The Good
The 2012 Grand Cherokee offers strong performance, especially with the V8 engine. It boasts a comfortable ride and a stylish, upscale design. Practical buyers appreciate its towing capacity and available four-wheel drive, while emotional buyers are drawn to its Jeep heritage and rugged appeal. It offers a good balance of luxury and utility.
The Bad
Some known weaknesses of the 2012 Grand Cherokee include potential electrical issues, suspension problems, and transmission glitches. Fuel economy can be poor, especially with the V8 engines. Be sure to check for any signs of fluid leaks and ensure all electronics are functioning correctly. Reliability can be a concern.
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Quick Overview
Key specs for the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee:
- Engine Options:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: Standard engine
- 5.7L Hemi V8: Available on higher trims
- 6.4L Hemi V8 (SRT8): High-performance engine
- Horsepower:
- 3.6L V6: 290 hp
- 5.7L V8: 360 hp
- 6.4L V8 (SRT8): 470 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 3.6L V6: 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
- 5.7L V8: 14 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
- 6.4L V8 (SRT8): 13 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (approximate):
- 3.6L V6: 8.7 seconds
- 5.7L V8: 7.1 seconds
- 6.4L V8 (SRT8): 4.8 seconds
- Towing Capacity (maximum):
- 5.7L V8: Up to 7,400 lbs
- Trim-Level Features:
- Laredo: Cloth seats, basic infotainment, 17-inch wheels.
- Limited: Leather seats, heated front seats, upgraded audio system, 18-inch wheels.
- Overland: Premium leather, wood trim, navigation, panoramic sunroof, air suspension.
- SRT8: High-performance brakes, suspension, and styling, unique interior, performance seats.
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2012 |
Make | Jeep |
Model | Grand Cherokee |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
Category | Minivan |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | United States |
Manufacturing City | DUSSELDORF |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | - |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 3.8L V6 |
Engine Size | 3.8L |
Engine Cylinders | 6 |
Transmission | - |
Transmission Type | - |
Transmission Speeds | - |
Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive (LHD) |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Have?
Several recalls affected the 2012 Grand Cherokee, including recalls for fuel leaks, brake booster issues, and electrical problems that could lead to fires. Long-term reliability can be a concern, with some owners reporting increased maintenance costs as the vehicle ages. Specifically, issues with the Quadra-Trac and Quadra-Drive four-wheel-drive systems have been documented. Owners should thoroughly inspect the vehicle's service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic before buying a used 2012 Grand Cherokee. Check for any outstanding recalls and ensure they have been addressed.
How long will the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Optional features include a rearview camera, parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The infotainment system can be slow and outdated compared to modern systems.
Safety features include multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control. The 2012 Grand Cherokee received generally good crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. Some models feature Quadra-Lift air suspension for adjustable ride height, improving both off-road capability and on-road comfort. The SRT8 trim includes performance-oriented features like launch control and performance-tuned suspension. While not cutting-edge by today's standards, the 2012 Grand Cherokee offers a respectable array of tech and safety features for its time.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Prices and Market Value
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Cost of Ownership
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Fuel Efficiency
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Recalls & Defects
Engine and Engine Cooling
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:vacuum
Service Brakes
Electrical System:wiring
Electrical System:alternator/Generator/Regulator
Electrical System
Electrical System:wiring
Interior Lighting
Electrical System:alternator/Generator/Regulator
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/Supercharger
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist
Service Brakes
Electrical System
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Reliability is where the Grand Cherokee lags behind Toyota and Honda. The Edge offers similar features and a more comfortable ride, but lacks the Jeep's off-road prowess. Price-wise, the Grand Cherokee is competitive, especially on the used market. If reliability is a primary concern, the Toyota 4Runner or Honda Pilot are better alternatives. If you prioritize on-road comfort and fuel economy, the Ford Edge or Nissan Murano are worth considering. For serious off-roading, the 4Runner is the clear winner, though it sacrifices on-road refinement.
Ranks #1528 SUV
1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (5.0★) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
1528 | 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
JAC on September 17, 2024
The 2012 Gran Cherokee Overland has been my car for overThe 2012 Gran Cherokee Overland has been my car for over 12 years. I've enjoyed every minute of driving it. Have made several road trips with it and never a complaint. It's plush with features and luxury items. Love the looks, love the ride, love the comfort and love the low cost of ownership. Jeep lives up to its name and fame.
Mario Martino on May 23, 2024
Possibly the biggest piece of junk ever owned.Possibly the biggest piece of junk ever owned. I made 2 payments on my used Jeep Cherokee I bought from the dealer who serviced it since new just to find it had a blown head gasket. Then had to pay for both to be replaced. Had to remove the air suspension and replace it all because it froze the car crooked. It's had new brakes, rotors, suspension, fuel pump, spark plugs, coil packs, water pump and now it's once again broke. Now the dealer is telling me it needs a $12,000 engine replacement.
CatTayl on June 28, 2023
2012 JGC Larado with 227,000 milesBought this SUV last week. My "new" 2012 JGC had 227,000 miles on it. The salesperson didn't know much about the Jeep, as it was a Ford dealership I had gone to. Two days later, I had to go for preparations to bury my son, over 800 miles away. I was very fearful, because I had this JGC that I had never driven before, and I was on this journey alone. I have seen so many cars with temp plates sitting on the side of the road, and was fearful mine could just be another one. Needless to say, the only 2 things I haven't liked about my vehicle transaction, is that there is no owners manual, and evidently the sensor for low fuel doesn't work. I knew about the owners manual before the purchase, but not the low fuel indicator. I will just fill up at 1/4 tank asI always have. LOVE, LOVE this vehicle.....stylish, comfy, and all the perks. Auto start and heated seats will surely be welcomed as winter can hit hard here in the midwest. So far, the best car I've had, and I've had a lot over the last 55 years!
Sokomani on March 4, 2023
My favorite Jeep and recommendations and concernsI love so much Jeep cars and they are reliable and heavy duty, my concern is about lights I offen replace them, oil cooling system, shocks and water circulation. Other that this is a number 1 car. I love it.
Matt on May 25, 2021
love my jeepThis Jeep is very responsive. plenty of room in the hatch with or without the seats down. The seats are comfortable and the moon roof is wonderful .
David S on April 29, 2021
2012 Jeep Grand CherokeeThe nicest used car I have purchased so far. Nice riding and very comfortable. Looking forward to the heated seats and heated steering wheel this winter
Tee on March 25, 2021
Extremely comfortable, safe and luxurious feelLove it!! Extremely comfortable, safe, with a luxurious feel- Well worth the price. Drives well luxurious and comfortable interior. Safe and reliable! Would recommend. Ask for Jerry!
Azhiker on March 10, 2021
Terrible dealerI test drove this car and it seemed ok. I asked Mo, the manager if Luxury certified auto what was wrong with the car? He said he was selling it too cheap. Is is a good ‘looking' car, so I bought it. Mo keep pushing the extended warranty ($2500), I refused it. 5 days later i was broke down and when I called him he said ‘I told you to buy the extended warranty!' Less than 200 mimes and one week! I took it to his mechanic, who after a week could find nothin wrong. It broke on the way home again. Long story short, first 5 weeks, $3900 in repairs just to be able to drive it. This dealer is a rip off, oh yeah, they sold me a car with an open recall, then did not get the required emission testing done beforehand!
qeces2 on February 18, 2021
Best all around vehicleI have ownedThis is the 3rd Grand Cherokee i have owned and it is the best. It has great room and reasonable gas mileage. It has great looks and it has been very reliable.
Kenneth on January 3, 2021
Nice looking vehicleDo far so good. Blessed by God to have it. Well built and plenty of room. I've always owned a truck so this is different but seems to be able to pull my 4x8 utility trailer.