2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular SUV known for its blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. It offers a range of engine options, including the standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 (295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque), the 5.7L Hemi V8 (360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque), and the high-performance 6.4L Hemi V8 (475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque) in the SRT model, and the supercharged 6.2L Hemi V8 (707 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque) in the Trackhawk. All engine options are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate its comfortable ride, upscale interior, and available four-wheel-drive systems. Some common complaints include its fuel economy, reliability issues, and the infotainment system’s complexity.
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
- Tick/Knock Noise on Cold Start
- Description/Symptoms: A ticking or knocking noise is present upon starting the engine, particularly when cold. The noise usually diminishes as the engine warms up. This is often attributed to the design of the cylinder heads.
- Solution: In some cases, the cylinder head may need to be replaced. There is a TSB out for this issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
5.7L Hemi V8
- Hemi Tick
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking sound, often described as the “Hemi Tick,” is present during engine operation. This is often related to the MDS (Multi-Displacement System) lifters or exhaust manifold bolts.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the affected lifters, replacing exhaust manifold bolts, or potentially replacing the exhaust manifold.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the cause)
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts
- Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts can cause exhaust leaks, leading to a ticking or hissing sound, especially upon startup. You may also notice a decrease in fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacement of broken exhaust manifold bolts. In severe cases, the exhaust manifold itself might need replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.4L Hemi V8
- Hemi Tick
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking sound, often described as the “Hemi Tick,” is present during engine operation. This is often related to the MDS (Multi-Displacement System) lifters or exhaust manifold bolts.
- Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the affected lifters, replacing exhaust manifold bolts, or potentially replacing the exhaust manifold.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the cause)
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Bolts
- Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts can cause exhaust leaks, leading to a ticking or hissing sound, especially upon startup. You may also notice a decrease in fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacement of broken exhaust manifold bolts. In severe cases, the exhaust manifold itself might need replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L Hemi V8 * No Issues Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (All Engines)
- Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing harsh or jerky shifts, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation during acceleration can also be present.
- Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (for software update) - $1,500+ (for valve body replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system may fail, causing the vehicle to sag or become uneven. Error messages related to the air suspension system may also appear.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the air suspension system components, including air struts, compressor, and air lines. Replacement of faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ (depending on the affected component)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Uconnect System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The Uconnect infotainment system may experience freezing, lagging, or connectivity issues. Bluetooth pairing problems and touchscreen unresponsiveness are also common.
- Solution: Performing a software update to the Uconnect system or replacing the head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update is available) - $1,500+ (for head unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain can leave the vehicle unable to start.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw and replacement of the faulty module that is causing the drain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rear Liftgate Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The automatic rear liftgate may fail to open or close properly. It could get stuck, make unusual noises, or not respond to the key fob.
- Solution: Replacing the liftgate actuator or motor. Adjusting the liftgate struts or hinges.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Heated Seat Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The heated seats may fail to function or may not provide adequate heat.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the heated seat element, control module, or wiring harness. Replacement of faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, while offering a comfortable and capable driving experience, has its share of common issues. Engine problems, such as the “Hemi Tick” and exhaust manifold issues in V8 models, and cold start knocking noises in the V6, can be costly to repair. The 8-speed automatic transmission can experience harsh shifting, requiring software updates or valve body replacement. Electrical issues, particularly with the Uconnect system, are also prevalent. Air suspension failures, if equipped, can add to the maintenance burden. While some issues are minor annoyances, others can lead to significant repair bills, making it important for potential buyers to carefully inspect the vehicle and be aware of these potential problems.