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2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 9, 2026·Ethan Miller
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Report

Overall Score

7.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The absence of recalls and owner complaints is positive, but 81 TSBs indicate numerous documented minor issues that may require attention.
  • The 6.2L V8 engine, while powerful, requires premium fuel and contributes to a combined EPA rating of 13 MPG, leading to high fuel costs.
  • NHTSA safety ratings are strong in side impacts (5 stars) but less so in rollovers (3 stars).
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, particularly in its higher trims, presents a compelling package of power and off-road capability. This model year boasts a strong V8 engine option and a robust 4WD system. However, a significant number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest potential for various minor issues that, while not safety recalls, can impact long-term ownership satisfaction. Its safety ratings are generally good, with excellent scores in side impact protection.

Critical Failure Risk

The high-performance 6.2L V8 engine generates significant heat, placing stress on the cooling system. Leaks can develop from hoses, the radiator, or water pump seals, leading to overheating.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
707HP
Torque
645 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
13
MPG
City
11
MPG
Highway
17
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.8/ 10

Practicality

5.8/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a powerful, luxurious SUV with strong off-road credentials.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Budget-conscious buyers concerned about fuel costs and potential repair expenses.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
707 hp
Torque
645 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Body Style
Suv
MSRP Range
$85,900 - $87,695
EPA Combined MPG
13

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Most Common Issues

1. Cooling System Leaks

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Issues

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee is 9.8/10. Reliability score is 9.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 13 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 1028 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering) at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Cooling System Components (Hoses, Radiator, Water Pump) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

MSRP range is $85,900 - $87,695.

What engine is in the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

Engine specs list V8 • 8 • 6.2. Output is 707 hp • 645 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4.

Does the 2018 Grand Cherokee require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

EPA combined estimate is 13 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

7 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, fuel economy range is 11-17 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, drivetrain is 4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 3/5.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Ford Explorer and 2018 Dodge Durango.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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