Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Subaru Outback
For 2010–2022 models, the Subaru Outback has 38.5 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 42.1 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 (2010–2022), 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.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
42.1 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Subaru Outback
- Complaints
- 10,714
- Sold
- 2,542,708
- Recall campaigns
- 63
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 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
Subaru Outback
38.5 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Complaints
- 7,368
- Sold
- 1,913,621
- Recall campaigns
- 48
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Most complaints: 2011 and 2019–2020. Fewest: 2012–2014 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 12,000 mi
-
Battery, alternator and charging
Typically around 22,262 mi · repair $250–$1,030
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 20,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 50,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 56,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Jeep Grand Cherokee or the Subaru Outback?
For 2010–2022 models, the Subaru Outback has 38.5 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Jeep Grand Cherokee has 42.1, counting the same model years for both.
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.
What is the most common problem on the Subaru Outback?
The most-reported problem on the Subaru Outback is water leaks and seals, typically around 12,000 miles.
Which Jeep Grand Cherokee and Subaru Outback years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Jeep Grand Cherokee: 2011–2012 and 2014; Subaru Outback: 2011 and 2019–2020.
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.