1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Review:
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2.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability
4.
5.
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.
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|
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| A/C Compressor |
$390 |
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| Alternator |
$360 |
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| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle |
$700 |
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| Brakes |
$300 |
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| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing |
$375 |
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| Exhaust System |
$270 |
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| Radiator |
$380 |
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| Shocks and/or Struts |
$155 |
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| Timing Chain or Belt |
$195 |
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| Universal Joints |
$135 |
|
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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.
Also in the 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee Review:
1.
2.
3.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability
4.
5.