2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee marked a significant redesign for the model, offering improved on-road manners and a more luxurious interior compared to its predecessors. While praised for its styling, off-road capability (especially with the Quadra-Trac and Quadra-Drive II systems), and improved fuel economy, the 2011 Grand Cherokee also experienced its share of problems. Engine options included a 3.6L Pentastar V6 (290 hp, 260 lb-ft torque) and a 5.7L Hemi V8 (360 hp, 390 lb-ft torque). Both engines were paired with a W5A580 5-speed automatic transmission. Common complaints include electrical issues, suspension problems, and some engine-related concerns. Many owners also enjoyed the interior space, styling, and performance.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Cylinder Head Failure (Early Production Models)
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, check engine light (often misfire codes), ticking noise from the cylinder head. Primarily affects vehicles built before June 2011.
- Solution: Replace the affected cylinder head (typically the left/driver’s side).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Filter Housing Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter adapter housing, often misdiagnosed as a head gasket leak.
- Solution: Replace the oil filter adapter housing. Updated part is made of aluminum instead of plastic.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$700
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- Hemi Tick
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from the engine, most noticeable at idle. While the exact cause can vary, it’s often attributed to exhaust manifold bolts breaking.
- Solution: Replacing the exhaust manifold bolts and possibly the manifold itself if warped.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,200
- Recalls: None Found
- Multiple Displacement System (MDS) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, or stalling. Error codes related to MDS solenoids or cylinder deactivation.
- Solution: Diagnosing and replacing faulty MDS solenoids. If the issue is more severe, camshaft or lifter replacement might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+, depending on the extent of the damage.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
W5A580 5-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
- Solution: Performing a transmission fluid flush (using the correct fluid type), replacing the transmission filter, or potentially replacing valve body components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$2500+, depending on the severity.
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: A shaking or shuddering sensation, typically felt at low speeds or when the torque converter locks up.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush, torque converter replacement, or complete transmission rebuild (depending on the severity).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension (Quadra-Lift) Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Air suspension failure, causing the vehicle to sag or drop on one or more corners. “Service Air Suspension System” message displayed. Compressor failing. Leaks in air lines or struts.
- Solution: Replacing the air compressor, air struts, air lines, or ride height sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per corner, depending on the component.
- Recalls: None Found
- Front Suspension Ball Joint Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Loose steering feel.
- Solution: Replacing the ball joints (often requires replacing the entire control arm).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 per side.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Random electrical issues, including stalling, failure to start, fuel pump issues, erratic wiper operation, horn sounding randomly, and issues with door locks.
- Solution: Replacing the TIPM.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: Recall #N23 addresses fuel pump relay issues, which are related to TIPM failures.
- Radio/Uconnect System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Frozen screen, failure to connect to Bluetooth, loss of audio, or complete system failure.
- Solution: Updating the Uconnect software, replacing the radio unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000, depending on needed work.
- Recalls: None Found
- Heated Seat Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Heated seats not functioning, or overheating.
- Solution: Replacing the heating element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$600
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Power Liftgate Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Liftgate failing to open or close properly, or making unusual noises.
- Solution: Replacing the liftgate motor, struts, or latch assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, leaking, or making excessive noise.
- Solution: Lubricating the sunroof tracks, replacing the sunroof motor or regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, while a significant improvement over previous generations, has some notable issues. The most concerning problems revolve around the TIPM and air suspension systems, which can lead to costly repairs. The 3.6L V6 engine is known for cylinder head issues and oil filter housing leaks. The 5.7L Hemi V8’s MDS system can also cause problems. Transmission issues such as rough shifting and torque converter shudder are also prevalent. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others can be costly, especially those related to the air suspension or electrical problems. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect these areas and consider a pre-purchase inspection.