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2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ) is a popular SUV known for its off-road capability and comfortable ride. The engine options available for the 2002 model year include the 4.0L Inline-6, which produces around 195 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, the 4.7L PowerTech V8 producing approximately 235 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and the 2.7L Mercedes-Benz Inline-5 Diesel. The transmissions available were the 42RE and 45RFE 4-speed automatic transmissions, depending on the engine. Owners generally appreciate the Grand Cherokee’s ruggedness, spaciousness, and off-road prowess. However, some common dislikes include its fuel economy, electrical quirks, and tendency for certain parts to fail.

Engine

4.0L Inline-6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the ground, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the source of the leak and if you do it yourself or take it to a shop.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Overheating
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating can occur due to a failing radiator, water pump, thermostat, or clogged cooling system. Symptoms include a rising temperature gauge, steam from the engine bay, and coolant leaks.
    • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the overheating and replace the faulty components. Flushing the cooling system can also help.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the part that needs replaced and whether you do it yourself or take it to a shop.
    • Recalls: None Found

4.7L PowerTech V8

  • Sludge Buildup
    • Description/Symptoms: The 4.7L V8 is known for being prone to sludge buildup if oil changes are not performed regularly. This can lead to reduced oil pressure, engine knocking, and eventual engine failure.
    • Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil can help prevent sludge buildup. If sludge is already present, engine flushing or disassembly and cleaning may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300 for an engine flush, $1000+ for engine disassembly and cleaning.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Seats
    • Description/Symptoms: The valve seats can come loose due to design, materials, overheating, or age.
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild the heads
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.7L Mercedes-Benz Inline-5 Diesel

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger can fail due to oil starvation or wear and tear. Symptoms include a loss of power, excessive black smoke, and a whining noise from the turbocharger.
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Fuel Injector Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The fuel injectors can become clogged or fail, leading to rough running, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

42RE (4.0L Inline-6)

  • Soft Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The 42RE transmission can develop soft or slipping shifts, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear. This is often caused by worn clutches or a failing valve body.
    • Solution: A transmission rebuild or replacement is usually necessary. A valve body replacement might also resolve the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found

45RFE (4.7L V8)

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, leading to shuddering, stalling, or a complete loss of power transfer.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Ball Joints
    • Description/Symptoms: Ball joints are prone to wear, leading to clunking noises, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Control Arm Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Control arm bushings can wear out, leading to clunking noises, vibrations, and poor handling.
    • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per control arm.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Blend Door Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The blend door actuator controls the temperature of the air coming from the vents. When it fails, you may have only hot or cold air, regardless of the temperature setting. Clicking noises from behind the dashboard are also common.
    • Solution: Replace the blend door actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working due to a faulty window regulator.
    • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust can occur in areas like the rocker panels, door bottoms, and around the wheel wells, especially in regions with harsh winters or road salt usage.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted body panels.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per panel, depending on the extent of the rust.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner can sag or detach from the roof due to age and heat exposure.
    • Solution: Replace the headliner or have it re-glued.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ) has several common issues, ranging from engine and transmission problems to electrical and suspension concerns. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with some requiring relatively inexpensive fixes (e.g., replacing blend door actuators) while others demand more significant investments (e.g., transmission rebuilds or engine repairs). Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before making a purchase. Addressing regular maintenance items like oil changes and addressing smaller issues promptly can help prevent more costly repairs down the road.

Jeep, Grand Cherokee
Jeep Grand Cherokee 2002
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