2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Overview

The 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee, part of the WJ generation’s later years, offered a blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort. It came with a choice of robust powertrains, including inline-six and V8 gasoline engines, and a capable four-wheel-drive system. While generally considered a solid vehicle for its time, like any automotive model, it has specific areas that have shown a propensity for issues over time. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical concerns reported by owners and technicians, excluding routine maintenance and expected wear.

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Engine

4.0L I6 PowerTech

Cracked Cylinder Head

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, rough idle.
• Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head.
• Cost: $1,200 - $2,500

Oil Filter Adapter O-ring Leak

• Symptoms: Oil leaks around the oil filter housing, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of the O-ring seals.
• Cost: $100 - $250

4.7L V8 Magnum

Cracked Cylinder Head

• Symptoms: Similar to the 4.0L: overheating, coolant loss, white smoke, rough idle.
• Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head.
• Cost: $1,500 - $3,000

Intake Manifold Gasket Leak

• Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, poor engine performance, coolant leaks.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Transmission

42RE (4-Speed Automatic)

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, delayed engagement, overheating.
• Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the torque converter and potentially transmission.
• Cost: $800 - $2,000

45RFE/545RFE (4-Speed Automatic)

Solenoid Pack Failure

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, transmission slipping, failure to shift into certain gears.
• Solution: Replacement of the solenoid pack.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Leaking Shocks/Struts

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, visible fluid leaks on shock bodies.
• Solution: Replacement of worn shocks or struts.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

BCM Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Intermittent power windows, door locks, interior lights, gauge cluster issues.
• Solution: Reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1,000

Alternator

Premature Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, dead battery, electrical system issues.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Exterior

Body Panels

Rust on Body and Frame

• Symptoms: Visible rust, particularly on rocker panels, wheel wells, and frame rails, especially in rust-belt regions.
• Solution: Rust repair and treatment, or replacement of affected panels/frame sections.
• Cost: $500 - $3,000+

Tailgate Latch

Tailgate Latch Failure

• Symptoms: Tailgate will not open or close properly, can become stuck.
• Solution: Replacement of the tailgate latch mechanism.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Interior

HVAC System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), air only coming from certain vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator(s).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Headliner

Sagging Headliner

• Symptoms: Headliner fabric detaches and sags, especially in warmer climates.
• Solution: Re-gluing or replacement of the headliner.
• Cost: $150 - $400

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Summary Verdict

The 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee, while offering a compelling package for its segment, exhibits some common reliability concerns typical of vehicles of its age and design. The 4.0L and 4.7L engines are prone to cylinder head issues and leaks, while transmissions can experience torque converter or solenoid problems. Suspension components like ball joints and tie rods require regular inspection. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the BCM and alternator, are not uncommon. Exterior rust can be a significant issue in certain climates, and interior climate control problems are frequently reported. Despite these potential issues, many Grand Cherokees remain on the road, often requiring proactive maintenance and repairs to address these known weak points.