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2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular SUV known for its off-road capability and comfortable ride. Engine options include the 4.0L Inline-6 producing 195 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, the 4.7L V8 producing 235 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and the high-performance 5.7L Hemi V8 (introduced mid-year) producing 330 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options are primarily the 4-speed automatic (42RE for the 4.0L, 45RFE and 545RFE for the V8s). Owners often praise its ruggedness and spacious interior, while common complaints revolve around fuel economy and some reliability issues, especially with age.

Engine

4.0L Inline-6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, especially from the valve cover gasket, rear main seal, and oil filter adapter. Symptoms include oil spots on the driveway, a burning oil smell, and low oil level.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the location of the leak and shop rates.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the plastic radiator end tanks, leaking hoses, and water pump failures can cause coolant leaks. Overheating can occur if not addressed.
    • Solution: Replace the radiator, hoses, or water pump as needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component and shop rates.
    • Recalls: None Found

4.7L V8

  • Valve Train Noise/Sludge Buildup
    • Description/Symptoms: The 4.7L V8 is prone to sludge buildup if oil changes are neglected, leading to valve train noise (ticking or rattling).
    • Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality oil are crucial. In severe cases, engine flush or internal cleaning may be required. In worst case scenarios, the engine needs to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ for cleaning, significantly more for engine replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Manifold Bolts
    • Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts are a common issue, leading to exhaust leaks and a ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold.
    • Solution: Replace the broken bolts. This can be a difficult job due to potential seizure.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the number of bolts and shop rates.
    • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

  • Valve Seat Issue
    • Description/Symptoms: Some 5.7L Hemi engines from this era have experienced valve seat issues, leading to misfires and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Requires engine rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Hemi Tick
    • Description/Symptoms: A ticking sound that can be heard from the engine, related to the valvetrain. Can sometimes be resolved with a higher viscosity oil or oil additives.
    • Solution: Often is ignored if the engine is running fine. In some cases, it requires a valve spring and/or lifter replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

42RE (4.0L Inline-6)

  • Overdrive Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the overdrive unit is relatively common, leading to loss of overdrive function.
    • Solution: Overhaul or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

45RFE/545RFE (4.7L & 5.7L V8)

  • Solenoid Pack Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The solenoid pack can fail, causing erratic shifting, loss of gears, or complete transmission failure.
    • Solution: Replace the solenoid pack.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Wear and tear on the valve body can lead to poor shifting and sluggish performance.
    • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • WJ front suspension issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The front suspension lower control arm bushing tends to wear out, causing clunking and rattling when driving over bumps.
    • Solution: Replace the front suspension lower control arms.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Track Bar Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn track bar bushings can cause “death wobble” or steering instability, especially at higher speeds.
    • Solution: Replace the track bar bushings or the entire track bar assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ for bushings, $100 - $400+ for the entire track bar.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ball Joints
    • Description/Symptoms: Ball joints can wear out, causing clunking noises, steering play, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replace worn ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Blend Door Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the blend door actuators can cause temperature control problems (e.g., only hot or only cold air). A clicking noise behind the dash is a common symptom.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty blend door actuator(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per actuator, depending on location and shop rates.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows are prone to failure, usually due to a faulty window regulator.
    • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent gauge failures or complete cluster failure can occur.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust is a common issue, especially in areas with road salt. Check rocker panels, floor pans, and frame rails.
    • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Door Handles
    • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, especially on the driver’s side, are prone to breaking.
    • Solution: Replace the broken door handle.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per handle.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material often sags due to failing adhesive.
    • Solution: Replace or re-glue the headliner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sun Visor Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: Sun visors lose tension over time, and may be unable to stay up in place.
    • Solution: Replace the sun visors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a capable SUV, but owners should be aware of potential issues related to its age. Engine issues range from minor leaks to more significant problems like valve seat issues in the 5.7L Hemi. Transmission problems, especially with the solenoid packs and valve bodies, can be costly to repair. Suspension components are also prone to wear, requiring replacement. Electrical issues such as blend door actuator failure are common inconveniences. Rust can be a significant concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly. Pre-purchase inspections and a thorough maintenance history are highly recommended.

Jeep, Grand Cherokee
Jeep Grand Cherokee 2004
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