advanced engineering techniques with the Mercedes-Benz ML, although contrary to popular belief, it was the Benz that borrowed from the Jeep, not the other way around. Jeep focuses on luxury, power, off-road ability, and safety with this generation.
The result is one of the most highly awarded SUVs in the company’s history, pulling in impressive crash test and safety scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and numerous accolades from off-road and outdoor magazines. The only organizations not thrilled by this generation Grand Cherokee are various consumer groups tracking long-term quality and reliability. Said issues aside, the Jeep offers numerous impressive features, such as a 4-wheel independent suspension with an available air suspension that can lift the Grand Cherokee 11 inches off the ground. Also optional is Selec-Terrain, a multimode system with settings for Sport, Rock, Sand, Mud, and Snow.
Under the hood, a 290-hp 3.6-liter V6 comes standard, with the 360-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8 optional. The V6 is a pretty stout engine with more than enough power for rapid acceleration, towing, off-roading, and good fuel economy. The SRT returns to the lineup, only now with a 470-hp 6.4-liter Hemi V8. After 2014, a 240-hp 3.0-liter diesel V6 that gets 28 mpg on the highway joins the lineup, but by 2020, it is no longer offered.
The ultimate absurdity arrives in 2018 when Jeep adds a 707-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8 to the Trackhawk trim. 4WD systems include Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II.
Over the model years, Jeep adds such desirable options as a dual-pane sunroof, Harman Kardon audio, ventilated front seats, and, on the Overland trims, driver aids such as adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning and braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring.
Model Year Changes:
2020: Jeep drops the diesel engine and makes a power sunroof standard on Limited and Trailhawk trims.
2019: New standard equipment includes a blind-spot monitor, while Limited and higher trims gain an 8.4-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation.
2018: The 707-hp Trackhawk debuts along with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration across the line.
2017: Revisions include an updated Trailhawk with standard Quadra-Drive II, an air suspension, and an electronic limited-slip differential. New standard equipment consists of a rearview camera and rear parking sensors.
2016: Modest cosmetic upgrades include a revised dash and console for the SRT8. Jeep tweaks the Grand Cherokee’s steering and suspension, and equips all V8 models with 4WD.
2015: The SRT8 gains five hp for a total of 475 hp.
2014: New additions include a diesel engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, forward collision warning, and the Summit trim.
2013: The Trailhawk joins the lineup, while the Overland Summit gains front park assist, power folding mirrors, and headlight washers.
2012: The SRT8 joins the lineup, V6 models get a new electrohydraulic power steering unit, and the V8’s automatic transmission provides six speeds when shifted manually.
See 2011-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs near me.
Third Generation: 2005-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep launched the third-generation Grand Cherokee in 2005, giving it the model designation WK. Designed after Daimler’s takeover of Chrysler in 1998, it features better engineering, hardier 4×4 systems, and improved build quality. The previous generation’s solid axles give way to an independent front suspension that improves ride quality and handling without sacrificing off-road capability. Engines include a 210-hp 3.7-liter V6, 215-hp 3.0-liter turbodiesel, 235-hp 4.7-liter V8 and a 330-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8. Priced competitively with other SUVs, the third-gen Grand Cherokee offers a host of options that put it in the near-luxury category.
The mix includes heated leather seats, a high-end audio system, GPS navigation, HID headlights, and driver aids like rear parking sensors. The styling is a bit angular and rather dull by today’s standards, but the familiar Jeep grille remains to set the record straight. The Grand Cherokee also includes an easily removable lower front bumper cover to improve approach angles when off-roading. The interior grows larger, but the rear seat remains snug compared to many competitors. Over its five-year run, the third-generation Grand Cherokee touts a number of firsts, including the first offering of a diesel engine and the first high-performance SRT model featuring a 415-hp 6.1-liter Hemi engine. By the end of its model run, Jeep also increases the hp on its 5.7 and 6.1-liter V8s to 357 and 420, respectively.
Model Year Changes:
2010: Jeep drops the Overland trim.
2009: Jeep drops the diesel engine, and the Hemi V8 gains a modest bump in power.
2008: The 4.7-liter V8 gains more power, and 4WD models with Quadra-Trac II gain hill descent control.
2007: New options for the SRT8 include a rear camera and remote start.
2006: Jeep adds the luxurious Overland, and makes stability control standard on all trims.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Early Years: Generation One and Two (1993-2004)
Although the first Jeep Grand Cherokee came into existence in 1993, we will condense the first two generations into a few simple sentences. If you’re looking at anything this old, we’re going to assume it’s either as a second vehicle for off-road customization or you need an SUV and have a limited budget. If the answer is the latter, don’t do it.
A Grand Cherokee that is more than 20 years old is going to come with many miles and potential issues. Like the man-eating plant in “Little Shop of Horrors,” it will devour what little budget you have left in the bank and still demand more. The first generation (1993-98) and the second (1999-2004) are similar in size and appearance. But the second generation offers more engine options as well as the superior Quadra-Drive 4×4 system that allows for full-time 4WD.
Both generations employ solid front and rear axles, which are great for off-roading but not for ride comfort and handling. Engines include a 4.0-liter inline-6, a 5.9-liter V8 (first gen), and later, a 4.7-liter V8. While all three of these engines provide solid performance and good longevity, issues around other equipment, such as transmissions, rear axles, transfer cases, and suspension parts, figure prominently in the Grand Cherokee’s poor reliability ratings. Also troubling are early Chrysler engine electrical and computer control systems, which can be challenging to diagnose and even more problematic when it comes time to find replacement parts.
Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee a Good Off-Road Vehicle?
Absolutely. For most generations, Jeep designed the Grand Cherokee to be a comfortable, luxurious SUV on the road, and a capable, rugged SUV off. The WJ, WK, WK2, and WL series have more advanced off-road systems that make them nearly equal to more expensive SUVs like the Land Rover Discovery and Toyota Land Cruiser, albeit on a smaller scale.
How Much Can a Jeep Grand Cherokee Tow?
How much a Grand Cherokee can tow depends on the year and engine. In almost all cases, the Grand Cherokee’s towing abilities will be better than a competitor’s in a similar year, like the Toyota Highlander or Nissan Xterra. The second generation can tow up to 6,500 pounds, the WK up to 7,500, and the WK2 up to 7,200 pounds with the gas engine and 7,400 with the diesel. The fifth-generation WL maxes out at 7,200 pounds with the 4×4 Hemi V8, 6,200 pounds with the 4×4 3.6-liter V6, and 6,000 pounds for the PHEV.
Does the Jeep Grand Cherokee Offer a Third-Row Seat?
The Grand Cherokee offers a third-row seat, but not until the 2021 model year.
Does the Jeep Grand Cherokee Offer a Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid Engine?
Yes, the fifth-generation Grand Cherokee offers a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with an electric-only range of 25 miles.
What are the Most Reliable Years for the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The most reliable Grand Cherokee years include 2018-2020 and 2011-2013.
What are the Least Reliable Years for the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Some of the Grand Cherokee’s most problematic years include 2005-2006, 2011-2012, and 2014. While the fifth-generation models have had more than their fair share of complaints, there’s not enough long-term data to definitively call one year worse than the other. We’d avoid the 2021 and 2022 models just due to numerous first—and second-year teething issues.
Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee a Good Vehicle?
When it comes to comfort, features, and off-road ability, the Grand Cherokee is a step ahead of most rivals. Regrettably, the big Jeep’s problematic history of recalls, electrical glitches, and overall frequency of repairs suggests it’s not for everyone.
If you’re a die-hard Jeep fan, capable of working on your vehicle, or don’t mind the occasional visit to the repair shop, then a Grand Cherokee will probably serve you well. It is a good vehicle to have in places where snow is a frequent visitor. Newer models have some very nice luxury and infotainment systems considered by many to be among the best in the industry.
What Are Some Known Issues With the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Across all five generations, there are numerous issues with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. All have lengthy recall and TSB histories, so check the NHTSA.gov website for any recalls associated with your model year. Among the more common issues with the 1st-generation Grand Cherokee are paint and rust issues, electrical problems, and leaks from the axles and transfer case. Common issues suffered by the 2nd-generation include sticking AC system blend doors and a broken steering wheel clock spring (the part inside the steering wheel that allows all the steering-wheel-mounted controls to work).
There are also issues with the 4.7-liter engine, broken radiators, and difficulties with stalling and starting. The fourth generation has a number of problems, mainly in the first few years (2011-2013). They revolve around poorly performing transmissions, engine stalling, various electrical gremlins, and the need for numerous software upgrades. From looking at Jeep forums and various rating sites, it seems the Grand Cherokee’s most prominent problems occur shortly after launching a new version. These issues lessen after about two years into production. This might suggest buying the later model years of the generation you’re looking at might be best.
