Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems with the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee include transmission malfunctions, engine issues, and electrical system failures.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 12 recalls for this model, addressing a variety of concerns.
These recalls have covered problems such as malfunctioning high beams, faulty rearview cameras, disabled airbags, inoperable headlights, engine cooling issues, power steering failures, and rear coil springs that may detach while driving.
Most recently in February 2024, Jeep recalled models from 2021 to 2023 due to potential failures in steering components that could lead to a loss of vehicle control.
These ongoing recalls and reported problems highlight significant issues with the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee that consumers should be aware of.
Continue reading to learn more about these issues and their impact on drivers.
Common 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Problems
- Steering: Difficulty steering, warning messages/error codes, power steering issues, steering wheel shaking
- Powertrain: Engine stalling, engine shutdown, engine failure, overheating, strange engine/transmission sounds, difficulty changing gears
- Electrical System: Warning lights, blank dashboard screen, dead battery, defective air conditioning system, vehicle fire
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Steering Problems
Numerous 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers have reported steering system issues, accompanied by various warning messages on the dashboard such as:
- “Steering Assist Stopped Working”
- “EPS Fault Warning Light”
- “Front Crash Collision Detection Fault”
- “Front Crash Collision Detect Turned Off”
- Traction control indicators
Although the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been recalled for steering issues, some drivers still face steering problems that are not covered by any NHTSA or FCA recalls for that model year.
In May 2023, a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 23V-352) was issued for nearly 90,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L SUVs from the 2021 through 2023 model years.
This recall addressed issues with the intermediate steering shaft, which could disconnect due to improper assembly, potentially leading to a loss of steering control.
In February 2024, another recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 24V-132) was initiated for over 338,000 Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L models from 2021 to 2023.
This recall focused on the risk of separation between the upper control arm ball joint and the steering knuckle, which could cause the wheel to tilt outward and significantly increase the risk of losing vehicle control.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Powertrain Problems
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee has experienced a range of powertrain issues, with drivers frequently reporting problems.
One common issue is oil leakage, particularly with the 3.6-liter V6 engine found in trims such as the Laredo E, Laredo X, and Limited. These leaks can escalate into more severe engine problems over time.
Transmission problems are also a significant concern for the 2021 Grand Cherokee. Drivers have reported a variety of issues, including stalling, slipping gears, unusual noises, difficulty engaging gears, and transmission warning lights.
Some vehicles experience fluid leaks, reduced speed, and abrupt jerks or kicks while driving.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Electrical System Problems
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee may be vulnerable to electrical system issues. Common problems reported by drivers include difficulties with headlights, such as issues activating high beams and electrical faults that render some headlights inoperative.
Taillight markers have also been known to fail, potentially compromising rear visibility.
Additionally, certain models have faced problems with backup cameras that might not display images, which increases the risk of accidents by reducing rear visibility.
Backup camera issues are common in the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee, this vehicle has been recalled several times for backover protection issues pertaining to the rearview camera.
One recall, identified under NHTSA Campaign Number 23V-577 affects the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L models.
The issue stems from a software error in the Central Vision Park Assist Module (CVPAM), which may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying when the vehicle is in reverse.
Another recall, under NHTSA Campaign Number 21V-729, addresses a similar problem caused by radio software errors. This recall affects over 58,000 vehicles.
There is also a separate recall, identified by NHTSA Campaign Number 24V-436 due to a software bug that could result in the rearview camera displaying a blank screen. Chrysler recalled over 1 million vehicles due to this problem.
Stellantis previously recalled certain 2021Jeep Grand Cherokee L (WL75) models due to potential issues with the taillight side marker assemblies.
These assemblies may become damaged and fail to light up as required. This issue causes these vehicles to not meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, which pertains to “Lamp, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.”
The recall related to this taillight problem is listed under NHTSA Campaign Number 22V-544.
Concerns from Affected Owners
“On May 4, 2023, immediately upon starting the car, warning lights were illuminated: Blind Spot Alert Unavailable – Service Required, Stop/Start Unavailable Service Stop/Start System, Service Electronic Stability Control, Oil Change Required, Service Power Steering, Check Engine Light. Vehicle had no power steering. It was taken to the dealership several hours later, and at that time no warning lights came on and the car had power steering. Dealership indicated that there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. On July 1, while driving 75 mph on I-95 in New Hampshire, while on a road trip from NY to Maine, multiple warning lights illuminated and vehicle immediately lost power steering. I was barely able to get it to the shoulder. Not one Jeep dealership in the area was available to see the car. A local mechanic was able to hook it up and determined that the car lost connectivity. He agreed to keep the car while we continued on our trip with a rental car we found and contacted our Jeep dealer. Two days later, while waiting for our Jeep dealership to tow it home, we learned that the vehicle was completely dead and won’t even accept a charge to the battery.”
“After turning onto [XXX] from [XXX], Spring Branch, TX, the digital screens in front of the driver and in the center console turned off and went blank. Approximately 3-5 seconds later, the screens turned on, but then they went blank again after about 5 seconds. At this time, the engine felt as though it was stumbling as though it was running out of fuel. I then began to smell what smelled like melting plastic and then I saw dark colored smoke beginning to come out from under the center console on the right side of the vehicle. I slowed down and looked for a safe place to pull the car off of the road. The entire scenario appeared to have lasted 1-2 minutes, but I really don’t know exactly how long it was before I was able to exit the vehicle. In order to see where I was going, I rolled down the front windows and as soon as I did so, I saw flames appearing from underneath the center console on the right side of the vehicle. I was able to stop the vehicle on the right shoulder of the road and then I placed the vehicle in park and I exited the vehicle. I moved away from the vehicle and called 9-1-1. Bulverde – Spring Branch Fire & EMS and Comal County Sheriff’s Department arrived several minutes later and when they arrived, the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames.”
“This is the second Grand Cherokee we have owned and it was a great vehicle until the “radio” as the service department prefers to refer to it stopped working. The problem is that this is not just the radio, but the interface to the entire vehicle. Without it the navigation does not work, nor does the back up camera, you cannot adjust the climate control, change any of the vehicle settings, and yes, play the radio. This is a known defect involving two class action lawsuits, but the dealer pretend like there is no issue, even though they admit to having to replace these Uconnect units for several years. Best of all, they say it’s only covered under the three year bumper to bumper warranty. They suggest the next “attempt” to solve the non-issue is to pay to replace the unit, but cannot confirm if the refurbished unit has been fixed or still has the same defect.”
Consumer Lemon Law Rights & Your Grand Cherokee Issues
If you own or lease a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee and are facing persistent problems despite multiple warranty repair attempts, you might be eligible for remedies under your state’s lemon law.
Lemon laws are designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease vehicles with defects that are not resolved after a reasonable number of repair attempts.
To initiate a lemon law claim, first document the defect and ensure you have attempted to fix it at an authorized dealership.
Generally, you need to show that the vehicle has undergone several repair attempts—typically between two to four—without success. If your Jeep Grand Cherokee meets these criteria, it may qualify as a “lemon.”
Successful lemon law claims usually result in either a refund or a replacement vehicle. With a refund, you may be reimbursed for the full purchase price, including the down payment, monthly payments, taxes, and interest.
Additionally, you could be compensated for incidental costs such as registration renewal fees and expenses related to renting or towing the vehicle.
If you receive a replacement vehicle, it will be a new vehicle of similar make and model, though you may be responsible for any price difference.
Both refund and replacement options may involve a deduction for mileage or use prior to the defect being identified.
Given that manufacturers often have robust legal teams to contest such claims, having a skilled lemon law attorney on your side can be crucial.
An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
They will advocate for your rights and handle negotiations or court proceedings, providing you with the best chance of a favorable outcome.
Reach Out to the Lemon Law Experts for Assistance!
Getting help from a skilled attorney can significantly simplify your lemon law case. An experienced lawyer will help organize essential documentation, ensure compliance with deadlines, facilitate communication with the manufacturer, and provide representation in court if needed.
For top-notch legal representation, consider reaching out to the Lemon Law Experts. Since 2009, our team has successfully secured millions in settlements for clients with defective vehicles in California, including cases involving Jeep and other major auto manufacturers.
Our expertise in handling lemon law claims ensures that you receive both the justice and compensation you deserve.
Timeliness is critical in lemon law cases. Contact our team today at (877) 885-5366 or complete our online form for a free case evaluation.
Let us help you resolve your 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee lemon issues efficiently and effectively today.
