Is The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliable
If you’re looking for a midsize SUV with a bold look and off-road ability, the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee probably caught your eye. But before you buy, it’s smart to ask: is it really reliable? Many drivers love the Grand Cherokee for its comfort and power, but reliability often means fewer surprises and lower repair bills over the years. Let’s break down what you really need to know about the 2017 model’s performance, common problems, costs, and how it compares to competitors.
What Owners And Experts Say
The 2017 Grand Cherokee generally gets good reviews for comfort and style. Many owners praise the smooth ride and strong engines, especially the V6 and V8 options. However, reliability scores tell a more complex story.
According to J.D. Power, the 2017 Grand Cherokee received an average reliability rating—not bad, but not the best either. Consumer Reports gives it a 3 out of 5 for predicted reliability. This means the Grand Cherokee is solid in some areas but can have issues that affect ownership costs and peace of mind.
Common Problems With The 2017 Grand Cherokee
No car is perfect, but understanding possible issues helps you plan ahead. Here are the most reported problems for the 2017 model:
- Transmission roughness: Some owners notice hard shifting or hesitation when changing gears.
- Electrical glitches: Problems with the Uconnect infotainment system, backup camera, and keyless entry sometimes occur.
- Suspension noises: A few drivers report clunking sounds from the suspension, especially on rough roads.
- Diesel engine recalls: Models with the diesel engine faced recalls for emission system fixes.
Not all Grand Cherokees have these problems, but they are among the most common complaints.
Maintenance And Repair Costs
Maintaining a 2017 Grand Cherokee is not the cheapest, but it’s reasonable for a midsize SUV. Average annual maintenance is around $500–$700 if you follow the recommended schedule.
Unexpected repairs can sometimes be costly. For example, fixing a faulty transmission can cost over $2,000. Smaller repairs, like replacing a sensor or fixing electrical issues, usually cost a few hundred dollars.
Here’s a quick look at typical maintenance costs:
| Service | Average Cost (USD) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | $60–$120 | Every 6,000 miles |
| Brake Pads | $250–$400 | Every 40,000 miles |
| Transmission Fluid | $150–$250 | Every 60,000 miles |
Tip: Regular maintenance helps prevent bigger problems. Skipping oil changes or ignoring warning lights can make repairs much more expensive.
How Does It Compare To Other Suvs?
Reliability is best understood in context. Here’s how the 2017 Grand Cherokee stacks up against similar SUVs:
| Model | Reliability Rating (J.D. Power) | Owner Satisfaction |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Toyota 4Runner | 4.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Ford Edge | 3.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Honda Pilot | 4/5 | 4/5 |
As you can see, some rivals like the Toyota 4Runner and Honda Pilot have higher reliability scores. However, the Grand Cherokee leads in off-road features and engine choices.
Engine Choices And Their Impact
The 2017 Grand Cherokee offers several engines. The most common are:
- 3.6L V6: Good balance of power and fuel economy. Most reliable of the bunch.
- 5.7L V8: More power, better for towing, but higher fuel use.
- 3.0L Diesel V6: Great for fuel economy and torque, but some models had emission system recalls.
Most owners choose the V6 for daily driving. The V8 is best if you tow often. The diesel is rare and can be expensive to maintain.
Safety And Long-term Durability
Safety is a big part of reliability. The 2017 Grand Cherokee scores well in crash tests, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard features include multiple airbags, stability control, and optional advanced safety tech like automatic emergency braking.
Durability depends on maintenance and how the vehicle is used. Well-cared-for Grand Cherokees can reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, heavy off-roading or towing without proper care can shorten lifespan.
- The diesel model’s emission recall means you should check if the fix was done before buying used.
- The Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II 4×4 systems need regular fluid changes. Many owners skip this, leading to costly repairs later.
- The Uconnect system is praised for ease of use, but updates may require a dealer visit, not just a home download.
Owner Satisfaction And Resale Value
Most owners are happy with the Grand Cherokee’s comfort, space, and off-road performance. However, resale values are only average. After five years, the 2017 model typically keeps about 50% of its original value. This is lower than some Japanese rivals but better than some other American SUVs.
Warranty And Dealer Support
The 2017 model came with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage. Most used models are now out of warranty, so it’s smart to check for any remaining extended coverage before buying.
Dealers often offer certified pre-owned (CPO) programs with extra warranty, but these cost more than regular used models.
Final Thoughts
The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a solid choice for drivers who want style, comfort, and off-road power. It’s not the most reliable SUV in its class, but regular maintenance can help avoid big problems. Consider your needs: if you plan to go off-road or tow, the Grand Cherokee’s strengths stand out. For buyers who want the lowest chance of repairs, a Toyota 4Runner or Honda Pilot may offer more peace of mind.
If you want to dig deeper into reliability data, check out the Consumer Reports review for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Expensive To Maintain?
Maintenance costs are average for a midsize SUV, about $500–$700 per year. Repairs can be expensive if major parts like the transmission fail.
How Many Miles Will A 2017 Grand Cherokee Last?
With good care, many Grand Cherokees reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles. Regular service and gentle driving help extend life.
Does The 2017 Grand Cherokee Have Transmission Problems?
Some owners report rough shifting or hesitation. Regular fluid changes and software updates reduce the risk, but problems do occur.
Is The 2017 Grand Cherokee Safe?
Yes, it has a four-star NHTSA rating and offers advanced safety options like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.
Is The Diesel Engine Reliable?
The 3.0L diesel is powerful and efficient, but some models had emission recalls. Check service history before buying a used diesel Grand Cherokee.
