2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Problems, Price & Reliability

At an average selling price of $10,995, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee tempts budget-conscious SUV shoppers. But Consumer Reports warns that it’s been recalled 19 times, and owner complaints pile up.

Average selling price: $10,995 · Price range: $7,744 – $15,101 · Engine options: 3.6L V6, 5.7L V8, 3.0L diesel, 6.4L V8 (SRT) · Transmission: 8-speed automatic · Seating: 5

A quick look at the numbers that define this model year:

Is the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee a good year?

Overall reliability rating

Consumer Reports gives the 2014 Grand Cherokee a below-average reliability score compared to other 2014 model-year vehicles. Owner complaint data from NHTSA shows 2,369 recorded issues, with the powertrain making up 450 reports — the most of any category (ProblemsByVin).

Key improvements over previous years

The biggest upgrade for 2014 was the switch from a 4- or 5-speed automatic to a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission. This change brought smoother shifts and better fuel economy. The interior also received higher-quality materials, especially on Limited and above trims (The Car Connection).

Owner satisfaction

Many owners praise the 5.7L V8. As one reviewer from TFLcar put it, “the 5.7L V8 is an absolutely perfect match for this vehicle” (TFLcar owner review). However, the high number of recalls — 19 according to Consumer Reports — tempers enthusiasm. The takeaway: the driving experience is strong, but reliability requires careful inspection.

The implication: buyers must weigh the driving improvement against the electrical risk.

What are common problems with a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Electrical issues

Electrical faults are the most frequent complaint. NHTSA recall 14V636 covers 91,559 vehicles built between January 8, 2013 and August 20, 2013, where loose alternator ground wires can disable ABS and ESC without warning (NHTSA). Infotainment screen freezes and power accessory failures also appear often in owner forums.

Transmission concerns

Early 2014 units with the new 8-speed have reports of hesitation and rough shifting. VehicleHistory notes that transmission problems are the most commonly reported issue. However, later production runs seem to have fewer transmission complaints.

Air suspension problems

Higher trims (Overland, Summit) feature an air suspension system that can develop leaks or compressor failures. Owners report repair costs exceeding $1,500 (VehicleHistory). Steer toward models with conventional springs unless you want the ride height flexibility.

Engine and drivetrain issues

The 3.6L V6 is prone to oil cooler leaks, and a 2023 NHTSA recall addressed crankshaft position sensor failures in some Limited 4×4 models, which can cause stalling (NHTSA). For diesel EcoDiesel models, an EGR cooler recall covered 29,884 vehicles over fire risk (Car and Driver).

The catch: the 8-speed upgrade came at a reliability cost in the first year.

What are the worst years for the Jeep Grand Cherokee to avoid?

Years with frequent complaints

The early WK2 generation (2011–2013) suffered from transmission failures and electrical gremlins. The 2014 fixed the transmission but introduced new electronic issues. Years 2015 and 2016 have fewer major changes but some diesel-specific problems.

Why 2011–2013 have a poor reputation

These years used the older 5-speed automatic, which had known failures and rough shifting. Combined with an earlier version of Uconnect that froze often, these model years are widely avoided.

The 2014 model compared to problem years

The 2014 sits in a middle ground: better powertrain than 2011–2013, but more recall risk than 2015+. VehicleHistory reports that owner complaints for 2014 are higher than for 2013 or 2015 (VehicleHistory). If you can’t step up to a 2018+, a 2015 may offer a slightly cleaner record.

The pattern: choosing a later model year significantly reduces risk.

How much is a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee worth today?

Price range by trim and mileage

CARFAX listings show an average price of $10,995, with a range spanning $7,744 for high-mileage Laredo examples to $15,101 for low-mileage Overland models. The SRT trim commands a premium, often exceeding $20,000 for clean units.

Depreciation factors

After 10 years, the 2014 Grand Cherokee has lost about 65–70% of its original MSRP. The steepest drop happened in the first three years. Now depreciation has leveled off, meaning you can buy with less fear of immediate value loss.

Where to find current listings

Check CARFAX, Autotrader, and local dealer inventory. Look for vehicles that have completed all open recall repairs (especially the electrical 14V636 and EGR cooler recall). A vehicle with service records for the air suspension or transmission fluid change is worth paying a small premium.

Here’s how the 2014 model compares to earlier and later years on key metrics:

The pattern is clear: 2014 is a step up from the early WK2 years but still trails the 2015 in overall dependability.

What is the best year for a used Jeep Grand Cherokee?

2014 vs later models

The 2014 is a strong value pick because of the 8-speed transmission and relatively low price. But the 2015 model refined the electronics and reduced recall counts. Many owners and forums recommend the 2014 only if you can verify all recall work has been done.

2018+ improvements

The 2018 model year brought the updated Uconnect 4 system, stronger safety ratings, and a more modern interior. If your budget allows ($18,000–$25,000), a 2018 or newer Grand Cherokee is widely considered the sweet spot for reliability and tech.

Summary of recommended model years

Best value under $12,000: 2014 (with verified repairs). Best reliable choice: 2018–2020. Avoid: 2011–2013.

What this means: buyers on a budget can get a good deal with the 2014, but only if they do their homework.

What we know for sure — and what’s still fuzzy

Confirmed facts

• The 8-speed transmission upgrade is a meaningful improvement over the 5-speed (The Car Connection)
• 19 NHTSA recalls affect this model year
• Average selling price is $10,995
• Recall 14V636 affects 91,559 vehicles with ESC/ABS risk (NHTSA)
• EcoDiesel EGR cooler recall covers 29,884 vehicles (Car and Driver)

What’s still unclear

• Long-term durability of the 8-speed in early 2014 units
• Actual frequency of electrical issues across all trims (owner-reported data may over-represent failures)
• Whether air suspension failures are widespread or isolated to high-mileage examples

Voices from the road

“The 5.7L V8 is an absolutely perfect match for this vehicle.”

— TFLcar owner review

“Average selling price of the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee is $10,995.”

— CARFAX market data

Six key specs, one pattern: the 2014 offers a wide engine range but shares a common electrical architecture that drives the recall count higher than average.

For a used-car buyer in the U.S., the choice is clear: if you find a well-maintained 2014 with the 8-speed and V8 that has had all recalls addressed, it’s a solid deal. But budget for potential electrical repairs, or step up to a 2018+ model for fewer headaches.

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Frequently asked questions