2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee – Factory Maintenance Schedule

Quick reference

Maintaining your 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee according to the factory-recommended schedule is crucial for its longevity, performance, and resale value. This guide outlines the essential services from 5,000 to 150,000 miles, helping you keep your Grand Cherokee running like new.

Severe-duty schedule

If your 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee is frequently subjected to severe driving conditions, certain maintenance items require more frequent attention. Severe duty includes:

• Extensive idling or stop-and-go driving: Common in urban areas.
• Towing a trailer or carrying heavy loads: This puts extra strain on mechanical components.
• Driving in dusty or sandy conditions: Accelerates wear on air filters and other components.
• Short trips (under 10 miles) in extreme cold: Engine doesn't reach optimal operating temperature.
• Driving in very hot weather (over 90°F / 32°C): Can cause fluids to degrade faster.
• Off-roading: Places higher demands on the suspension, drivetrain, and fluids.

For vehicles operated under severe conditions, consider the following adjustments:

• Engine Oil & Filter: Change every 3,000-5,000 miles or every 3-6 months.
• Cabin Air Filter: Replace every 10,000-15,000 miles or once a year, especially in dusty environments.
• Engine Air Filter: Replace every 15,000-20,000 miles, or more frequently if driving in very dusty conditions.
• Differential and Transfer Case Fluids: Change every 30,000 miles.
• Transmission Fluid and Filter: Consider changing between 60,000-80,000 miles, especially if frequently towing or off-roading. Consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Known issues by mileage (WK2 Generation: 2011-2021)

While the 2018 Grand Cherokee is generally reliable, some common issues can emerge at various mileage points. Being aware of these can help you proactively address them.

• 30,000-60,000 miles:
  • UConnect System Glitches: Freezing screens, connectivity issues, or unresponsive touchscreens. Often resolved with software updates.
  • Electronic Shifter Issues: Some owners have reported issues with the electronic shifter not selecting the correct gear or feeling clunky. This was more prevalent in earlier WK2 models but can still occur.
  • Early Brake Wear: Depending on driving habits, brake pads and rotors might require replacement earlier than expected, especially if subjected to heavy city driving.
• 60,000-100,000 miles:
  • Suspension Component Wear: Bushings, ball joints, and struts may start to show wear, leading to clunking noises or a less compliant ride. This is especially true for models with air suspension.
  • Ignition Coil/Spark Plug Issues: Fouled spark plugs or failing ignition coils can lead to misfires and reduced engine performance. This aligns with the V6 spark plug interval.
  • Water Pump Leaks: Some owners have reported water pump failures leading to coolant leaks or overheating.
  • AC System Leaks: Leaks in the air conditioning system, often from hoses or the condenser, leading to diminished cooling performance.
• 100,000-150,000 miles:
  • Transmission Issues: While the transmission is generally robust, some units may develop shifting problems or hesitate, especially if maintenance has been neglected.
  • Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Problems: Failures in the EPS system can lead to a loss of power assist or erratic steering behavior.
  • Rust (southern states): While not widespread, some Grand Cherokees in areas with high road salt usage might start to show surface rust on underbody components.

Note: These are common reported issues and do not necessarily affect all 2018 Grand Cherokees. Always have any concerns diagnosed by a qualified technician.

Estimated cost per service

Costs can vary significantly based on your location, the repair shop (dealership vs. independent garage), and the specific parts used. Below are general estimates.

• Oil and Filter Change: $70 - $120 (synthetic oil)
• Tire Rotation: $20 - $40 (often included with oil change at dealerships)
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement: $40 - $80 (parts & labor)
• Engine Air Filter Replacement: $50 - $90 (parts & labor)
• Spark Plug Replacement (V6): $250 - $400 (parts & labor)
• Spark Plug Replacement (V8): $350 - $550 (parts & labor)
• Brake Fluid Flush: $120 - $200
• Coolant Flush: $150 - $250
• Differential Fluid Change: $150 - $300 (per axle, front and rear)
• Transfer Case Fluid Change: $120 - $200
• Transmission Fluid & Filter Service: $300 - $600 (can vary widely depending on transmission type and shop)
• Accessory Belt Replacement: $150 - $250
• PCV Valve Replacement: $60 - $100

What you can DIY vs shop

Many routine maintenance tasks can be performed by a moderately skilled DIY enthusiast, saving you money on labor costs. However, some tasks are best left to professional technicians.

DIY-Friendly:

• Oil and Filter Change: With basic tools, jack stands, and a torque wrench, this is a straightforward task. Proper disposal of used oil is essential.
• Tire Rotation: Requires a jack, jack stands, and a torque wrench. It's crucial to lift the vehicle safely.
• Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Typically located behind the glove box and easy to access with minimal tools.
• Engine Air Filter Replacement: Usually involves unclipping a few fasteners on the airbox; no special tools required.
• Wiper Blade Replacement: Simple snap-on installation.
• Fluid Level Checks: Regularly checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid (if applicable), and washer fluid is easy and important.

Best Left to a Shop:

• Brake Fluid Flush: Requires specialized tools to properly bleed the brake system and ensure no air enters the lines.
• Coolant Flush: While draining and refilling is possible, a professional flush ensures all old coolant is removed and the system is properly de-aerated.
• Transmission Fluid Service: This often involves specific temperature checks for fluid levels and can be complex, especially with sealed