The Jeep Cherokee is one of the finest compact SUVs on the market. This car has been in production from 1974 to date. It has witnessed several changes since its introduction and the current version is the best. However, the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd is one of the worst Jeep Cherokee models ever. But what are the common problems with the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd?
Common problems with the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd are engine issues, transmission problems, electrical issues, ignition switch malfunction, staring problems, and excessive oil consumption. What’s more, according to the NHTSA, this Jeep Cherokee model had up to seven recalls.
Overall, the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd is a wonderful compact SUV with exceptional off-road performance. The interior is also top-notch with quality materials. And while this SUV comes with several issues, many reliability rating agencies like Consumer Reports, Kelly Blue Book, and Edmunds gave it slightly above-average reliability.
What are the common problems with the Jeep Cherokee 2.8?
Engine issues
The most common problem reported by Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd users is engine issues. Some of the major engine problems that Jeep Cherokee 2.8 rd users reported are lack of power, engine stalling, engine running rough, and engine hesitation.
Engine stalling is the most reported engine problem. This issue usually happens when the car hits around 80,000 miles. The main cause for this problem is faulty throttle or spark plug problems. So, if you want to fix this problem, you should start by fixing the spark plugs and throttle body.
Fixing the throttle body may cost you around $800 while fixing a set of spark plugs will cost about $400.
Transmission problems
Transmission problems are common on the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd model. One of the most common transmission problems is erratic electronic shifting. Other issues are transmission shuddering shaking and delayed gear engagement.
The gear shifting problem in the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd starts when the car hits around 90,000 miles. When this happens, the main culprit is the cause of the issue. Fixing this problem may cost you around $450. On the contrary, fixing the entire transmission may be even costlier.
Electrical issues
Apart from engine and transmission issues, the next common problem that Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd owners have reported is electrical problems. Some of the common electrical problems reported are the battery won’t charge, faulty alternator, and faulty spark plugs. Ensure fix the bad parts to rectify the issues.
Ignition switch malfunction
There are several things that cause the ignition switch to fail. Some of them include worn-out ignition switch contacts, broken springs, and temperature issues. A bad ignition switch may prevent you from getting your vehicle out of the garage. The best way to fix an ignition switch is by replacing it with a new switch.
Starting problems
Aside from having an ignition switch malfunction, this car also experiences starting issues. This problem is normally recorded when the car reaches around 85,000 miles. The main culprit behind this problem is the computer. Other things that cause starting problems are a bad spark plug, ignition switch, and starter. If you fix these parts, then you will fix the problem.
Excessive oil consumption
Another common issue that Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd users have reported is excessive oil usage. This problem is common in the 2018 Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd model year. It is normally caused by oil leaks that could cause engine failure. Oil leaks in this car also cause the catalyst to fail. Take the car to a mechanic to fix the underlying issues and stop excessive oil usage.
FAQ
Is the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd reliable?
No, the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd is a very reliable car. Most reliability agencies give it slightly above-average reliability, which is not so good. For instance, Edmund gave it a score of 3.5 out of 5.0 and Kelly Blue Book gave it 4.2 out of 5.0, which is one of the highest ratings it received.
Is it expensive to maintain the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd?
Yes, maintaining the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd is slightly costlier than most of its competitors. On average, it will cost around $434 to maintain this car, which is slightly higher than the average for compact SUVs. So, you will have to spend more to keep this car running on the road than most of its rivals.
Which Jeep Cherokee model years are fitted with the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd engine?
Most Jeep Cherokee models made between 2005 and 2008 are fitted with the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd engine. So, if you’re buying a used Jeep Cherokee that falls within the above model years, it is important to check which engine they are fitted with. Nevertheless, if the car is well-maintained, the model year doesn’t matter a lot.
How long does the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd last?
It depends on how well the owner maintains the car. If the owner adheres to Jeep’s recommended scheduled maintenance service, then this car will last for more than 200,000 miles. Besides, good driving habits should also be practiced for the car to last long. But without proper care and maintenance, the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd will start having serious issues as soon as the car hits 100k miles.
What is the best Jeep Cherokee engine ever made?
The best Jeep Cherokee engine also happens to be the most popular Jeep engine of all time. It is a 4.0-liter I6 engine. This engine was developed by AMC and it debuted in 1986. It was first installed in the XJ-generation Cherokee and it was very reliable. Aside from the 4.0-liter Inline-6 engine, another great Cherokee engine is the 401 V8 engine.
Conclusion
The Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd is one of the least reliable Jeep Cherokee models ever made. This engine comes with several engine, transmission, and electrical problems. It is also problematic when it comes to starting the car and using excess oil. Regardless of these issues, the Jeep Cherokee 2.8 crd can last for more than 200,000 miles if properly maintained.
