Post
Research the Car Logo

2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Posted
By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular SUV known for its blend of on-road comfort, off-road capability, and upscale features. Engine options include the 3.6L Pentastar V6 (295 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque), the 5.7L Hemi V8 (360 hp, 390 lb-ft of torque), and the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (240 hp, 420 lb-ft of torque). All engine options are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. People often praise the Grand Cherokee for its refined interior, comfortable ride, and available technology. Common complaints include reliability issues, especially with the electrical system, and higher than average repair costs.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

  • Oil Cooler Housing Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter adapter/cooler housing, often dripping onto the ground or causing a burning smell. Can lead to engine damage if oil levels are not monitored.
    • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler housing with an updated design. Many aftermarket all-aluminum housings are available.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

  • Hemi Tick (Lifter Failure)
    • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking sound coming from the engine, often more pronounced when cold. This can be due to worn or failed lifters, particularly the needle bearings within the lifters. Can eventually lead to camshaft damage.
    • Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters and camshaft. Complete engine disassembly may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L EcoDiesel V6

  • EGR Cooler Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating. The EGR cooler can crack and leak coolant into the exhaust system.
    • Solution: Replacement of the EGR cooler.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke from exhaust, whistling sound from the turbocharger.
    • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ZF 8HP45/8HP70 8-Speed Automatic

  • Harsh Shifting/Delayed Engagement
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough shifts between gears, particularly during upshifts and downshifts. Delayed engagement when shifting into drive or reverse.
    • Solution: Software updates, transmission fluid flush, or valve body replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak, often coming from the rear of the transmission or around the pan.
    • Solution: Replacement of seals or the transmission pan.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, “Service Air Suspension” message on the dashboard, compressor failing to engage. Can be caused by leaks in the air springs, a faulty compressor, or a malfunctioning valve block.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air spring(s), compressor, or valve block.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ per corner or component
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Uconnect System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, rebooting, or failure of the Uconnect infotainment system. Loss of functionality for navigation, radio, climate control, and other features.
    • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the Uconnect module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, often one window at a time. Can be caused by a faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
    • Solution: Replacement of the window motor, regulator, or switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, especially overnight. Can be caused by a parasitic draw from various electronic components.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the parasitic draw and repair of the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (diagnosis) + cost of repair
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Faulty Sunroof Motor
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof will not open or close, or it operates erratically.
    • Solution: Replacement of the sunroof motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rear Liftgate Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power liftgate fails to open or close properly, or makes unusual noises.
    • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts, motor, or latch assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Heated Seat Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Heated seats not working, or only working intermittently.
    • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per seat
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee, while offering a compelling package of comfort and capability, has some notable reliability concerns. Engine issues, particularly with the Hemi and EcoDiesel variants, can be expensive to repair. Electrical problems, especially with the Uconnect system, are also common. While some issues can be addressed with software updates or relatively inexpensive repairs, others, such as air suspension or engine failures, can lead to significant repair bills. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision.

Jeep, Grand Cherokee
Jeep Grand Cherokee 2016
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.