Plate - Planetary
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee powertrain problems
severe 82 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
82
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
3crashes
2fires
When does it fail?
Of the 82 powertrain complaints filed for the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 82 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 10 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
No Start Intermittently, Vehicle Requires Multiple Keyless Push To Start Attempts To Start Vehicle, Intermittent Key Not Detected Message
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Gear Ratio DTC?s, Transmission Shift Concerns, Does Not Shift At Times, Shudders
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) 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 ↗Steering Column If vehicle comes in for steering column replacement, verify column installed. Go to Info Column in Star Parts and open the flow chart to determine which column is installed. If column is Daimler, verify that a replacement Daimler column is in stock and use for replacement. If no Daimler column is in stock, replacement must use Presta column (which require a number of other components to be replaced). For more information and details on PN's, see W-Series Flowchart in Star Parts. Contact parts specifying for assistance regarding correct part numbers, for technical assistance contact Star. UPDATE: 11/9/2016 If the new bearing does not fit through the double dash, you need to re
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee powertrain complaints cluster around several recurring problems. Stalling dominates the narratives—engines shut down without warning during normal driving, at intersections, on highways, and even while parked in drive. Owners describe losing power steering and having no power to restart until shifted to park. The TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) fuel pump relay shows up repeatedly in recalls, but owners report stalling continuing even after recall repairs.
Transmission failures are frequent: vehicles jump out of gear or into neutral at highway speeds, slip gears under load, shudder and jerk violently, or refuse to shift properly. Some owners report the transmission going into "creep mode" at idle that causes hesitation on acceleration, and in one documented case, over-pressurization expelled fluid onto the engine manifold causing a fire. Low transmission fluid from cooler leaks appears to trigger many of these failures.
Electrical-related powertrain issues occur when alternators fail—sometimes smoking heavily—which then kills the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Owners face dead batteries, complete loss of power while driving, and cascading component failures. Several mention alternator recalls (T36, P60) that don't cover their VINs despite identical symptoms. Dealerships routinely claim they cannot replicate problems during diagnostic visits, leaving owners stranded. FCA/Stellantis recall response is cited as slow or absent, with parts unavailable for months or repair requests outright rejected.
Same Jeep Grand Cherokee powertrain reports on nearby years: 2010 · 2011 · 2013 · 2014 · 2015
Failure modes owners describe
Engine stalling without warning
Engine shuts down unexpectedly during normal driving, at traffic lights, highway speeds, or during deceleration. No warning lights or fault codes precede the event. Owners lose power steering and must restart in park.
When: Throughout vehicle ownership; reported from 10,000 to 131,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: engine shuts off with no warning; loss of power steering; unable to restart until shifted to park; stalling during deceleration or at stops; no warning lights or codes before stall
Repairs/costs cited: TIPM fuel pump relay replaced under recall (15V115000, 15V-115, R09) but stalling persists in many cases. Fuel pump replaced. Owners report multiple dealer visits with no resolution.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Recall 15V115000 (TIPM/fuel pump relay); some owners report recall repair did not resolve issue. 2019 Safety Recall 19V-813 issued but parts unavailable.
Transmission jumps out of gear or into neutral
Automatic transmission unintentionally shifts out of drive into neutral or lower gears while driving at any speed, including highway speeds. Engine revs without power delivery. Occurs sporadically and unpredictably.
When: Various mileages; one owner at 50,000 miles; another at 10,000 miles; recurring throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: transmission shifts into neutral unexpectedly; loss of motive power on highway; engine revs without forward acceleration; transmission slips gears under load; occurs in traffic, on highways, at low speeds
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers often unable to replicate. One owner reports transmission rebuilt; failure recurred. Transmission cooler leaks cause low fluid and shifting problems.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No specific recalls cited for this failure mode. Dealers unable to diagnose; suggested extended transmission warranty through class action settlement (7 years/70,000 miles for fuel pump-related repairs).
Transmission fluid leak from cooler
Transmission oil cooler (integrated with A/C condenser) develops weld failures causing fluid leakage. Low transmission fluid results in poor shift quality, slippage, jerking, and inability to shift into proper gears during acceleration.
When: Not specified for most cases; referenced as common problem affecting multiple model years
Symptoms owners cite: transmission fluid leaking from cooler; transmission will not shift properly; vehicle jerks on acceleration or deceleration; loss of power while ascending hills; transmission slippage
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission cooler replacement cost cited as $1,000+. Owners note no check gauges on instrument panel alert and fluid level not visible to owner without inspection.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued despite owner petitions (change.org referenced). One owner found leak via TSB research but denied coverage due to mileage exceeding bulletin time limit.
Transmission shuddering and clunking
Transmission exhibits rough, clunky behavior with abrupt downshifts and lurching. Vehicle feels underpowered at low speeds. Shuddering occurs in higher gears when ascending grades. Described as feeling like learning to drive a manual transmission.
When: New vehicle (one owner within 1 month of purchase); ongoing throughout ownership
Symptoms owners cite: transmission feels clunky and unsure; abrupt downshifts with clunk in driveline; shuddering in 5th/6th gear on modest grades; lurching forward or backward during shifts; underpowered feeling at low speed
Repairs/costs cited: One owner: dealer replaced fuel pump relay, oxygen sensor, torque converter, fluids, and filters; shuddering persisted. Dealer advises using Tow/Haul mode even without load.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 16-0129 and 14M02TSB referenced; oxygen sensor replacement noted as post-recall repair.
Transmission creep mode with over-pressurization
When parked in drive idling for 7-8 minutes, transmission enters creep mode. Engine tachometer shoots to 25,000 RPM while car only creeps forward. Over-pressurized transmission expels fluid onto engine manifold. In one case, fluid ignited creating engine fire.
When: Documented at under 100,000 miles during drivetrain warranty period
Symptoms owners cite: transmission fails to respond to accelerator from stop; tachometer shoots to 25,000 RPM with minimal vehicle movement; transmission fluid expelled from dipstick tube onto manifold; smoke pouring from under vehicle; potential engine fire
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer diagnosed and requested transmission replacement, cooler replacement, O2 sensor, and wiring harness. Owner has video evidence of problem.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: FCA rejected warranty claim without written explanation. Special investigator denied coverage claiming not under warranty despite mileage/time eligibility.
Alternator failure causing electrical shutdown
Alternator fails unexpectedly, often smoking heavily. Failure causes rapid battery drain, triggering loss of all electrical power while driving. Complete vehicle shutdown on highway with no power for hazard lights, steering, or neutral shift.
When: Throughout ownership; one owner at 54,000 miles; another while driving at undisclosed speed
Symptoms owners cite: battery warning light illuminates; all electrical systems cease operation; alternator smoking heavily; complete loss of vehicle power; vehicle stalls in traffic lane; no ability to shift to neutral or activate hazards
Repairs/costs cited: Alternator replacement required; $2,134 in total repairs cited (including PCM replacement). Alternator must be unplugged from battery immediately due to excessive heat.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall T36 and P60 referenced; some owners' VINs not included despite matching symptoms. Owners denied warranty coverage, told to pay full cost with promise of reimbursement if future recall issued.
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure secondary to alternator failure
Alternator failure drains battery, which damages or shorts out the Powertrain Control Module. Module failure cascades into additional powertrain problems including inability to start or restart vehicle.
When: Secondary failure following alternator failure; one owner at 54,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: PCM shorts out or becomes non-functional; vehicle will not start or restart; loss of all electrical control functions; check engine lights and warning codes
Repairs/costs cited: PCM replacement required at significant cost. One owner reports PCM replacement, then alternator failure again 3 days later.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer support cited. Owners denied warranty coverage for secondary PCM failure related to alternator issues not under applicable recalls.
TIPM module failure causing multiple electrical/powertrain faults
Totally Integrated Power Module contains faulty internal fuel pump relay that operates intermittently or fails without warning. Module failure causes fuel pump relay malfunction, transmission module failure, wiper motor failure, and inability to shift out of park.
When: Recall issued for some model years (2011); 2012 models also affected per owner reports at 20,924 miles and 75,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: fuel pump relay operates intermittently; engine stalls while driving; transmission fails to shift out of park; windshield wipers fail; vehicle unable to start or fails to start on first attempt; stalling continues after initial repair
Repairs/costs cited: TIPM module reprogrammed in 2013; replaced 2016. External fuel pump relay installed under recall in August 2015. Multiple repair attempts required.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Recall 15V115000; TSB issued. However, 2012 models reported as experiencing same failure as recalled 2011 models but not included in recall expansion.
Transmission shift lever design defect
Shift lever in drive position can be accidentally bumped to the left, causing unexpected downshift. Left-handed drivers catching shirtsleeve on lever causes unintended downshifts at highway speeds. No lockout or button required to downshift.
When: Occurs at any speed; documented at 65+ MPH and city speeds
Symptoms owners cite: accidental downshift from bumping shift lever; harsh engine and transmission strain from unintended downshift; downshift while at highway speed without driver input
Repairs/costs cited: No repair noted; design flaw complaint requesting engineering change.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response cited; design change requested by owner.
Transfer case failure
Transfer case fails internally, causing loss of torque and acceleration capability. Loud knocking noise occurs when attempting to accelerate. Vehicle displays 'Service 4WD' warning light.
When: One owner purchased vehicle with 50,000 miles; failure shortly after. Another at 80,100 miles (within 100,000-mile warranty).
Symptoms owners cite: loud knocking noise when accelerating; loss of torque and power; 'Service 4WD' warning light illuminates; traction control warning light on; loss of 4-wheel drive function
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple dealers cite transfer case failure as common problem. Repair parts not readily available (4+ weeks lead time). Owner independent mechanic confirms failure common.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers report no recall for this issue despite acknowledging it as common problem. Warranty denied by some dealers despite being within powertrain warranty period.
Front drive shaft and front differential failure
Drive shaft detaches from vehicle or fails internally. Front differential fails, often in conjunction with transfer case failure. Dangerous condition can cause vehicle crash.
When: Documented at unknown mileage for detachment; another at 80,100 miles (near warranty limit)
Symptoms owners cite: vehicle loses motive power; loud clunking noises; rear end of vehicle suddenly drops; sub-frame detaches from vehicle; inability to accelerate
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement required; parts not readily available. One owner notes independent mechanic indicated failure is common.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers initially misdiagnosed as front differential, then corrected to transfer case/drive shaft. Warranty claim initially denied.
Fuel leak from engine
Engine coolant leaks from middle of engine block in steady stream immediately after startup. Fluid identified as orange engine coolant.
When: Early in vehicle ownership; noted after 10 minutes of driving
Symptoms owners cite: steady stream of orange coolant leaking from engine; fluid visible under vehicle; no error codes or warning lights
Repairs/costs cited: Vehicle in dealer service for over 2 weeks; unable to repair due to lack of spare parts availability.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No parts available; repair cannot proceed.
Front axle thread corrosion and deterioration
Visible front axle threads corroded and crumbled like breadcrumbs. Threads on visible portion of shaft completely worn away with rust. Non-visible threaded portion engaged with nut suspected to have same deterioration. Potential wheel separation hazard.
When: Observed during routine flat tire repair at unknown mileage
Symptoms owners cite: visible axle threads completely corroded and crumbled; heavy rust damage on axle shaft; threads disintegrated to dust-like consistency
Repairs/costs cited: Owner has extended warranty; plans to have dealer repair. Vehicle flagged as potential for wheel separation.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner requested evaluation from Chrysler and notification to NTSB. No manufacturer response documented.
Acceleration hesitation and loss of power
Vehicle hesitates and fails to accelerate when depressing accelerator pedal. Engine lacks power under load. In some cases, RPMs will not exceed 1.5 even when flooring pedal. Occurs without warning lights.
When: Throughout ownership; new vehicle (1 month after purchase); various mileages up to 131,000
Symptoms owners cite: acceleration not 100%; hesitation when pressing accelerator; lack of engine power; RPMs limited and won't climb; loud clicking noises with loud fan
Codes mentioned: EVAP purge system code (one owner)
Repairs/costs cited: EVAP hose replaced and powertrain control module updated as precautionary measure (did not address root cause). One owner towed to dealer unable to drive.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 19V-813 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) referenced but parts unavailable. Dealers unable to recreate problems.
Unintended acceleration
Engine revs and vehicle surges forward unexpectedly. Occurs when starting engine and while vehicle parked in park. Lurching forward with foot on brake.
When: At 40 miles; at 85,533 miles (within past 3 days); repeated instances over 45 days
Symptoms owners cite: engine revs and vehicle surges forward; vehicle lurches forward while in park; engine surging without driver input; excessive revving at startup
Repairs/costs cited: One owner damaged vehicle wheel and nearly hit parked vehicle. Dealers refuse to diagnose without charging diagnostic fees.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response; owner requested manufacturer take responsibility for safety defect.
Engine starting and cranking failures
Engine will not crank or start. Vehicle makes one click or fails to engage starter. Push-button start stalls engine and won't turn over. Manual key fob ignition also fails.
When: Occurring over 4-year ownership period; multiple incidents
Symptoms owners cite: single click when attempting to start; starter does not engage; engine stalls when pressing start button with brake; vehicle will not turn over; jumper cables restore partial power but won't help start
Repairs/costs cited: Jumper cables provide temporary power restoration but do not resolve starting issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No response documented.
Recall parts unavailable or delayed
Manufacturer issues recalls but parts required for repair are not available for months or indefinitely. Vehicles remain unrepaired while owners wait, sometimes for over a year.
When: Ongoing; some owners report waiting over 3 years for recall repair; parts promised 'within a year'
Symptoms owners cite: recall notification issued but no parts in stock; dealer holds vehicle for months waiting for parts; owner unable to drive vehicle safely
Repairs/costs cited: Recalls 15V115000, 19V-813, 14373000, and others cited with part availability issues.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: FCA/Stellantis issued recalls (15V115000, 19V-813, 14373000) but failed to supply parts in timely manner. Owner states recall parts were not made available to dealership.
Recall repair failure and non-compliance
Manufacturer fails to notify vehicle owners of recalls despite having contact information. Recall repair parts shipped to dealership were redirected to another customer without owner knowledge. No follow-up after missed parts shipment for over 3 years.
When: Ongoing for 7+ years; 2019 recall issued 4 years after consent decree
Symptoms owners cite: no recall notification received despite manufacturer having contact info; recall status shows open despite owner requesting remedy; no contact from manufacturer for years
Repairs/costs cited: Parts were shipped but misappropriated by dealership to another customer. Replacement parts never received.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Recall 19V-813 and AQ14-003-FCA Consent Order 7-24-2015 cited; FCA fined >$100 million for non-compliance with recall notification requirements. Recall replacement or vehicle replacement promised but not delivered.
Synthesized from 82 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
Oxygen sensor shorted out the powertrain control module causing the engine to almost stall out and engine light to come on and flash. Had to replace oxygen sensor and powertrain control module. *js
The transmission shifts strangely, and it seems like it cannot decide which gear it needs to be in for normal operations. It also causes the vehicle to stall while driving. Also, at times it stays in only one gear, and you cannot even shift gears manually. Intermittently, the vehicle starts out in a higher gear, and it doesn’t correct itself, so acceleration is way below what it needs to be. I…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2012 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 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
It's a meaningful issue. 82 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 63 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 45,000 and 100,000 miles, with the median around 71,978. A quarter of owners report trouble before 45,000; a quarter make it past 100,000. 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/2012/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.