The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV that can be found used from $12,331 to $16,638. Overall fit and finish is outstanding for the price, but long-term reliability is questionable.
- Interior materials are exceptional for its class.
- Exterior styling is better than competitors.
- Optional safety technology is advanced for its time.
- Common electrical and computer issues lead to breakdowns.
- Less cargo room than its competitors.
- Rougher ride with a stiffer suspension than other midsize SUVs.
2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Quick Overview
- For the 2011 model year, Jeep completely redesigned the Grand Cherokee with all-new engines, interior, and exterior styling. It scores below average in overall reliability.
- Two engines are available in the Grand Cherokee. A V6 offers good power as standard, and an optional V8 gives you better performance than other SUVs.
- Grand Cherokee ranks 10th out of 23 midsize SUVs in fuel economy with a combined rating of up to 18 miles per gallon.
- The Grand Cherokee is a safe midsize SUV, it gets four stars in government crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awards the Grand Cherokee a Top Safety Pick.
- The 2011 Grand Cherokee ranks in the middle of its class based on owner reviews. It is more affordable than its competitors, but mechanical problems make it an SUV to avoid.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Have?
More problems are reported with the 2011 Grand Cherokee than any other model year. A serious problem occurs when the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) fails. If it fails, the SUV will not run, since it is the computer that controls everything from the engine to the door locks. The TIPM is expensive to replace, with most repairs costing over $1,000. Other problems include the engine stalling, and fuel pump relay failures.
There are six recalls affecting the Grand Cherokee, average for a vehicle this old, but all very serious since they can result in accidents or fires. Recalls include loss of power braking assistance, the fuel pump relay, and shorting lights.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee trims and models start with well-equipped Laredo and only get better from there. The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee can be found used from $12,331 to $16,638 depending on the model and mileage. When it was new it had a retail price of $30,215 to $42,295. It depreciates much faster than average, losing 56% of its value in the first five years.
- The base model is the Laredo. Standard are 17-inch wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel, eight-way adjustable power driver’s seat, a six-speaker stereo system with UConnect, and keyless entry.
- Above that is the Limited. Additional features include 18-inch wheels, heated leather seating for the front and rear rows, memory seating, a nine-speaker stereo system, and a panoramic sunroof.
- The top-of-the-line model is the Overland. It adds 20-inch wheels, premium Nappa leather, a heated steering wheel, a power liftgate, and ventilated front seats.
How Long Will the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Last?
Based on ownership data, a 2011 Grand Cherokee can be expected to last about 200,000 miles with proper care, which is average for its class. Repair Pal estimates it will cost more to maintain than its competitors, at $700 per year.
It is reliable. It has not had problems with me other than having to get the oil changed when need be.
Overall is a very reliable car. Had to replace a couple of part on it like the radiator, but it could easily be one in 100 kind of odds for me to have this happen. Other than that it's a great car to be reliable.
The 2011 jeep grand Cherokee is very reliable. I have had routine maintenance done on it and have had to fix the air condition once.
Yes. My jeep is very reliable. I have 120k miles on it. I have an no problems with my jeep, with proper maintenance it will last me for a long time!
It is a very reliable vehicle!! Only thing that has been an issue was 2 oil leaks, but they were easy fixes. Great car otherwise!
Yes, my 2011 jeep grand Cherokee is super reliable. Summer, spring, winter, fall, jeep grand Cherokee is ready for it all!
It is reliable, I have had to do some repairs but I bought a warranty for it and that has paid off. Highly recommend for any vehicle purchase. It starts always.
Very reliable. Cost efficient. Mine has high mileage and still runs great. As a one income household this means a lot to me. I absolutely love my jeep!
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The Grand Cherokee is completely redesigned, and has the latest technology available in 2011. Better technology is available in the Jeep compared other midsize SUVs from the same year.
- Base technology includes a seven-inch UConnect infotainment system with Bluetooth and a six-speaker stereo.
- Upgraded technology adds a nine-speaker high fidelity stereo from Alpine, and an improved Uconnect system with navigation.
- For safety, there are optional collision avoidance systems including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-path detection, and blind-spot monitoring.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s two engine options–3.5L V6 and 5.7L V8–struggle with fuel pump failure. The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is quick for a midsize SUV, getting from 0 to 60 in 7.5 seconds. It also can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is average for its class.
- The base engine is a 3.6L V6 making 290 horsepower, a powerful standard engine for an SUV at this price point.
- An upgraded 5.7L V8 is available with 360 horsepower, giving it more power than most of its competitors.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Grand Cherokee?
The 2011 Grand Cherokee is slightly smaller than other midsize SUVs. It is comfortable to ride in, but the rear seats do feel tighter than other vehicles. There is 35.1 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the second row of seats, and when folded flat it increases to 68.7 cu. ft. Space is below average for its class, but it’s enough room to haul passengers and five suitcases.
How Does the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Compare to Other SUVs?
Based on owner reviews, the 2011 Grand Cherokee ranks 10th out of 23 midsize SUVs, putting it near the middle of the pack. One of its strongest competitors is the Toyota 4Runner. It has a significantly better reliability rating and fewer reported problems, but the Grand Cherokee still delivers better interior materials and technology. Both SUVs are built to handle rough off-road terrain well with their 4WD systems. The Toyota is a longer-lasting SUV with no major mechanical problems, making it a better choice.
Another competitor is the Mazda CX-9. A more reliable engine and standard three rows of seating make it a more compelling choice than the Jeep. Where the Mazda loses out is in styling and off-road capability since it is built for paved roads, and cannot handle trails like the Jeep. The longer-lasting powertrain helps Mazda win in this matchup.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee a Good SUV?
Our assessment of the 2011 Grand Cherokee is it is not a good SUV to buy. Good qualities include an upscale interior, powerful engines, and advanced safety technology for its time. Where it loses out is with mechanical problems. Jeep improved the Grand Cherokee in later years, making those a better choice than the problem-ridden 2011 model.