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Jeep Grand Cherokee engine failure problems

341 of the 29,174 owner complaints about the Jeep Grand Cherokee describe engine failure, most of them for the 2014 model year.

owner complaints
341
worst model year
2014
typical repair cost reported
$5,600
typical mileage
85,000
Is there a fix? There are 7 recalls for this area of the car. See below

By model year

Often reported together

Stalling 64Check engine light 41Steering lock-up 38Loss of power 35Overheating 26Fuel pump 19Misfire 17Knocking 16

Trouble codes mentioned

P0303 3P2338 1P219B 1P1009 1P076F 1P0304 1P0302 1P0300 1

What owners say

Filed Nov 6, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · GA

While driving the vehicle, it completely shuts down unexpectedly. This issue is not related to the auto-start functionality. When the vehicle dies, it goes completely dead. The first time it happened, it restarted on its own but shifted into park and activated the emergency brake. During the next two occurrences, the vehicle also shut off, and I had to manually restart it. No warnings or anything; it just completely goes dead. This puts me and my family at risk. The car can shut down on a major highway suddenly, causing a multi-car accident or, worse, a fatality. The vehicle has been to the dealership (Chrysler) the first time I was told its because my battery is dead, but since I am below 80%, Chrysler will not replace the battery so the batteries were recharged however I was told I will be back for replacement batteries eventually. The second time, the technican drove the car home (it stayed over night) and the car shut down on him while he was driving also. Chrysler says this only happens when I jump start my car and its not a manufacture issue. The result in this visit is my engine blown a 150v bold (something) and this is causing the shut off. Chrysler refused to fix saying Its not including in warrent since I only have 7k miles. The dealership took the cost and repaired the car. The third time it happened, Im still waiting for the dealership. I have not taken the car for the third incident. This issue has been confirmed by the dealership (seen twice ) and the manufactor (Chrysler)

Filed Oct 31, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · NC

Hybrid engine failure. Jeep vehicle is unsafe to drive as the electric engine doesn’t work due to overheating and charging error codes, which causes power to jump between electric and gas engine spontaneously causing speed control to be unpredictable and unsafe. There is also the question that there is a serious defect with the battery and unsafe to park this vehicle in a garage attached to a dwelling unit.

Filed Oct 27, 2026 · Electrical, Fuel system · CO

On October 23, 2026, my 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe unexpectedly lost propulsion. Before this incident, it intermittently shifted very harshly at 40–60 mph while I maintained steady accelerator pressure. That day, a “SERV 4WD” warning appeared and the vehicle tugged and jerked during turns. As I pulled into a parking space, it lost the ability to move. I turned it off. After waiting, I restarted it; there was a very loud thunk, and it suddenly lurched forward. The check-engine and brake warning lights illuminated, and it still would not move. When the tow truck driver restarted it, the loud thunk happened again. He was eventually able to reverse and move the Jeep a few feet onto the tow truck. He said it appeared to be staying in electric mode rather than transitioning to hybrid operation, although this was not a confirmed diagnosis. The Jeep was towed to an authorized dealership. The dealership says diagnostic scans pass and it cannot reproduce the failure. No cause or repair has been identified. My Jeep app shows safety recall 78C (the federal safety agency 25V‑766), related to possible engine failure and loss of propulsion, with the status “Parts Unavailable.” The dealership told me its scan indicates my vehicle does not need the recall, but has not clearly explained why. I do not know whether the recall caused this incident. I have opened a case with Jeep Corporate. I am concerned this unexplained loss of propulsion and sudden forward lurch could recur in traffic and cause a crash. I request that the federal safety agency document and review this potential safety defect.

Filed Sep 25, 2026 · Engine · CA

Sudden loss of power while driving 75mph in the fast lane on [XXX] in [XXX]. My 2018 with the 3.0ltr Eco diesel engine was involved in a sever life-threatening event That caused my engine to fail while driving and I request immediate corporate escalation! On XXX while driving in the fast lane after just fueling up not more than 15-20min prior. my vehicle suffered, for no known reason, a catastrophic engine failure. There are no codes to be found (so said the dealer) "we cant tell you what happened to your engine", the dealer has sent me in writing. All of the sudden the dashboard read, " PULL OVER AND PUT IN PARK IMMEDIATELY".... I lost all power and was fortunate to ba able to catch an off-ramp to get off of the highway. After a 350mi tow to the walnut creek chrysler/jeep dealer. They were unable to tell me what went wrong or why a simple oil/ check engine light never happened to alert the operator? I was then told it would be a $35k engine replacement? most diesel engines historically run 250,000 to 500,000 miles and up with regular maintenance... I purchased this showroom quality vehicle from a private seller... never having even been towed 1 single time in its life before this event. I need to know what recourse that may exists for me regarding this most tragic and unsafe situation... So foreign investment groups can purchase USA auto factories and turn them into horible products... and that's okay? I have driven well over 1 million miles in my lifetime. I currently own 2 trucks, an Audi A3, 8 motorcycles, and a sprinter van RV. I formerly owned an Eagle tour coach. I am an experienced rider driver of nearly 40yrs on the road. please help [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Sep 15, 2026 · Engine · MO

Service engine light came on and code read misfire. Tech said that ignition coil one needs replaced and it needed a tune up. They replaced all ignition coils, spark plugs and intake manifold gasket with tune up. Tech said that coolant looked low and checked the reservoir. He said there's a lot of chunks and dried out looking coolant in the reservoir. Recommended a coolant flush at the dealership. Tune up cost almost 1000 dollars. A few days later my teenage son was driving on the highway at 70 mph and out of nowhere a engine overheating warning flashed and the temperature went all the way up and then down and back and forth. My son had to try and get pulled off of the busy highway while overheating. Car was blowing out white smoke. He was stranded over an hour away from home. Had to have car towed. Was told by the mechanic the next day that the plastic oil cooler had cracked and the oil got into the coolant. Causing the engine to fail at only 104,807 miles! Cost for a new motor was 10,400! Shop said he just had the same thing happen on another vehicle with the same engine the week before mine! I had to pay out of pocket for the new engine. Obviously there's a safety defect in the plastic oil cooler causing several people to experience the same thing happening! There was no warning before the oil got into the coolant. Why is the same thing happening to so many people but nothing is being done about it? Having to replace the engine at 104,807 miles is insane. How many times does it have to happen before they recall the problem?

Filed Sep 3, 2026 · Engine · MA

We found a huge spillage in our driveway and it had a color of yellowish Brown. Took it to the dealership tech found oil and coolant were mixed together and coming out of the overflow tank. Because the oil in the coolant mixed together, it went through all the components in the engine and it is a total loss. The car does not work and it needs a new engine. Had another independent car shop. Look at the car in they agreed. We had no signs of warning of anything being wrong with the car. It ran fine. The temperature gauge remained normal and never overheated. I am reading about a class action lawsuit about this situation that happened to multiple Jeep Grand Cherokees. Since the dealership told us it's a total loss. If you wanted to fix it, it will cost us over $10,000. The mechanic told us that this is not drivable even if you try to drive the engine will 09lock up and you can get into a major accident or even cause one.

Filed Aug 19, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · MA

On November 23, 2025, I was driving approximately 60 mph in the middle lane of I-495 near Exit 62 in Marlborough, Massachusetts, with a passenger in the vehicle. I signaled to change lanes to pass a slower vehicle, selected Sport Mode, and accelerated. The engine RPM increased sharply and, almost immediately, I heard an extremely loud bang from the engine area. Multiple warning lights began flashing on the instrument panel, the vehicle made abnormal noises, and the engine lost power. The loss of propulsion was immediate while I was traveling at highway speed. Because that section of I-495 slopes slightly downhill and I was already close to Exit 62, the vehicle's momentum allowed me to reach the exit and pull onto the shoulder. Had this occurred in heavier traffic or in a location without a safe shoulder or exit nearby, the sudden loss of propulsion could have resulted in a collision. The vehicle became inoperable and required towing. It was later inspected by an authorized Jeep dealership. The dealer documented a hole in the side of the engine with engine fluid leaking out and determined that the engine requires replacement. The vehicle had approximately 94,298 miles at the time of the incident and had been regularly maintained. The same vehicle had previously experienced a significant engine problem in 2023 at approximately 67,987 miles, involving white smoke, a head gasket leak affecting cylinder 5, and replacement of the cylinder head. I am reporting this because the catastrophic engine failure caused a sudden and complete loss of propulsion at highway speed. The vehicle and failed engine remain available for inspection.

Filed Aug 12, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · CA

Vehicle Information: 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel 4x4Component Affected: Fuel/Propulsion System (High-Pressure Fuel Pump) Safety Incident Narrative: The vehicle previously underwent a mandatory manufacturer safety recall replacement for the Bosch CP4 High-Pressure Fuel Pump under FCA Safety Recall Z46 (the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 22V‑406). At 111,948 miles, while operating the vehicle, the engine suffered a sudden, catastrophic mechanical failure accompanied by an immediate and total loss of engine oil pressure. This caused the engine to suddenly stall and lose all propulsion while in motion, creating an immediate and severe highway safety hazard to myself and surrounding traffic.The vehicle was towed to an authorized Jeep dealership under Repair Order #5823328. The manufacturer (Stellantis) and the dealership are currently refusing to authorize diagnostic teardown labor or a mechanical review of the internal safety recall componentry to investigate an acute internal fuel-pump shaft seal leak or residual micro-particle metallic debris from the prior campaign. An internal drive-shaft seal failure on this replacement pump architecture dumps raw diesel fuel directly into the engine's internal oil crankcase, causing severe oil dilution, an immediate collapse of structural oil pressure, and catastrophic engine seizure. The manufacturer is attempting to shift 100% of the financial burden ($25,000 engine replacement cost) onto the consumer, actively obstructing an essential safety failure investigation into a federally recalled component.

Filed Aug 9, 2026 · Engine · CA

I am submitting this complaint to report a serious safety concern involving my 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee. At approximately 44,000–45,000 miles, the vehicle suffered a catastrophic engine failure. This was extremely alarming considering the relatively low mileage of the vehicle. The most serious concern occurred while I was attempting to drive the vehicle to the service center. The condition of the vehicle became so severe that I genuinely feared the vehicle could catch fire while I was still inside it. I was terrified for my personal safety and concerned that I could be seriously injured. This was not simply an inconvenience or an ordinary mechanical repair. In my opinion, the circumstances surrounding the engine failure created a potentially dangerous safety situation. The vehicle has subsequently remained at the dealership/service facility for an extended period while the engine issue has been addressed. I contacted Jeep/Stellantis regarding the engine failure. Stellantis offered approximately $13,000 in goodwill assistance toward the repair while requiring me to contribute approximately $3,200. However, my primary reason for reporting this matter to the federal safety agency is not the financial dispute. My primary concern is SAFETY. I am extremely concerned that an engine could experience such a catastrophic failure at approximately 44,000–45,000 miles and create circumstances in which I feared the vehicle could catch fire while being driven. As a result of this incident, I have completely lost confidence in the safety and reliability of this vehicle and do not feel safe driving it again, even if the engine is repaired or replaced. I respectfully request that the federal safety agency review this complaint and determine whether similar engine failures, fire-related incidents, or safety complaints have been reported involving 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles or vehicles equipped with the same engine. I am prepared to provide my VIN, dealership repair orders, diagnostic information, service re

Filed Jul 28, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · CO

My 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe suffered a catastrophic internal engine failure and set DTC P2338 ("Cylinder 3 Above Knock/Combustion Vibration Sensor Threshold"). Although my VIN is not included in Safety Recall 78C (the federal safety agency 25V‑766), my vehicle experienced the same failure mode, symptoms, and diagnostic code associated with the recall. Stellantis' STAR Center reviewed the case, confirmed internal engine damage, and recommended complete engine replacement. While driving at highway speed, the vehicle suddenly lost power and entered limp mode. I was able to safely exit the highway, but this defect created a serious safety risk and could have resulted in a crash. Stellantis has already expanded the recall population after identifying additional affected vehicles. My vehicle was built during the same production period, experienced the identical failure, and has a manufacturer-confirmed engine replacement recommendation. Chrysler's XC2 program provides unlimited years/unlimited mileage engine coverage for this defect, which is linked to engine manufacturing issues. Based on the identical failure characteristics and confirmed diagnosis, I believe my vehicle is affected by the same defect and should be included in Recall 78C and the associated XC2 warranty coverage. I am submitting this complaint to request that the federal safety agency investigate whether additional vehicles outside the current recall population are experiencing the same defect and whether Recall 78C should be expanded to include affected vehicles such as mine.

Related recalls

Engine and engine coolingReported June 8, 2023 · 80,629 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Ram 1500 and 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L Diesel engines. The crankshaft position sensor tone wheel may delaminate, causing the engine to lose its ability to synchronize the fuel injector pulses and cam shaft timing, possibly resulting in an engine stall.
Risk
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software to maintain vehicle propulsion, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 3, 2023. Some owner notification letters were mailed October 31, 2023. The remaining owner notification letters will be mailed at a future date, anticipated July 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 66A. This recall is an expansion of recall 20V‑475.

Recall number 23V411000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: emission control: gas recirculation valve (EGR valve)Reported April 28, 2022 · 1,308 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee WK, 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 2021-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vehicles equipped with 3.6L engines. The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve may stick open, resulting in an unexpected loss of drive power.
Risk
An unexpected loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the EGR valve assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2022. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is Z31.

Recall number 22V284000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: emission control: gas recirculation valve (EGR valve)Reported November 12, 2020 · 28,884 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with the 3.0L EcoDiesel engines. The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler may crack and allow pre-heated vaporized coolant to enter the EGR system. This mixture may combust inside the intake manifold.
Risk
Combustion in the intake manifold can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EGR cooler, free of charge. Dealers will also inspect and, as necessary, replace the intake manifold. Parts are not currently available. Owners were mailed an interim notification on December 21, 2021. A second notification will be mailed when parts are available, currently expected to be around March 11, 2021. The recall began March 11, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1‑800‑853‑1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is W79.

Recall number 20V699000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: engine: dieselReported August 13, 2020 · 58,016 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Ram 1500 and 2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines. The crankshaft position sensor tone wheel may delaminate causing the engine to lose its ability to synchronize the fuel injector pulses and cam shaft timing, possibly resulting in an engine stall.
Risk
An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
FCA US will notify owners, and dealers will update the powertrain control module software to maintain vehicle propulsion by reading the camshaft position signal in the event that the crankshaft position signal is lost, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 13, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US customer service at 1‑800‑853‑2002. FCA US's number for this recall is W58.

Recall number 20V475000 · Recall details

Engine and engine coolingReported September 29, 2011 · 667 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2012 chrysler vehicles, including 200 and town and country models, dodge vehicles, including charger, durango, grand caravan and journey models and jeep grand cherokee vehicles manufactured from august 31, 2011, through september 13, 2011, that are equipped with 3.6l engines. These engines may experience connecting rod bearing failure due to debris inside the engine block.
Risk
Connecting rod failure may lead to engine seizure which may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Chrysler will notify owners and replace the engine free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on or about november 18, 2011. Owners may contact chrysler at 1‑800‑853‑1403.

Recall number 11V487000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: cooling system: fanReported June 8, 2006 · 189,479 vehicles affected
What is wrong
On certain sport utility vehicles, the plastic blades of the electric motor driven cooling fan may separate and penetrate the shroud.
Risk
If this occurs while the hood is open, a person in the vicinity of the engine could be struck by the blade and injured.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the electric cooling fan modules free of charge. The recall began on september 4, 2006. Owners may contact daimlerchrysler at 1‑800‑853‑1403.

Recall number 06V199000 · Recall details

Engine and engine cooling: exhaust system: emission controlReported November 13, 2001 · 38,700 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: sport utility vehicles. The onboard vapor recovery system vent hose may have been misrouted. This could allow water to enter the canister which can cause fuel to spill out of the filler tube when refueling the tank.
Risk
Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect (and reposition as necessary) the vent hose. If the vent hose is found in the bent down position, and the vehicle has been driven more than 20 miles, the canister assembly will be replaced. Owner notification began december 3, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact daimlerchrysler at 1‑800‑853‑1403.

Recall number 01V348000 · Recall details

Questions about the Jeep Grand Cherokee engine failure

Which Jeep Grand Cherokee years have engine failure problems?

The model years with the most reports are 2014 (34 complaints), 2011 (25 complaints) and 2005 (21 complaints).

How much does it cost to fix engine failure on the Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Owners who mentioned a price put the repair at about $5,600 (median of 40 complaints that include a dollar amount). Costs vary with mileage, warranty and where the work is done.

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