Jeep Grand Cherokee Maintenance and Repair

s1908 · October 2006

I bought a 1999 gand cherokee jeep three weeks ago and it did the smae thing for a while. Also the instrument panel was driving crazy when I was opening the door. Twice the dealer did not find what was wrong but it started running down my battery and just today it cannot even been jumped so I had a truck take it to the dealers again. Now they have to find the problem. Other forums say it is a ground problem caused by a wire of an alarm system the 1999 - 2004 Jeeps were made to have and it was finally not installed. A whit wire in a fuse. Maybe this will help you. I hope it will help me.
Good luck. If someone knows something else..Please write.

goggie · October 2006

i have a 1999 JGC laredo with 110,000 miles, V6, 2WD - the radiator fan does not come on when i start the jeep - i can run a hot wire direct and it kicks right off - any suggestions?

grassmannoah · October 2006

My 2000 jeep grand cherokee has the stereo control on the steering wheel. The one that controls changing radio stations just went out. It is a little button that you push in and it connects with a metal sensor that has now snapped. Anybody have any recommendation on ordering/fixing or is it time for satellite?

robby11733 · October 2006

Does anyone have a diagram of a 1997 JGC sound system. I'm trying to put in a new aftermarket amp but i don't want to plug the wrong wire into the wrong port, can someone please help me with this, i would be very gratful for any assistance.

xscout · October 2006

Is the Jeep hot when you are starting it? The electric fan is thermostatically controlled and only turns on when the coolant temperature requires it.

goggie · October 2006

no, the jeep is not hot, but it gets hot very quickly and the fan does not come on.

xscout · October 2006

Since you said the fan works if you jump a hot wire to it, the manual mentions only two other things. Check the 40 amp fuse in the power distribution center (engine compartment) and the ones in the interior fuse panel. There is also a relay located at the right front of the Jeep directly under the head lamp assembly. If all these check out, you are into "black box" territory meaning the remaining controls for the fan are part of the PCM and can only be checked by dealer type electronic gizmos.

xscout · October 2006

One other thing. I don't know where the temperature sensor for the fan is located, but if it is in the radiator area the radiator itself would not get hot if the thermostat was not opening even if the engine was overheating. You can always remove the thermostat just to verify you are getting good coolant circulation.

eltipo · October 2006

Hello all,

I've got an 06 Grand Cherokee Laredo (3.7 V6) with less than 6,000 miles that I have been having recurring problems with. Almost once a week for the past month a loud, jolting thunk has come from under the hood on the driver's side. It makes the whole car jerk. After that the whole center panel (including AC) and all of the gauges die.

I have taken it to my local dealer numerous times since I have had it and they said they couldn't get the codes, could not reproduce the problem, so they could not do anything. :mad:

Well, yesterday it happened again and my wife was able to get it to them and they were able to pull 3PAGES OF CODES!!! It looked like a grocery list.

They said that the computer essentially has a virus that resets all of its settings in mid-drive. The jerking is the transmission and some other component not getting the right signals at the right time.

Here's the kicker. They have to wait on Chrysler on Monday to get the supreme mechanic brain to interpret all of these codes. Then it takes multiple hours just to download patches. Then mechanics I, suppose, will be uploading them to the car. Then I have to test and see if this works. Hello, :lemon: !

I should not have this kind of problem on a car less than a year old. I bought this vehicle from this dealership and I have taken it their maintenance department exclusively (have all the records).

Thanks for letting me rant. I hope no one else has this problem. If anyone can explain any of their lemon experiences (in FL) I would appreciate it.

Thanks,
Nick

keithy02 · October 2006

great and me with the same jeep with 22,000 miles when the warranty runs out at 36.000 are with up the creek
that extended warranty sounding better
keith

lkksam · October 2006

I have a 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee with approx 149,000 miles.
I was at the repair shop today and the guy said the front differential has been badly damaged and the cost for a new front differential alone is approx $2000. He will try to find a used part for me but would not give me a ball park estimate until he find the part. But he did mention the entire job (part + 5hr labor)should be just about $2000. Can anyone give me an idea how much a new front differential costs and how much a used front differential costs? Is it worth it to spend that kind of money to fix it? Your input will be very helpful. Thanks.

kforce · October 2006

It is NOT a virus! The PCM is bad. The dealer will do everything not to replace the part. They make more money replacing one little thing at a time before replacing the computer. Federal law requires them to warranty the PCM for 8 years or 80,000 miles. They keep that a secret too.

There is no way there are 73 things, all controled by the PCM, on your vehicle going bad all at the same time. Also they dont "patch" the software. They may attempt to "reflash" the software on the eeprom which consists of a wipe of the software that is on the chip and then reloading it with the most current version for your vehicle. If the issue is not resolved insist on them replacing the PCM!! If they hassle you, call your states auto repair agency.

frostyy · October 2006

About 6 months ago, I bought a new 2006 Grand Cherokee Overland. I washed it by hand up until about one week ago when it was so cold out, I took it to a touchless car wash....when I got home, I noticed some water in the rear cargo area and some water dripping down the rear quarter panel window....the car was leaking...

...brought it into a dealer who indicated that the entire window needs to be replaced, which essentially means ripping the interior and exterior apart...

....needless to say, I am not too impressed with the quality of this vehicle....for the price I paid, I at least expect the vehicle to be waterproof...am I asking too much?

guest · October 2006

I have a 2006 Grand Cherokee and from day one it had a leak from the A-pillar handle of all places. Took three attempts, and Dealer had to actually send it to a leak specialist who charged the dealer $175.00 to fix the problem. I have since spoken to three other people with the same problem. Also had the lifters and calipers changed at 3,000 miles. So much for Dr. Z. and quality control.

frostyy · October 2006

Unbelievable!!....looks like somebody on the manufacturing line who is responsible for the trim work quality control needs to get their butt kicked...

...all I have to say is...there is a lot of competition out there in the Grand Cherokee segment and Jeep better get its' act together or loyal buyers like myself will be looking seriously elsewhere for better quality...

...there is no excuse for having to bring in a new vehicle with very low miles for leaks or anything else!!!

s1908 · October 2006

I could not agree with you more! And not only that! The dealers knows and they do not fix tha problems either! They are getting paid anywya for looking! My 1999 Grand Cherokee still runs down the battery and no dealer knows why! Hope the electriacina I took it today knows something! It is amazing though that the 2006 models still are having problems... I will not buy another Cherokee ever..maybe if they stop selling them they can sit down and ask themselves why!
:mad:

jdejeephemi · October 2006

Where is it leaking? I have a 05 5.7L. What should i look for?

Thanks

johndperry · October 2006

My 2004 JGC 4.0 6cyl. Had the camshaft fall apart at 10,000 miles. The "expert mechanics" at Daimler / Chrysler allowed the dealer to only replace the camshaft + lifters. They were to sorry and cheap to even change the contaminated oil. Unfortunately for me the lemon law in Virginia did not apply since I had the vehicle about 1.5 years before the 10,000 miles. Since you have taken yours numerous times, I would advise you to check the lemon law in your state (forget any prior releases... see an attorney ASAP). In my case, the motor was never right again. Daimler-Chrysler would not do anything more to fix it, other than say it had no problems. I had the same loud, jolting thunk you describe for the last two years... same story the three different dealers on 6-7 tries never could reproduce the problem. Finally, I made the dealer ride with me (driving) and reproduced the thunk 2-3 times. I was told that this was normal for that model due to changes in the computer. In other words, you appear to be in a similar situation as I was. Jeep REFUSED to fix mine, wore me down to the point that I sold mine with only 20,000 miles on it. I took a huge, huge hit on the depreciation. But, Daimler would do nothing to try to fix mine. Needless to say, I did not buy a Chrysler product and never will again. I urge you to push the lemon law, under which you should be able to make them take the vehicle back. At 6,000 miles you should not deserve to be stuck with a piece of crap expensive lemon. Daimler Chrysler is happy, since they have your money, you will see over time that they will refuse to make the car right. I know I sure did.

gg_2005 · October 2006

when I turn the jeep on after about 5 secs it cuts off, I try to restart and it basically shakes and cuts off again. I wait about a 30 secs and then it restarts and it runs. I've taken it to the dealer here and they can't duplicate the problem so they can't solve it. This has started happening once I got the transmission fixed by them, at first they thought it was the battery, so they replaced the battery and plugs, then they said the computer indicated it was an electrical problem and it was miss-firing, so we had that fixed. The problem continues. Does anyone knows what would cause this problem or has anyone had a similar situation? I need HELP!

fungus440 · October 2006

This weekend, I get to replace the brake light switch on my son's JGC. I purchased the part and it doesn't look like any brake light switch I've replaced in the '70s.

So, I'm asking if there are any special tools or tricks to replace it please.

The symptom is no rear brake lights. And since it was recently inspected, the odds of all 3 bulbs going out are not as great as the odds of the switch wearing out. That's my hunch. Thanks for the help.

taffy3 · October 2006

My '98 GC Ltd has developed a front end knock when turning right or left at almost full lock after several days of travelling thro' flooded roads. I suspect a constant velocity joint ( a common Austin Mini problem). Anyone dealt with this on a Grand Cherokee? Big Hammer needed???

Cheers ...Jim H.

frostyy · October 2006

jdejeephemi,

Mine leaked from the top of the rear driver's side window (the one that doesn't open)....I noticed it after I took it through a touchless car wash...water was streaming down the window and dropping into the cargo area...

....don't know if this is an isolated incident or a widespread problem...so yours could be okay...try taking it through a car wash and looking for any water inside that wasn't there before...

brian211 · October 2006

I have an 04 cherokee. I'd noticed water coming in from drivers headliner leaving it wet and a puddle on drivers side floor. Noticed luggage rail, going under winshield molding had a gap. Caulked it. Brought to dealer. Cleaned drains, found loose grommet on fire wall. Fixed that. Still when rains heavy, I get a moist residue under floor mats. Actually turns to frost in winter. Been unable to locate problem exactly. Seems to be coming from water getting underneath luggage racks from where they meet windshield to a foot or two going back. Caulked both sides of railings from windshield on back. Seems to have helped. Not 100%, but better than before. I keep some paper towels under mats these days. Hope this helps you. Make sure dealer cleans drains too. :confuse:

ellenm1 · October 2006

I feel your pain, my 2005 GC Ltd was approx 1 year old, and I started having electrical issues since April, it has been towed to my dealership 5 times, they keep replacing modules, it started has a stalling while driving and losing all functions of the dashboard, steering can become a problem, I have heard a thunk a time or two, and braking issues with error messages, every time it happens I have to have it towed so the codes are in the system.(plus without signal lights, odometer, not safe to drive) They have replaced the front control module and many other modules, I live in VA also, the lemon law, to my understanding is before 18 months, we are at 15, and I have approx 20,000 miles, I have filed a lemon law complaint, they think they can fix it one more time by replacing some ignition thing, and something in the steering.... The car is not reliable or safe to drive, i am afraid to drive far from home because of these problems. When you have these problems you are stuck, I could not in good conscience sell this car or trade it to someone with these problems, our dealership has been great; but Chrysler has not impressed me.

taffy3 · October 2006

Driving with air con on full, the motor lost power and the tachometer went to zero. The radio distorted and the aircon stopped. managed to limp the few hundred yards home. Now it won't start, just clatters the relay and the wiper sweeps for some reason. Checked all fuses, lifted out all relays one by one but no joy. Battery pretty new and reads 12 volts.
I see signs of burn on the aircon leads close to the blower.
Ideas por favor?

Cheers...Jim ( down Mexico way)

speedwgn1 · October 2006

hi,my 98 cherrokee did same thing,was told it was the computer by dealer.not so! my friend cleaned throttle body and new battery,was like new,

aleonar2 · October 2006

I bought my Jeep about one month ago and for the first time put it into 4x4 and it engaged, when I went to return it to 4x2 it stayed in 4x4, even though the lever and the dashboard say it is in 4x2, any thoughts?

jjkeffeler · October 2006

I have a 2003 Grand Cherokee with the same problem. Who did you contact at Chrysler to help get the problem resolved for $150. Two dealers have quoted me between $800 and $1000 to fix it. :mad:

eltipo · October 2006

I got my car back this past Friday. They had to replace the ignition switch. They would not replace the forward control module because Chrysler would not authorize it. Ellenm1 your car might need the same change.

I truly hope this fixes it. I have talked to the State's Atty General Office already and they said I can pursue the Lemon Law here in FL.

I am sorry any new car buyer has to go through this kind of headache; it is quite frustrating :mad:

ellenm1 · October 2006

I got my Jeep back on Friday also, the dealer did replace the front control module, and the OCC module.(that was done a while ago) That did not solve problem, the last thing they did is the ignition switch and something in the steering. Three days, and so far it is running great, I only hope this is it, I am going to insist that if nothing else Chrysler gives me extended bumper to bumper coverage, a lawyer I contacted said I have an excellent case for lemon law if I want to go that route, we will see...You are right about it being frustrating and a headache.... we buy something new in good faith......

jenm1 · October 2006

Well, among other problems with my 2005 GJC- now the steering wheel clicks (loudly) when I cut the wheel. I have read other posts regarding this issue- anyone come across any solutions?? - going to the dealer in a few days, but I already know they "will not be able to duplicate the problem" if I could have solutions ready, perhaps they will actually fix something this time! Thanks in advance!

michaeltatarjr · October 2006

hey I got a 95 sport edition jeep cherokee (not a grand cherokee). I am having the following problem: When I get in the car in the morning I have a hell-of-a time shifting into first gear! Usually I have to stomp on the clutch pedal and then push the shifter pretty hard into gear. Once its in motion it shifts pretty hard as well. Maybe clutch? i dunno, up until lately it was alittle intermitent. The car has 185,000 on it, so i guess it could be about anything. I can usually troubleshoot mid-level auto repair stuff, but tranny problems are like greek to me. Any thoughts?

jeepen · October 2006

Have a 2004 Grand Cherokee Limited with no heat on drivers side dealer said need to replace damper doors in heater assembly, they are broken, at a cost of $900.00 is this the same problem and what is your $150.00 solution. Need help here on who to contact to get a fare shake and not get ripped off by the dealership....

tony3636 · October 2006

does anyone now how to fix my problem my speedometer works sometimes and sometime it dose no work all other gauges work
i could be riding down the road ant speedometer is working and then it will stop working

guest · October 2006

I too have the loud clicking when i turn my wheel. it usually happens when i turn right. if you hear anything on what it is please let me know

rhinoishere · November 2006

2003 JGC

Oh man... have I ever dealt with this issue. The steering wheel will sometimes have a constant click while driving. I don't even have to be turning, just driving down the highway and "click.... click, click". Ugh, very annoying. To make a long story short, I finally gave up. The Jeep dealer I had look at it (twice) was no help. Gave me the runaround and broke other stuff in the process. Will never make the mistake of buying another Jeep. It has numerous problems - LEMON!

afconway · November 2006

Have a 2005 GC Limited that I just set up to tow behind my motor home. Put 4 wheel drive into Nuetral as instructed in manual and followed instructions setting it up to tow behind motor home. When I went to start Jeep after towing it for two days the battery was dead. Any one have suggestions. Never had this problem with my 1999 GC Limited.

haas95 · November 2006

my 95 limited did the same thing. try changing the speed sensor

haas95 · November 2006

my 95 grand cherokee limited (4.0) blew the transmission so i bought a used one from a 96. after installing the trans the transfer case wont bolt to the rear of the trans 'cause the tailshafts are different. im undecided whether i should chance swapping tailshafts. what are the odds anything is wrong with my original tailshaft? what would you do? i really need my jeep back!! i hate driving my wifes!!! thanks in advance for any input

cherokee123 · November 2006

I have a new 06 Grand Cherokee Limited Hemi, I just wondered if anyone with one of these had noticed an exhaust drone at about 50 MPH that you can hear as well as feel in the floor under load like if your going up hill. I believe this is probably normal but just wondered if others had noticed it.

bob_graham · November 2006

My 06 Dodge Ram was doing the same thing - they replaced the imtermediate shaft and now all is quiet.

bob_graham · November 2006

See my post #3405 You may havethe tire vibration problem or a tire out of balance.

kranmars · November 2006

I have a 95 Jeep Grand cherokee. Lately the temperature guage is reading lower than usual - between 125 and 150o. There appears to be a small small leak of coolant - at times the coolant low alarm comes on but goes off when I add more coolant to the resevoir. Any suggestions?

spiderman229 · November 2006

I had the same problem and pay no atetion I just keep puting more coolant every time the alarm come on..... bat idea. you have to take care of this problem

look like you have a lick some where in the radiator. but is so small that you can not see it. have your radietor check by an expert. he will tell you where is the problem.

my problem start just like that. but after time the plastic part of the radiator broke. and had to replace. also they clean up my radiator inside. now every thing is ok

kevin117 · November 2006

I've replaced my rotors 3 times, they all warped. I even installed the dealer fix (improved larger calipers). Took a bit longer but after a few months the rotors warped again.

Searching on the internet I found this place.

http://www.frozenrotors.com/

The sell rotors that have been hardened via a freezing process. Bought their rotors and pads and my warping problem was SOLVED.

Note: JGC rotors are their #1 seller.

floridabob1 · November 2006

Turn switch to crank and nothing happens.Keep turning switch on and off and interior lights will come on occasionally. Finally,after about 10 minutes and 15 or 20 turns,engine will start and run fine.This has happened twice since last week.Could it be the ignition switch?

guest · November 2006

Actually,message 3455 is from me (varick). Sorry, I,m new to this site.

stever · November 2006

There's an occasional bug here that drops the member name in posts; a fix is due to be rolled out this month I think.

Welcome!

hemi27 · November 2006

With only 2500 miles my JGC makes a loud vibration noise on acceleration. Mainly after driving above normal speeds(highway). When I get into town(stop and go) it starts to make a loud noise from 1 to 3rd gear then starts to fade in 4th and 5th. This repeats until I shut it off and let it cool down. The noise sounds like it's coming from underneath(front, middle, rear). It's been back to the dealership twice and they're scratching their heads. It sounds like an exhaust issue by the loud deep vibration. They said the exhaust checked out fine. Anyone else with this type of problem? Thanks ya'll!

badwreak · November 2006

I'm a disabled vet. My family and I were almost killed in Aug 06 by a 21 year nut driving on the wrong side of the road and hit us doing 75 mph.
I lost my Monte Carlo that day but we all lived. Thank God!
The boy had no insurance and no DL.
My insurance refused to pay because it had just lapsed.

Anyway I am now in a wheelchair. My wife took my 95 Dodge Ram that had a bench seat in it and traded it for a 97 Jeep Grand Cherokee TSI, plus she gave the guy $800.00 to boot.
She did this so we all would have a car we can all fit in and put the wheel chair in.

Since I got out og the hospital I have driven it and noticed that it makes a grindind noice when I try to put it in 4 wheel drive or all wheel drive. It will work if I put it in low, but not the others. What is wrong with it?

The cruise control will not work either, and the fuses has been checked. ( I need that because I can't put presure on my leg)
I also noticed by being in the wheel chair that the driver side front tire is turned out further then the other.
I have everyone suing me for hospital bills, ect. While this 21 yr old is out on promation for 2 years.
So I don't have money to repair it. Cand someone please help me, please?

Jeep Grand Cherokee Maintenance and Repair

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