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full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee powertrain problems
severe Owners of the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee have filed 20 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 84,000 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
20
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2006 Grand Cherokee | 165 |
| 2007 Grand Cherokee | 180 |
| 2008 Grand Cherokee | 72 |
| 2009 Grand Cherokee | 19 |
| 2010 Grand Cherokee (this page) | 20 |
| 2011 Grand Cherokee | 79 |
| 2012 Grand Cherokee | 82 |
| 2013 Grand Cherokee | 51 |
| 2014 Grand Cherokee | 450 |
2crashes
When does it fail?
Of the 20 powertrain complaints filed for the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 6 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA Vehicles built after on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. All 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the vehicle you are repairing has a crack in the flex plate or failed pump bushing inspect and confirm that both (2) dowel pins
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗NAG1 Transmission Before installing the transmission with the engine, check for dowel pins (2) for alignment. If the pins are missing request to add the dowel pin first and then install the transmission
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗NAG1 Transmission Before installing the transmission with the engine, check for dowel pins (2) for alignment. If the pins are missing request to add the dowel pin first and then install the transmission
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗4WD Lamp Illuminated and Diagnostic Trouble Code C140F Active in Final Drive Control Modules (FDCM) Memory This bulletin involves verifying FDCM software level and then flash reprogramming of the FDCM with new software. Customers may indicate that the ?Service 4WD? indicator in the instrument cluster is illuminated. They may also indicate that the transfer case will not shift from 4WD High, 4WD Low, and/or Neutral once the lamp is illuminated. Further investigation identifies that a Diagnostic Trouble Code C140F is stored or active in the Final Drive Control Modules (FDCM) Memory
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners report multiple distinct failure modes across 2010 Grand Cherokee powertrains. The most common complaint is unintended shift to neutral while driving at speeds up to 65 mph, causing loss of engine power lasting several minutes before restart. This connects to NHTSA campaign 13V175000. A related problem emerged after the N23 recall: 4WD-Low became unavailable, showing a "SERVICE 4WD" message. Chrysler originally ordered transfer case actuators then cancelled them in favor of a software fix with unclear effectiveness.
WIN module defects allow keys to be removed while engines run and vehicles remain in gear. One owner experienced transmission jumping from reverse to forward during low-speed garage backup, gas pedal flooring itself, and full-speed collision into a house.
Timing chain failures occurred at highway speeds with no warning, destroying engines. One vehicle had the chain break twice within 200 miles of the first repair, suggesting an underlying engine vibration or harmonic issue overloading the tensioner.
Other failures include TIPM module stalling engines without warning, PCM software update causing persistent OBD2 oxygen sensor monitor failures and repeated smog test failures, transmission over-temp shutdowns, intermittent no-start conditions, and unexplained rear-end rumbling unresolved after five dealer attempts. Dealers and Chrysler frequently could not identify root causes or provided ineffective repairs.
Same Jeep Grand Cherokee powertrain reports on nearby years: 2007 · 2008 · 2009 · 2011 · 2012
Failure modes owners describe
Unintended neutral shift (shifting out of gear)
Vehicle loses power while driving and either coasts or loses speed as if transmission has shifted to neutral. Typically lasts several minutes before vehicle can be restarted. Occurs repeatedly on some vehicles.
When: Various speeds ranging 5 to 65 mph; occurred on vehicles with 60k-89k miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of engine power while driving; Vehicle coasting/losing speed as if in neutral; Engine light illuminates; Vehicle regains function after restart
Codes mentioned: NHTSA 13V175000, Engine light illumination (code not specified)
Repairs/costs cited: Repairs performed under NHTSA 13V175000 recall in some cases; issue persisted in at least one instance
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Campaign 13V175000 (Electrical System, Power Train)
4WD-Low failure after N23 recall
After N23 recall was performed to address neutral-shift issue, 4WD-Low function became unavailable. 'SERVICE 4WD' message appears when attempting to engage 4WD-Low. Dealers indicate transfer case actuator needed; parts placed on back order. Chrysler later cancelled actuator orders and offered software fix with unknown outcome.
When: After N23 recall applied in late 2013; issue persisted through mid-2014
Symptoms owners cite: 4WD-Low option does not engage; 'SERVICE 4WD' message displayed; 4WD function unresponsive
Codes mentioned: N23 recall
Repairs/costs cited: Transfer case actuator originally ordered then cancelled by Chrysler; software update offered as alternative fix
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: N23 recall (unintended shift to neutral); subsequent software fix offered but outcome unclear
Timing chain failure
Timing chain breaks while driving at highway speeds, causing engine to die with no-start condition. Engine light, traction control light, ECT light, and oil light illuminate. Intake and exhaust valves damaged. One vehicle had timing chain break twice within 200 miles of first repair, suggesting underlying engine vibration or harmonic issue causing excessive force on timing chain tensioner and guide.
When: First occurrence at 100,565 miles; second failure within 200 miles after repair
Symptoms owners cite: Engine dies while driving; Engine will not start or turn over; Engine light, oil light, ECT light illuminate; Traction control light illuminates; Loss of compression in affected cylinders; Damaged intake and exhaust valves
Codes mentioned: Engine light, Oil pressure warning, ECT (Engine Coolant Temperature) warning
Repairs/costs cited: Heads inspected, valves replaced, timing chain replaced, spark plugs replaced. Second failure prompted investigation into excessive engine harmonics or vibration causing premature chain tensioner and guide failure.
Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) module failure
WIN module defect allows key to be removed from ignition while engine is still running and vehicle is in gear. In one case, vehicle was backed slowly out of garage with key removed, and transmission jumped from reverse to forward with gas pedal apparently flooring itself, causing vehicle to accelerate at full speed into garage wall and then house. In another case, key slipped out of ignition at 25 mph but engine did not power off.
When: Occurred at low speeds (5-25 mph) and during parking lot maneuvers
Symptoms owners cite: Key slips out of ignition while engine running; Engine remains running with key removed; Vehicle can be in gear with engine running and key removed; Unintended acceleration reported in one case; Gas pedal floored itself unexpectedly
Codes mentioned: NHTSA 13V175000, Recall K08 (Wireless Ignition Node Receiver) - though some VINs not covered
Repairs/costs cited: One vehicle struck garage and house causing total loss; no repairs documented
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall K08 issued for some vehicles, though manufacturer claims some VINs not part of recall despite exhibiting exact symptoms described in K08 recall
Transmission shift-flare issues
Transmission exhibits hard shifts, loss of power during acceleration, or unexpected gear engagement. One vehicle experienced transmission over-temp warning that caused engine shutdown while in drive at drive-through. Another experienced transmission jumping from reverse to forward during low-speed garage backup, followed by unintended full acceleration.
When: Ranged from immediate post-purchase to various driving conditions
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission over-temp warning message; Engine shuts down; Hard or unexpected shift engagement; Loss of power during acceleration; Transmission jumps between gears unexpectedly
Codes mentioned: Transmission over-temp warning
Repairs/costs cited: One vehicle tested at dealership for week with no problem found; no repairs documented
TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) failure
TIPM module fault causes engine stall at highway speeds. Engine light, oil light, and electronic throttle control (ETC) warning light illuminate in sequence before engine dies. Vehicle cranks but will not start. Related to February 2010 manufacture date and tied to undisclosed recall.
When: At 65 mph highway driving
Symptoms owners cite: Engine light illuminates; Oil light illuminates; ETC (Electronic Throttle Control) warning light illuminates; Engine dies without warning; Engine cranks but will not turn over; No power steering available
Codes mentioned: P0340 (Camshaft sensor - initially misdiagnosed), TIPM module fault
Repairs/costs cited: Camshaft sensor replaced first (ineffective); TIPM module then replaced at dealership. Vehicle manufactured February 2010 falls under undisclosed recall.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Undisclosed recall for February 2010 manufacture date; Chrysler did not list recall when owner called
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software issue post-V51 recall
After V51 recall powertrain PCM software update, vehicle failed smog test repeatedly due to OBD2 not ready status for oxygen sensors. Multiple smog facilities reported same failure. Owner replaced upstream oxygen sensors unnecessarily. Diagnostic testing found nothing wrong with vehicle. BAR and dealer unable to resolve issue.
When: After V51 recall update on 1/30/2020; smog failures occurred 4/24/2020, 6/10/2020, and after
Symptoms owners cite: OBD2 not ready for oxygen sensor monitors; Repeated smog test failures; Monitor does not complete after system reset and 40+ mile drive
Codes mentioned: OBD2 not ready (oxygen sensor monitors)
Repairs/costs cited: Upstream oxygen sensors replaced (ineffective); diagnostic showed no actual vehicle faults
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: V51 recall (Powertrain PCM system update)
Intermittent starting failure
Vehicle will not start when ignition key is turned, requiring 2-3 attempts before engine catches and starts. Issue occurs intermittently. One owner also reports front wheel seizure at 5 mph that persisted after 13V175000 recall repair attempt.
When: Intermittent occurrences; front wheel seizure at approximately 60,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: No start or delayed start on key turn; Multiple ignition attempts required; Front wheels seize during low-speed driving
Codes mentioned: NHTSA 13V175000 (for wheel seizure case)
Repairs/costs cited: Repairs attempted under 13V175000 recall for wheel seizure but failure continued; vehicle not repaired
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: 13V175000 recall attempted; ineffective
Check engine light intermittent false triggers
Check engine light illuminates and extinguishes within seconds or minutes. Occurs on multiple separate occasions hours apart. Dealership diagnostic finds no stored error codes and cannot determine cause.
When: Intermittent; three separate occasions with latest two occurring 30 minutes to 1 hour apart
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates; Check engine light extinguishes within seconds; No error codes stored in system
Repairs/costs cited: No error codes found; no repairs performed or recommended
Rear end rumble and noise
Constant rumbling noise from rear of vehicle that feels like rear wheels might fall off. Dealer has attempted repairs five separate times without resolution.
When: Ongoing issue
Symptoms owners cite: Constant rumbling from rear of vehicle; Sensation that rear wheels will fall off
Repairs/costs cited: Five separate dealer repair attempts without resolution
Synthesized from 20 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
Constant rumble in rear end of vehicle. Dealer has had 5 separate occasions and can't resolve. Feels like rest wheels will fall off. Also, intermittently when turning ignition switch, vehicle won't start. After 2-3 times it will then start. Had a 2005 keep cherokee that did the same unresolved issue.
'takata recall' I was going down a ramp onto the freeway and the RPM numbers would go up but once it hit the number 3 the car stopped accelerating.
Sept 26, 2015 driving down the highway at about 65 MPH in cruise control, my Jeep just died. Would not start or turn over the engine light oil light and ect light came on. Turns out the timing chain broke damaged intake valve on #2 cylinder and exhaust valve on #8 cylinder. Had the heads inspected valves and timing chain replaced. And new spark plugs, it had 100565 miles on it. Picked it up from…
Tl* the contact owns a 2010 Jeep grand cherokee. The contact stated that while driving 25 MPH, the key suddenly slipped out of the ignition switch however, the engine did not power off. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer and was informed that the win module was defective. No repairs were performed on the vehicle. The contact called the manufacturer and was informed that the vehicle…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
It's a meaningful issue. 20 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 17 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 49,321 and 100,720 miles, with the median around 84,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 49,321; a quarter make it past 100,720. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2010/Jeep/Grand Cherokee.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.