The Most Common 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Problems: A Comprehensive Guide
Since the first Jeep Grand Cherokee was sold in 1992, this midsize SUV has been a favorite among Jeep fans and casual drivers. Like most automakers, Jeep revamps its most popular models every few years to keep them fresh and appealing. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is no different.
The 2021 model year marked the start of the fifth generation of Jeep Grand Cherokees. While the vehicle is more stylish and capable than its predecessor, several recurring 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems have tarnished the reputation of this iconic SUV.
However, the Grand Cherokee’s problems did not start in 2021. Jeep Grand Cherokee 1 problems included many of the same issues as fifth-generation models, including powertrain concerns, electrical mishaps, and more.
Significant problems with Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs can be linked to every generation. These problems hit the 4th generation model years 2011–2015 the hardest.
Luckily, the 21 Jeep Grand Cherokee is much more reliable than the first few iterations of 4th gen models. The bad news is that you must know about major Jeep Grand Cherokee issues affecting these vehicles. This guide will highlight the most common ones and offer a few solutions to resolve them.
Is the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliable?
Overall, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is considered a reliable vehicle. It has a reliability score of 84 out of 100 from JD Power. However, CarHP ranks it 13th among midsize SUVs released that year.
Perennial favorites like the Lexus RX and Lincoln Aviator outrank the vehicle. However, luxury SUVs are not the only class of vehicles that outpace the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee in terms of reliability and performance. The Toyota Highlander, Kia Sorento, Honda Passport, and Mazda CX-9 also ranked ahead of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
At first glance, this may seem a bit baffling. After all, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in several different trim levels. Even if you opt for an entry trim level like the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, you will enjoy great comfort, convenience, and performance features. However, the SUV’s abundance of trim and equipment options is overshadowed by various issues.
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been the subject of nine different recalls. The issues with Jeep Grand Cherokee that warranted a recall include:
- High beam malfunctions
- Rearview camera issues
- Disabled airbags
- Inoperable headlights
- Missing welds on child seat tether receiver
- Engine cooling problems
- Power steering failure
- Rear coil springs that can detach from the vehicle while driving
By the numbers, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee can be considered a “reliable” SUV. But if you encounter a problem with Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs, your vehicle will be unreliable and potentially unsafe.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Problems
Some of the most common problems with Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs include the following:
Power Steering Failure:
A vehicle’s power steering system helps you maneuver your SUV, especially when turning or driving at low speeds. Power steering makes it easier to turn the front wheels of your car.
When the power steering system fails, you must exert more force to turn your wheels. Turning becomes especially difficult when parking or cornering at lower speeds.
If your vehicle’s power steering system fails while parking, it will be very inconvenient. However, you could be in grave danger if your power steering suddenly stops working while cornering or navigating a curve.
Unfortunately, power steering failures are among the most common 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems. If your power steering begins to malfunction, take it to the dealer immediately. Some early warning signs include unusual noises while making sharp turns and momentary increases in steering difficulty.
Depending on the severity of your power steering issues, you may have to call a tow truck. If you are struggling to steer your vehicle, park it as soon as it is safe and have it towed to the dealership.
Engine Issues
The powertrain is the heart of any vehicle and includes the engine and transmission. A faulty powertrain will negatively impact vehicle performance, reliability, and safety. An issue-prone vehicle will typically have recurring problems with the engine or transmission. However, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s problems include both issues.
One such issue is stalling. You could be stranded in the middle of the road when a vehicle stalls. While stalling may only last a few seconds, a complete stall-out can cause the engine to shut down completely.
Another 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee issue is failed motor mounts. The motor mounts keep the engine securely attached to the vehicle. You will experience increased vibration and a rougher ride when motor mounts fail. If they break completely, the engine can become misaligned, and parts can be dislodged from your vehicle.
In addition to the other problems, a few 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee engines are prone to leaking oil. The 3.6 liter V6 found in popular models like the Laredo E, Laredo X, and Limited trims is one of the worst culprits.
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s transmission issues are just as concerning. These problems range from stalling to slipping gears. When a gear “slips,” it does not fully engage while driving. Rough shifting is another possible sign of slipping gears.
Severe transmission issues can cause significant stall-outs, which can be especially dangerous when driving on the highway or merging into traffic. Transmission issues can result in total failure and render your vehicle inoperable if left unaddressed.
Other Electrical System Problems
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is also prone to several electrical system problems. As mentioned above, these issues led to several recalls and affected critical systems, including exterior lighting and backup cameras.
In fact, Jeep has issued three separate recalls for the 2021 Grand Cherokee’s external lighting systems.
The first recall addressed high beam headlight malfunctions that could make them difficult to activate. The second recall was issued a few months after discovering that electrical system problems rendered some models’ headlights inoperable. The third recall involved a tail light marker malfunction that could prevent it from illuminating.
As for the backup camera recall, some models would not display an image, thereby reducing the driver’s rear visibility. This lack of visibility increases the chances of a crash.
Safety Concerns
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems include a laundry list of safety concerns. Chief among them is an airbag issue that could prevent them from deploying during an accident. Fortunately, Jeep issued a recall to address a significant airbag malfunction in late 2021. Unfortunately, that does not mean that other issues do not exist.
Drivers have also reported concerns about the vehicle’s forward collision system, which is supposed to help reduce the crash risk by alerting drivers to potential obstacles. Some models also have braking assist features that will slow the SUV down if a driver gets too close to the vehicle in front of them while using cruise control.
Some consumers report that their forward collision systems, navigation systems, and Call SOS features don’t work. Others state that these systems continuously drain their battery, meaning their vehicles would not start if parked for more than 24 hours.
Some drivers also report that their 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee interior leaked. Specifically, multiple consumers discovered water marks and signs of damage on the headliner. This issue was most common in models that feature a sunroof, which means there is likely a problem with the seal or gasket around the glass.
Water leaks can cause mold in the SUV’s interior, including the headliner, upholstery, flooring, and seats. Once mold grows, it can pose a severe safety risk to drivers and occupants.
Settle Your Lemon Law Claim With Timothy Abeel & Associates
Hopefully, you will be lucky enough to avoid all the significant 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems. But if not, you have options to make things right, especially if you live in a state with comprehensive Lemon Laws.
A vehicle is considered a lemon if it has had multiple significant issues with the same component or several problems with various equipment. For instance, if your dealer has attempted to fix your Jeep Grand Cherokee’s power steering system three different times with no success, your vehicle is probably a lemon.
The Lemon Law is crucial because it protects consumers who purchase vehicles with persistent defects that substantially impair their use, safety, or value. That ensures consumers have recourse when they unknowingly purchase faulty vehicles, promoting fairness and consumer rights in the automotive market.
Under the Lemon Law, you can seek compensation through a refund or a replacement vehicle. You may also be eligible for a Lemon Law claim if your vehicle has been rendered inoperable due to recurring repair mishaps.
If you want to know how Lemon Law works or believe you may have a case, contact the experts at Timothy Abeel & Associates today. Our team of experienced Lemon Law attorneys will evaluate the merits of your case, review your options, and fight for justice on your behalf.
We will work with you to get the best resolution under state law. Get started today!