2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV known for its off-road capability and available V8 power. Engine options for the 2009 model year included a 3.7L V6 (210 hp, 235 lb-ft of torque), a 4.7L V8 (305 hp, 334 lb-ft of torque), and a 5.7L Hemi V8 (357 hp, 389 lb-ft of torque). The 3.7L V6 came with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the V8 engines were paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the Grand Cherokee’s ruggedness, towing capacity (especially with the V8), and comfortable ride. Common dislikes include its fuel economy, some reliability issues, and the aging design.
Engine
3.7L V6
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common issue, often originating from the oil filter adapter housing. This can lead to oil spots on the driveway and potential engine damage if not addressed.
- Solution: Replacing the oil filter adapter housing with a revised part.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
4.7L V8
- Valve Seat Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The 4.7L V8 engine has had issues with valve seats dropping or coming loose. This can cause a significant loss of compression and engine misfires.
- Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioners can fail, leading to a rattling noise at startup and potential timing issues if left unresolved.
- Solution: Replacing the timing chain and tensioners.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- Hemi Tick
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking sound, especially at idle. Often attributed to exhaust manifold leaks.
- Solution: Replacing the exhaust manifold and gaskets. Sometimes requires replacing broken exhaust manifold bolts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise and a loss of performance or misfires.
- Solution: Engine teardown and replacement of the failed lifter(s). This is often very labor-intensive.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic (3.7L V6)
- Slipping/Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears or experiencing harsh shifts. Can worsen over time.
- Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. In some cases, a valve body replacement can resolve the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Automatic (4.7L & 5.7L V8)
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when the torque converter is trying to lock up. Can also cause stalling.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Lower Ball Joint Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and loose steering.
- Solution: Replacing the lower ball joints. Often recommended to replace both sides.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Suspension Problems (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, compressor failure, “Service Air Suspension” message.
- Solution: Replacing faulty air struts, compressor, or ride height sensors. Sometimes requires replacing air lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the component)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent starting problems, fuel pump relay failure, stalling, lights flickering, and other electrical gremlins. A very common and frustrating issue.
- Solution: Replacing the TIPM. Note that even new TIPMs are not always a permanent fix, and some people have opted for aftermarket solutions (fuel pump relay bypass kits).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: This has been subject to multiple investigations. There was a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V530000) related to fuel pump relay issues, but many owners have reported issues not covered by the recall.
- Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Wipers failing to operate or operating intermittently.
- Solution: Windshield wiper motor replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rear Hatch Wiring Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rear window not opening, rear wiper not working, or license plate lights failing due to broken wires in the harness that runs to the hatch.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the wiring harness in the rear hatch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
- Rust
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive rusting on the undercarriage and body panels, especially in areas where salt is used on roads.
- Solution: Addressing rust with rust converter, filler, and paint. Severe rust may require panel replacement or rendering the vehicle unrepairable.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on severity.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, leaking, or failing to open/close properly.
- Solution: Replacing sunroof motor or components. In some cases, the entire sunroof assembly needs to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Temperature only blowing hot or cold, or different temperatures on the driver and passenger sides. Clicking noises behind the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty blend door actuator. Can be labor-intensive as the actuators are often difficult to access.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
Summary
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee has some notable potential issues. The TIPM failure is a significant concern due to its wide-ranging effects and difficulty in resolving permanently. Engine issues like valve seat failure on the 4.7L and lifter failure on the 5.7L can be very expensive. Suspension and transmission issues are also common and can lead to costly repairs. The overall severity ranges from minor electrical glitches to major engine and transmission problems. Cost-wise, potential owners should be prepared for a range of repair bills from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, especially if major components need replacement. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.