The Jeep Grand Cherokee, a popular SUV known for its off-road capabilities, may sometimes face suspension problems. This article will delve into the suspension system of this 4x4 vehicle, the signs of air suspension problems, common issues, and how to troubleshoot and fix them.

What Suspension System Is Used in Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee uses an advanced air suspension system, known as Quadra-Lift. This system provides the vehicle with superior handling and ride comfort, making it a favorite among drivers worldwide.

How Does Jeep Grand Cherokee Air Suspension Work?

The air suspension system in a Jeep Grand Cherokee works by using air bags instead of traditional coil springs. The air compressor fills these bags with air, adjusting the ride height and providing a smooth ride over bumps. The system is controlled by an electronic control unit, which adjusts the air pressure in the bags based on the driving conditions and the load on the vehicle.

As part of the drivetrain, the air suspension system interacts with other components such as the transmission, axle, and brakes to ensure a smooth and safe ride. The air suspension compressor plays a crucial role in this system, inflating the air bags to the correct pressure. The system also includes air lines, which transport the air from the compressor to the air bags.

However, like any car component, the air suspension system can face problems. Leaks in the air lines or air bags can lead to a loss of air pressure, affecting the vehicle's ride height and comfort. In some cases, the air suspension compressor might fail, requiring a replacement. These issues often present themselves with warning messages on the vehicle's dashboard, indicating a problem with the air suspension system.

Signs of Air Suspension Problems in Jeep Grand Cherokee

Recognizing the signs of air suspension problems in your Jeep Grand Cherokee is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety. Here are some common symptoms:

Uneven Tire Wear

Uneven tire wear is a common sign of suspension problems. This issue can often result in unusual noises or vibrations during driving and might require replacement of components such as shocks, struts, or control arms.

Poor Handling or Drifting During Turns

If your Jeep Grand Cherokee is handling poorly or drifting during turns, it may be a sign of suspension problems. This could result in a rough or bumpy ride, especially over uneven terrain or bumps, and should be addressed by a professional mechanic to ensure proper repair.

Rough or Bumpy Rides

Rough or bumpy rides are a clear sign of suspension issues. This problem can be caused by worn-out parts, damaged bushings, or poor alignment and requires immediate attention to maintain safety and prevent further damage.

Vehicle Sitting Low on One Corner

If your vehicle is sitting low on one corner, it's a clear sign of suspension problems. This issue can often result in unusual noises or vibrations during driving and might require replacement of components such as shocks, struts, or control arms.

Nose Diving, Squatting, or Body Roll

Nose diving, squatting, or body roll are all signs of suspension problems in your Jeep Grand Cherokee. These issues can be diagnosed through a visual inspection or use of diagnostic tools and require understanding of the suspension system for proper diagnosis and repair.

Compressor Noise

Compressor noise is another sign of suspension problems. This issue can often result in unusual noises or vibrations during driving and might require replacement of components such as shocks, struts, or control arms.

Fault Warning on Dashboard

A fault warning on your dashboard, such as the "Service Air Suspension" message, is a clear sign of suspension problems. This issue requires immediate attention to maintain safety and prevent further damage.

Common Jeep Grand Cherokee Suspension Problems

While the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a reliable vehicle, it can still face some common suspension problems. Here are some of the most common issues:

Compressor Failure

Compressor failure is a common problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee's air suspension system. This issue can often result in unusual noises or vibrations during driving and might require replacement of the air compressor.

Worn Struts and Shocks

Worn struts and shocks are another common problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This issue can often result in a rough or bumpy ride, especially over uneven terrain or bumps, and might require replacement of the struts and shocks.

Damaged Air Springs

Damaged air springs are a common problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee's air suspension system. This issue can often result in the vehicle sagging or sitting lower than usual and might require replacement of the air springs.

Leaking Quadra-Lift Suspension

A leaking Quadra-Lift suspension is another common problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This issue can often result in the vehicle sagging or sitting lower than usual and might require repair of the leak.

Electronic Control Unit or Height Sensor Failure

Failure of the electronic control unit or height sensor is a common problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee's air suspension system. This issue can often result in the vehicle sagging or sitting lower than usual and might require replacement of the electronic control unit or height sensor.

Broken or Worn Control Arm Bushings

Broken or worn control arm bushings are another common problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This issue can often result in a rough or bumpy ride, especially over uneven terrain or bumps, and might require replacement of the control arm bushings.

Malfunctioning Air Valves

Malfunctioning air valves are a common problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee's air suspension system. This issue can often result in the vehicle sagging or sitting lower than usual and might require replacement of the air valves.

Rear Coil Springs Detachment

Rear coil springs detachment is another common problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This issue can often result in the vehicle sagging or sitting lower than usual and might require reattachment or replacement of the rear coil springs.

Faulty Suspension Sensor

A faulty suspension sensor is a common problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee's air suspension system. This issue can often result in the vehicle sagging or sitting lower than usual and might require replacement of the suspension sensor.

Troubleshooting and Fixing the Suspension Problems in Jeep Grand Cherokee

Troubleshooting and fixing the suspension problems in your Jeep Grand Cherokee requires a thorough understanding of the vehicle's suspension system. It's recommended to have a professional mechanic inspect, diagnose, and repair any issues to ensure the vehicle's safety and performance.

When it comes to repairs, it's important to consider the quality of the parts used. Using high-quality replacement parts can help ensure the longevity and performance of your vehicle's suspension system. In some cases, you might also consider upgrading certain components, such as the air suspension compressor, for improved performance.

While you can perform some basic maintenance and repairs at home, more complex issues should be handled by a professional mechanic or shop. Chrysler, the parent company of Jeep, offers a range of services and parts for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, including air suspension components. Other companies, such as Stellantis and Dodge, also offer compatible parts and services.

It's also worth noting that some models of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, such as the Summit, come with a warranty that covers certain repairs. However, this warranty might not cover all issues, especially those caused by normal wear and tear or improper maintenance. In some cases, there might also be a recall for certain parts or models, so it's always a good idea to check with your dealer or the manufacturer for any relevant recalls or service bulletins.

When it comes to the cost of repairs, it can vary greatly depending on the specific issue and the parts that need to be replaced. On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $7000 for air suspension repairs. However, it's always a good idea to get a quote from a professional mechanic or dealership to get an accurate estimate for your specific situation. In some cases, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire air suspension system, especially if multiple components are worn or damaged.

Finally, it's important to remember that regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent many common suspension problems. By keeping an eye on the condition of your vehicle's suspension system and addressing any issues as soon as they arise, you can help ensure a smooth and comfortable ride for years to come.

How To Reset Jeep Grand Cherokee Air Suspension

To reset the air suspension in your Jeep Grand Cherokee, you'll need to turn off the engine, disconnect the battery, wait for a few minutes, and then reconnect the battery. This process should reset the electronic control unit and clear any fault codes. However, if the problem persists, it's recommended to have a professional mechanic inspect and repair the system.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Air Suspension Repair Cost

The cost to repair the air suspension in a Jeep Grand Cherokee can vary greatly depending on the specific issue and the parts that need to be replaced. On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $7000 for air suspension repairs. It's recommended to get a quote from a professional mechanic or dealership to get an accurate estimate for your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Air Suspension Components of The Jeep Grand Cherokee Considered Reliable?

Yes, the air suspension components of the Jeep Grand Cherokee are generally considered reliable. However, like any vehicle, they can still face issues and require regular maintenance and inspection to ensure their longevity and performance.

How Long Does the Air Suspension Last for a Jeep?

The lifespan of the air suspension in a Jeep can vary greatly depending on the driving conditions, the load on the vehicle, and how well the system is maintained. On average, you can expect the air suspension to last between 5 and 10 years.

Can You Drive with Failed Air Suspension?

While it's technically possible to drive with a failed air suspension, it's not recommended. A failed air suspension can lead to decreased handling and ride comfort, and can also cause further damage to the vehicle. If you suspect your air suspension has failed, it's best to have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

Is Grand Cherokee Air Suspension Reliable?

Yes, the air suspension in the Grand Cherokee is generally considered reliable. However, like any vehicle, it can still face issues and require regular maintenance and inspection to ensure its longevity and performance.

How Long Do Shocks Last on Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The lifespan of the shocks on a Jeep Grand Cherokee can vary greatly depending on the driving conditions, the load on the vehicle, and how well they are maintained. On average, you can expect the shocks to last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles.

How Long Do Struts Last on Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The lifespan of the struts on a Jeep Grand Cherokee can vary greatly depending on the driving conditions, the load on the vehicle, and how well they are maintained. On average, you can expect the struts to last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles.