2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular SUV known for its blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. Available engines included a 3.6L Pentastar V6 (290 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque), a 5.7L Hemi V8 (360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque), and a 3.0L diesel V6 (240 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque). All engines were paired with a 5-speed or 6-speed automatic transmission, depending on the engine and trim level. Owners generally appreciate the Grand Cherokee’s stylish design, comfortable interior, and available four-wheel-drive systems. Common dislikes include reported issues with electrical components, and certain aspects of reliability.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Cylinder Head Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Certain 2012-2013 models, particularly those manufactured before June 2012, experienced cylinder head failures. Symptoms include a check engine light, misfires, rough idling, and ticking noises. The left-side cylinder head was the most commonly affected.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Cooler Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil cooler housing, which is made of plastic, is prone to cracking and leaking oil. This can lead to oil loss, engine overheating, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the oil cooler housing with an updated aluminum version.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: A distinct ticking noise emanating from the engine, often described as the “Hemi tick.” The cause is debated, but it’s often attributed to lifter issues, exhaust manifold leaks, or piston slap. While not always indicative of immediate failure, it can be concerning.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is key. Potential fixes range from exhaust manifold repair to lifter replacement or engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (exhaust manifold) - $5,000+ (engine rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolts
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts, leading to exhaust leaks and a noticeable ticking sound, especially when the engine is cold.
  • Solution: Replacing the broken bolts, often requiring professional extraction to avoid damaging the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Diesel V6 No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (W5A580) No Issues Found

6-Speed Automatic (65RFE)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh shifting, slipping between gears, and delayed engagement, particularly when shifting into reverse. Can be caused by valve body issues, solenoid failures, or wear in the transmission internals.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is essential. May require valve body replacement, solenoid replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 (solenoid) - $4,000+ (transmission rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension (if equipped) - Compressor Failure/Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: On models equipped with the Quadra-Lift air suspension system, issues with the air compressor are common. This can cause the vehicle to sag, not maintain proper ride height, or display error messages. Air leaks in the system can also contribute.
  • Solution: Replacing the air compressor, identifying and repairing air leaks (often at the air struts).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension (if equipped) - Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks in the air strut will cause issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500 per strut.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The TIPM is a common source of electrical issues in this generation of Grand Cherokee. Symptoms can include fuel pump relay failure (resulting in no-start conditions), stalling, random electrical malfunctions (lights, wipers, etc.), and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio/Navigation System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Uconnect system can experience glitches, freezing, touchscreen unresponsiveness, and Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Liftgate Wiring Harness
  • Description/Symptoms: The wiring harness that runs to the rear liftgate can develop breaks and shorts due to repeated opening and closing. This can cause issues with the liftgate latch, rear wiper, and rear lights.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heated Seat Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the heated seats, either not heating or overheating.
  • Solution: Replacing the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee, while a capable and stylish SUV, has several potential issues to be aware of. Engine problems, particularly with the 3.6L V6 (cylinder head) and 5.7L V8 (“Hemi tick”), can lead to costly repairs. The transmission can exhibit issues, especially harsh shifting. Electrical problems, notably with the TIPM, are a common concern. The air suspension system, if equipped, is prone to failures. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to major repairs. The estimated costs to fix can be relatively high, making it crucial to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic.