The 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee marks the final model year of this midsize SUV’s second generation. Offering three engine choices, it wraps a range of capabilities and a roomy interior in a rugged package. With two- or four-wheel drive, it delivers a good balance of off-road performance and on-road comfort.  

If you’re looking at a used 2004 Grand Cherokee, you might wonder if it’s reliable and has a lot of problems. We’ll answer those questions and more in this article.  

The most common 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems

According to CarComplaints.com, the following are the most common 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems:

Power windows quit working 

Occasionally, the power windows quit working or work only intermittently. The most common issue is a bad window regulator, motor, or wiring harness. The average cost of a power window repair is $350 and can be completed in a few hours. 

A/C airflow stops

Does the A/C sound like it’s working, but you feel no air? The problem is usually one of the blend doors directing airflow for heat and defrost or the vents on the dashboard. If you hear the A/C motor working but don’t detect any air coming out, or it’s coming out in the wrong place, the blend door is the problem. It costs about $1,250 to fix. 

Taillights burn out

If you continually replace the taillight bulbs, the problem is probably the bulb strip or socket. This issue usually requires rewiring and replacement of the bulb strip, costing around $230, CarComplaints.com reports. 

The 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee has fewer problems than average

Other issues 2004 Grand Cherokee owners have reported include overheating due to a bad thermostat or radiator, problems with the keyless entry or wireless control module, fuel tank venting, rear differential leaks, and brake issues. 

But for the most part, this Jeep Grand Cherokee model year is relatively trouble-free. Some of these issues are more a factor of the SUV’s age than its build quality. Any vehicle going on 20 years old needs some repairs. 

The 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee was in the final year of the second generation’s production run, which lasted from 1999 to 2004. By 2004, Chrysler had worked out most of the issues, making that year’s model a solid buy for consumers wanting an older Jeep model. 

Should you consider a 2004 model? 

If you’re looking for an affordable off-roader or all-weather daily driver, the 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee isn’t a bad choice. It’s a competent vehicle offering various trim levels, from basic to highly appointed, with leather, heated seats, and a premium sound system.

However, also check out used Toyota 4Runner and Nissan Pathfinder models. They offer similar features and similar capabilities, but the 4Runner and Pathfinder tend to earn higher reliability ratings.

But if you’re dead set on a used Jeep, the 2004 Grand Cherokee is a decent model year. It’s more comfortable and versatile than the Cherokee and Wrangler and more capable than the Liberty. Plus, the Grand Cherokee tends to be more reliable than other Jeep models.