GradeJeep Grand Cherokee Reliability Grade
Below-average reliability
Grade a specific Jeep Grand Cherokee
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee earns a C overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a C for its engine and a C- for its transmission. It ranks 15th of 23 midsize SUVs we grade. Both its engine (C) and transmission (C-) grade poorly, so a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic is a must. Grades are based on 8,196 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Jeep Grand Cherokee reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2003
Years to avoid: 2000 (overheating / coolant leaks), 2001 (transmission slipping / rough shifting), 2005 (stalling / loss of power), 2007–2008 (stalling / loss of power), 2011–2012 (stalling / loss of power), 2014–2015 (transmission slipping / rough shifting) and 2023 (stalling / loss of power)
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the Jeep Grand Cherokee last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. other midsize SUVs
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Murano | A | A | A |
| Toyota 4Runner | A | A | A |
| Buick Enclave | A- | B+ | A- |
| Toyota Highlander | A- | B- | B+ |
| Mazda CX-9 | B- | B+ | B+ |
| Subaru Outback | B+ | B | B |
| Chevrolet Traverse | B | C+ | B- |
| GMC Acadia | B | C | B- |
| Dodge Journey | B- | B- | B- |
| Honda Pilot | C | C+ | C+ |
| Nissan Pathfinder | B- | C | C+ |
| Subaru Ascent | B | C- | C+ |
| Chevrolet Blazer | C+ | C- | C+ |
| Dodge Durango | B- | C+ | C+ |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | C | C- | C |
| Volkswagen Atlas | C- | B | C |
| Ford Explorer | C+ | C | C- |
| Honda Passport | C | C | C- |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | D | C- | D |
| Kia Sorento | D | C- | D |
| Ford Edge | C | D | D |
| Hyundai Palisade | D | D | F |
| Kia Telluride | D | D | F |
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Rate your Grand CherokeeJeep Grand Cherokee reliability FAQ
Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee reliable?
Below-average reliability. The Jeep Grand Cherokee earns a C overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a C for its engine and a C- for its transmission. It ranks 15th of 23 midsize SUVs we grade. Both its engine (C) and transmission (C-) grade poorly, so a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic is a must. Grades are based on 8,196 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Jeep Grand Cherokee last?
We estimate a well-maintained Jeep Grand Cherokee lasts around 180,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Jeep Grand Cherokee model years are 2003.
What Jeep Grand Cherokee years should I avoid?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the Jeep Grand Cherokee years to be most careful with are 2000, 2001, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2023. The 2000 grades an F overall (engine D, transmission C-), and its top engine/transmission problem is overheating / coolant leaks. The 2012 grades an F overall (engine F, transmission C-), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power, which a recall covers.
Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Jeep Grand Cherokee transmission a C- (below-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Jeep Grand Cherokee engine a C (below-average reliability).