Jeep Grand Cherokee Maintenance Schedule

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is an exceptionally durable and well-rounded midsize SUV. Jeep owners can rest assured that they've chosen a vehicle that's known for quality craftsmanship and impressive design features and that can stay on the road for many years. However, even the highest-quality cars must adhere to regular, scheduled maintenance tasks to ensure they are well-maintained and operate at peak condition. If you own a Jeep Grand Cherokee, keeping a regular maintenance schedule is essential for protecting your investment.

Understanding the Jeep Grand Cherokee Maintenance Schedule

gray Jeep Cherokee beside plants by Kirk Thornton is licensed with Unsplash License

Cars have several moving parts. Over time, these parts slowly degrade and need cleaning and replacing. When you purchase a new Jeep, the maintenance schedule might be the last thing on your mind, but you should prioritize it. Generally speaking, the first maintenance tasks need to be performed at around the first 8,000 miles of driving. Keeping a regular maintenance schedule preserves the life span of your Grand Cherokee.

Routine Maintenance Intervals

The tasks for maintenance on your Jeep Grand Cherokee should be performed in 8,000-mile intervals. Some tasks will need to be repeated every 8,000 miles, while some may only need to be performed every 16,000 miles, 32,000 miles, and so on. Maintenance schedules can be overwhelming. Keeping a maintenance notebook in your glove compartment can help you manage your schedule. Read on to learn more about the necessary services for your Jeep and when they should occur.

8,000-Mile Checkup

Your Jeep's first checkup should occur when you reach 8,000 miles, around six months after purchase. The first tasks should be changing the engine oil and replacing the oil filter, which should be repeated every 8,000 miles for the rest of your vehicle's life. Getting your oil changed is essential for preserving your Jeep's engine. 

At 8,000 miles, you should also get your tires inspected for uneven wear and rotated. Getting your tires rotated regularly preserves their longevity and integrity. Since they are your vehicle's only contact with the road surface, keeping them in optimal shape is vital.

16,000-Mile Checkup

All the 8,000-mile maintenance tasks should be completed when you reach 16,000 miles. In addition, the engine's air filter should be checked. This is especially important if you, like many Jeep owners, take your Jeep off-roading. The air conditioner filter should also be replaced during this service. 

32,000-Mile Checkup

By the time you reach 32,000 miles, you should be in a regular routine of getting your oil replaced and your tires rotated every 8,000 miles. At 32,000 miles, you'll be getting many of your Jeep's components checked out or replaced. Additionally, along with your standard oil change and tire rotation, the 16,000-mile checkup tasks of getting the air filter and air conditioner filter replaced should be completed.

In addition to these tasks, you'll also want to get your spark plugs replaced during this service. Spark plugs help ensure that your engine runs smoothly, and if they're getting old, you might notice diminished fuel economy, poor acceleration, and engine misfires. Getting them replaced every 32,000 miles ensures that old or faulty spark plugs won't cause long-term damage to your engine. 

64,000-Mile Checkup

Additional services are necessary by the time you reach 64,000 miles. These tasks include replacing the rear drive assembly fluid, power transfer unit, and automatic transmission fluid. Since these tasks aren't as well known as some of the more regularly performed tasks noted above, it's important to schedule them with service professionals and not skip over them. Trained service technicians can complete these tasks quickly to keep your car road-ready.

96,000-Mile Checkup

By the time you reach 96,000 miles, it's likely that you've owned your Jeep for six years or more. At this service checkup, you should get your brake linings and manual transmission fluid replaced. Keeping up with your scheduled maintenance means you can make memories in your Jeep for many years to come.

Signs Your Jeep Grand Cherokee Needs Immediate Attention

If you're keeping up with your regular scheduled maintenance, you should notice minimal problems with your Jeep's performance. However, unexpected events can still occur. If you experience any of the following warning signs, bring your Jeep in for service immediately, as they might indicate a problem:

• Unexpected noises or vibrations
• Indicator lights on your dashboard
• A sudden decrease in fuel efficiency

Maintaining Your Jeep for the Long Haul

Keeping a log of all maintenance tasks and managing the service schedule are key components of responsible car ownership. At Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram (CJDR) Lewisville, we'd love to help take care of your Jeep's routine maintenance tasks. Schedule your next service appointment online. Our team of technicians is specially trained to service Jeeps and knows exactly how to keep your Grand Cherokee in peak shape. If you have any questions, please contact us at Huffines CJDR Lewisville today.