2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee
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2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee ▼
- Price Range: $9,500 - $33,500
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Passenger and cargo room
- Acceleration (Hemi V8)
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Handling (non-SRT-8 models)
Vehicle Highlights
Grand Cherokee was redesigned for 2005, gaining size, power, and features. It's longer than the 1999-2004 version by 3.5 inches in wheelbase and 5 inches overall, but interior dimensions changed little. Laredo and upscale Limited models were offered. Both seated five; no 3rd-row seat was available. Laredos swapped a 195-hp 4.0-liter inline 6-cyl engine for a 210-hp 3.7-liter V6. Optional for Laredo and standard on Limited was a 230-hp 4.7-liter V8. Optional for Limited was parent-company Chrysler's 325-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8. The 5.7 had Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System, which deactivates four cylinders at idle and in cruising to save fuel. Grand Cherokee's sole transmission was a 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate. V6 and 4.7-liter V8 models offered rear- or all-wheel drive. The 5.7 V8 came only with AWD. Each V8 used its own AWD system, but both include low-range gearing. Low-range gearing was unavailable for the AWD V6. All Grand Cherokees had antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, 17-inch wheels, and a rear liftgate with opening glass. An antiskid system was available on AWD versions. Optional were curtain side airbags designed to protect the head and torso for both seating rows. AWD V8s offered optional front and rear limited-slip differentials. Other new options included rear obstacle detection, satellite radio, DVD entertainment, and Chrysler's UConnect, which uses the audio system as a hands-free, wireless link to cell phones. Also available were navigation system, power-adjustable pedals, heated front seats, tire-pressure monitor, and an off-road package.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo AWD, 4.7 V8 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 7 | |
| Value within Class | 7 | |
| Total Score: | 57 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Year to Year Changes
2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee:
Jeep added the luxury Overland and the sporty SRT8 to the Grand Cherokee lineup for 2006. Overland had front and rear limited-slip differentials and came with rear obstacle detection and Chrysler's UConnect wireless cell phone link. SRT8 equipment included a 6.1-liter V8, sport-tuned suspension, Brembo-brand brakes, specific trim inside and out, and sport front seats. DVD entertainment and a navigation system were new options on all models.
2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee:
Standard curtain side airbags, a diesel-engine option, and other newly available features made 2007 news for Grand Cherokee. Newly optional on all but the SRT8 was a 215-hp 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. Curtain side airbags with rollover deployment were newly standard on all Grand Cherokees; they were standard only on Overland. New for '07 were a rearview camera and remote start feature.
2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee:
The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee made news by getting slightly revised styling and a more powerful available V8 engine. Optional on Laredos and standard on Limited was a new 305-hp 4.7-liter V8, which replaced a 235-hp 4.7 V8. Hill descent control was newly available.
Our road test for the 2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Acceleration with the V6 feels sluggish on takeoff, has little passing-power reserve, but is OK in freeway cruising. The 4.7 V8 is noticeably stronger, thus a better choice with AWD. Muscular 5.7 V8 delivers impressive power. SRT8 does 0-60 mph in just 5.0 sec, says Jeep, but didn't feel that quick on a brief preview test drive. Automatic transmission smooth, responsive in all models. Maximum tow ratings are 7200 lb with 5.7 V8, 6500 with 4.7 V8, 3500 for V6 models and SRT8. Test AWD 4.7 V8 Laredo averaged 16.0 mpg in even mix of city/highway driving. Test 5.7 V8 AWD Limited averaged 17.9 in mainly highway driving, but just 12.0 mpg in mostly city work. Jeep recommends 87-octane fuel for V6 and 4.7 V8, 89 octane or higher for 5.7 V8, 91 for SRT8. Overall ride comfort is quite good for an SUV, especially one with a suspension suited to severe off-road duty. Solid-feeling structure enhances impression of carlike comfort. Main demerit is some float on dips and swells at highway speeds except for taut SRT8, which tends to jiggle on less-than-perfect pavement. Handling is also impressive for a SUV, but body lean prompts slowing down for tight, fast turns, even in handling-oriented SRT8. Steering has well-judged effort, good feedback, but isn't quick or precise by car standards. Braking strong. All models keep tire and wind noise at bay, but test 5.7 V8 AWD Limited suffered modest gear whine at highway speeds. Interior features easy-read gauges and simple, logically placed switchgear. Most climate controls are rotary knobs--a plus--but optional navigation system absorbs too many audio functions, takes time to learn and adjust. Few padded soft-touch surfaces, but materials have rich grain, low-gloss finish, and are assembled with care. Overland, SRT8 include swanky leather/suede upholstery. Front-seat head room not generous, but there's ample leg and shoulder space on supportive seats. Comfortable take-charge driving stance has enough adjustments to suit most anyone. Visibility a bit cluttered to right rear, and thick windshield pillars hinder seeing around some corners. Rear-seat room has scant leg room if front seats are more than halfway back. Ride height lower than midsize SUV norm, easing entry/exit. Cargo space ample by absolute standards but subpar for class. Still, good suitcase room behind split rear seat, which folds easily but doesn't make a fully flat deck. Rear-floor panel/tire cover reverses from carpet to plastic for messy loads and has small built-in storage bin. Up-front cabin storage good, not great.
Value for the Money
Rear-seat room and comfort disappoint, but Grand Cherokee is solid, rides comfortably, has fine ergonomics, handles well, and is tenacious off-road. It's also competitively priced. The V6 is too weak for this vehicle's weight, but not the workhorse 4.7 V8 or muscular 5.7 Hemi. And the SRT8 is a hot rod wagon.
Rear-seat room and comfort disappoint, but Grand Cherokee is solid, rides comfortably, has fine ergonomics, handles well, and is tenacious off-road. It's also competitively priced. The V6 is too weak for this vehicle's weight, but not the workhorse 4.7 V8 or muscular 5.7 Hemi. And the SRT8 is a hot rod wagon.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo AWD, 4.7 V8 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 7 | |
| Value within Class | 7 | |
| Total Score: | 57 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
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 .
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:
A growling sound may come from the A/C compressor when it cycles off or on requiring replacement of the expansion valve. (2005)
Check-engine light:
The transmission solenoid/pressure switch leaks fluid causing a check engine light, requiring replacement of the solenoid and electrical connector and fluid may also leak from the electrical connector guide on the right front corner of the transmission. (2005)
Starter:
The remote starter may not work because of a failed hood switch. (2005)
Steering noise:
Whining from the power steering when first started, especially in cold weather, due to insufficient fluid flow. (2006-06)
Steering noise:
Clicking from the steering column due to interference between the turn signal lever and the cancel cam. (2005)
Transmission leak:
A recall of 99,000 units was conducted because of a bad seal on the automatic transmission fill tube, which could allow water to get into the transmission and cause extensive damage. (2005)
Transmission leak:
Transmission fluid leak, which appears to be a pan gasket, is from the electrical connector O-ring. (2005)
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 | $855 |
| Alternator | $610 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $3,240 |
| Brakes | $540 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,520 |
| Exhaust System | $540 |
| Radiator | $650 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $930 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $850 |
Our price chart for this generation Jeep Grand Cherokee details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
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| 2008 | |||
| Grand Cherokee Laredo | $16,000-18,500 | $14,600-16,800 | $10,200-11,800 |
| Grand Cherokee SRT-8 | $33,500-36,000 | $31,200-33,500 | $23,800-25,600 |
| Limited, Overland | $20,500-24,500 | $18,900-22,500 | $13,300-15,900 |
| 2007 | |||
| Grand Cherokee | $13,800-16,000 | $12,600-14,600 | $8,300-9,600 |
| Grand Cherokee SRT-8 | $29,500-31,500 | $27,400-29,300 | $20,400-21,700 |
| Limited, Overland | $18,000-23,500 | $16,600-21,600 | $11,500-15,000 |
| 2006 | |||
| Grand Cherokee | $12,000-14,200 | $10,800-12,800 | $6,700-8,000 |
| Grand Cherokee SRT-8 | $26,000-28,000 | $24,200-26,000 | $17,200-18,500 |
| Limited, Overland | $15,500-20,000 | $14,100-18,200 | $9,900-12,800 |
| 2005 | |||
| Grand Cherokee | $10,500-12,500 | $9,500-11,300 | $5,600-6,600 |
| Grand Cherokee Ltd. | $13,500-15,000 | $12,300-13,700 | $8,000-8,900 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Jeep Grand Cherokee include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door wagon | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 109.5 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 186.6 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.3 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 67.7 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4441 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 67.4 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 20.8 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.7 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.7 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.3 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.5 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Laredos came standard with a 210-hp 3.7-liter V6. Optional for Laredo and standard on Limited was a 230-hp 4.7-liter V8. Optional for Limited was parent-company Chrysler's 325-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8. It had Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System, which deactivates four cylinders at idle and in cruising to save fuel. Horsepower jumped a bit for '06 on the 4.7 and 5.7 and a new 420-hp 6.1-liter V8 was added in the line-topping SRT-8. Regardless of engine, sole transmission was a 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate. Jeep recommends regular-grad fuel for the V6 and 4.7 V8, mid-grade fuel for the 5.7 V8, and premium-grade fuel for the 6.1 V8. For 2007, newly optional on all but the SRT8 is a 215-hp 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. A new 305-hp 4.7-liter V8 replaced a 235-hp 4.7 V8 in 2008.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc V6 | 3.7 / 226 | 210 | 235 | 5-speed automatic: 17/21 | 5-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc V8 | 4.7 / 287 | 233-305 | 294-334 | 5-speed automatic: 14/19 | 5-speed automatic: 16 |
| ohv V8 | 5.7 / 345 | 327 | 373 | 5-speed automatic: 14/19 | 5-speed automatic: 12 |
| ohv V8 | 6.1 / 370 | 420 | 420 | 5-speed automatic: 12/15 | 5-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbodiesel dohc V6 | 182.0 / 3 | 215 | 376 | 5-speed automatic: 18/24 | 5-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Jeep Grand Cherokee include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2005 Grand Cherokee |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2005-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2005 Grand Cherokee w/ 3.7-liter V6:
Water from the A/C evaporator may enter the transmission leading to increased transmission operating temperatures, expulsion of transmission fluid, and underhood fire. Dealers will replace defective seals, flush affected transmissions, and possibly replace torque converters.
2006-2007 Grand Cherokee:
The software in the ABS electronic control module may allow a momentary delay in braking when coasting uphill during certain conditions, which may result in a crash without warning. Dealers will reprogram the ABS electronic control module with new software that prevents this condition.
2007:
The antilock brake system control module software may cause the rear brakes to lock up during certain braking conditions. This could result in a loss of vehicle control and cause a crash without warning. Dealers will reprogram the ABS electronic control unit.
2007-2008 Grand Cherokee:
Front brake calipers of a certain lot may have been manufactured from an inferior type of iron, and may fracture without warning. Dealers will inspect the brake calipers to see if they fall into this lot, and, if so, replace them.
2008:
The front control module may have been incorrectly manufactured. This could cause the engine to stall while driving or fail to start and/or cause the windshield wipers to become inoperative. Dealers will inspect the module and replace it if necessary.
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