Last updated: 2026-03-04

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee scores 63/100 ("Good"). With 15 recalls and 427 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2021 is year 11 of the Fourth generation (WK2).
Recalls
15
Complaints
427
Complaint Rate
16.8
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$666
Above avgMajor Repair Risk
13%
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
15 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is year 11 of the Fourth generation (WK2).
- Redesigned for the 2011 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 4th generation Grand Cherokee (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
Fourth generation (WK2)
Should You Buy the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee scores 63/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2021 is year 11 of the Fourth generation (WK2).
With 427 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to steering (111). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, which scored 1 points lower. See also the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- Low major repair risk (13%)
- Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- Above-average repair costs for its class
- Above-average recall count
- STEERING: Power steering failures (111 complaints)
Compare 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee With
2021 Ford Explorer
Score: 62/100
2021 Honda Pilot
Score: 63/100
2021 Honda Passport
Score: 68/100
2021 Toyota Highlander
Score: 70/100
2021 Chevrolet Traverse
Score: 71/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 15 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- STEERING (111)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (73)
- POWER TRAIN (50)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (40)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (32)
- SERVICE BRAKES (18)
- ENGINE (17)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (15)
- SUSPENSION (15)
- AIR BAGS (10)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (9)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (8)
- SEATS (8)
- SEAT BELTS (6)
- VISIBILITY (3)
- STRUCTURE (3)
- LANE DEPARTURE (2)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (2)
- WHEELS (2)
- FUEL SYSTEM (1)
- TIRES (1)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1)
Recall Overview
15
recalls on record
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee has 15 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
16.8
per 10k soldSegment avg: 17
Safety Incidents
Crashes
21
Fires
9
Injuries
14
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Recall Details
15 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Dodge Durango, 2021-2023 Chrysler Pacifica, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, 2022 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, Chrysler Voyager, 2022-2023 Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram Promaster vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview camera image that does not display decreases the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the radio software or the software will be OTA, "Over-The-Air," free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning July 9, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's numbers for this recall are 66B and 79B.
SUSPENSION, STEERING
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The upper control arm ball joint and steering knuckle may separate and cause the wheel to fall outward, resulting in a loss of vehicle control.
Consequence
A loss of vehicle control increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the upper control arm pinch bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 2, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 10B.
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and 2022-2024 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer vehicles. The Central Vision Park Assist module (CVPAM) software may prevent the rearview image from displaying when the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence
A rearview image that does not display while in reverse decreases the driver's visibility of the rear view, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the Central Vision Park Assist Module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 31, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 56A.
Showing 10 of 15 recalls. View all on NHTSA.gov →
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.9%
Safety Technologies
Jeep Grand Cherokee Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$666
vs $573 avg for midsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
13%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Test power steering for responsiveness and warning lights
- Check for erratic shifting or transmission warnings
- Verify fuel pump operation and check for any starting issues
- Inspect air conditioning system for functionality
- Test infotainment system for freezing or blackouts
- Check for any unusual noises from suspension components
- Inspect for oil leaks or burning smells from the engine
Check Any 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2021 Grand Cherokee in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Jeep Grand Cherokee with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Common Problems by Component
427 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STEERING
111 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee frequently report issues with the steering system, particularly involving power steering failures. Common symptoms include the steering assist ceasing to function, warning lights illuminating for the electronic power steering, and increased difficulty maneuvering the vehicle. Several complaints highlight these issues occurring around 25,000 to 70,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes, including instances where the steering wheel locks or the vehicle loses control, resulting in collisions. Prospective buyers should be aware of these steering-related issues, especially given the associated recalls and the potential for unresolved safety risks.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
73 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report that the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee often experiences issues with the electrical system, particularly involving the vehicle's startup and operational functions. Common symptoms include the vehicle failing to start, random shutdowns with a "Shift to P" message, and problems with the electronic start-stop feature. Complaints also highlight occurrences of the instrument cluster and settings switching languages unexpectedly, and some vehicles exhibit issues with the Body Control Module, leading to non-functional headlights or horns. Several reports involve fires, some occurring while the vehicle is parked and turned off, and one complaint mentions a crash due to the vehicle dying while driving. These problems often appear around 30,000 to 50,000 miles, indicating potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers.
POWER TRAIN
50 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee frequently report issues with the power train, particularly involving transmission failures and transfer case problems. Common symptoms include erratic shifting, vehicles entering limp mode, and "Service Transmission" warnings. These issues often appear at relatively low mileages, with some reports noting failures as early as 8,100 to 19,481 miles. Safety implications are evident, as some owners describe sudden loss of power while driving and vehicles unexpectedly stalling or shutting off, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. Buyers considering a used model should be aware of these reported issues and may want to verify if any repairs or updates have been performed.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (40 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
40 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several issues with the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with sunroof glass shattering spontaneously being a frequent problem. Multiple complaints describe the sunroof exploding without any apparent external cause, often while driving, posing a safety hazard due to potential glass showering into the passenger area. Additionally, there are reports of fires occurring, sometimes while the vehicle is parked or shortly after starting, with at least one being traced to the battery compartment. Complaints also frequently mention problems with the air conditioning system failing prematurely, often around 36,000 to 58,000 miles, leading to significant repair costs. These issues, particularly the fires and sunroof incidents, have implications for safety and could be a concern for prospective buyers.
SERVICE BRAKES (18 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
18 complaintsOwners report several issues with the service brakes on the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Commonly described problems include warped brake rotors leading to vibrations and shaking, typically noted around 32,000 miles. Multiple complaints detail the automatic emergency braking system engaging unexpectedly, causing abrupt stops without warning and resulting in injuries. Additionally, some owners experience brake system failures, including loss of braking ability and issues with electronic stability control, often requiring repairs such as brake module replacements. These issues potentially pose safety risks, such as loss of vehicle control and unexpected stops, which are crucial considerations for prospective buyers.
ENGINE (17 complaints)
ENGINE
17 complaintsOwners report several engine-related issues with the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee, primarily involving unexpected engine shutdowns and excessive oil consumption. Complaints frequently mention the engine shutting off while driving, even at high speeds, posing a significant safety risk. Other symptoms include delayed starting, engine misfires, and oil leaks, often occurring around 20,000 to 70,000 miles. Multiple owners describe problems with the auto stop/start system and the intermixing of antifreeze and oil, which can lead to engine damage. These issues can result in loss of power and control, with one injury reported, making it crucial for potential buyers to consider these patterns when evaluating this vehicle.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (15 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
15 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee frequently report issues with the fuel pump, leading to vehicles failing to start or stalling unexpectedly. Typical symptoms include repeated attempts to start the vehicle, the engine shutting off while driving, and being unable to restart the vehicle, often without prior warning lights or alerts. These issues are noted to occur across various mileages, with some reports as early as 1,000 miles and others around 68,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as multiple owners describe stalling in traffic or on highways, posing risks of accidents. Buyers should be aware of these patterns, especially if considering a vehicle with a similar mileage range.
SUSPENSION (15 complaints)
SUSPENSION
15 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee frequently report issues with the suspension, particularly involving loud noises over bumpy surfaces and components like sway bar links and tie rods requiring replacement. Complaints often describe symptoms such as abnormal sounds, vibrations, and handling difficulties, sometimes at relatively low mileages around 20,000 to 42,000 miles. Several reports mention parts like the rear lower A-frame and air suspension components failing, sometimes attributed to defects rather than external damage. Safety implications include one crash incident where suspension failure contributed to loss of control, and multiple owners express concerns over the potential for accidents due to these issues. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these recurring problems and the associated safety risks.
AIR BAGS (10 complaints)
AIR BAGS
10 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee frequently report issues with airbag deployment during crashes, with eight complaints involving crashes and six reporting injuries. A common pattern is the failure of airbags to deploy in various crash scenarios, including frontal, rear-end, and side impacts, as well as collisions with stationary objects and animals. Complaints often describe the airbag warning light illuminating without prior incidents, and some mention previous recall repairs that did not resolve the issue. Mileage at the time of incidents varies, with some reports noting around 13,000 to 27,914 miles. The lack of airbag deployment is a significant safety concern, particularly given the variety of crash types and the occurrence of injuries, which potential buyers should consider.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (8 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
8 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several issues with the vehicle speed control in the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Complaints frequently mention unintended acceleration, especially when cruise control is engaged, with some vehicles accelerating beyond 100 mph unless manually deactivated. There are also reports of the vehicle failing to decelerate when the brake is applied, leading to crashes in some cases. Mileage at the time of incidents varies, with some reports occurring as early as 15,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as three complaints involve crashes resulting from loss of control due to these speed control issues. Buyers should be aware of these patterns and consider the potential for speed control malfunctions when evaluating this model.
When Do 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Jeep Grand Cherokee Years
Best Jeep Grand Cherokee Years to Buy
The best Jeep Grand Cherokee year is 2025 with a reliability score of 75/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2020 (72/100) and 2019 (67/100).
Jeep Grand Cherokee Years to Avoid
The worst Jeep Grand Cherokee year is 2018 with a score of 60/100, primarily due to electrical system (301) issues.
See full Jeep Grand Cherokee years-to-avoid analysis →Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability Score Trend
Jeep Grand Cherokee reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 66/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 60/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 75/100 | Good |
Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
How many recalls does the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee have?
Is the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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