1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 1,028 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the transmission. It has been recalled 10 times.

Not among the Jeep Grand Cherokee years to avoid. Which Jeep Grand Cherokee years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
105,000 milesMedian miles at failure

193 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 150,000–200,000 miles.

Most common 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems

403 of the 1,028 complaints (39%) are about the transmission.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Park/Neutral Start Interlock Switch · transmission267
104070
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor · brakes70
000
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission51
1009
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system36
110
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip · brakes31
301
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system30
000
Electrical System27
110
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly · fuel system26
111
Power Train › Driveline › Differential Unit · transmission23
000
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine22
011

1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee transmission problems

39% of all complaints

403 of the 1,028 complaints are about the transmission. This is what owners describe:

  • slips or will not engage a gear8% · 31
  • knocks, grinds or clunks5% · 22

Share of the 403 transmission complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
76,000 mi
median of 28 reports
Peak year of filing
2001
261 transmission complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
123 · 2 · 80
in these complaints
Recalls on the transmission
“Rear end made a loud noise and after that the rear differential is very loud. It is like a grinding whining noise. After problem started occurring I have had minor transmission slips in first and second gears. This is the third occurrence of this problem in as many years. The first two times the warranty covered it but is has since expired.”
Owner complaint, filed Apr 5, 2004 at 78,000 miles
“We purchased a 1998 jeep grand cherokee in october 2000. In spring of 2001, I was in my garage and I turned the vehicle on while our garage door was half way up. The vehicle jumped into reverse without me even touching the shifter. Our car was damaged because the bottom of the garage door clipped the top of the vehicle denting and scratching it(the vehicle was damaged, the garage door suprisingly was fine).”
Owner complaint, filed Jul 11, 2003 at 79,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
1997: 3 complaints, 1 about the transmission'971998: 55 complaints, 16 about the transmission1999: 128 complaints, 26 about the transmission2000: 96 complaints, 11 about the transmission2001: 328 complaints, 261 about the transmission'012002: 105 complaints, 45 about the transmission2003: 57 complaints, 17 about the transmission2004: 22 complaints, 7 about the transmission2005: 14 complaints, 4 about the transmission'052006: 11 complaints, 3 about the transmission2007: 11 complaints, 2 about the transmission2008: 18 complaints, 2 about the transmission2009: 10 complaints, 0 about the transmission'092010: 7 complaints, 0 about the transmission2011: 17 complaints, 3 about the transmission2012: 8 complaints, 0 about the transmission2013: 15 complaints, 0 about the transmission'132014: 68 complaints, 2 about the transmission2015: 27 complaints, 3 about the transmission2016: 13 complaints, 0 about the transmission2017: 7 complaints, 0 about the transmission'172018: 4 complaints, 0 about the transmission2019: 2 complaints, 0 about the transmission2020: 0 complaints, 0 about the transmission2021: 0 complaints, 0 about the transmission'212022: 1 complaints, 0 about the transmission2023: 0 complaints, 0 about the transmission2024: 1 complaints, 0 about the transmissionRecall 98V023000 (brakes)Recall 00V136000 (brakes)Recall 02V053000 (transmission)Recall 06E011000 (fuel system)Recall 06E022000 (brakes)Recall 07E104000 (visibility)Recall 09E012000 (headlights)Recall 09E025000 (headlights)Recall 13V252000 (body and frame)NHTSA investigation EA12005NHTSA investigation PE10031NHTSA investigation EA02029NHTSA investigation EA01017NHTSA investigation PE01021
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 1998 Grand Cherokee peaked in 2001, with 328 filed that year. Owners had filed 320 complaints about the transmission before the first recall that covers it, 02V053000 in February 2002; 83 more have come in since. In 2024 owners filed 1 so far.

10 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Structure13V252000
Filed Jun 19, 20131,560,000 vehiclesChrysler Group LLC

Defect. Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty vehicles. The fuel tanks in these vehicles are at risk of failure and leakage in certain rear impacts.

Risk. A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy. Owners may take their vehicles to dealers and the dealers will perform a free inspection of the rear structure. On vehicles in the recall that are not equipped with a tow hitch, Chrysler will install a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles in the recall that are equipped with an aftermarket tow hitch, Chrysler will assess whether the hitch and surrounding areas show evidence of sharp edges or other puncture risks. If so, Chrysler will replace the tow hitch with a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles already equipped with a Chrysler designed tow hitch, Chrysler will inspect the area around the tow hitch installation, and if any installation issues are identified, they will be repaired free of charge. The recall began on August 1, 2014. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign numbers are N45 (for the Grand Cherokee vehicles) and N46 (for the Liberty vehicles).

Exterior Lighting › Headlights09E025000
Filed May 11, 200942,540 vehiclesDope, Inc.

Defect. DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

Exterior Lighting09E012000
Filed Apr 7, 200916,270 vehiclesSabersport

Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Visibility › Glass, Side/Rear07E104000
Filed Dec 11, 20071,657 vehiclesSafelite Fulfillment, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."

Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.

Remedy. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS RETAIL CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. RETAIL CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE TOLL FREE AT 1-888-843-2906. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS AND REIMBURSE WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS FOR CURRENT INVENTORY AND AT A SPECIFIED RATE FOR REPLACING THEIR CUSTOMER'S GLASS. WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE'S WHOLESALE DIVISION, SERVICE AUTOGLASS TOLL FREE AT 1-888-246-6298. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2008.

Exterior Lighting06E026000
Filed Mar 23, 200661,944 vehiclesPro-A Motors, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic06E022000
Filed Mar 13, 20067,440 vehiclesBrake Parts, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT BRAKE CYLINDERS FOR CERTAIN FORD, DAIMLERCHRYSLER, AND JEEP PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE BRAKE CYLINDERS WERE SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF NAPA, RAYBESTOS, AIMCO, AC DELCO, CARQUEST, BENDIX, AND WAGNER. ONLY PRODUCTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 27, 2005 THROUGH JANUARY 17, 2006 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.

Risk. LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN LEAD TO A DECREASE IN BRAKE LINE PRESSURE AND AN INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE, WHICH CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. AFFINIA (BRAKE PARTS, INC.) WILL REPLACE THE SUBJECT BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AFFINA GROUP CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-323-0354.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump06E011000
Filed Feb 1, 20067,291 vehiclesAirtex Products

Defect. CERTAIN AFTERMARKET AIRTEX ELECTRIC FUEL PUMPS INSTALLED FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR CERTAIN 1997-2004 JEEP WRANGLER; 1997-2001 JEEP CHEROKEE; 1997-2004 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE; AND 2000-2003 DODGE DAKOTA VEHICLES. THE PLASTIC ELECTRICAL GROMMET CONNECTORS AT THE TOP OF THE FUEL PUMP MODULE ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH AUTOMOTIVE FUELS AND MAY DEGRADE CAUSING A POTENTIAL LEAK PATH FOR FUEL.

Risk. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FUEL LEAK COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy. AIRTEX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 25, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AIRTEX CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT 1-800-880-3056.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Lever and Linkage › Floor Shift02V053000
Filed Feb 15, 20021,620,000 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, IF A DRIVER HAS NOT PLACED THE SHIFTER LEVER FULLY INTO THE "PARK" POSITION AND LEAVES THE VEHICLE RUNNING, THE VEHICLE MAY UNEXPECTEDLY MOVE REARWARD AFTER SEEMING TO BE STABLE.

Risk. INADVERTENT MOVEMENT OF THE VEHICLE COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SECONDARY DETENT SYSTEM TO THE FLOOR SHIFTER ASSEMBLY. DAIMLERCHRYSLER SENT INTERIM NOTICES TO OWNERS CONCERNING THIS PROBLEM ON MARCH 22, 2002. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 23, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor00V136000
Filed May 10, 2000589,000 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, OR WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT DISC BRAKE ROTORS CAN EXPERIENCE SEVERE CORROSION IF OPERATED FOR AN EXTENSIVE PERIOD IN THE "SALT BELT." IF THE ROTORS ARE NOT REPLACED, THE CORROSION CAN EVENTUALLY COMPROMISE THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE STAMPED STEEL CENTER HUB SECTION OF THE ROTOR.

Risk. THE REDUCED STRENGTH CAN ALLOW THE CAST IRON WEAR SURFACE TO SEPARATE FROM THE HUB, REDUCING THE BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE VEHICLE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE ROTORS WITH ROTORS THAT ARE COATED WITH A CORROSION PROTECTION.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Power Assist › Vacuum98V023000
Filed Feb 10, 19988,900 vehiclesChrysler Corporation

Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE POWER BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM RESERVOIR DIAPHRAGM CAN SPLIT OR TEAR.

Risk. THIS CAN CAUSE AN INCREASE IN ENGINE IDLE SPEED AND A LOSS OF POWER ASSIST DURING BRAKE APPLICATION WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE BOOSTER DATE CODE AND ANY BOOSTERS WITH THE SUSPECT MANUFACTURING DATE RANGE WILL BE REPLACED.

All 10 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 7 name the 1998 Grand Cherokee.

Crash Related Fuel Tank FiresEngineering analysis EA12005Closed
Opened Jun 12, 2012Closed Nov 14, 2014Led to recall 13V252000fuel system

ODI has completed an extensive analysis of rear crash fuel tank system integrity data for the subject Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles (SVs).As of June 2013, ODI knew of 56 post-collision fatal fires, 28 non-fatal fires, and 6 fuel leak incidents (totaling 90 incidents, 75 fatalities and 58 injuries) involving the SVs.Based on this analysis, ODI issued a Recall Request Letter (RRL) on June 3, 2013 requesting that Chrysler recall the Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles due to the rate of fatal, non-fatal fire, and fuel leak incidents when compared to peer vehicles (compact …

Crash Related Fuel Tank FiresPreliminary evaluation PE10031Closed
Opened Aug 23, 2010Closed Jun 14, 2012fuel system

NHTSA has conducted extensive analysis of the data regarding fuel tank integrity for the model year (MY) 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee (JGC). As a result of that work, the agency has decided to upgrade its safety defect investigation to an Engineering Analysis and to expand the scope of vehicles included in the investigation. NHTSA's assessment of the data collected during this investigation indicates that rear-impact-related tank failures and vehicle fires are more prevalent in the JGC than in the non-Jeep peer vehicles. In addition, the agency's analysis of its FARS data for the peer …

Fuel Storage System Crash Related FiresDefect petition DP09005Closed
Opened Nov 6, 2009Closed Aug 23, 2010fuel system

In a letter dated October 2, 2009, the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned NHTSA to open a defect investigation and recall model year 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees.CAS alleged that the subject vehicles have defective fuel tank storage systems that present a fire hazard in crashes. CAS alleged that the plastic fuel tank's placement behind the rear axle and below the rear bumper, and the lack of adequate shielding, make it more vulnerable to rupture or leakage from a rear-impact by another vehicle (including damage from other components located on the Grand Cherokee), or in the case of …

HOOD LATCH FAILUREEngineering analysis EA02029Closed
Opened Oct 16, 2002Closed Feb 10, 2004door locks and latches

Odi opened ea02-029 to determine whether a safety-related defect trend existed in the my 1997 jeep grand cherokee hood latch assemblies.during ea02-029, there was no specific failure mechanism identified that could differentiate the my 1997 vehicles from other vehicles containing this same hood latch assembly or could account for their higher complaint rate.as a result, odi expanded the scope of this investigation to include all grand cherokee vehicles equipped with the subject hood latch assemblies.in performing ea02-029, it was determined that some of the secondary hood latches in the …

HOOD LATCHPreliminary evaluation PE02045Closed
Opened May 17, 2002Closed Oct 16, 2002body and frame

There is no summary currently available

ROLL-AWAY IN REVERSE WHEN PARKEDEngineering analysis EA01017Closed
Opened Nov 1, 2001Closed Dec 18, 2002Led to recall 02V053000transmission

Daimlerchrysler has recalled the zj models to incorporate a secondary detent spring into the shifter.even though the wj 6 cyl. Vehicles use the same manual detent lever that as the vehicles in the recall population, odi believes that the wj redesigned shifter, which improves floor shifter functionality and ergonomics, helps to provide feedback to the driver to indicate whether ?park? Has or has not been achieved.although the investigator was able to induce a ?false park? In the wj platform for 6 cyl. Vehicles, the level of difficulty was greater than that required for all zj models, and the …

INADVERTENT ROLLAWAY IN REVERSE PARKPreliminary evaluation PE01021Closed
Opened Jun 28, 2001Closed Nov 1, 2001transmission

Technical service bulletins

90 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 1998 Grand Cherokee. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

electrical system 15engine 13equipment 11body and frame 9transmission 9trailer hitch 5airbags 5visibility 4
2100903Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 2, 2005transmission

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DIAGNOSTIC TEARDOWN PROCEDURE. VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING THE 2004 RAM TRUCK, DURANGO, SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, CHEROKEE, VISION, NEON, AND VOYAGER. *TT *SC

2100202Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJul 8, 2002transmission

SUBJECT REGARDING REVISION IN DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES AND LABOR OPERATION TIMES FOR RE TRANSMISSIONS. *TT

2100601Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 16, 2001transmission

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE ATF+4. *TT *MJ

181299Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 18, 1999transmission

THIS BULLETIN EXPLAINS THE OPERATION AND APPLICATION OF THE LEAK DETECTION PUMP (LDP) MONITOR TEST. *TT

210899Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 30, 1999transmission

VEHICLES EXHIBITING BUZZ, WHINING, OR MOANING LIKE NOISE FROM COLD TRANSMISSION WHEN REVERSE GEAR IS SELECTED. *TT

210998Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 26, 1998transmission

A THUMPING OR CREAKING NOISE MAY BE HEARD COMING FROM THE TRANSMISSION TUNNEL AREA ON ACCELERATION OR WHILE DRIVING OVER BUMPY ROADS. *YC

Showing the newest 6 of 9 bulletins about the transmission, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 1, 2024NM

Car stalls sometimes at a light. Also stops when driving in traffic and everything goes dead. Then starts up again. Diagnostic check shows everything ok. Mechanic put different sensors in but did not solve problem. It did not stall when mechanic drove it. Has been happening off and on for a couple of months.

Steering
Filed Jul 28, 2022150,000 milesCO

The contact owns a 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH, the front tires started shaking violently to the right and left while the steering wheel followed the rapid jerking movements from right to left. The contact slowed the vehicle to 40 MPH and was able to proceed. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local independent mechanic who determined that burned lower track arm bearings on the steering arms left and right needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The failure still occurred intermittently. The vehicle was towed to a second independent mechanic but had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 29, 2019160,000 milesVA

WITHIN THREE WEEKS OF INSTALLING A SET (4) OF THE HANKOOK OPTIMO 724 TIRES, I HAD EXPERIENCED A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE WHILE TRAVELING AT ~ 60 MPH ON THE INTERSTATE. I AM CERTAIN I AM EXPERIENCED NO HAZARD FOR IT WAS MY DRIVER'S SIDE REAR TIRE THAT FAILED. THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT TIRE WAS NOT DAMAGED. THE LEFT, REAR TIRE FAILURE ESSENTIALLY FELL APART, HAVING SEPARATED FROM THE OUTER/INNER WALLS. NO PLAUSIBLE REASON OTHER THAN EXTREMELY POOR QUALITY. HANKOOK REPRESENTATIVE COULD ONLY OFFER 50% CREDIT TOWARDS MY NEXT PURCHASE, BUT IT REQUIRED AN HANKOOK AUTHORIZED DEALER WHICH WAS INCONVENIENTLY LOCATED. I UTILIZED WALMART'S 100% GUARANTEE, RETURNED THEM, AND REPLACED THEM WITH GOODYEAR WRANGLER RADIAL P235/75R15 105S OWL HIGHWAY TIRES WHICH HAVE PERFORMED SUPERBLY THUS FAR.

Steering
Filed Apr 28, 2019150,000 milesRI

I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY WITH MY 3 YEAR OLD GRANDCHILD IN THE BACK WHEN MY CAR STARTED SHAKING SO VIOLENTLY I THOUGHT WE WERE GOING TO DIE! IT LITERALLY FELT LIKE THE WHEELS AND THE STEERING WHEEL AS WELL WERE GOING TO ALL FALL OFF! I'VE NEVER BEEN MORE SCARED IN MY LIFE. IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO SLOW IT DOWN AND PULL OVER TO A BREAKDOWN LANE SO I COULD STOP . I WAS EVEN GOING UNDER THE SPEED LIMIT WHEN THIS HAPPENED

Electrical System
Filed Jun 19, 201810,145 milesTX

STALLING WHILE DRIVING HIGHWAY SPEEDS. NOTICED IT STALLS AFTER ENGINE WARMS UP. SOMETIMES IT STARTS BACK UP, BUT SOMETIMES IT HAS TO SIT A WHILE.

Engine
Filed Jun 17, 2018146,200 milesWI

VEHICLE WILL STALL OUT WITHOUT WARNING WHILE MOVING AT ANY SPEED. PULLING OVER AND RESTARTING THE CAR FIXES THE ISSUE TEMPORARILY. THIS HAS BEEN A PROBLEM FOR SEVERAL YEARS. NO ERROR CODES ARE BEING GENERATED . REPLACED O2 SENSORS AND THIS REMAINS AN ISSUE. LOOKING ONLINE, MANY PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS SAME ISSUE.

Structure › Body
Filed May 4, 2018260,778 milesTN

TAKATA RECALL. SINCE OWNING MY 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 4.0, I'VE REPLACED NEARLY EVERY SINGLE PART ON IT. THE TRANSMISSION NEEDS TO BE RECALLED ON THIS VEHICLE BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED JUST TRYING TO DRIVE IT. THE TRANSMISSION WILL BE FINE 1 MINUTE, THE NEXT IT IS PUTTING ITSELF IN NEUTRAL OR DRIVE AND I'VE NEARLY DIED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. NOW, THE JEEP IS CODING MORE CODES THAN EVER. ALSO, AS OF FEW DAYS AGO, I HAVE NO REVERSE IN IT. I NEARLY HIT ANOTHER CAR TRYING TO BACK OUT OF A SPACE AT THE HOSPITAL WHEN REVERSE DECIDED TO NO LONGER WORK. I CAN'T AFFORD TO KEEP FIXING THESE ISSUES AND I SHOULDN'T HAVE TO. PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS BECAUSE I'M SURE I'M NOT THE ONLY PERSON THAT'S HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION IN 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE MODELS. ALSO, MY BACK PASSENGER DOORS HAVE DECIDED THEY WON'T OPEN FROM OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. YOU CAN ONLY OPEN THEM FROM INSIDE. WHAT IF SOMETHING HAPPENED AND I WAS TRAPPED, NOBODY COULD GET IN THROUGH THE PASSENGER BACK 2 DOORS BECAUSE THEY WON'T OPEN. AS FAR AS TRANSMISSION, MAYBE I'LL LIVE THROUGH ANOTHER INCIDENT WITH TRANSMISSION CHANGING GEARS ON IT'S OWN, BUT MAYBE I WON'T EITHER. THANK YOU.

Trailer Hitches
Filed Jan 3, 2018AK

1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO RECEIVER TRAILER HITCH SAFETY RECALL. *LD *JS

Electrical System
Filed Sep 17, 2017114,000 milesTX

VEHICLE WILL STALL AND LOSE POWER WHILE DRIVING. CAN OCCUR AT SLOW AND HIGH SPEEDS. ONLINE FORUMS HAVE MENTIONED A POSSIBILITY OF FAULTY PCMS.

Tires › Tread/Belt
Filed Jul 24, 2017113,000 milesPA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE EQUIPPED WITH ANTARES COMFORT A5 TIRES, SIZE: 235/70/R16 (NA). THE TIRES WERE PURCHASED ON JUNE 10, 2016 FROM WALMART. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TIRES WERE ALREADY COMPLETELY BALD AND THE WEAR BAR WAS SLIGHTLY EXPOSED. THE TIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THE TIRES HAD A GUARANTEE OF 60,000 MILES. WALMART STATED THAT THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE TIRES. THE TIRES HAD NOT BEEN REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE DOT NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,000 AND THE APPROXIMATE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 11,000.

Suspension
Filed May 29, 2017140,000 milesUT

IT HAS HAPPENED TWICE IN THE LAST 2 WEEKS. I GO OVER A SMALL BUMP AND IT BEGINS TO SHAKE VERY VIOLENTLY. I LET OFF THE GAS AND IT SETTLES DOWN. THIS IS VERY VIOLENT SHAKING.LIKE THE VEHICLE IS COMING APART.

Engine
Filed May 17, 2017197,843 milesMN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS OR WHILE STOPPED, THE VEHICLE SHOOK AND STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT HAD TO RESTART THE VEHICLE TO REGAIN NORMAL OPERATION. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC AND DEALER WHO WERE UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT DUE TO THE MILEAGE OF THE VEHICLE, IT WOULD NOT BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 197,843.

Electrical System
Filed May 15, 2017191,000 milesTN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MARK III JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE MAIN PCM LOCATED ON THE FIREWALL WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 191,000.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Apr 25, 2017NJ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE). THE CONTACT WAS NOT ABLE TO COMPLETE THE PROCESS FOR CHRYSLER'S BUY BACK PROGRAM DUE TO THE MANUFACTURER'S REFUSAL. THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT WAS NOTIFIED THAT THE MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT COMPLETE THE BUY BACK PROGRAM DUE TO THE CAMPAIGN'S EXPIRATION. THE CONTACT WAS NOT PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER FROM THE VARIOUS REPRESENTATIVES WITH WHICH HE SPOKE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jan 10, 2017200,000 milesFL

BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE FOR TRANSPORTATION TO WORK AND HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO DRIVE IT DUE TO SAFETY ISSUES AS THE TIMING BELT HAS APPARENT ISSUES THAT MAKE THE MAIN COMPUTER READ IT WRONG FROM WHAT I AM UNDERSTANDING. THE VEHICLE WANTS TO SHUT OFF AT A RED LIGHT OR STOP SIGN, THEN KICKS BACK INTO GEAR. IT SEEMS TO DRIVE BETTER ON A MAIN STRETCH, YET FALTERS AT SLOWING TO A STOP. IT IS AT THE MANUFACTURE NOW AND HAS RECALLS, YET THIS WAS NOT ON THE LIST OF REPAIRS. HOWEVER, I BELIEVE IT IS AN ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED WITHOUT ME HAVING TO PAY A SERVICE BILL FOR THE AMOUNT THEY ARE WANTING TO CHARGE ME FOR REPAIRS. I FEEL THIS IS A MANUFACTURE DEFECT THAT SHOULD BE FIXED. THEY MENTIONED THE TIMING BELT AND CRANK SHAFT. IM NO MECHANIC, HOWEVER, THESE ISSUES COULD CAUSE ME TO LOOSE CONTROL OF THIS VEHICLE AND SHOULD BE CORRECTED. I FEEL IT IS THE MANUFACTURERS OBLIGATION TO SAFETY TO HELP ME TO HAVE THE ISSUES CORRECTED. I HAD TO HAVE SOMEONE ELSE DRIVE IT TO THE SHOP FOR ME WITH ME AS PASSENGER. VERY SCARY RIDE. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Dec 1, 20161 milesWA

ALARM GOES OFF INTERMITTENTLY WHEN PARKED IF ALARM SET , LIGHTS GO OUT OR FLASH WHEN DRIVING. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Aug 26, 2016230,000 milesOR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ALARM ACTIVATED RANDOMLY, THE HEADLIGHTS FLASHED AND THE COMPUTER DISPLAYED THAT ALL DOORS WERE OPEN WHEN THEY WERE CLOSED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE BRAND NEW BATTERY THAT HAD BEEN INSTALLED BECAME INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 230,000.

Air Bags5 injured
Filed Aug 12, 2016200,000 milesNY

DURING NORMAL DRIVING DOWN A MOUNTAIN ROAD, BREAK PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. ATTEMPTS MAKE TO PUMP BREAK WITH NO EFFECT. EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS PULLED WITH NO EFFECT. VEHICLE SLAMMED INTO ROCK WALL AND THEN LANDED INTO A 10+ FOOT RAVINE. WAS INFORMED BY MECHANIC THE MASTER CYLINDER FAILED WHICH CAUSED A NEAR FATAL ACCIDENT WITH 5 PEOPLE IN THE VEHICLE. I RECENTLY FOUND OUT THERE WAS A RECALL ON A REPLACEMENT MASTER CYLINDER FOR THAT MAKE A MODEL BUT CANNOT VERIFY IF THIS WAS A REPLACEMENT PART OR NOT. I CANNOT NOT FIND ANY INFORMATION WITH CASTING NUMBERS OF EFFECTED PARTS. RE: THE RECALLED MASTER CYLINDERS IT REPORTS THE PART WAS AFFECTED IN COLD WEATHER BUT THIS HAPPENED ON A WARM SUMMER DAY. THE RECALL I AM REFERRING TO WAS INITIALLY REPORTED IN 2006. ALL THAT HAPPENED AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I DO HAVE PICTURES OF THE ACCIDENT AND THE MASTER CYLINDER AS WELL AS DOCUMENTATION RE THE ACCIDENT REPORTS, I AM HAVING A HARD TIME UPLOADING THEM

Engine
Filed Jul 11, 2016182,012 milesMA

ENGINE STALLS/CUTS OUT WITHOUT WARNING WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, ON CITY STREETS AND SOMETIMES WHILE STOPPED IN TRAFFIC. THIS IS AN ONGOING ISSUE FOR ALMOST A YEAR. MECHANIC CANNOT FIND OR DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. ONLINE FORUMS SEEM TO INDICATE THIS IS AN INHERENT PROBLEM IN THIS PRODUCT LINE THE INCIDENT DATE BELOW IS THE LATEST OCCURENCE.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jun 9, 2016185,000 milesNE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO REVERSE THE VEHICLE, THE REVERSE LIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM; GASOLINE, STRUCTURE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 185,000. UPDATED 07/13/16*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE BACK UP LIGHTS STOPPED WORKING, AFTER THE RECALL WAS PERFORMED. UPDATED 07/20/16

Engine
Filed Jun 2, 2016120,000 milesMD

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART AND WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE IGNITION COILS WERE REPLACED. THE FAILURE RECURRED THE SAME DAY THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED. THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING TOWED BACK TO THE MECHANIC FOR THE SECOND TIME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.

Steering
Filed May 26, 2016131,000 milesMO

MY JEEP HAS THE "DEATH WOBBLE". WHEN HITTING A BUMP (BRIDGE, POTHOLE, ETC.) GOING DOWN THE ROAD, THE FRONT END STARTS TO BOUNCE AROUND AND BECOMES UNSTABLE. THIS USUALLY OCCURS AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND SEEMS TO BE WORSE WHEN TOWING A TRAILER. I HAVE TO COME TO AN ALMOST COMPLETE STOP THE GET IT TO QUIT SHAKING. STEERING AND BRAKING ARE AFFECTED. TIRES CHIRP WHEN TRYING TO STOP BECAUSE ONE OR BOTH FRONT TIRES LEAVE THE GROUND. NEW TIRES, BRAKES (BOTH PADS AND ROTORS), AND SWAY BAR LINKS AND THE PROBLEM STILL PERSISTS. JUST HAD A STATE INSPECTION DONE AND HAD THEM CHECK VERY CAREFULLY THE FRONT END COMPONENTS SUCH AS BALL JOINTS. ALL SEEMED TO BE OK.

Structure
Filed Mar 17, 2016WI

LETTER FROM CONSUMER REGARDING A SAFETY RECALL ON TWO OF HIS VEHICLES (1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE AND 1995 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE) ; RESPONSE EXPECTED. *SMD THE CONSUMER DISCOVERED CORROSION ON THE LEFT FRAME RAIL, BUT NOT THE RIGHT. THE CONSUMER WAS QUOTED A PRICE OF $3,00 TO REPLACE THE LEFT FRAME RAIL. *JB

Tires › Sidewall
Filed Feb 25, 2016175,000 milesID

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE EQUIPPED WITH MASTERCRAFT GLACIER GRIP II TIRES, SIZE: 235/75/R15 (NA). WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONTACT NOTICED BULGES ALONG THE SIDEWALL OF THE FRONT AND REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A TIRE DEALER WHO CONFIRMED THE FAILURE AND DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE TIRES WERE REPLACED, BUT THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE BEGAN DEVELOPING BULGES ALONG THE SIDEWALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 175,000 AND THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,000.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Feb 14, 2016TX

IN AUTO LIGHTS FLASH ON AND OFF UNTIIL PUT IN REG POSITION FOR BRIGHT LIGHTS AND CLOCK DOES NOT LITE UPWHEN IN LIGHTS ON IN MOTION OR STATIUNERY.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 10, 2016VA

I RECEIVED A RECALL REGARDING THE TOW HITCH TO PROTECT THE GAS TANK IN REAR END COLLISIONS. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO HERTRICH OF POCOMOKE, MY CLOSEST JEEP/DODGE/FORD DEALER AND THEY SUPPOSEDLY PERFORMED THE RECALL AND EVERYTHING CHECKED OUT OK WITH THE FACTORY HITCH. I TOOK THE VEHICLE HOME, AND SEVERAL MONTHS LATER WAS UNDER THE JEEP PERFORMING SOME MAINTENANCE. WHEN I LOOKED UP, I NOTICED THAT THE TOW HITCH WAS SEVERLY RUSTED IN SOME SPOTS, AND THERE WERE CHUNKS OF RUST INSIDE THE HOLLOW TOW HITCH. I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO GET THEM TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT, CONTACTING THEM, AND THE MANUFACTURER SEVERAL TIMES.

Steering
Filed Feb 2, 2016TX

TIRES WEAR OUT FAST MICHELLEN.

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 1, 2016NY

I HAVE A CAR THAT WAS RECALLED FOR BUYBACK. I CALLED FCA ON 3 OCCASIONS AND THEY REFUSE TO BUYBACK THE VEHICLE.

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 3, 2015MA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE , STRUCTURE) HOWEVER, THE DEALER REFUSED TO RECONNECT THE ORIGINAL CABLE TO THE NEW DESIGNED TOW HITCH. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Structure › Body
Filed Oct 13, 2015MI

MONROE DODGE CHRYSLER MONROE MICHIGAN REFUSED TO PERFORM RELATED RECALL REPAIR ON MY VEHICLE LAST YEAR, SAID IT WAS TOO RUSTY AND WOULD DO NOTHING. I CALLED SAME DEALER LAST WEEK AND SPOKE WITH FEMALE SERVICE MANANGER 9(GLORIA?) AT 734 242 6370 WHO ADVISED SHE IS UNAWARE OF ANY CONSENT AGREEMENT. MY INFO INDICATES ON 7/26/2015 ENFORCEMENT ACTION DOCUMENT REQUIRES THE VEHICLE BE ACTUALLY RATED AS TO THE AMOUNT OF RUST, AND IN MOST SITUATIONS THE HITCH CAN BE INSTALLED AFTER PROPER WELDING, RUST REMOVAL, ETC. IS DONE. PLEASE CONTAACT ME , PREFERABLY BY PHONE AND IN WRITING, ABOUT WHAT CAN BE DONE. THE DEALER WILL NOT ACKNOWLEDGE ANY FURTHER ACTIONS THEY WILL TAKE, NOR ACKNOWLEDGES THE 7/26/2015 ENFORCEMENT ACTION.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 22, 2015NY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE CONTACT WAS NOTIFIED BY A PASSERBY THAT THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING FUEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CONTACT LATER RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 22, 2015115,000 milesOK

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. WHILE DRIVING AT 5 MPH, THE FUEL TANK WAS LEAKING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FUEL TANK LEAKED ONLY WHEN THE FUEL TANK WAS FILLED HALFWAY OR FULL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Aug 27, 2015186,128 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE REPAIRED BECAUSE THE CONDITION OF THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SUPPORT PROPER INSTALLATION DUE TO CORROSION AROUND THE ATTACHMENT AREA. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 186,128.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Aug 27, 2015FL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 25, 2015SC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, BURNING FUMES EMITTED INTO THE VEHICLE THROUGH THE VENTS. THE CONTACT MERGED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, WHERE THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

Suspension › RearCrash1 injured
Filed Aug 24, 2015180,000 milesKY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 3 MPH, THE REAR DRIVER SIDE AXLE FRACTURED CAUSING THE CONTACT TO CRASH INTO A DITCH AND THEN A TELEPHONE POLE. THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE AXLE FRACTURED AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE NECK AND THE RIGHT SHOULDER THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO A SALVAGE YARD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 17, 2015PA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE DELAY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE.

Air Bags
Filed Aug 17, 201574,000 milesKY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V176000 (AIR BAGS). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,000. MA 10/2 THE VIN PROVIDED IS FOR A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. UPDATED 10/06/15*JB

Power Train
Filed Aug 6, 2015KY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 02V053000 (POWER TRAIN) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR SEVERAL MONTHS. THE DEALER DID NOT GIVE A SPECIFIC DATE FOR WHEN THE PART WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 3, 2015PA

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE) HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Steering
Filed Jul 28, 2015129,989 milesMI

WAS DRIVING ON FREEWAY AT 70 MPH, HIT A BIG BUMP IN ROAD AND VEHICLE STARTED TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY, AT FIRST THOUGHT IT WAS A FLAT TIRE BUT AFTER SLOWING DOWN, THE VEHICLE STOPPED SHAKING AND COULD DRIVE NORMALLY. THAT WAS FIRST INCIDENT, SINCE THEN I'VE HAD 8 INCIDENTS WHERE THE SAME THING HAPPENS BETWEEN 55 AND 70 MPH. IT ALWAYS HAPPENS WHEN I HIT A BUMP IN ROAD. I LOOKED ON LINE TO SEE IF ANY ONE ELSE HAD EXPERIENCED THIS DEATH WOBBLE ON THE JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LARADO AND FOUND A LOT OF PEOPLE HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND MIND NUMBING EXPERIENCE. UPDATED 11/12/15*LJ

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch
Filed Jun 3, 2015IL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR POPPED OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LATCH FAILED TO CLOSE THE DOOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IT DID NOT LOOK LIKE THE LATCH WAS FRACTURED, BUT IT WOULD NOT HOLD. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEAT WOULD ONLY BLOW THROUGH THE VENTS ON THE TOP OF THE DASHBOARD AND NOT THE FLOOR OR OTHER VENTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE UNAVAILABLE.

SeatsFire
Filed Jun 2, 2015106,728 milesCA

WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, UNOCCUPIED AND LOCKED. THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT HAD A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE SEAT HEATER SYSTEM THAT CAUSED THE SEAT TO CATCH FIRE. INTERESTINGLY, NO FUSES WERE FOUND TO BE BLOWN. THE SEAT CATCHING FIRE SPREAD TO THE PASSENGER DOOR PANEL. IT CONTINUED UP THE DOOR PANEL AND SPREAD TO THE DOOR TRIM, HEADLINER & VISOR. THE ENTIRE INTERIOR WAS SMOKE DAMAGED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDED QUICKLY SO THAT'S WHY THE DAMAGE WAS NOT WORSE.

Structure › Body
Filed May 14, 2015NY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO PERFORM THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Power TrainFire
Filed May 5, 2015298,000 milesGA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED DOWNHILL, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAKING. ALSO, WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED AND CAUGHT FIRE. THE CONTACT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 298,000.....UPDATED 07/05/16 *BF

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 21, 2015NE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE); HOWEVER, THE DEALER REFUSED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE UNDER THE RECALL BECAUSE THE REAR MOUNTING BOLTS WERE RUSTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.

Structure › Body › Bumpers
Filed Apr 21, 2015132,000 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE); HOWEVER, AFTER THE REPAIR WAS PERFORMED THE REAR BUMPER SLIGHTLY DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 132,000.

Power TrainCrashFire
Filed Apr 17, 2015MS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH UP AN INCLINE, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL BACKWARDS AND THEN FLIPPED OVER. THE DRIVER AND FRONT SEAT PASSENGER WERE ABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE WITHOUT ANY INJURIES. THE VEHICLE ENGULFED INTO FLAMES. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 11, 2015MO

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 13V252000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, STRUCTURE) AND STATED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME. THE DEALER DID NOT PROVIDE A SPECIFIC DATE WHEN THE PARTS WOULD BECOME AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND COULD NOT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED DATE FOR WHEN THE VEHICLE WOULD RECEIVE THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT WAS NOT EXPERIENCING A FAILURE.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)Fire
Filed Feb 20, 2015200,000 milesVA

ON A TRIP FROM NORTHERN VIRGINIA I WAS SOUTH BOUND ON HWY 15 WHEN I BEGAN TO SMELL SMOKE AND APPLIED MY BRAKES. THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR AS SMOKE ROLLED OUT FROM UNDER THE CAR. I TRIED TO DOWN SHIFT INTO LOW AS MY CAR WAS IN FLAMES AND SMOKE ENGULFED THE HOOD. I ENTERED THE ON RAMP FOR HWY 460 BYPASS EAST BOUND WHEN MY TRANSMISSION CAUGHT A LOWER GEAR, MY CAR WAS STILL MOVING WHEN I SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL AND JAMMED THE CAR INTO PARK AND EXITED MY JEEP. AFTER I RAN (APPROX. 50 YARDS) I LOOKED BACK ANS NOTICED THERE WERE DROPLETS OF FLAMES COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE REAR AND THE CAR BLEW UP SENDING FLAMES UP 25 TO 30 FEET UP INTO THE AIR. THE 911 DISPATCHER ADVISED ME TO GET AWAY AS THE FIRE AND SAFETY PEOPLE ARRIVED ON THE SCENE. EARLIER THAT DAY WHEN FILLING UP MY CAR I NOTICED A STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE BUT SINCE I WAS IN A SHEETZ STATION I SHRUGGED IT OFF. I HAD MY TRAILER HITCH ON THE CAR AND REMOVED IT AT THE SALVAGE YARD. I CONTACTED SERVICE AT THE LOCAL JEEP DEALER BUT THEY SAID THEY HAD NOT HEARD OF ANY RECALLS. TODAY I RECEIVED THE NHTSA RECALL NOTICE STATING THE OBVIOUS. ALTHOUGH QUICK THINKING AND SOME DEVINE INTERVENTION SPARED ME......... SOME LADY WITH HER KIDS IN PASSENGER SEATS MIGHT NOT BE AS FORTUNATE. FINALLY, I APPRECIATE YOUR EFFORT I CALLED THE NUMBER YOU PROVIDED AND [XXX] ASSISTED ME IN PROVIDING ME WITH 800 853-1403. I CALLED 5 TIMES WITH NOTHING BUT A RECORDING AFTER WAITING 45 MINUTES . PLEASE TELL CHRYSLER I WANT ANOTHER JEEP 98 WITH A GOOD HITCH

Complaints 1-50 of 1,028, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2014
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202632600Routine
202580400Routine
20242541601Fatalities reported
20234082131Fatalities reported
20222681310Above average
20214101280Above average
2020241350Above average
2019370740Above average
201885511100Above average
2017364630Above average
2016312970Above average
20151,36910220High concern
20142,38419400High concern
201380510271Fatalities reported
20121,644111050High concern
20111,6416612Fatalities reported
2010118540Routine
2009138300Routine
2008734550Above average
20071,1097110Above average
20061,280672Fatalities reported
20052,0525240High concern
20041,29514253Fatalities reported
200376210141Fatalities reported
20021,47616204Fatalities reported
200188310151Fatalities reported
20001,44712182Fatalities reported
19991,63810151Fatalities reported
1998 — this page1,02810137Fatalities reported
199799111175Fatalities reported
199689312226Fatalities reported
199571911294Fatalities reported
19945888332Fatalities reported
199355512351Fatalities reported
19923000Routine
19916010Routine
19905010Routine

Compare every Grand Cherokee year →

1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee: questions buyers ask

Is the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee a good car?

It is not among the Grand Cherokee years to avoid. Owners filed 1,028 complaints, against about 830 for a typical Grand Cherokee year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (39%).

What is the most common problem with the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The transmission: 403 of the 1,028 complaints (39%) are about it. Owners most often say it slips or will not engage a gear (8%) and knocks, grinds or clunks (5%). The typical report comes at 76,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee have?

10 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jun 19, 2013. The largest, 02V053000, covered 1,620,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 105,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 76,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Yes, 7 times. The latest, EA12005 ("Crash Related Fuel Tank Fires"), was opened Jun 12, 2012 and closed Nov 14, 2014.

Are there service bulletins for the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The manufacturer filed 90 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (15), the engine (13) and the body and frame (9). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

7 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jun 19, 2013. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.