Dealer visit checklist
2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems to check
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) electrical gremlins causing random stalls, failed starts, or erratic accessory behavior
- 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system freezing or rebooting, though the 2020 model year is improved over earlier iterations
- Transfer case and transmission shudder on higher-mileage examples, particularly with the 3.6L Pentastar V6
- Active air suspension leaks on Overland and Summit trims, with repair costs ranging from $1,200 to $2,500
- Above-average brake wear rate due to vehicle weight, requiring pad and rotor replacement every 30,000–40,000 miles
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2020 Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Cherokee, 2019-2020 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, and Jeep Renegade and 2019 Dodge Challenger vehicles equipped with 8.4" or 12" radio displays.
- FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 2014-2019 Ram 1500 vehicles equipped with 3.0L diesel engines.
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Ram 1500 and 2014-2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0L Diesel engines.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $29,500 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away