2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- The system most likely to surface first: transmission (zf 8-speed auto) (major severity).
- Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:wiring.
- Outscores the 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee by 10 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
Is the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Worth Buying?
The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers impressive capability and comfort, but it's a vehicle that demands a proactive approach to maintenance and a keen eye for its known weaknesses. While its core powertrains are robust, persistent electrical glitches and potential transmission and air suspension issues elevate its long-term ownership risk, making it a 'proceed with caution' purchase rather than a confident endorsement.
The 2017 Grand Cherokee is a compelling package of capability and luxury, but it's not without its flaws. While its core engines are generally solid, common issues with the ZF 8-speed transmission, Uconnect system, and especially the Quadra-Lift air suspension mean ownership will likely involve some notable repair c…
Best Model Years
2018-2020 (later WK2 models benefited from incremental improvements and software refinements)
Years to Avoid
2011-2013 (early WK2 models had more significant teething issues and recalls)
Biggest Strengths
- Robust engine options (Pentastar V6, Hemi V8)
- Exceptional off-road capability (especially with Quadra-Trac/Drive systems)
- Comfortable and well-appointed interior for its class
What Tends to Fail First on the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The ZF 8HP transmission can exhibit hard shifts, delayed engagement, lurching, and solenoid issues. While often fixable with software updates or valve body replacement, mechanical failures are not unheard of, especially if fluid maintena…
Common issues include the Uconnect system freezing, rebooting randomly, backup camera failures, and general electrical drains leading to battery issues. While mostly annoying, some can affect critical functions.
If equipped, the Quadra-Lift air suspension system is prone to compressor failures, leaky air struts, and module issues, leading to suspension sag and warning lights. This is an expensive system to repair.
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Initial Glitch Zone
At this mileage, expect any initial manufacturing defects or software glitches, particularly with the Uconnect system, to manifest. Recalls or TSBs are usually addressed by now.
Preventative Maintenance Zone
This is a critical period for major fluid services (transmission, differentials). Neglecting these can accelerate wear on key drivetrain components. Air suspension issues, if present, might begin to surface.
Elevated Risk Zone
Component wear increases significantly here. Expect potential for more serious transmission issues, common failures of the air suspension system, and aging electrical components to fail. The Pentastar V6 oil cooler issue is very prevalen…
High Risk Zone
At this stage, major component failures are more likely if preventative maintenance has been skipped. Engine and transmission longevity heavily depend on past care. Expect increased frequency of various sensor and module failures.
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-700
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., oil cooler, air suspension strut, Uconnect unit)
How Long Does the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Last?
Focus on vehicles with detailed service records demonstrating adherence to maintenance schedules, especially transmission fluid changes. Lower mileage is generally better, but a well-maintained higher-mileage example can be a safer bet than a neglected low-mileage one.
What 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Strong engine performance and towing capability (especially Hemi)
- Excellent off-road prowess with optional 4x4 systems
- Comfortable and quiet ride, even on long journeys
- Upscale interior design and quality for its class
Common Frustrations
- Frustrating Uconnect infotainment system glitches and reboots
- Poor fuel economy, especially with the Hemi V8
- Expensive repairs for air suspension components
- Some dealerships provide inconsistent service experiences for persistent issues
Who Should Buy the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Best For
- Adventurous families needing towing and off-road capability
- Drivers seeking a comfortable and luxurious daily driver with rugged appeal
- Those who perform DIY maintenance or have a trusted independent mechanic
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking ultra-low long-term ownership costs
- Drivers averse to complex technology or potential electrical quirks
How the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Compares to Rivals
The Grand Cherokee often excels in off-road capability and luxury feel compared to its direct rivals, but this often comes at the cost of overall long-term reliability, particularly against Japanese competitors. It trades some mechanical robustness for style and adventure.
More Reliable Than
- Land Rover Discovery Sport (for engine reliability)
- Volkswagen Touareg (for overall electrical system stability in some years)
Comparable To
- Ford Explorer (similar electrical/transmission complexities)
- Dodge Durango (shares many platforms/components)
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Recall History
6 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)
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.
What breaks on the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Other Jeep Grand Cherokee Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Click any year for its full report.
2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Parts and accessories matched to your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Just bought a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Jeep Grand Cherokee's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Jeep Grand Cherokee
Jeep Grand Cherokee Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Before you buy, discover which Jeep Grand Cherokee years to avoid and the most reliable models in our definitive worst-to-best guide.
How Long Does a Jeep Grand Cherokee Last? (Real Owner Data)
Uncover the definitive lifespan of a Jeep Grand Cherokee with our analysis of real owner data, revealing exactly how many miles it truly lasts.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Common Problems and Repair Costs
Uncover common Jeep Grand Cherokee problems and their typical repair costs to confidently budget for maintenance and necessary repairs.