The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV with a price range of $14,027 to $31,051. A high purchase price and expensive maintenance costs make the 2012 model one shoppers should avoid.
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Quick Overview
- New for the 2012 model year include the SRT8 model, and new wheel choices.
- Reliability ratings are average according to J.D. Power, with fewer owner complaints than the older 2011 model.
- Three engine choices are available, including two V8s with excellent power for the class.
- Fuel economy is bad and is near the bottom of the midsize SUV class with a combined rating of up to 19 miles per gallon.
- Safety scores are good, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests and earning the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award.
- The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee ties for 10th place out of 22 midsize SUVs based on owner reviews. With a high number of owner complaints, the 2012 model is one buyers should stay away from.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Have?
The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee has more owner complaints than other midsize SUVs on the market. There are also more problems than the improved 2013 model.
Electrical problems, including totally integrated power module (TIPM) failures, are extremely common. The TIPM controls every aspect of the vehicle, and if there’s a failure then the entire unit has to be replaced. A replacement costs over $1,100, and happens around 65,000 miles.
Leather dash delamination is also a frequent problem. In hotter climates the glue on the dash fails and the leather starts to peel off the foam. Replacing the leather is the only solution, costing about $1,000 depending on local labor rates.
Fuel pump problems also happen regularly. There are three main sources of the problem including the TIPM, a relay failure, and actual fuel pump. The relay is covered in a recall. If the pump assembly fails replacement costs are about $1,000.
There are 11 recalls affecting the SUV, worse than other vehicles from 2012. The recalls include rod bearing failures, hand brake pedal, power brake assist, vanity lamps, alternator failures, fuel pump relay, brake booster shield, and the supercharger bracket. Most serious are fuel pump relay failures since they cause the engine to stall.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is more expensive than other midsize SUVs, with a price range of $14,027 to $31,051, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $27,195 to $54,670. Depreciation is average for the class, dropping 35% in value over the first 5 years.
- Laredo is the entry-level model with 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth seating, fog lamps, dual-zone climate control, leather steering wheel, and a 6-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback, and AUX input.
- Limited falls in the middle of the lineup and has 18-inch wheels, leather seating, heated front seats, panoramic sunroof, chrome exterior trim, xenon headlights, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with 9 speakers, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity.
- Overland is the flagship luxury model and has 20-inch wheels, improved leather seating, an air suspension, mesh front grille, ventilated front seats, and a power liftgate.
- SRT8 focuses entirely on performance with a large V8 engine, unique 20-inch forged wheels, leather and suede seating, an adaptive suspension, limited slip rear differential, Brembo brakes, and carbon fiber trim pieces.
How Long Will the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Last?
A properly maintained 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee will last about 200,000 miles, which is average for a midsize SUV. Regular annual maintenance costs are more expensive than the competition. Repair Pal estimates them to be $734 per year.
Very reliable. I maintain it regularly so I do not have issues. It has had a couple of recalls, but the issues were fixed quickly and without cost to me.
Yes it is reliable. Unfortunately there have been several recall notices over the years but the dealership has been up front about fixing them free of charge thankfully.
Very reliable and no issues. It does have the standard service required but so does every car. I think it will last a very long time.
It is very reliable. I just do regular maintenance - change oil, new tires. There are no problems. It always passes inspection.
No, very reliable. I have had to do several oil changes, since I have put about 40,000 miles on it. I have done all 4 brakes, changed the thermostat and will be servicing the transmission (change filter, new fluid) in the near future but no ongoing problems.
It is for the most part reliable. It does feel a bit bumpy and rattles. I have had an issue with the rear suspension which was an expensive fix
Yes it's been reliable so far no problems other than the general service maintenance. The information on the dash tell you when you need to service the vehicle such as low tire pressure, oil change, washer fluid, even a warning if doors are not shut properly.
It has been very reliable. The only problem I've encountered is the lugs nuts on the tires have stripped and rusted, making it difficult to rotate tires without having to replace one every time, and they are expensive. ($10-12 each).
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology in the entry-level 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is basic for a midsize SUV, but improves in higher end models.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX input, and 6 speakers.
- Upgrades include a 6.5-inch Uconnect infotainment system, navigation, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and a premium 9-speaker stereo system.
- Standard safety features include antilock brakes, traction and stability control, and a full suite of airbags. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera, and a forward collision warning system.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is excellent in the 2012 Grand Cherokee compared to other midsize SUVs. The SRT8 model is class-leading, going from 0 to 60 in 5.1 seconds. A properly-equipped Grand Cherokee can also tow up to 7,400 pounds.
- The base engine is a 3.6L V6 with 290 horsepower.
- An available upgrade is the 5.7L V8, which makes 360 horsepower.
- The engine found in the SRT8 is the 6.4L V8 producing 470 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Grand Cherokee?
The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV and is similar in size to the competition. Where the Jeep loses out to a lot of competitors is with no third row available. Passenger room is good in the front and back seats, with plenty of legroom for adults. Cargo space is average for the class with 35.1 cubic feet of room behind the seats, and 68.7 with the rear seats folded flat. There’s enough room for 6 suitcases.
How Does the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Compare to Other SUVs?
Ranking 10th out of 22 midsize SUVs, based on owner reviews, the 2012 Grand Cherokee is in the middle of the class.
Higher in the lineup is the more expensive Toyota 4Runner. Where Toyota comes out ahead is with significantly better reliability ratings, and an optional third row available. The Grand Cherokee has more powerful engine choices, and better infotainment technology. Overall, the 4Runner is a better choice if you’re looking for a long-lasting used SUV.
A more affordable competitor is the Honda Pilot. Reliability ratings, passenger room, and cargo space are all better in the Honda. Where the Jeep stands out is with superior off-road performance, exterior styling, and a more luxurious interior. Overall, the Pilot is a better choice for on-road driving, even if the styling is more controversial.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee a Good SUV?
No, the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is not a good SUV based on information from 349 owner reviews and 18 government and automotive websites. The positives include an upscale interior for the price, and decent off-road performance. Where the Jeep loses serious points is with expensive electrical problems, and worse fuel economy than the competition. Overall, if you’re in the market for a midsize SUV, there are better options than a Grand Cherokee.