Many vehicles have problems with key components like the transmission. Manufacturers like Jeep make their vehicles as safe as possible. Yet, some problems do not become evident until the vehicle is being heavily used by consumers. That’s when drivers of vehicles such as the Grand Cherokee start to notice issues with the transmission.
Are there Jeep Grand Cherokee transmission problems you should know about before you buy?
Yes, there are a few key problems owners should know about, including:
- Rough shifting
- Transmission failure
- Grinding sounds when the vehicle is shifting gears
- Gears slipping
- Grinding while driving
- Acceleration problems
- Lurching or jolting forward
This can seem worrisome for those considering a purchase of this vehicle. That’s why we will explain the problems behind these transmission problems in this piece. You should also get more details about your vehicle by checking out its Vehicle History.
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Transmission Problems
There have been a number of transmission problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regarding the Jeep Grand Cherokee for many years. However, the 2015 model has some of the most significant problems.
Some drivers report they had to have the transmission replaced almost right away after purchasing a new vehicle. Some owners also report problems with the 2011, 2012, and 2014 model years similar to those with the 2015 year.
The biggest problems related to the 2015 model year are for transmission shifting performance that is improper or poor as well as unreliable electronic shifting. These problems are in vehicles with around 10,000 to 12,000 miles.
Drivers report that technicians can only recommend replacing the transmission, which is very expensive. Some stated the problems reoccurred after these repairs were completed.
Service Bulletins Related to the Transmission
The 2015 and other model years have had a number of service bulletins issued by Jeep to handle complaints and problems with the transmission. For the Grand Cherokee for model year 2015, there were a few service bulletins issued. That means Jeep reached out to dealers to handle concerns.
This includes the following:
In July of 2020, Jeep issued a Customer Satisfaction Notification for the 2014 through 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee – W41.
It only applies to vehicles with a 3.0L diesel engine that received an emission recall earlier. This repair was required to ensure that the self-cleaning mode was working properly. It required an upgrade to the Powertrain Control Module software.
In May of 2016, Jeep issued a Grand Cherokee service bulletin for those with a 3.0L transmission. This was done to update the Powertrain Control Module to the latest software.
That update was due to consumers complaining about a buzzing sound coming from the engine. It also addressed complaints about the vehicle bucking or jolting forward when the driver depressed the gas pedal.
Recall to the Transmission
There was also a recall issued for the transmission on the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee related to the powertrain. It also impacted the 2014 models. It was only related to those vehicles made between July 16, 2012 and December 22, 2015.
In these vehicles, all of which had an 8-speed automatic transmission and a monostable gear selector, there are concerns with the vehicle shifting out of the park position. When the driver’s door is opened, and the vehicle is not in park properly, the driver can be injured.
The problem stems from the vehicle not alerting the driver that the vehicle is not in the park position. Some drivers reported exiting the vehicle believing the vehicle to be in park. This can lead to the individual being hurt when leaving the car, but can also cause the vehicle to roll away.
To fix this problem, Jeep had the dealerships update the transmission software to reduce this risk. They let owners know of the problem. The upgrades started in June of 2016.
Other Model Consumer Complaints
While the 2015 transmission receives a lot of notice, there are other vehicles in the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup that have also had problems reported by consumers. One key complaint is repeated in the 2016 and 2017 model years.
In these vehicles, the driver notes the vehicle lurches forward when the gas pedal is depressed, specifically when making a turn. This can increase the risk of an accident.
Others report that while they are driving the vehicle, it can sometimes lunge forward as they are slowing down. This type of significant lurching movement has been reported on highways as well as city streets. It can happen in slow-moving cars, too, such as in the parking lot.
There have been some reports of a total transmission failure occurring. The vehicle simply stalls out and is unable to be restarted. Drivers have reported needing to have the vehicle’s transmission repaired. Others found help in having the vehicle’s transmission flushed.
Technicians for Jeep have noted that the transmission repairs are necessary, but they do not provide details on what went wrong. Jeep has only offered some recalls and updates to the software programs, as well as addressing all leaks.
Should You Buy a Jeep Grand Cherokee with These Transmission Problems?
These transmission problems in the Jeep Grand Cherokee are rather minor in number compared to the number of vehicles on the streets. Yet, that feeling of not knowing may put you on edge.
One step is to research the vehicle on the NHTSA website. Enter in the Jeep’s VIN. This will provide a list of all known problems related to that vehicle. That includes recalls and service bulletins.
It also includes consumer complaints, which can give you a real-life expectation for the vehicle. Transmission and powertrain problems are listed.
Are you just getting started in your search for a new or pre-owned Jeep Grand Cherokee? Check out the vehicle on the NHTSA website using the make, model, and year for more information.
