Skip to content
KLUNK
KLUNK

2012 Jeep Grand cherokee

The Verdict

5 Total Klunk

The 2012 Jeep Grand cherokee has 1,621 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. The most reported issues are electrical (619 complaints) and engine (485 complaints). With a Klunk Score of 5/100, it earns a "Total Klunk" rating. If you're shopping for a Jeep Grand cherokee, consider the 2025 model year which has 95% fewer complaints.

Safe Bet

The 2025 has 95% fewer complaints

View the 2025 Jeep Grand cherokee dashboard →

5

Klunk Score: Total Klunk

Among the most complained-about vehicle years on record. Strongly consider alternatives.

How is this calculated?

The Klunk Score ranks this vehicle year against all others in our database based on total owner complaints filed with NHTSA. 100 = fewest complaints (top tier), 0 = most complained-about. Scores above 60 are better than average; below 40 means more problems than most.

Get notified if a recall hits this car.

We email you when NHTSA issues a new recall on the 2012 Jeep Grand cherokee. No spam, no marketing.

Under the Hood

Each number is a complaint. Darker = bigger problem.

YearBodyBrakesElectricalEngineTransmission
2000594487241351167
2001509241103153110
200250416252222449
2003292642917430
200452015543212847
200567074782235225
200625451596190154
200710326502270159
2008851438216063
2009392453319
20103310342516
201117427356157055
201219325561948569
201312013430519343
2014762228462549377
201554329184294313
201670145111462
201790215713264
20182595131217950
20199595657438
20207313607223
2021140251089044
20221121810710826
20231392010211423
202446135012911
202522616298

By Category

Electrical
619
Engine
485
Brakes
255
Body
193
Transmission
69

By Severity

1
710
2
760
3
3
4
148

Worst Problems

Compare Against

See how the 2012 Jeep Grand cherokee stacks up against rivals.

Complaints

Engine 2

The engine / power cuts off with no warning causing steering to lock up to left & brakes lock up causing the vehicle to veer to the left and unable to use brake to stop vehicle. Happens randomly while driving which makes it unsafe to operate to drive.

26d ago
Electrical 2

The alternator failed. It was the Safety Recall P60 (NHTSA 14V-634) remedy alternator, installed by an authorized FCA dealer when the recall was completed on 08/30/2021, as FCA confirmed in writing. On 09/24/2026, at 41,275 miles, the vehicle had no electrical power and would not start. An independent New York State registered repair facility diagnosed the failure as "no power," "not starting," and "bad alternator (burning)," and replaced the alternator assembly the same day. The remedy alternator failed about 5 years after installation. The vehicle averages under 3,000 miles per year. The mileage at installation is in FCA's records and is UNKNOWN to me. Safety risk: the P60 recall states that these alternator diodes can fail rapidly with no output or a short to ground, which can disable ABS, electronic stability control, and the engine and body controllers, and can cause vehicle shutdown while driving and an underhood electrical fire, with limited or no warning to the driver. This failure is consistent with that description: total loss of power and a burning alternator. Had it failed while driving, the vehicle could have shut down in traffic. Warning lamps or symptoms before the failure: UNKNOWN. Availability of the removed alternator for inspection: UNKNOWN. FCA has not inspected the vehicle or the component. It declined to cover the repair, first stating that the recall was completed and no recall is open, then stating that completed recall repairs are covered for only 24 months. It made no finding that this failure differs from the recall condition. In its 14V-634 report, FCA stated that the remedy alternators used the same diodes as its 180 amp alternator, which it said did not exhibit the condition. In 2017, FCA recalled 180 amp alternators (NHTSA 17V-435) for diode thermal fatigue. I ask NHTSA to evaluate whether P60 remedy alternators are failing in service and whether the P60 remedy was adequate.

1mo ago
Body 4

Recall R71 was marked as completed on this vehicle, but the headliner caught fire exactly as described in the original defect narrative. SUV caught fire, blew up and took out four other vehicles and a parking structure.

1mo ago
Engine 1

Here’s the final version of your NHTSA complaint text — rewritten for clarity, precision, and compliance. You can copy and paste this directly into the “Description of the Problem” box on the NHTSA form.Recall Number: V62 – Fuel Pump RelayMy Jeep is under recall V62 for the fuel pump relay. Stellantis confirmed that the recall is active and that the remedy is listed as “available” in their system.However, Stellantis has not provided the recall repair. The recall agent told me: • “If the part is discontinued, you will be looking for an aftermarket part.” • “I cannot look [up discontinuation] in my system.” • “We need to hear it from the dealership.” • “We can try filing for reimbursement.”These statements conflict with 49 U.S.C. § 30120, which requires the manufacturer to remedy the defect without charge, even if the part is discontinued, and to provide repair, replacement, or refund if repair cannot be completed.Stellantis is shifting responsibility to me to locate parts, refusing to verify part availability, and delaying the recall remedy. The recall remedy is listed as available, yet Stellantis will not provide it.I am requesting NHTSA intervention to ensure Stellantis complies with federal recall law and provides the required remedy. Component to select: Fuel/Propulsion System Crash / Fire / Injury / Death: Select “No” for al Recall: Yes → Enter “V62”Manufacturer failed to remedy: YesOnce you submit, NHTSA will assign a case number and forward your complaint to Stellantis for formal response.If you’d like, I can help you draft a follow‑up letter to Stellantis referencing your NHTSA case or create a summary of violations for your records.

1mo ago
Transmission 2

My 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee suddenly was stalling, and would not re-start, especially when turning the steering. AAA Tech diagnosed as High Diode Ripple Voltage in the Alternator, damaging the Battery. Needed to Replace both Alternator and Battery at a cost of $1068. Car was recalled under T36, and the repair has a repeat failure again. Jeep Declined to repair or re-imburse the repair costs. More importantly its still a major safety issue, and Jeep is failing their legal obligation to provide a permanent fix, not a temporary fix.

1mo ago
Electrical 2

Alternator smoking. it is available for inspection. Filled interior of vehicle with smoke the engine stopped running while driving. Took to dealership for a 2nd sun visor recall and had them diagnose the smoking alternator. The voltage light came on just before the alternator started smoking

1mo ago
Engine 1

Problem was Oil Filter housing made of plastic. It was cracked and no warning light that oil had leaked out. Car SUDDENLY DECELERATED as I was merging into traffic on freeway causing vehicles coming up behind to brake rapidly including a semi truck which had been 200 yards back. I rolled onto shoulder with warning lights activated. Pure luck it was not a major accident. Had it fixed at local mechanic in area and was told it is common problem on several makes of vehicles. Mechanic replaced with aluminum one. Gave me a reduced price of $1200.

2mo ago
Body 1

I was caught driving in a hailstorm when hail impacted and broke the panoramic sunroof of my vehicle. I understand that hail can break automotive glass and that the sunroof is constructed from safety glass. My concern is not that the glass broke, but how it shattered. When the sunroof failed, it fragmented into extremely fine particles and powdered glass. The glass was so fine that it became embedded in the vehicle's seats and interior surfaces. It was in my hair and clothing. Fortunately, the interior cloth sunshade was partially closed at the time and contained much of the debris. Had the shade been open, the glass particles would have fallen directly into the cabin while I was driving. My concern is that the shattered glass created a large volume of fine particulate debris that could have been dispersed throughout the cabin and potentially into occupants' eyes, skin, and airways. This is particularly concerning when considering the possibility of children or other passengers seated beneath the sunroof at the time of failure. Given how fine the resulting particles were, I question whether additional protective measures, such as a laminated layer or other containment system, should be required to prevent shattered glass from entering the passenger compartment when a panoramic sunroof fails. I believe this issue warrants review because the manner in which the glass disintegrated may present a safety risk beyond the initial breakage itself.

4mo ago
Engine 1

The engine power cuts of randomly while driving with no warning at all. When it happens the steering locks up veering the vehicle to the left so you have no control and at the same time the power brakes lock up and you are unable to stop the vehicle. Everything else works when this happens lights, radio, heater, air conditioning. No warning lights display. I had the vehicle with a mechanic that kept it for over 4 months to test drive and see if it would occur. It happened while he drove it but no codes show up to determine the cause. I had it towed back to my home and contacted Jeep Chrysler and they gave me a claim number to bring to my local Jeep dealer. They had it for over a week and unfortunately the jeep ran fine so once again no resolution to be able to fix. I bought the Jeep from Carvana 9/7/24 and am still paying it off but yet haven't been able to drive it for the past 15 months because it is unsafe for myself and anyone else on the roadway.

4mo ago
Brakes 1

Upon starting my Jeep on the coldest day of the year back in January when I pressed the brake pedal to start it there was a loud and it reminded me, there was a recall out for the break booster pop and the pedal went all the way to the floor. It was fifteen below zero out.So I thought that it blew a brake line. I checked the lines going to all four.Wheels and could not find any fluid. I could not figure out where all the fluid went. I refilled the reservoir with two full cans of brake fluid. Tried pumping the pedal and again it went to the floor. Got out and inspected all lines and the reservoir itself.... Still could not find a leak. I googled the problem and saw a recall for the brake booster. Said it was installed incorrectly and water could enter the booster and master cylinder and freeze if cold outside and cause a serious accident causing serious injury or death. I inspected the system and water had entered the booster and master cylinder and froze. It ruined the master cylinder. I asked the dealership if they would pick up the vehicle and repair it. First they said yes then no they don't pick vehicles up. They ordered only a little shield to fix the booster per the recall but said that's all they would do. Why would I pay 200 out of my pocket to have the vehicle taken to them.Only to have them put a shield on the booster. I still would have no brakes. That is ridiculous. This is supposed to be a major safety issue.And it is! If I had been driving when I pressed on the brake pedal and it went to the floor I could have been killed or other innocent people could have been killed. You the NHTSA 's answer said Chrysler is contractually. Obligated to not only pick up my vehicle but to repair any and all components of the brake system to return the vehicle to previous safety operation at no charge to me. You also said that I should be given a loaner vehicle to use while mine is repaired. Dealership is refusing. I could be dead and so could other innocent people

4mo ago
Body 2

Alternator overheated and vehicle stalled. Smoke was seen coming out from alternator. Incidentbandbvehicke details are consistent with FCA Recall T36. Looking to include vehicle in recall.

5mo ago
Engine 1

The vehicle is a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee with open safety recalls T59 and V62. The brake warning light is currently illuminated, and based on the symptoms I believe the brake booster may be failing. The braking system is available for inspection upon request. The safety concern is that the vehicle may have reduced braking assist or impaired braking performance while being driven. This creates a risk of increased stopping distance, loss of braking confidence, or inability to stop safely in traffic. I contacted the FCA/Stellantis-recommended Jeep dealership in Lapeer, Michigan multiple times this week to schedule recall-related service. I was repeatedly transferred to service voicemail and did not receive return calls. When I called back and asked to speak with someone else, I reached the service manager. I explained that the vehicle has an illuminated brake warning light and that I suspect the brake booster may be failing. The service manager focused on where I lived, why I was not using a closer dealer, and mentioned that the vehicle is 14 years old, rather than clearly arranging recall service or addressing the brake safety concern. The problem has not yet been inspected or confirmed by a dealer because I have been unable to obtain timely service despite repeated attempts. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others. The warning lamp currently present is the brake warning light. The exact first date the warning light appeared was within the last 2 weeks.

5mo ago
Engine 1

Vehicle has two open unrepaired recalls: T59 (NHTSA 17V-572, brake booster water shield) and V62 (NHTSA 19V-813, fuel pump relay). The brake booster is currently symptomatic — an audible humming noise is present when the vehicle is stopped and idling, consistent with vacuum loss in the brake booster system. I contacted LaFontaine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Fenton, Michigan to schedule the recall repairs. An appointment was set for 8:15 AM on April 24, 2026. I requested a loaner or rental vehicle as the dealer indicated they would need to keep the vehicle over the weekend for the work. The dealer never followed up regarding the rental. Instead, the dealer contacted me to appraise my current vehicle and discuss new vehicle inventory. The recall work was never discussed. When I did not appear for the appointment, the dealer did not follow up or offer to reschedule. I then contacted Stellantis customer service directly and explained the situation, including the active brake booster symptom. The Stellantis representative connected me with a second dealership, Bill Snethkamp Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram on Woodward Avenue in Detroit, Michigan, then disconnected from the call without notice. I was left explaining the situation a second time to a dealership that informed me they do not provide loaner vehicles. The rental option requires me to pay out of pocket upfront and then seek reimbursement from the manufacturer in the form of a check. This is not a viable option. Additionally, this dealership is located approximately one hour from my residence in Flint, making it logistically impractical for recall service. I am currently driving a vehicle with an active safety defect affecting the braking system. The recall remedy language states that limited braking ability can cause a crash without prior warning. Neither the manufacturer nor two dealerships have provided adequate accommodation to complete the recall repair while ensuring I have safe transportation during the service per

6mo ago
Body 1

Check Engine light came on & Auto shop says when they checked under dash, computer says “Emissions” problem. They have to do a “smoke test” to see where there is a leak!!!

6mo ago
Body 1

The dashboard has warped and lifted significantly from the underlying structure, particularly near the defroster vents and windshield area. The deformation appears to be caused by failure of the internal adhesive or mounting system used to secure the dashboard. The vehicle has only approximately 55,000 miles, and the issue does not appear to be due to normal wear or misuse. The vehicle and dashboard are available for inspection upon request. The warped dashboard creates potential safety concerns related to the passenger-side airbag deployment area, as the deformation occurs near the airbag seam and mounting points. A compromised dashboard structure could potentially interfere with proper airbag deployment in the event of a crash. In addition, the raised and distorted panel can cause glare or visual distraction while driving, which could affect driver visibility and concentration.

7mo ago
Engine 2

The contact owns a 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed while slowing down; however, the RPM elevated to 5,500 RPM. The contact stated that excessive force was needed to depress the brake pedal. The vehicle was stopped, turned off, restarted, and operated normally. Additionally, the remote start feature was not operating properly. After remote starting the vehicle, the brake pedal was difficult to depress. The contact also stated that a phone call was ringing through the radio even though the phone was not in use. The contact researched online and believed that the vehicle had been hacked. The local dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the vehicle could not be hacked. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 94,000.

8mo ago
Engine 1

See attached document for complaint.

8mo ago
Engine 2

All dashboard lights came on while cherokee shut off on the parkway yet allowing me to steer to the side shoulder. Is this a symptom of total integrated power module TIPM.

9mo ago
Engine 2

I brought my vehicle to the Jeep of concord for a fuel pump relay recall and oil change on 11/12/25. Prior to 11/12 the vehicle did not experience any of the issues described below. On 11/13/25, a dealership representative sent an inspection video stating the vehicle was in immaculate condition following the recall repair. However, within less than 24 hours, the check engine light illuminated, and additional issues began occurring intermittently. After the recall work, the vehicle began experiencing intermittent warning lights, including service four wheel drive, traction control, and check engine. These warnings appear unpredictably and are sometimes accompanied by loss of vehicle functions, creating unsafe driving conditions. The vehicle has also experienced overheating since these issues began. Sometimes turning the vehicle off and then on would temporarily correct the problem if it would recrank. The failures occur intermittently, making them difficult to reproduce or diagnose, and they pose serious safety risks, including the potential for sudden loss of power, steering assistance, or drivability while the vehicle is in motion. On multiple occasions, the issues have left me stranded. I returned the vehicle to the dealership on 1/8/26. On 1/9/26, I received an inspection video from the dealership identifying a transmission issue for the first time. The rep stated they “double-checked” the recall wiring but confirmed that no manufacturer engineer inspected the vehicle, despite my request to escalate this as a STAR case due to safety concerns. The intermittent warning lights, overheating, and transmission concerns remain unresolved and Stellantis refused to escalate the issue. The dealership currently retains possession of my vehicle. I am concerned the recall repair may have been performed wrong or inadequately inspected, resulting in ongoing intermittent safety-related failures affecting multiple vehicle systems. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate & confirm

9mo ago
Electrical 4

My Airbags did not deploy and I believe my seatbelt also did not work properly. I was struck head on (front end to front end) inside a tunnel by a pickup truck (ram 3500) Going appx. 40mph and my air bags did not deploy and my head hit my windshield so I’m unsure if seatbelts worked properly as I was using mine. My insurance company is storing it now for me as it is most likely totaled. My insurance is handling my property damage case, as far as I know it has not been to any dealer/mechanic and again is most likely beyond repair unfortunately. Colorado state patrol inspected both vehicles involved, I know my insurance is holding the vehicle now, I’m not sure about the other driver as I am struggling to find help with litigation. I had no warning from my car nor otherr driver, not sure if this is because I was entering the single lane tunnel. he did not use horn flash light anything like that, I laid on my horn and cut my wheel right but being in a tunnel with a wall of rock/mountain, there’s was no avoiding him.

9mo ago

1621 total

1/ 82
Report a Klunk