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2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Review: One of the Worst Daily-Drivers Available, and One of the Best Adventure Vehicles

Rating: 4.51
Based on 41 Owner Reviews
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV that builds upon Jeep's legacy of rugged capability. Part of the WJ generation (1999-2004), it offered a blend of off-road prowess and on-road comfort. Key trims included the Laredo, Limited, and Overland. New, prices ranged roughly from $27,000 to $37,000 depending on trim and options. Its strong engine options and iconic Jeep styling made it a popular choice.
The Good

The 2003 Grand Cherokee offers a compelling mix of performance and practicality. Its strong engine options deliver good power for both daily driving and off-road adventures (emotional appeal). The comfortable ride and available luxury features enhance the driving experience. It also provides good value for its capabilities and cargo space, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers (practical appeal).

The Bad

Known weaknesses of the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee include potential issues with the automatic transmission, especially with the 4.7L V8 engine. Rust can be a concern, particularly in areas with road salt. Electrical problems, such as faulty sensors and issues with the climate control system, are also relatively common. Fuel economy is not a strong point.

2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Quick Overview

Key Specs for the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee:

  • Engine Options:
    • 4.0L Inline-6: Standard engine for the Laredo trim.
    • 4.7L V8: Available on Laredo and standard on Limited and Overland.
  • Horsepower:
    • 4.0L Inline-6: Approximately 195 horsepower.
    • 4.7L V8: Approximately 235 horsepower.
  • Fuel Economy (Estimated):
    • 4.0L Inline-6: 15-16 mpg city / 20-21 mpg highway.
    • 4.7L V8: 13-15 mpg city / 18-20 mpg highway.
  • 0-60 Times (Estimated):
    • 4.0L Inline-6: Around 9-10 seconds.
    • 4.7L V8: Around 8-9 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity (Depending on Configuration): Up to 6,500 lbs (with the 4.7L V8 and proper equipment).
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Laredo: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery.
    • Limited: Added leather upholstery, upgraded audio system, automatic climate control, power-adjustable seats, and alloy wheels.
    • Overland: Featured unique exterior trim, premium leather seats, wood interior accents, and sometimes included features like a sunroof and premium sound system.
The 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered various 4x4 systems, including Quadra-Trac II and Selec-Trac, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The Overland trim was the most luxurious, offering a premium experience. Remember that actual specifications can vary slightly based on the exact configuration.

2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2003
Make Jeep
Model Grand Cherokee
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Minivan Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City DETROIT
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 4.7-L V-8
Engine Size 4.7L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission Automatic 5-Speed
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

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Listings
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Have?

The 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee, while generally robust, has some frequently reported problems. Transmission issues, especially with the 4.7L V8 models, are common, ranging from rough shifting to complete failure. The blend doors in the climate control system are known to break, resulting in inconsistent temperature control.
Rust is a significant concern, particularly underneath and around the wheel wells. Electrical glitches, including sensor failures and issues with the instrument cluster, are also reported. The viscous coupler in the Quadra-Trac 4WD system can fail, affecting its performance.
While I can't access a live, updated recall database, it's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any outstanding recalls related to the 2003 Grand Cherokee. Some older recalls have addressed issues like faulty fuel tanks and airbag concerns. Long-term reliability concerns center around the longevity of the transmission and the potential for rust-related problems. Regular maintenance and careful inspection are crucial for mitigating these issues.

How long will the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee last?

With proper maintenance, a 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee can realistically achieve 200,000 miles or more. Many well-maintained examples are still on the road after 20 years. However, longevity heavily depends on consistent oil changes, timely transmission servicing, and addressing issues promptly. Long-term durability is generally good, but weaknesses include potential rust development (especially in colder climates), wear and tear on suspension components, and the aforementioned transmission vulnerabilities. Neglecting maintenance can significantly shorten the lifespan.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee's tech and safety features, while dated by today's standards, were respectable for its time. Built-in tech included a standard AM/FM radio with a cassette player (CD player optional), and available steering wheel-mounted audio controls. The Limited and Overland trims offered upgraded audio systems with CD changers and premium speakers.
Driver-assistance features were limited, primarily consisting of antilock brakes (ABS) and traction control. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking available.
Safety features included front airbags, and some models had side airbags as an option. The Grand Cherokee also featured seatbelt pretensioners.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) can provide insights into its safety performance. While specific ratings should be verified on their respective websites (as data changes), the 2003 Grand Cherokee generally received acceptable scores for frontal and side impact protection for its class at the time. Keep in mind that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2003.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Clearcoat
Bright Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Deep Slate Metallic Clearcoat
Flame Red Clearcoat
Graphite Metallic Clearcoat
Hunter Green Metallic Clearcoat
Light Pewter Metallic Clearcoat
Midnight Blue Pearlcoat
Opal Pearlcoat
Patriot Blue Pearlcoat
Sienna Pearlcoat
Interior Colors
Dark Slate Gray
Camel

2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee ranged from around $27,000 for a base Laredo to approximately $37,000 for a fully-loaded Overland. Currently, used market prices vary widely based on condition, mileage, and trim level. Expect to find them ranging from $3,000 to $8,000, potentially higher for exceptionally well-maintained examples with low mileage.
The Grand Cherokee has depreciated significantly over time, as is typical for older vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, rust presence, maintenance records, and the desirability of specific trim levels (Overland tends to hold value slightly better). Low mileage is also a significant positive factor.

2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Cost of Ownership

The 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee is generally considered moderately costly to own. Insurance rates are typically average for its class and age. Fuel economy is poor, particularly with the V8 engine, leading to higher fuel costs. Maintenance can be relatively inexpensive if you perform basic tasks yourself; however, repairs can be costly, especially for transmission or electrical issues. Long-term ownership costs can escalate if preventative maintenance is neglected. Rust repair can also be a significant expense.

2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Recalls & Defects

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2006-02-01
Recall no. 06e011000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Aftermarket Airtex Electric Fuel Pumps Installed FOR USE AS Replacement Equipment FOR Certain 1997-2004 Jeep Wrangler; 1997-2001 Jeep Cherokee; 1997-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee; and 2000-2003 Dodge Dakota Vehicles. THE Plastic Electrical Grommet Connectors AT THE Top OF THE Fuel Pump Module ARE NOT Compatible With Automotive Fuels and MAY Degrade Causing A Potential Leak Path FOR Fuel.
Consequence IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, A Fuel Leak Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy Airtex Will Notify ITS Customers and Will Replace THE Affected Fuel Pumps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON January 25, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Airtex Customer Service Department AT 1-800-880-3056.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Airtex Electric Fuel Pumps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, Wrangler, or Dodge Dakota Vehicles Manufactured BY Daimlerchrysler.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-07-17
Recall no. 06e064000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Tradesonic Combination Lamps Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Passenger Vehicles. Combination Lamps NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Lack OF Amber Side Reflectors IN THE Lamps Will Decrease Lighting Visibility TO Other Drivers and MAY Possibly Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Tradesonic Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During July 2006. Owners MAY Contact Tradesonic AT 626-934-8884.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Tradesonic Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date 2006-06-07
Recall no. 06v197000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Sport Utility Vehicles Equipped With Heated Seats, THE Front Passenger Seat Electric Heater Element Could Overheat.
Consequence Overheating Could Potentially Cause A Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Heated Seat Elements. THE Recall Began ON July 24, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. F17.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Recall date 2006-03-13
Recall no. 06e022000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Aftermarket Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders Sold AS Replacement Brake Cylinders FOR Certain Ford, Daimlerchrysler, and Jeep Passenger Vehicles. These Brake Cylinders Were Sold Under THE Brand Names OF Napa, Raybestos, Aimco, AC Delco, Carquest, Bendix, and Wagner. Only Products That Were Manufactured From July 27, 2005 Through January 17, 2006 (Date Codes 0529 Through 0602) ARE Subject TO This Recall. When Subject TO Very Cold Temperatures, AN Internal Seal IN THE Master Cylinder Could Lose Flexibility and MAY Cause Brake Fluid TO Leak.
Consequence Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Lead TO A Decrease IN Brake Line Pressure and AN Increase IN Stopping Distance, Which CAN Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Affinia (Brake Parts, Inc.) Will Replace THE Subject Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 20, 2006. Owners CAN Contact Affina Group Customer Service AT 1-800-323-0354.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Napa, Raybestos, AC Delco, Aimco, Carquest, and Bendix Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Daimlerchrysler or Ford Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2006-03-13
Recall no. 06e023000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Anzo Combination Headlamp Assemblies Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles. Some Combination Lamps ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Which Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Anzo Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Headlamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 9, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Anzo USA AT 909-468-3688.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Headlamp Assemblies Manufactured BY Anzo and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2009-04-07
Recall no. 09e012000
Source NHTSA
Summary Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2009-05-11
Recall no. 09e025000
Source NHTSA
Summary Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date 2009-04-09
Recall no. 09v117000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler IS Recalling 103,409 MY 2001-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Vehicles With Heated Seats and With Chrysler Recall NO. 06v-197 Completed (03-04 MY) or Seat Heater Elements Service Replacement (01-02 My). THE Front Seat Electric Heater Elements Could Overheat.
Consequence Overheating Could Potentially Cause A Fire or Injury.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Front Seat Heater Elements Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON November 23, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes Chrysler Recall NO. J14.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags
Recall date 2012-11-08
Recall no. 12v527000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2002 and 2003 Jeep Liberty Vehicles Manufactured January 9, 2001, Through March 28, 2003, and 2002 Through 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Vehicles Manufactured February 13, 2001, Through MAY 23, 2003. A Component IN THE AIR BAG Control Module MAY Fail Causing THE Front Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags, And/Or Seatbelt Pretensioners TO Deploy Inadvertently While THE Vehicle IS Being Operated.
Consequence Inadvertent Deployment OF THE Airbags MAY Increase THE Risk OF Injury and THE Possibility OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Supplemental Jumper Harness TO THE Airbag Control Module, Free OF Charge. Owners Were Notified OF THE Recall BY Interim Letter IN January 2013. THE Remedy FOR Affected Liberty Vehicles IS Expected TO BE Available IN April 2013. THE Remedy FOR Affected Grand Cherokee Vehicles IS Expected TO BE Available Later IN THE Year. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753.
Notes Chrysler's Recall Campaign Number IS M35.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date 2012-11-08
Recall no. 12v527000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2002 and 2003 Jeep Liberty Vehicles Manufactured January 9, 2001, Through March 28, 2003, and 2002 Through 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Vehicles Manufactured February 13, 2001, Through MAY 23, 2003. A Component IN THE AIR BAG Control Module MAY Fail Causing THE Front Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags, And/Or Seatbelt Pretensioners TO Deploy Inadvertently While THE Vehicle IS Being Operated.
Consequence Inadvertent Deployment OF THE Airbags MAY Increase THE Risk OF Injury and THE Possibility OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Supplemental Jumper Harness TO THE Airbag Control Module, Free OF Charge. Owners Were Notified OF THE Recall BY Interim Letter IN January 2013. THE Remedy FOR Affected Liberty Vehicles IS Expected TO BE Available IN April 2013. THE Remedy FOR Affected Grand Cherokee Vehicles IS Expected TO BE Available Later IN THE Year. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753.
Notes Chrysler's Recall Campaign Number IS M35.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date 2015-01-28
Recall no. 15v046000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty Vehicles Manufactured January 9, 2001, TO March 28, 2003, 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Vehicles Manufactured February 13, 2001, TO MAY 23 2003, and 2003-2004 Dodge Viper Vehicles Manufactured November 1, 2001, TO June 30, 2004. DUE TO Electrical Noise Beyond THE Tolerance OF THE AIR BAG Electronic Control Module (Ecm), A Component IN THE ECM MAY Fail, Causing THE Front AIR Bags, Side AIR Bags, And/Or Seatbelt Pretensioners TO Deploy Inadvertently While THE Vehicle IS Being Operated.
Consequence Inadvertent Deployment OF THE AIR Bags MAY Increase THE Risk OF Injury and THE Possibility OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Dealers Will Replace THE AIR BAG Control Module and Side Impact Sensors AS Required, Free OF Charge. This Recall Remedy WAS Applied During Earlier Recall Campaigns OF These Vehicles Under Safety Recalls 12v527 and 13v040. All Owners That Have NOT HAD THE Recall Repair Performed Under Safety Recalls 12v527 or 13v040 ARE Strongly Encouraged TO Have IT Performed and NOT Wait FOR THE Final Remedy TO BE Deployed TO THE Field. THE Recall Began ON December 29, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS R06.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Insurance

Insurance for a 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee competed against the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota 4Runner. In terms of performance, the Grand Cherokee offered comparable power, especially with the 4.7L V8, and often surpassed rivals in off-road capability. Features were competitive, although some rivals offered more advanced technology even back then.
Reliability is where the Grand Cherokee falls slightly behind some competitors like the Toyota 4Runner, known for its long-term dependability. The Ford Explorer had its own reliability concerns, while the Trailblazer offered a comfortable ride but wasn't as off-road focused. Price-wise, the Grand Cherokee was generally competitive when new, and used prices reflect its age and condition.
Alternatives to consider include the Toyota 4Runner (for superior reliability), the Nissan Pathfinder (for a more comfortable ride), or a newer Grand Cherokee model (for updated features and safety). The 4Runner holds its value exceptionally well, but is more expensive used. If off-road capability isn't a primary concern, a more modern crossover SUV might offer better fuel economy and technology.

Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee a Good Wagon?

The 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee is ideal for someone seeking a capable and relatively affordable SUV with decent off-road capabilities. It's worth buying if you're aware of its potential issues and are prepared to perform necessary maintenance. Buying a used 2003 Grand Cherokee can be a good value, especially if you find one in good condition with a well-documented maintenance history. Opting for a Limited or Overland trim provides more features and a more luxurious experience. Avoid examples with significant rust or signs of neglected maintenance. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended. It's not a great choice if you prioritize fuel economy or ultra-high reliability.

2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Owner Reviews

4.51
Consumer Rating, Based on 41 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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ChaseyBoi on October 7, 2022

Get yourself a WJ, you can't beat it or kill it!

After years of wanting one of these under rated machines I finally got my hands on one earlier this year. Ever since I was about 9 or 10 it has been my dream car (and yes I'm serious it is my dream car). I found it on FB Marketplace for just $2,000 and had to snatch it up. It is the Limited with the 4.0L so the best of both worlds and I LOVE it. It had just a hair over 140,000 miles when I bought it so I knew it still has tons of life left in it. I don't even have to speak on the engine because we all know how solid they are. Mine is also probably my favorite color in one of these models, Patriot Blue Metallic with black leather and every luxury option except for the adjustable pedals. It also has the Chrysler 300 style white gages which is one of my favorite parts. The ride quality is unmatched with the soft suspension and plush leather. Also pretty powerful for it not being the trashy 4.7 V8. Just like every vehicle it does have its cons. I would have gave it 5 stars had it not been a Chrysler product because they do have their fair share of electrical issues. I was fortunate and only have 2 issues though, being the back passenger window doesn't roll down and I have a bad connection on the blinker relay so the left signal only works until you hit a big bump and jar the fuse a tiny bit out of place. My only other issue is the hideous stock 16 spoke rims that come with the 2003-2004 Limited models. However I would definitely recommend for a first time driver or back yard mechanic because the Inline 6 has tons of room under the hood therefore are almost too easy to work on. Pretty much anyone can adapt with these vehicles though, from moms with big families to off road enthusiasts. These Jeeps are almost perfect for everyone. They are fairly easy on gas as well for being an SUV. You can average 18 City and around 26 Highway if you're easy on the throttle and you aren't drag racing it. For these WJ's being 20 years old now I can appreciate how modern and nice they still look inside and out. You can't beat the price either for such a capable, adaptable vehicle. Unless you find a rare one that's basically brand new you're only looking at spending around $2,000 to $3,000 to get your hands on one, you really can't beat it. So if you're looking for a good vehicle with endless purposes, go out and get you a '99-'04 Grand Cherokee. You won't regret it!

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E on June 4, 2022

Excellent car

Excellent car, own Jeep 2003 and it was very good on Gaz and also the car parts cost reasonable price , love my Jeep 2003 recommend this car

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Qbert on April 28, 2021

You've been warned.

I'd only recommend this vehicle for those who are getting into mechanics as these vehicles break down so often, you'll learn a lot as you rebuild it every month. Other than that, don't expect this to be a reliable commuter. No matter how well you take care of it, it'll find a way to disappoint. Every. Single. Time. Nasty electrical issues plague this vehicle. It would be an AWESOME and fun ride if that wasn't the case! They're known for misfiring, blowing gaskets for no reason, and breaking down while going on the highway. Other than that, they're very attractive looking. They got style, they stand out and clean up nice. But that doesn't mean anything when you can't even drive it.l without a problem popping up every time. Do yourself a favor, unless you're loaded with cash and want to do a nice WJ build, please don't buy one.

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Sonsera on March 3, 2021

Dont buy one

Broke down every time i drove. Parts way too expensive. Had i known it was dodge would have stayed away from it like the plague.over rated over priced Trouble.....i hate it

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GaryDE on January 30, 2021

Excellent Vehicle

I owned a 2000 Jeep GC previously that was totaled in an accident. This "new to me" 2003 Jeep GC meets my needs and is still dependable even for it's age. Still one of the best Jeep GCs made from 1999 to 2004.

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Ken on January 8, 2021

One of the most reliable trucks I have ever owned

I have owned 2005 4.0 Grand Cherokee. This 2003 4.7 will run circles around the 2005, no power. Love this 2003 Jeep 4.7 . Would buy again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Greg on November 10, 2020

Very Reliable Vehicle

This vehicle is in good condition. Cold A/C, Clean interior, No cosmetic issues. Overall happy with this vehicle for family use and for commuting purposes.

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EddieeeeRevieeee on October 7, 2020

I've owned this car for 17years

235k miles only thing I replaced is brakes and tires. Love this car so much like I will buy another one no matter what, even if I was rich.

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Matthew E on March 30, 2020

Very clean and runs great.

Decent MPG and comfortable. Plenty of room and pulls my boat and trailer very easy. I've owned a Jeeps over the past 5 years and always like them.

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Brian on September 19, 2019

Looks New

Great vehicle, looks brand new. Previous owner took care of it. Interior is perfect and enjoying the sunroof. very happy with purchase. that is all i have to say.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.