Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a significant number of owner complaints and recalls, mainly related to electrical, engine, and brake issues. With 11 recall campaigns and 855 complaints, potential buyers should carefully inspect these areas despite the impressive off-road capabilities and features the Grand Cherokee offers. Strong emphasis should be placed on checking the vehicle's recall repair history and current operational status of all systems.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee has 11 NHTSA recall campaigns and 855 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #24V838000 Vehicle Rollaway Due to ABS Malfunction NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V411000 Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V406000 High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V426000 Vehicle Rollaway Due to ABS Malfunction NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V699000 EGR Cooler May Crack Internally NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V759000 Accelerator Pedal may be Trapped by Floor Mat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18E097000 Accelerator Pedal may be Trapped by Floor Mat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V524000 Voltage Regulator may Fail and Cause Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V332000 Cruise Control cannot be Cancelled NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V280000 Incorrect Transmission Park Rods Installed NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V048000 Fuel Line Separation may Cause Fire NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 339 complaints
- Unknown or Other 267 complaints
- Engine 125 complaints
- Power Train 75 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 44 complaints
- Seats 43 complaints
Of the 855 complaints on file, 42 report a crash and 10 a fire; across all 855 complaints, owners report 33 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Wiring problems
How to check: Inspect underhood wiring for wear or damage.
Crankshaft position sensor issues
How to check: Ensure there are no warning lights on the dashboard.
ABS module malfunction
How to check: Test ABS function; ensure brake lights work properly.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: ABS or check engine lights on
- 03
Acceleration
What to check: Monitor throttle response.
Red flag: Delayed or uneven acceleration
- 04
Highway speed
What to check: Ensure straight-line stability.
Red flag: Unusual vibrations or pulling
- 05
Braking
What to check: Test brakes for noise and effectiveness.
Red flag: Squealing or lack of braking power
- 06
Parking
What to check: Shift through all gears smoothly.
Red flag: Difficulty or noises when shifting
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ABS module been replaced?
- Were all recall repairs completed?
- Any electrical issues experienced?
- Has the vehicle stalled unexpectedly?
- When was the last major service?
- Any history of engine repairs?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle recall repair records
- Service and maintenance records
- Accident and repair history
- Title and registration
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.