The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a storied sport utility that is now in its fifth generation. As the brand’s first unit-body design, the Grand Cherokee is one of the earliest crossover-style SUV models to enter the market. The current-generation Grand Cherokee has a few known problems that owners and prospective buyers should know about.
Engine & Transmission Problems and Recalls
The engine, transmission, and other powertrain components are the most expensive problems a vehicle can have. The following are recalls and technical service bulletins associated with the drivetrain.
The Grand Cherokee has three powertrain options in this generation: a 3.6-liter V6, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) called the 4xe.
High-Voltage Battery Failure (25V-741 / 24V-720): Affects 2022–2026 Grand Cherokee 4xe (plug-in hybrid) models. The high-voltage battery may fail internally, causing a fire while parked or driven. Note: Owners must park these vehicles outside and avoid charging them until the remedy is completed.
Engine Failure and Fire Hazard (25V-766): Affects select 2023–2025 Grand Cherokee 4xe models. Debris left inside the engine during manufacturing may cause engine failure, increasing the risk of power loss and engine compartment fires.
Sudden Loss of Power in 4xe (23V-412): A transmission control module (TCM) fault can cause the Grand Cherokee 4xe to shut down. This can happen while in motion or while parked.
TSB #21-049-24: Addresses erratic shifting, jerking, or hard 1-2 downshifts in eight-speed transmissions (850RE or 8HP50). Requires a Transmission Control Module (TCM) software update.
TSB #21-016-25 (REV. C): Details model-year variances for the transmission valve body assembly, noting specific part numbers for non-hybrid and hybrid models, depending on the build date.
Grand Cherokee Major Recalls
The following are the largest of the recalls associated with the Grand Cherokee in the 2022-2026 model years. They are ordered by recall date, which is embedded in the NHTSA recall number in parentheses.
Faulty Side Airbag Deployment (26V-328): Affects 140,130 SUVs built between May 16, 2022, and Aug. 19, 2025. A software error in the occupant restraint controller may cause side airbags to fail to deploy or deploy late in a crash, increasing injury risk.
Faulty Head Restraints (25V-472): Affects 2023–2024 Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L vehicles. The second-row seat head restraints may not lock in the upright position, failing to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Suspension Linkage Disconnect (24V-132): Improperly installed suspension linkages could disconnect on certain model Jeep Grand Cherokees. The recall requires an inspection and proper adjustment or replacement.
Suspension Springs Loose (23V-413): Early models of the Grand Cherokee (2021-2023) had some units issued with incorrectly installed coil springs. These rear coil springs could fall off the vehicle, or close to it.
Technical Services Bulletins for the Jeep Grand Cherokee
A technical service bulletin (TSB) is a list of procedures and requirements for certain known issues. Issued by the manufacturer, a TSB usually relates to a recall or common warranty claim.
TSB #08-203-22: Releases a Telematics Module (TBM) update for early-production 2022 models to resolve persistent “Uconnect Box requires service” alerts.
TSB #S2208000045 (REV. B): Addresses diagnostic trouble codes (e.g., P0733-00), (P1DA8-00) that set the Malfunction Indicator Lamp, requiring an update to the D Clutch.
Grand Cheroke Known Problems
Known issues associated with the Jeep Grand Cherokee are common problems we’ve found reported on ownership forums, groups, and social media. As well as some that are given by technicians.
Parasitic Battery Drain: Many owners report severe electrical failure where internal computer systems fail to enter “sleep mode” when the engine is off. This leads to dead batteries after sitting for just a few days, often resulting in repeated replacements and complete electrical lock-ups (“theft mode”).
Cold Weather Failure: On user forums, users agree that the PHEV system can be highly temperamental or fail outright in freezing winter temperatures.
Infotainment Glitches: Digital dash failures, pixelating screens, overheating screens, and unresponsive climate or audio controls are heavily reported across consumer forums and reviews.
Sluggish Engines: Owners complain that the base 3.6L V6 and the turbocharged 4-cylinder engines struggle with sluggish acceleration and feel underpowered for a heavy SUV at this price point.
Class Action Lawsuit Over 4xe Fires: A current class action lawsuit over the battery and charging issues that created fires in the plug-in hybrid model Grand Cherokee (and other Jeeps) continues through the courts.
How To Check For Recalls On Your Jeep
The easiest way to check for current recalls that may affect your Grand Cherokee is to visit the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) Recalls page and enter your license plate or 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) to run a search. You can also do this at the Jeep Aftersales Recall site.
