The starter failed at 44,000 miles; although out of warranty (and a $350.00 repair), the dealer agreed to replace it under warranty so long as I paid a $100.00 deductible.
The leather on the steering wheel is slowly deteriorating.
There have been NO additional problems with this SUV at 66000+ miles.
I replaced the front brake pads and tires at 55000 miles (quite reasonable). No problems with the rotors, and I upgraded from the OEM Goodyears to an excellent set of Cooper Discover A/Ts.
I change the oil every 3000 miles, and have the Dealer perform scheduled maintenance (transmission, transfer case, front and rear differentials, coolant, clean throttle body, change plugs) every 30,000 miles.
I replaced the original muffler and catalytic converter at 20,000 and 45,000 miles, respectively, with Flowmaster and Carsound components, to enhance performance. The original components were in no way faulty or damaged.
I added a Yakima roof rack to haul a pair of kayaks; the factory unit was fine, just didn't provide enough clearance.
I really do not understand all of the previous reviewer's complaints with this SUV. Other than the minor problems described above, this Jeep has met or exceeded all of my expectations, and I drive the truck offroad frequently (I have the minor dents and scratches to prove it). I also tow a 16' and 19' boat, and an ATV.
Furthermore, I drag race my Jeep regularly at a local track; I have the time slips to prove that, too (best ET: 15.9).
This Jeep has taken me on adventures from northern Quebec to south Florida and everywhere in between during the last 3.5 years. I would not even consider an alternative mode of transportation.
Sounds like a miracle. Judging from this board, your Jeep is not the norm. Be thankful.
You are probably the only person in America to give the 2001 Grand Cherokee good compliments. I bought my 2001 Grand Cherokee new and over the past 4.5 years, I've probably replaced 100 things that should have never gone wrong. I have 75000 mile so far, and according to this forum, the fun of more trouble has just started.
I have a 2001 Grand Cherokee with 67,000 tires.
Problems - steering wheel radio volume does not go down. Need new brake pads. Tweeter just blew. That's it other than fluid changes.
I am wondering if the V8 is the trick. Since most of the problems I have read about are with the engine and transmission with the 6.
I have owned a 1946 military version Jeep, a Cj7, a 2001 Wrangler 6 cylinder automatic, a 1995 grand Cherokee V8, and Jan 1, 2007 I bought my current Jeep, a 2007 Grand Cherokee Limited V8 with all the bells and whistles.
It had 48,000 miles on it and in the past 20 months I have put 23,000 miles on it. This includes 4 road trips of about 1,500 miles each, I have towed and put in and out of the water a 17 ft Boston Whaler numerous times and just last month towed a heavily loaded dual axle Tralee from Ohio to Virginia.
This is absolutely the best Jeep I have ever owned. I don't hot rod but have taken it off road a couple of times.
I replaced the original tires at 69,000 miles, replaced the right front dash speakers, new front brake pad. It is quiet, has and excellent ride both in town and on the highway, and the V8 has very good power.
The body is excellent with no creaks or jingles. While I understand that every one's opinions are subjective, I can only write that this is a very satisfactory SUV.
I get a consistent 20.4 mpg on the highway running 65 to 70. With no car payment (I paid $12,900 1/1/2007) I consider the economy of the vehicle to be excellent.
I spent $800 putting a set of Michelins on it in July and fully intend to drive it until faced with any major issues such as total engine or transmission failure. With leather interior, and the entire exterior and interior in pristine condition, I consider this a keeper.