2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety Report
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Solid crash ratings, but high complaint volume and 11 recalls for critical safety systems.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Reliability Score
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System Malfunctions Numerous complaints (169) and recalls related to electrical wiring, ABS module, and cruise control, potentially leading to vehicle stalls, brake light malfunctions, or unintended acceleration. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Engine Stalling/Failure Recalls for crankshaft position sensor tone wheel delamination and high-pressure fuel pump failure, both capable of causing unexpected engine stalls. 53 complaints related to the engine. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Brake System Malfunctions Multiple recalls for ABS module malfunctions that could lead to brake light illumination, disabled ABS/ESC, or vehicle rollaway. 24 complaints for service brakes. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Active Head Restraint (Ahr) Spontaneous Deployment Reports of headrests deploying without impact, causing injury or discomfort. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
| Infotainment Screen Delamination/Freezing Screen bubbling, separating, or freezing, leading to unintended inputs and loss of functionality for safety features like the backup camera. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Transmission/Power Train Issues 26 complaints and a recall for an incorrect transmission park lock rod, potentially preventing the vehicle from staying in 'PARK'. Reports of transmission failure and loss of drive power. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Egr Cooler Cracking/Fire Risk (Diesel Models) Recall for EGR cooler cracking, allowing pre-heated coolant to combust in the intake manifold, increasing fire risk. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee:
Highest number of complaints (169) related to various electrical issues, including wiring, module malfunctions, and intermittent component failures.
A significant portion of complaints (159) fall into this category, suggesting diverse and potentially complex issues not easily categorized.
53 complaints related to engine performance, stalling, misfires, and abnormal noises, supported by multiple engine-related recalls.
26 complaints, including transmission issues, loss of drive power, and a recall for park lock rod malfunction.
24 complaints, aligning with multiple recalls concerning ABS module malfunctions and potential brake system failures.
21 complaints, including issues with active head restraint spontaneous deployment.
14 complaints, with recalls specifically addressing fuel pump failure and fuel line separation.
12 complaints related to airbag system warnings or malfunctions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Is the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a 4-star overall safety rating, performing well in side impacts (5 stars) but with a 3-star rollover rating. However, it has a high volume of 816 complaints and 11 recalls, many addressing critical safety components like brakes, engine, and electrical systems, indicating potential reliability and safety concerns despite its crash test performance.
What are common problems with the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The most reported issues are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (169 complaints), followed by 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (159 complaints), and ENGINE (53 complaints). Specific problems include ABS module malfunctions, engine stalls, active head restraint spontaneous deployment, and infotainment screen delamination.
How many recalls does the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee have?
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee has 11 recalls issued by NHTSA. These recalls cover significant issues such as brake system malfunctions, engine stalling, fuel system failures, and electrical wiring problems.
Are there fire risks with the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Yes, there are 9 reported fires among the complaints. Additionally, a specific recall addresses a fire risk related to the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler in 3.0L EcoDiesel engines, where cracking could lead to combustion in the intake manifold.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
When considering a used 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, pay close attention to the electrical system, engine performance, and brake system. Ensure all 11 recalls have been addressed, especially those concerning ABS module, engine stall risks, and fuel system integrity. Check for any warning lights, infotainment screen issues, or unusual noises from the engine or transmission.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of recalls and complaints, particularly concerning critical safety systems, thoroughly verify that all 11 recalls have been completed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on electrical, engine, and brake components before buying a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The data includes 816 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 11 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 41 reported crashes, 9 fire incidents, 31 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 3 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.