2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular SUV known for its off-road capability, comfortable interior, and user-friendly technology. It was the last year of the WK2 generation before the all-new WL generation debuted. Engine options for the 2021 Grand Cherokee include a 3.6L Pentastar V6 (295 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque), a 5.7L Hemi V8 (360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.2L Supercharged V8 (707 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, available only on the Trackhawk). All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Grand Cherokee for its spaciousness, smooth ride, and available luxury features. Some common complaints revolve around fuel economy, reliability issues, and the aging design compared to newer competitors.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Engine Tick/Knock
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking or knocking sound emanating from the engine, especially when cold. This is typically related to worn rocker arms or lifters in the valvetrain.
  • Solution: Replacing the rocker arms, lifters, and potentially the camshaft.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking sound from the engine. Some sources state this is the result of improper exhaust manifold installation from the factory, but other sources state this sound is normal for the Hemi engine.
  • Solution: Replacing exhaust manifold gaskets or manifolds.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L Supercharged V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, hesitation when accelerating, or delayed engagement. This can be caused by issues with the valve body, solenoids, or internal transmission components.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve body, solenoids, or rebuilding the transmission. In some cases, a software update may resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (software update) - $5,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, failure to adjust height, compressor failure, or error messages on the dashboard. This is specific to models equipped with the Quadra-Lift air suspension system. Leaks in the air lines, struts or compressor are common causes.
  • Solution: Replacing the air struts, compressor, air lines, or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500-$1500+ for compressor replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Uconnect System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response times, or complete failure of the Uconnect infotainment system. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Performing a software update, replacing the Uconnect module, or addressing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use, requiring frequent jump-starts.
  • Solution: Replacing the battery if faulty. Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic draw caused by a faulty module or aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+ (battery replacement), $100 - $500+ (diagnostics and repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the tail light lens.
  • Solution: Replacing the tail light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per assembly
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, leaking, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters failing to work, or working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacing the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee can have a range of issues, from relatively minor electrical glitches to more significant engine or transmission problems. Issues like the “Hemi tick” or Uconnect malfunctions can be frustrating but may not be debilitating. However, air suspension failures or major transmission issues can be quite costly to repair. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider having a thorough pre-purchase inspection performed, especially on models equipped with the air suspension.