Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee has notable electrical, steering, and engine issues, with over 410 complaints and 12 recalls reported. Electrical system complaints dominate, but steering and engine issues are also significantly present. Recall data highlights potential issues in back over prevention and suspension, among others. Potential buyers should carefully inspect these areas and remain cautious given the high number of complaints and recalls.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee has 12 NHTSA recall campaigns and 411 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #24V436000 Rearview Camera Image May Not Display/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V132000 Loss of Control from Steering Knuckle Separation NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V577000 Rearview Camera Image May Not Display/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V413000 Incorrectly Installed Rear Coil Springs NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #23V352000 Steering Column Incorrectly Assembled NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V544000 Damaged Tail Light Side Marker Assembly/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V284000 Stuck EGR Valve May Cause Loss of Drive Power NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V180000 Tether Weld Missing From Seat Back Frame/FMVSS 225 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V950000 Inoperable Headlights/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V873000 Disabled Air Bags NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V797000 Difficulty Activating High Beams/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V729000 Rearview Camera Image May Not Display/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 115 complaints
- Steering 102 complaints
- Engine 61 complaints
- Power Train 60 complaints
- Unknown or Other 56 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 42 complaints
Of the 411 complaints on file, 20 report a crash and 8 a fire; across all 411 complaints, owners report 13 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Radio software error
How to check: Test rearview camera display functionality during reverse.
Steering column disconnect
How to check: Inspect steering column for looseness or unusual sounds.
Rear coil spring detachment
How to check: Check the rear suspension for displaced or loose springs.
EGR valve stick open
How to check: Ensure no warning lights or irregular idling on start up.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Check for warning lights or irregular idling.
Red flag: Persistent check engine light
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Listen for unusual sounds from engine bay.
Red flag: Knocking or ticking sounds
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Steering responsiveness and smooth acceleration.
Red flag: Stiff or unresponsive steering
- 04
City driving
What to check: Check rearview camera display and lighting systems.
Red flag: Inoperative lights or camera
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe engine power and any hesitations.
Red flag: Unexpected loss of power
- 06
Braking
What to check: Feel for vibrations or noise during braking.
Red flag: Vibrations or grinding noise
- 07
Parking
What to check: Test all electronics; radio, lights, and mirrors.
Red flag: Non-functioning electronic features
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have any factory recalls been addressed?
- Are there any existing electrical issues?
- Has the steering column been inspected?
- Are all suspension components factory-installed?
- Has the radio software been updated?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair documentation
- Service history records
- Original purchase invoice
- Warranty documents
- Vehicle inspection report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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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.