2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee – Capable & Extreme Reliability (Detailed Review)
Jeeps have always been considered a go-to vehicle for those who are looking for an extreme level of reliability. The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is no exception to this rule. This SUV can handle any terrain you put it through, and it will never let you down. Whether you’re off-roading or just running errands, the Grand Cherokee is a great choice.
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee was last re-designed in 2005 before the launch of the 2009 model. The 2009 model saw upgrades, including better handling and improved ride quality on and off-road. Quiet, refined, and popular, the 2009 Grand Cherokee has become a favorite amongst Jeep lovers.
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee gained popularity in the ’90s and was one of the best family-centric SUVs. With many powertrains available and suitable for off-roading, this action-packed vehicle seems to tick all the boxes. With good safety ratings, attractive styling, and a powerhouse of features, The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee seems to have it all, including extreme reliability.
2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trim Levels
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes in four trim levels. These include the Laredo, Limited Edition, Overland, and the SRT8. Three of these are available in either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive; the SRT8 is the only trim level available in all-wheel drive.
There is also a Rocky Mountain edition; although this does not officially form part of the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee trim levels, it is more of a special edition offered on this model and other Jeep models.
The Laredo features include the following:
- 17-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires
- Steering wheel with audio controls
- Cruise control
- Trip computer
- Six speaker stereo
- Roof rack
- Eight adjustable seating options for the driver’s seat
- A 60/40 ratio of the split rear seatback
Extra options on the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo include:
- Power passenger seat
- Heated front seats
- Remote ignition
- Leather upholstery
- Navigation System
- Sunroof
- Real-time traffic
- Upgraded stereo system
- Remote ignition
The Limited Trim of the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee adds all the features of the Laredo but also includes driver-seat memory features.
The Overland trim includes a 5.7 liter V8 with 18-inch chrome-clad wheels and HID headlamps.
The high-performance SRT8 model comes with these added features:
- Sport suspension
- Performance trip computer
- Larger brakes
- Sport seats
- Rear entertainment system and optional Sirius backseat tv system
- Leather and Suede upholstery with a leather trim
- 20-inch wheels
- Unique exterior styling
All 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee trims offer a comfortable ride, almost unbeatable off-road performance, and attractive and refined interior styling. The drawbacks to this vehicle include the limited space in the back seat, the lack of fuel economy, and the need for refinement for on-road usage.
2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specs
All of the 2009 trims of the Jeep Grand Cherokee come with a five-speed automatic transmission. The off-road capabilities in the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee allow you to explore different terrains. The three different four-wheel-drive systems make navigating tricky passes and rough trails a breeze.
2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specs at a Glance
The below table lists an overview of the specifications for the Grand Cherokee:
| Specifications | Laredo | Limited | Overland | SRT8 |
| Engine | 3.7 L V6 | 3.7 L V6 | 5.7 L V8 | 6.1 L V8 |
| Drivetrain | RWD and 4WD | RWD and 4WD | RWD and 4WD | All-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | 210 hp @ 5,200 rpm | 210 hp @ 5,200 rpm | 357 hp @ 5,200 rpm | 420 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 235 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 235 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 389 lb-ft @ 4,350 rpm | 420 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm |
| Transmission | 5 speed automatic | 5 speed automatic | 5 speed automatic | 5 speed automatic |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| Fuel Economy | 17 mpg combined (4WD) 18 mpg combined (2WD) | 17 mpg combined (4WD) 18 mpg combined (2WD) | 15 mpg combined (4WD) 16mpg combined (2WD) | 16 mpg combined |
| Doors | 4 door | 4 door | 4 door | 4 door |
| Body | Sport utility | Sport utility | Sport utility | Sport utility |
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Towing Capacity | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 7400 lb | 3500 lb |
| Weight | 4261 lb 2WD 4470 lb 4WD | 4352 lb 2WD 4568 lb 4WD | 4604 lb 2WD 4891 lb 4WD | 4788 lb |
The maximum towing capacity sits at 7,400 pounds for the 2009 Overlander trim of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, a very impressive towing capacity for a vehicle that tackles both on and off-road adventuring.
The sport utility build maintains the rugged look of the Grand Cherokee but doesn’t compromise on style. The squared-off edges of the exterior bring out the boxiness of this design. Spacious windows, a classic Jeep grille, and large wheel arches are just a few of the attractive exterior design elements in this 2009 model.
With ample parking and loading space of nearly 70 cubic feet, this Jeep was designed with families in mind. Pack sporting gear, luggage, camping accessories, and even groceries; this Jeep comfortably leaves enough room to pack for any occasion.
The interior of the basic Laredo trim comes with material seats and plastic interior finishes. There are optional upgrades to leather seats, which would offer more comfort than the standard seats, although if upgrading with the additional features, the Overlander trim is the one to go for.
Common Problems With The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The top five common issues reported by the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee owners were the power windows, thermostat, ignition, power module failure, and warped front brake rotors.
The power windows in Jeeps have been known to fail across many of the Jeep models. For the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the power windows were among the most common complaints. The power windows were most likely to fail on the driver’s side and rarely on the other windows. The Grand Cherokee power window issues are fixed by replacing the window motor or worn seating bracket.
A thermostat failure in the 2009 Grand Cherokee can be alarming since the thermostat controls the engine’s temperature. A problematic thermostat can lead to your Jeep overheating; however, this is an easy fix and has been reported as a common concern among 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee owners.
The ignition problems are related to the wireless control module. When the wireless control module fails, it affects the keyless remote entry and ignition system. Failure of this system requires replacing the old module with a new one; the keyless remote entry will not work without the new module.
The Integrated Power Module is responsible for managing all the electrical systems of the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee. When this system fails, the entire module needs to be replaced. Issues with this module result in the failure of the electrical windows, lights, fuel pump, and other electrical components.
The front brake rotors on the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee are more prone to warping than other vehicles. Warping can happen due to heat. If warping occurs, it can cause vibrations in the pedal and the steering wheel. If this issue is found, replacement parts are fitted to resolve the issue.
How Much Does The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Cost Today?
The estimated value of the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo that is in excellent condition, if traded in, is valued at $4,124, and through a dealership in the region of $7,068, this price excludes the optional features and is the basic trim level. The 4WD trim level has a slightly higher value and costs $4,235 for a trade-in and $7,315 through a dealership.
The Limited edition 2WD with no extra features is valued at $4,587 as a trade-in price, $6,524 if sold privately, and about $8,448 if sold through a dealership. The 4WD retail value is $8,998 and if sold privately, $6,927, without any additional features.
The Overland trim’s retail value is $10,292 if traded in $5,392 and, if sold privately, $7,899. The price is for the standard Overland trim without any additional features; with additional features, the value can easily increase by $2,000.
The SRT8 is the most valuable trim of the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee range. The retail price for an SRT8 without any optional add-on features is $11,301, and if traded in or sold privately, the value is between $7,298 and $8,993.
Our Verdict on the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is exceptionally rated in safety, off-roading, handling, and drivability. As a clear favorite amongst SUV and Jeep enthusiasts, the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee excels as a family-centric off-roading vehicle. Tackling tough terrains and smooth driving on highways and cities, this Jeep is close to unbeatable.
