The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a great vehicle. It has been around for over decades and has built quite a reputation over the years. It's one of the toughest, well-performing, and longest-lasting SUVs on the market. With up-gradations in the following models, it got better in performance and overall utility. However, some years stuck out like a sore thumb and were not received very well by the public.Three models, in particular, faced several reports with quality control and were recalled by the firm for several fixes. These Jeep Grand Cherokee models got poor ratings and encountered a lot of complaints from the users.
Buying a vehicle is a significant expenditure, and you don't want to spend a fortune only to regret it later. So, before heading out to buy a Jeep Grand Cherokee, you need to know what year models you should avoid. In this blog, we'll discuss the models you must avoid and why. Plus, we will share a reliable place where you can get the answers to all your questions in detail.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Models You Need to Avoid and Why
While making such a big purchase, it's always best to be on the safe side. So, you should know the most likely Jeep Grand Cherokee models to have technical difficulties and flaws.
The three models that you need to be wary of are 2011, 2014, and 2015. These models are considered the worst based on the data collected about user experience and complaints. Let's quickly look at the issues with the models you should avoid.
2011
Major Issues:
TIMP
Interior Styling
Electric Wiring
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the model to have received the most complaints. With a high maintenance cost and low mileage, it is one model you must avoid at all costs. It was the first model of the fourth generation, and technically it was supposed to have added more value and features than the previous generation. However, this wasn't the case, and people were having the same engine issues as the 2010 model.
Apart from the engine, several complaints about the internal accessories and electric wiring were also reported. The main issue was located in the new TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), and the users were having a hard time getting the car started. Other issues with the 2011 model surfaced with suspension, transmission, brakes, and fuel system.
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee model was filled with problems that led to a lot of user dissatisfaction. It was recalled six times for the following reasons.
Brake Booster Shield: It affected the braking system as the centre brake booster shield was not resistant to water. It corroded and allowed the water to enter, adversely affecting the brakes.
Wiring: There were some issues with the wiring system of the vanity lamp, which posed a risk of short circuit and fire.
TIPM: The failure of TIPM's fuel pump relay impacted the engine severely. It increased the risk of clashes as the car would stall unexpectedly.
2014
Major Issues:
Airbags
Electronic control system
Engine
Transmission
The 2014 model was a later variant of the fourth generation. It improved on a few of the issues of the previous model and featured a powerful engine, comfortable interior, and improved electric system. However, despite the changes, there were some shortcomings with the engine's performance, brakes, and interior accessories.
The major complaints were about the transmission, particularly the jerky or rough gear shifting. Other problems were with the brakes and parking system.
The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee model was recalled 11 times for the following problems.
Brake Booster Shield: The same issue from the previous model appeared again and affected the braking mechanisms.
Airbags: Several users reported the issue with the front and side airbags being disabled. The malfunctioning of the indicator was also noticed by many.
Electronic Stability Control: The electronic stability control created problems for the driver to control the vehicle and raised concerns about crashing.
Speed Control: The speed control issues caused the vehicle to accelerate even when the driver released the accelerator pedal.
2015
Major Issues:
Suspension
Wiring system
Engine
The following 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee model was much better in terms of engine and brake problems. However, it was still not able to eradicate all the problems. Users were facing similar transmission problems from the 2014 model. Some other problems were registered with suspension, electronics, and brakes.
The 2015 model was recalled 5 times, and here are the reasons:
Rear Suspension: Some of the units might have had rear suspensions that were not stable. This led to the 'fracture' of the rear-end and affected the brake and rear-end stability.
Hydraulics or Service Brake: Many units had problems with the calliper breaking easily. It increased the risk of collision since the user had to apply the brakes sooner than usual.
Electronics: Electronic appliances like radios had some software shortcomings and could've been breached by third-party access.
Automatic Transmission: It was difficult to move and lock the gear to park mode.
Where to Find the Right Answers?
Above, we mentioned the three worst-performing Jeep Grand Cherokee models. However, the answer to this question may be different for you due to the difference in preference. It's difficult to ascertain what model would be the best or the worst for you.
You can look it up on online forums, check with local technicians or consult automobile experts like Just Jeeps.
Why Choose Just Jeeps?
It's been more than 3 decades for Just Jeeps serving in the automobile industry. They have the required experience and expertise to handle all your problems. Their knowledgeable staff will surely resolve all your queries about what Jeep Grand Cherokee you should avoid.
They are known for providing quality automobile parts and technical assistance. The experts at Just Jeeps will help you land the right answers. Check out their physical store or visit their website to know more.