Is A 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliable
For many drivers, the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee seems like the perfect mix of style, comfort, and off-road ability. But one question comes up again and again: Is it reliable? Reliability isn’t just about how often a car breaks down. It’s also about how expensive repairs are, how long the car lasts, and how often little things go wrong. Let’s look at what you really get with the 2017 Grand Cherokee, so you can make a smart decision.
What Reliability Means For The 2017 Grand Cherokee
Many people think reliability is only about the engine. But for the 2017 Grand Cherokee, you need to consider the whole package:
- Engine and transmission
- Electrical systems
- Interior quality
- Cost of repairs
- Owner satisfaction
A car might run well but still give you headaches with small issues. That’s why looking at all these areas gives a more honest picture.
Engine Performance And Problems
The 2017 Grand Cherokee offers several engines. Most buyers choose the 3.6L V6, while others go for the 5.7L V8 or the strong 3.0L diesel. Here’s how they stand up:
| Engine | Horsepower | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L V6 | 295 hp | Minor oil leaks, sensor faults |
| 5.7L V8 | 360 hp | Spark plug wear, higher fuel use |
| 3.0L Diesel | 240 hp | Emission system trouble |
Most engines are strong, but the diesel version can have issues with the emission system that are costly to fix. The V6 and V8 are more reliable but need regular oil changes and spark plug checks.
Transmission And Drivetrain
The Grand Cherokee uses an 8-speed automatic transmission. For most owners, it works smoothly. However, a few report:
- Hard shifting between gears
- Delayed response when accelerating
These issues usually show up before 60,000 miles. If you want fewer problems, pick a model with a full service record. The all-wheel-drive system is solid, but it needs regular fluid changes, especially if you go off-road.
Electrical And Technology Features
Modern cars have more gadgets than ever, and the Grand Cherokee is no exception. The Uconnect system is easy to use, but some owners mention:
- Touchscreen freezing
- Backup camera glitches
- Bluetooth connection drops
These are not serious, but they can be annoying. Most fixes are software updates or minor repairs. If you buy used, check every button before you buy.
Interior Quality And Comfort
Inside, the 2017 Grand Cherokee feels more like a luxury SUV than a typical Jeep. You get:
- Soft-touch materials
- Comfortable seats
- Strong climate control
However, some owners report rattles from the dashboard and doors after a few years. The leather can also crack if you park in the sun a lot. Using a sunshade and regular cleaning helps prevent this.
Repair Costs And Maintenance
Owning a Jeep is not always cheap. Here’s a quick look at average repair costs:
| Repair Type | Average Cost | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | $75 | Every 5,000 miles |
| Brake Pads | $250 | Every 40,000 miles |
| Spark Plugs | $200 | Every 60,000 miles |
| Transmission Service | $350 | Every 60,000 miles |
Compared to Japanese SUVs, the Grand Cherokee costs a bit more to keep running. Still, if you keep up with maintenance, major breakdowns are rare.
Owner Satisfaction And Longevity
According to surveys, most owners rate the 2017 Grand Cherokee above average for comfort and driving experience. JD Power gives it a reliability score of 3.5 out of 5. Many Grand Cherokees reach over 150,000 miles with good care.
But there’s an insight many miss: How you use the Jeep matters. Frequent off-roading or towing will lead to more wear. City driving and gentle use result in fewer problems.
How The 2017 Grand Cherokee Compares
Wondering how it stacks up next to rivals? Here’s a quick comparison with two main competitors:
| Model | Reliability Score | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | 3.5/5 | Electrical, transmission |
| Toyota 4Runner | 4.5/5 | Suspension, fuel economy |
| Ford Explorer | 3/5 | Transmission, interior rattles |
The Grand Cherokee is competitive, but Toyota’s 4Runner is seen as more reliable though less comfortable inside.
Non-obvious Things To Watch
- Sunroof leaks: Some 2017 models with a panoramic sunroof develop leaks that can damage the headliner. Regularly check for dampness, especially after heavy rain.
- Key fob battery drain: Owners sometimes find their key fob batteries die faster than expected. Keeping a spare battery in the glove box prevents lockouts.
Final Thoughts
So, is the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee reliable? It’s a solid choice if you want comfort and off-road ability, but expect some minor issues, mostly with electronics or trim.
Costs are higher than simpler SUVs, but not out of reach for a midsize vehicle.
Take care of regular maintenance, check for software updates, and choose a well-maintained example to avoid big surprises.
If you want more data, you can see the official reliability ratings and owner reviews on the JD Power site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2017 Grand Cherokee Expensive To Maintain?
It costs more than some other SUVs, mainly because of parts and labor. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding bigger repairs.
How Long Will A 2017 Grand Cherokee Last?
With good care, many reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles. Avoid heavy towing if you want the longest life.
Are There Common Recalls For This Model?
Yes, mostly for electrical and emission issues. Always check if past recalls were fixed before you buy.
Does The 2017 Model Handle Snow And Off-road?
Yes. With four-wheel drive, it’s great in snow and handles trails well. Just keep the system serviced.
Is The 2017 Grand Cherokee A Good Family Car?
It has a comfortable cabin and good safety scores, making it a solid family choice if you keep up with maintenance.
