A 3rd generation Jeep Grand Cherokee with problems like a coolant leak from the front of the engine, an engine that will turn over but won’t start, or problems with the ignition switch are all common issues with this generation. While there is nothing particularly wrong with the 3rd gen Jeep Grand Cherokee, all vehicles have their common problems. This article reviews the top 5 most common problems with the 2005 to 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Top 5 Issues with the 3rd Generation Jeep Grand Cherokee (2005 to 2010)
1. Throttle Body
Symptoms of a Bad Throttle Body
- Vehicle could stall out
- Extremely rough idle
- Check engine light code P0122
Causes of a Bad Throttle Body
The throttle body has a flap that opens when the gas pedal is pressed and closes when the pedal is released to control air flow into the engine. It may fail on the 2005 to 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
How to Fix a Bad Throttle Body
Clean the Throttle Body
The throttle body is located at the top of the engine. If there are only drivability issues like a rough running engine but no check engine light, cleaning the throttle body might help fix this issues.
Learn more about how to clean a throttle body with this article.
Replace the Throttle Body
If cleaning the throttle body doesn’t fix any drivability problems, replacing the throttle body might fix it. If the check engine light appears for code P0122, chances are the throttle body assembly needs to be replaced. We recommend checking the electrical connector first for wear like discolored terminals on the connector, melting, torn wires, or looseness before replacing the throttle body.
2. Ignition Switch Problems
Symptoms of Ignition Switch Problems on the 3rd Gen Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Flickering dash lights or similar electrical problems
- Comfort or a body control module reads for code C140F with an advanced scan tool
Causes of a Bad Ignition Switch
The ignition switch helps start the vehicle and keep it running. If it fails, starting problems can occur.
How to Fix a Bad Ignition Switch
The ignition switch, not to be confused with the ignition cylinder (the cylinder the key connects to and sits in), needs to be replaced.
3. Fuel Pump Failure
Symptoms of Fuel Pump Failure
- Problems when starting—Grand Cherokee turns over (cranks) but won’t start
Causes of Fuel Pump Failure
The fuel pump is located in the fuel tank. It pressurizes the fuel and sends it up the lines up to the engine.
How to Fix Fuel Pump Failure
Temporary Fix: Tap the Fuel Tank with a Rubber Mallet
If you are stranded, for a temporary fix have an assistant crank the engine. Tap the gas tank with a rubber mallet. This might loosen up the starter to build enough fuel pressure to start the Jeep.
Replace the Fuel Pump
Replacing the fuel pump requires supporting and lowering the fuel tank. We recommend draining most of the fuel out. Once the tank is lowered, replace the pump and reinstall the tank.
4. Starter Motor Failure
Symptoms of a Bad Starter
- No crank no start—the engine clicks or there is no sound after turning the key
How to Fix a Bad Starter
Temporary Fix: Tap the Starter with a Hammer
Have an assistant start the vehicle and tap the starter with a small hammer. If the vehicle starts, it’s a temporary fix and an indication the starter needs to be replaced.
Replace the Starter
The starter motor is located on the side of the engine, halfway up the engine on the driver side. Check the condition of the battery, the battery cables, and the positive and negative terminals. Replacing the starter consists of disconnecting the battery, removing the protective plate, disconnecting the starter, removing the bolts from the starter and removing the starter, Reverse the steps to install a new one.
5. Thermostat Issues
Symptoms of a Bad Thermostat
- Check engine light code P2181
- Coolant leak at the front of the engine
Causes of Thermostat Issues on the 2005 to 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The thermostat controls the flow of coolant to the engine by letting the coolant flow through the engine once it reaches operating temperature. If the thermostat is stuck open, too much coolant will flow through the engine and it won’t reach operating temperature. If the thermostat is stuck shut, the engine will overheat.
How to Fix a Bad Thermostat
Replace the thermostat. We recommend replacing the thermostat housing at the same time since it will break down and leak over time. The thermostat is located below the serpentine belt on the passenger side on the 3.7L engine. To replace the thermostat, with a cool engine drain the coolant, remove the hose, remove the two bolts from the thermostat, clean the surface, and install the new thermostat, add coolant, and bleed the coolant system.
3rd Generation Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK) Model Years
- 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee
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