2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2013 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, 260 lb-ft of torque), a 5.7L Hemi V8 (360 hp, 390 lb-ft of torque), and a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (240 hp, 420 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options were limited to a 5-speed automatic transmission for the 5.7L Hemi V8 and an 8-speed automatic transmission for the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and 3.0L EcoDiesel V6. Owners often praise the Grand Cherokee for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and available 4x4 systems. Common complaints include electronic gremlins, reliability issues, and higher than average repair costs.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Cylinder Head Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some 2011-2013 3.6L Pentastar V6 engines (especially those manufactured before June 2012) suffered from a defective cylinder head. Symptoms included a ticking noise, misfires, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic oil filter housing can crack, leading to oil leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking or tapping noise from the engine, often attributed to lifter issues or exhaust manifold leaks.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is needed to determine the exact cause and the potential solution is lifter replacement or exhaust manifold repair/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the cause and repair needed)
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L EcoDiesel V6

No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (5.7L Hemi V8)

No Issues Found

8-Speed Automatic (3.6L Pentastar V6 & 3.0L EcoDiesel V6)

• Rough or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation, jerking, or harsh shifts between gears, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and software update. In some cases, valve body replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ (depending on the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (Quadra-Lift)
  • Description/Symptoms: Air suspension malfunction leading to ride height problems, system failure, or the vehicle sitting unevenly. Compressor failures and leaks in the air struts or lines are common.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air compressor, air struts, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Uconnect System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the Uconnect module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic electrical behavior, including stalling, non-starting, power windows/locks malfunctioning, fuel pump issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heated Seat/Steering Wheel Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Heated Seat/Steering wheel not working, or only working intermittently
  • Solution: Replacement of heating element or module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (depending on the part and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, especially around the sunroof or liftgate.
  • Solution: Sealing the sunroof or liftgate, clearing drain tubes.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, particularly in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee has some common issues, with electrical problems and engine issues (particularly with the 3.6L V6) being the most prevalent. Air suspension issues can also be a significant expense. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like cylinder head replacements or TIPM failures, can be costly. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common issues before purchasing and factor in potential repair costs.