Ford Explorer vs Jeep Grand Cherokee
For 2005–2022 models, the Ford Explorer has 47.9 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 49.3 for the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Ford Explorer
47.9 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Complaints
- 15,961
- Sold
- 3,332,262
- Recall campaigns
- 72
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016. Fewest: 2005, 2007, 2009 and 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Jeep Grand Cherokee
49.3 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Ford Explorer
- Complaints
- 15,472
- Sold
- 3,140,383
- Recall campaigns
- 65
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2008, 2011–2012 and 2014. Fewest: 2010, 2016, 2020 and 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 70,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 83,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 79,750 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 81,350 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Ford Explorer or the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
For 2005–2022 models, the Ford Explorer has 47.9 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Jeep Grand Cherokee has 49.3, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The most-reported problem on the Jeep Grand Cherokee is body control and other modules, typically around 70,000 miles.
Which Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Ford Explorer: 2011, 2013–2014 and 2016; Jeep Grand Cherokee: 2008, 2011–2012 and 2014.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.