Jeep is amongst the most popular American-made cars, and the Grand Cherokee has long been in the market. This mid-size SUV performs well on- and off-road while having a luxurious looking interior, but some owners have reported early problems with some of its parts, leading most to wonder how long do Jeep Grand Cherokees last. That is, especially since there is a growing number of second-hand Grand Cherokees sold today.
So, how long do Jeep Grand Cherokees last? As similar to any other vehicle, the lifespan of the Grand Cherokee depends on its model year or engine type plus how you use and how well you maintain it. That said, according to most users, the Grand Cherokee has an average maximum lifespan of 20 years.
However, not just because the Jeep Grand Cherokee can last up to 20 years, it doesn’t mean it is always safe to purchase a used unit that is less than 20 years old. You must also consider the mileage, as well as one of the main factors that affect its performance and longevity, which is maintenance.
As such, let’s learn how many miles you can get out of the Grand Cherokee and determine whether or not it is a good car to buy.
How Many Miles Can You Get Out of a Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Whether you’re planning to buy a brand-new or used Grand Cherokee, it is wise to know the average maximum mileage you can get out of it. This way, you know you’re investing in a car that will last you as much as you need and want it.
Do note, though, that the mileage is not the sole basis of buying a car, but just one of the essential things to consider.
With all those in mind, much like the average lifespan of the Grand Cherokee, the average maximum miles that the unit can perform well depends on the model year. Here are some of the mileage, wherein the car still works fine, shared by most users and professional auto-mechanics:
| Model | Mileage |
|---|---|
| 1994 Grand Cherokee | 214,149 |
| 1995 Grand Cherokee | 117,328 and 246,000 |
| 1995 Grand Cherokee Limited | 295,000 |
| 1996 Grand Cherokee Laredo | 190,000 |
| 1997 Grand Cherokee | 150,000, 230,000, and 282,000 |
| 1999 Grand Cherokee | 150,000 |
| 2000 Grand Cherokee Limited | 114,000 and 294,000 |
| 2001 Grand Cherokee WJ | 130,000 |
| 2001 Grand Cherokee Laredo | 150,000 |
| 2002 Grand Cherokee Laredo Sport | 278,000 |
| 2011 Grand Cherokee | 300,000 |
Looking at the data above, we can say that a Jeep Grand Cherokee can provide you up to 300,000 miles of use. In fact, there are even those that can reach more than 300K. Nevertheless, professionals suggest that it is best to purchase a Grand Cherokee that has less than 300,000 mileage.
Additionally, note that the provided numbers do not specify whether these units have been maintained well or not, as well as what repairs have been done.
Since maintenance is a top factor in prolonging the life of your Grand Cherokee and for it to perform well even with high mileage, understanding its maintenance and repair needs is essential.
Grand Cherokee Maintenance and Repair
As compared with other mid-size SUVs, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has an average maintenance cost, which is around USD666. The frequency of unscheduled repair and severity of problems are also of the average, which is 0.3 times annually and 13%, respectively.
With that in mind, here is the recommended maintenance schedule for Grand Cherokee maintenance:
- 7,500 Miles: Your new Grand Cherokee’s first maintenance schedule will be when it reaches 7,500 mileage reading, which is approximately after six months of regular use. This includes changing the oil and filter, as well as tire rotation, if the treads are uneven already.
- 15,000 Miles: The 15K mark would most probably be reached when you have used your Grand Cherokee for about a year. During this period, the same maintenance procedures as the first one will be done, plus brake pad checks and/or changes.
- 30,000 Miles: At around two years of usage, the Jeep Grand Cherokee might have worn-out tires already, so they would need replacement. Both cabin air and engine air filters plus the timing and driving belts, as well as the spark plug, should also be replaced. Your auto-mechanic would also flush out and change your Cherokee’s transmission fluid, engine coolant, and differential fluid. All hoses will also be checked for possible leakages to determine if they need to be changed as well.
- 90,000 Miles: Reaching this mileage, added maintenance procedures are replacement of shock absorbers and hoses, especially the engine coolant hose.
The maintenance schedule provided above is just a guide. The dealership will give you a maintenance schedule guide covered by the car’s warranty. As such, it is best to have your Grand Cherokee maintained in their provided or authorized service centers.
Are Jeep Grand Cherokees Good Cars?
With the high average mileage capability, possible extended lifespan, and average maintenance and repair needs, is the Grand Cherokee a good vehicle to purchase?
Definitely, it is, but, of course, like other vehicles out there, it does come with problems. In fact, there were times when the Grand Cherokee has been recalled.
Common Grand Cherokee Problems
Eventually, your Grand Cherokee will encounter problems when used regularly and when not routinely maintained. Nonetheless, some issues will come before the others, and here the top five reported by repair centers, auto-mechanics, and users:
1. Front Brake Rotor Warping
The front brake rotors usually warp due to heat. When this happens, you would feel or notice vibrations in the steering wheel and pedal when you hit on your Cherokee’s brake pedal. That increases stopping distance, making your ride uncomfortable and unsafe.
The only solution to this issue is to remove the warped rotors and replaced them with new ones. Better yet, install high-performing and warp-resistant rotors.
2. Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) Failure
Usually found on newer Grand Cherokee models, TIPM is responsible for controlling most of the vehicle’s electrical systems such as the lights, ETC, fuel pump, and power windows. For this, you need to remove the old module and change it.
3. Non-Functional Power Window
A faulty power window, particularly the driver seat’s window, is a problem most Grand Cherokee owner’s encounter. This does not mean though that issues with both rear and front windows do not occur; it does, but it is less common.
If the TIPM is not the problem, it would either be the power window motor or seating bracket. To resolve, just replace the problematic part.
4. Inaccurate Thermostat
The thermostat is a fundamental part of your Grand Cherokee or any vehicle because it helps you determine the temperature your engine is currently at. With such information, you can avoid engine overheat, which, when happens, becomes an expensive problem.
The good thing is that the check engine light will illuminate if there is a problem with the thermostat. Likewise, replacing the thermostat is not expensive, and the part is easy to find.
5. Keyless Remote and Ignition System Signal Integration Loss
Newer models of Grand Cherokee come with a keyless remote entry that works well with the unit’s ignition system.
Some users, though, have experienced losing the integration between the two, and this is usually due to an electronic WCM (wireless control module) failure. Hence, to solve this problem, replace the WCM.
Grand Cherokee Recalls
From 1993 to 2017, there were 226 recalls of Grand Cherokee models. Some of the common issues for the recall are:
- electrical, such as vanity lamp shortage, loose tow hook bracket, and alternator failure;
- fuel system, including fuel rail tube damage and fuel line separation;
- incorrect brake booster shield installation;
- and supercharger bracket issue.
Being in the market since 1993, the number of times the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been recalled is not something to worry about. The good thing is that the manufacturer was also quick to recall the units.
Final Words
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is an SUV ideal for people who need and want a vehicle for daily use as well as for outdoor adventures. To make it a more comfortable ride, it is best to add a custom fit car seat cover (View on Amazon).
Though the Grand Cherokee comes with issues, they are not complicated and expensive to resolve. Additionally, you really won’t find a perfect vehicle or one that has no problem at all.
What’s excellent about this model is that it can last long and can work fine even when its mileage is high. Make sure to keep track of the maintenance schedule and have it repaired by reliable auto-mechanics.
If you intend to buy a Grand Cherokee, you can choose from five different trim levels. These include Upland, Laredo, Laredo E, Limited, and Limited X.
For those who want a brand-new unit and can wait for a few months, you would be happy to know that the manufacturer will launch a redesigned Grand Cherokee late 2020, and will be Jeep’s 2021 model.
Kris is an avid off-roader and outdoor enthusiast who loves to brave the elements and take on challenging terrain. He also enjoys sharing his passion and knowledge with others so that they, too, can appreciate the ride.
About Kris