2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Misfire Recall: What Owners Need to Know
Reading Time: 6 minutes The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular midsize SUV known for its rugged design, off-road ability, and comfortable ride. However, many owners faced a frustrating issue: engine misfire. This problem became serious enough to trigger a recall by Jeep’s parent company, FCA US LLC (now Stellantis). If you own or are considering a 2017 Grand Cherokee, understanding this recall is important for your safety, maintenance costs, and overall vehicle reliability.
What Is An Engine Misfire?
An engine misfire happens when one or more cylinders in the engine do not fire properly. This causes the engine to run rough, lose power, and sometimes even stall. In a car like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, misfires can lead to:
- Rough idling or shaking
- Reduced fuel efficiency
- Poor acceleration
- Engine warning lights on the dashboard
- Risk of sudden stalling, which is dangerous in traffic
Even beginners can spot symptoms: if your Jeep starts to shake or loses power, it might be misfiring.
Why Did Jeep Recall The 2017 Grand Cherokee For Misfire Problems?
In 2017–2018, Jeep received many complaints from owners about misfires. After investigation, FCA found a manufacturing defect in the engine’s valve train components, especially the rocker arms. These parts could wear out early or even break, causing the engine to misfire.
Key reasons for the recall:
- Safety: Sudden loss of power can cause accidents.
- Environmental: Misfires increase emissions.
- Reliability: Frequent repairs damage Jeep’s reputation.
Jeep decided to recall certain Grand Cherokees with the 3. 6L V6 engine to fix the problem at no cost to owners.
Which 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokees Were Affected?
Not all Grand Cherokees were part of the recall. The main group included:
- Vehicles built between October 2016 and March 2017
- Models with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine
- Specific VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) ranges
Other engine options, like the V8, were not included. Always check your VIN with a dealer or on the official recall site.
How Did Jeep Fix The Misfire Issue?
Jeep’s recall solution was to inspect and, if needed, replace faulty rocker arms and related engine parts. The service was done at authorized Jeep dealers for free.
Steps involved:
- Inspection: Mechanics checked for misfire codes and engine noise.
- Repair: If problems were found, they replaced worn or broken rocker arms, pushrods, and sometimes valve lifters.
- Testing: The engine was tested to make sure the misfire was fixed.
Most repairs took 1–2 days, depending on part availability.
Common Symptoms Owners Noticed
Many 2017 Grand Cherokee owners reported:
- Check engine light turning on
- Noticeable shaking or vibration, especially at idle
- Engine running rough after starting, then improving as it warmed up
- Reduced power, especially during acceleration
- Unusual ticking noise from under the hood
If you notice any of these, it’s important to get your vehicle checked.
How To Check If Your 2017 Grand Cherokee Was Recalled
Checking your vehicle’s recall status is easy:
- Look up your VIN on the official NHTSA recall website
- Call your local Jeep dealer’s service department
- Check Jeep’s official recall lookup page
Never ignore a recall notice. Driving with a misfire can cause engine damage and even a fire in rare cases.
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Data Table: Key Details Of The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Misfire Recall
Below is a summary of the main data about this recall:
| Recall Number | Year | Affected Models | Engine | Repair | Cost to Owner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U87/NHTSA 18V-332 | 2017 | Grand Cherokee | 3.6L V6 Pentastar | Rocker Arm & Valve Train Repair | $0 (Free) |
Impact Of The Recall On Owners
The recall caused stress and inconvenience for many owners, but it also helped prevent bigger problems. Some owners experienced:
- Time lost for repairs (usually 1–2 days)
- Stress about engine reliability
- Improved engine performance after the recall fix
A few owners reported repeat issues, but most saw lasting repairs.
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How Engine Misfire Affects Long-term Reliability
Ignoring a misfire can lead to:
- Catalytic converter failure (costly to fix)
- Increased engine wear and possible engine replacement
- Lower resale value for your Jeep
The recall repair is designed to prevent these outcomes, but regular maintenance is still important.
Comparison: Misfire Recall Vs. Other Jeep Recalls
Here’s a comparison of the 2017 misfire recall with other common Jeep recalls:
| Recall | Problem | Safety Risk | Repair Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Misfire Recall | Engine misfire due to rocker arms | High (engine stall possible) | Engine parts replacement |
| Brake Booster Recall | Water in brake booster | Medium (reduced braking) | Brake booster inspection/replacement |
| Transmission Recall | Gear shift confusion | High (rollaway risk) | Software update |
The misfire recall is one of the most serious, since it can lead to sudden engine shutdown.
What Owners Should Do Now
If you own a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee or are thinking of buying a used one:
- Check recall status before buying or if you haven’t already.
- If your vehicle was fixed, keep all service records.
- Watch for symptoms of misfire even after recall repairs.
- Do regular oil changes and engine maintenance to prevent future issues.
Non-obvious Insights For Beginners
- Even after the recall fix, engine misfire can return if other parts (like spark plugs or ignition coils) fail later. Always diagnose new misfires carefully.
- Resale value is better for Jeeps with recall repairs done. Buyers can ask for the service records as proof.
Example: Real Owner Experience
Anna, a 2017 Grand Cherokee owner in Texas, noticed her engine shaking and the check engine light came on. The dealer found a misfire and replaced rocker arms under the recall. After repair, her Jeep ran smoothly, and she had no further engine problems.
She later sold the SUV for a good price because she kept all repair documents.
How To Prevent Future Misfires
While the recall fixes the known defect, you can keep your engine healthy by:
- Using high-quality fuel
- Changing oil regularly (every 5,000–7,500 miles)
- Replacing spark plugs every 30,000–60,000 miles
- Listening for unusual engine noises
Table: Common Causes Of Misfire In Grand Cherokee
Here’s a quick look at other reasons your Jeep might misfire:
| Cause | Typical Fix | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Faulty spark plug | Replace spark plug | $100–$200 |
| Bad ignition coil | Replace coil | $150–$350 |
| Fuel injector issue | Clean or replace injector | $200–$500 |
| Rocker arm failure | Recall repair | Free (if recalled) |
Buying A Used 2017 Grand Cherokee: What To Ask
When buying a used model, always ask:
- Was the misfire recall repair completed?
- Are there service records for engine work?
- Is there any recent history of check engine lights or rough running?
Choose vehicles with documented recall service for better peace of mind.
Where To Find More Information
For official recall and safety information, visit the NHTSA Recalls Database. This is the government site for all vehicle recalls in the US.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Main Cause Of Misfire In The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The main cause was a defect in the rocker arms of the 3.6L V6 engine. These parts could wear out early, causing the engine’s cylinders to misfire.
Is The Recall Repair Free For All Owners?
Yes, if your Jeep is part of the recall, the repair is free at Jeep dealerships. Labor and parts are covered by FCA (Jeep’s parent company).
Will A Misfire Damage My Engine If Not Repaired?
Yes. Driving with a misfire can damage the catalytic converter, reduce fuel efficiency, and even cause major engine failure over time.
How Do I Check If My Jeep Is Affected By The Recall?
Check your VIN on the NHTSA website or at your local Jeep dealer. Only certain VINs and engine types are included.
What Should I Do If My Engine Misfires After The Recall Repair?
Visit your dealer immediately. Other parts (like spark plugs or ignition coils) may need attention, or the recall repair may not have solved the problem.
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The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee misfire recall is a reminder to always respond quickly to vehicle recalls for your safety and long-term vehicle health. By understanding the problem, symptoms, and repair process, owners can keep their SUVs reliable for years to come.
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