2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular SUV known for its blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. Engine options for this model year include a 3.6L Pentastar V6 (295 hp, 260 lb-ft torque), a 5.7L Hemi V8 (360 hp, 390 lb-ft torque), and a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (240 hp, 420 lb-ft torque). A high-performance 6.4L Hemi V8 (475 hp, 470 lb-ft torque) was also available for the SRT trim, and a supercharged 6.2L Hemi V8 (707 hp, 645 lb-ft torque) debuted in the newly introduced Trackhawk trim. Most trims came standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the Grand Cherokee for its comfortable ride, upscale interior, and available 4x4 systems. Common complaints include some reliability issues, high repair costs, and lower fuel economy compared to some competitors.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Tick/Knock Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a ticking or knocking noise coming from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds. This is sometimes attributed to the Multiair actuator system or valve train components.
- Solution: Diagnosis involves inspecting the engine’s valve train components and Multiair system. Replacement of the faulty components is required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- Hemi Tick/Knock Noise
- Description/Symptoms: The infamous “Hemi Tick” is a common complaint. It presents as a ticking or knocking noise, often most noticeable at idle. While some consider it normal, others have experienced engine issues.
- Solution: There are varying solutions depending on the cause. Some owners have success with oil additives or a different oil filter, while others require replacement of valve lifters or other valve train components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts
- Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts can cause exhaust leaks, leading to a noticeable ticking or hissing sound, especially during cold starts.
- Solution: Broken bolts need to be extracted and replaced. Often, it’s recommended to replace all the bolts on the affected manifold.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L EcoDiesel V6
- EGR Cooler Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Exhaust gases leak into the intake manifold and can cause engine failure.
- Solution: Replace EGR Cooler and other affected components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: 2019-2022 MY Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ram 1500, and Jeep Wrangler vehicles equipped with 3.0L Diesel engines - Safety Recall V08 (2023)
- Connecting Rod Bearing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Premature connecting rod bearing failure can lead to engine knocking, vibration, and potential engine seizure. This is often linked to oil dilution issues.
- Solution: Replacement of connecting rod bearings or, in severe cases, a complete engine rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Rough Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Many owners have reported rough or delayed shifting, especially between certain gears (e.g., 2nd to 3rd). This can also manifest as hesitation during acceleration.
- Solution: Software updates can sometimes address the issue. In other cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips when the engine revs up while the vehicle doesn’t accelerate properly.
- Solution: Complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues (Quadra-Lift)
- Description/Symptoms: The Quadra-Lift air suspension system is prone to failures. Common issues include the suspension not raising or lowering properly, the vehicle leaning to one side, or warning lights appearing on the dashboard.
- Solution: Diagnosis can be complex. Common fixes involve replacing the air compressor, air struts, or ride height sensors. Leaks in the air lines are also a possibility.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Uconnect System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Problems with the Uconnect infotainment system are common. This can include freezing, crashing, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and unresponsive touchscreens.
- Solution: Sometimes, a software update can resolve the issue. Other times, the Uconnect module may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1000+ (module replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use. This can be due to a parasitic drain from a faulty module or accessory.
- Solution: Identifying the source of the parasitic drain is key. This often involves a process of elimination, disconnecting various modules to see which one is causing the drain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rear Liftgate Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or may get stuck in either position.
- Solution: Replacing the liftgate motor, struts, or latch mechanism can solve the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Heated Seat/Steering Wheel Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The heated seats or steering wheel may stop working, or may only work intermittently.
- Solution: Replacing the heating element or module can fix the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee, while a comfortable and capable SUV, exhibits several common issues. Engine problems like ticking noises in the 3.6L and 5.7L, and EGR Cooler failure in the 3.0L EcoDiesel can be concerning and costly. Transmission issues like rough shifting are also prevalent. The Quadra-Lift air suspension is another area prone to failures. Electrical problems with the Uconnect system and battery drain are also common grievances. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but owners should be aware of these potential problems when considering or maintaining a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee.