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1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our reliability study for this generation Jeep Grand Cherokee includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Jeep Grand Cherokee.
1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner: If the air conditioner gradually stops cooling, the computer (PCM) may not be sending a signal to the compressor-clutch relay to cycle off, which causes the A/C evaporator to freeze up. (1993-95)
Air conditioner: If water leaks onto the floor on the passenger side or the air conditions stops cooling, the air conditioning drain hose might be blocked. (1993-96)
Automatic transmission: If the transmission will not engage when first started, chances are the torque converter is draining down. A check valve in the fluid line leading to the transmission cooler should remedy the problem. (1993)
Automatic transmission: The transmission won't upshift for about the first quarter mile in cool weather due to defective cast-iron seal rings in the governor drive. (1993-94)
Engine misfire: Rough idle and stalling can be traced to a defective idle-air-control motor. (1993-94)
Fuel pump: If fuel pump may fails, a revised pump assembly should be installed. (1997-98)
Fuel pump: If fuel pump may fails, a revised pump assembly should be installed. (1997-98)
Manual transmission: High shift effort on 5-speed manual transmission may be remedied with a replacement shift shaft lever and shift detent plunger. (1999-98)
Oil consumption and engine knock: Oil-pump-gear wear results in bucking and surging when the engine is warm and lack of lubrication when the engine is cold. (1993)
Oil leak: The rear main seals on 4.0-liter engines are prone to leakage if the vehicle is operated in dirty conditions. (1993-96)
Oil leak: A chronic oil leak at the filter on 5.2-liter engine is likely due to a warped adapter plate. (1995)
Transmission leak: Automatic-transmission fluid leaks from the speed sensor in the transmission. (1993-94)
Vehicle shake: If camber alignment cannot be brought into spec, countermeasure offset ball joints are available. (1997-98)
Vehicle shake: If camber alignment cannot be brought into spec, countermeasure offset ball joints are available. (1997-98)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $390
Alternator $360
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $700
Brakes $300
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $375
Exhaust System $270
Radiator $380
Shocks and/or Struts $155
Timing Chain or Belt $195
Universal Joints $135
NHTSA Recall History
1993: Eccentric cam-adjuster bolts in both front lower-suspension arm-to-front axle-bracket attachments may fail, causing vehicle to pull to one side.
1993: Molded plastic pin that connects upper and lower steering-column shafts may be sheared; shafts could separate, causing total loss of steering control.
1993: Retainer clip that secures master-cylinder input rod to brake pedal could work loose, allowing separation, which may cause loss of braking.
1993: Safety improvement campaign advises that center rear seat belt buckle may not be accessible for cargo stowage when right side of seatback is folded down.
1993-98 in 15 states and Washington, D.C.: Front-disc brake rotors can experience severe corrosion if operated for extensive period in "salt belt"; can eventually compromise structural integrity, allowing wear surface to separate from hub.
1995: Parking-brake release button can separate, so brake may not hold and vehicle could roll inadvertently.
1996 w/Quadra-Trac, temporary spare tire, and 225/70R16 or 245/70R15 tires: When temporary spare tire is in use, front axle can overheat; can force fluid out of seals, increasing risk of fire.
1996: Fasteners that secure alternator fuse could have improper clamp load; arcing could cause fire in engine compartment.
1997: Airbag could deploy inadvertently when ignition is shut off.
1997: Fuel-level sending unit degrades over time, causing gauge to show significantly more fuel in tank than is actually present.
1998: Power-brake booster-vacuum reservoir diaphragm can split or tear; may cause increase in engine idle speed and loss of power brake assist.
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