JeepGrand Cherokee2021Overview/jeep/grand-cherokee/2021/base/

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Factory specifications, fluid capacities, torque values, EPA fuel economy and the federal safety record for the 2021 Grand Cherokee.

Transmission Automatic 8-spd

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and utilizes 0W-20 engine oil with a 6.0-quart capacity. This model delivers EPA-rated fuel economy of 19 city, 26 highway, and 21 combined mpg. Within a model history spanning 1993 to 2026, this year recorded 397 total owner complaints and 12 recalls, placing it well below the 2014 peak of 2,369 complaints.

Model year2026202520242023202220212020

Quick specs

Fluid capacities, tune-up values and fuel economy at a glance.

Engine oil capacity6.0 qtOEM · verified
Engine oil type0W-20OEM · verified
EPA fuel economy19/26/21 mpgEPA · verified

Fitment & sizes

Replacement part sizes and factory part numbers — battery, bulbs, filters and belts.

From the factory this vehicle uses a BCI Only use AGM VRLA Battery which is vented to the outside of the vehicle. Equipped with StartStop: 48; Not Equipped with Start Stop: 94R · StartStop: 650; Without StartStop: 700 CCA battery, OE oil filter 04892339BE. Each part links to every other vehicle that shares it, so a part you already stock may fit more of your fleet than you'd expect.

Battery groupBCI Only use AGM VRLA Battery which is vented to the outside of the vehicle. Equipped with StartStop: 48; Not Equipped with Start Stop: 94R · StartStop: 650; Without StartStop: 700 CCAOEM · verified
Tire size265/50R20 107VOEM · verified
Wheel / rim8.0 inOEM · verified

OE service part numbers OEM · verified

Engine oil filter04892339BE alt 04884899AC
Engine air filter53010798AD alt 04861756AA
Spark plugSP225755AB alt SP143877AB
Battery56029758AB alt 05033393AB
Front wiper blades68194930AB alt 68194931AB
Serpentine belt68207171AD alt 05281374AA
Thermostat52028898AJ alt 68212516AA
Cabin air filter68606182AA

Full specifications

Engine, drivetrain, dimensions and economy.

Engine & drivetrain NHTSA vPIC

TransmissionAutomatic 8-spd

Dimensions & weight NHTSA vPIC

Overall length189.8 in
Overall width76.4 in
Overall height69.3 in
Wheelbase115 in
Curb weight4676 lb
Track (front / rear)63.8 / 64.2 in
Weight distribution (front / rear)51/49

Ratings & economy EPA / vPIC

EPA city / highway / combined19 / 26 / 21 mpg
DrivetrainRear-Wheel Drive
Recommended fuelRegular Gasoline

Performance & power Independent road tests

0–60 mph, quarter-mile, horsepower and torque from independent road tests.

Independent road tests for the Grand Cherokee of this era, listed by trim and engine — this page spans more than one engine, so no single horsepower figure is shown.

6.1–9.4 sec0–60 mph (tested)quickest 6.10 sec — 2021 L Overland V8
YearTrim / engine0–60¼ mileHPDrivetrain
2021L Overland V8 5.7L V86.10 sec14.60 sec357 hp4x4
2021L Summit Reserve V8 5.7L V86.20 sec14.70 sec357 hp4x4
2021L Overland V8 5.7L V87.04 sec15.46 sec357 hp4x4
2021L Limited 3.6L V67.30 sec15.50 sec290 hp4x4
2021L Summit Reserve 3.6L V68.00 sec16.00 sec293 hp4x4
2021L Summit Reserve 3.6L V68.00 sec16.10 sec293 hp4x4
2021L Overland 3.6L V69.40 sec17.10 sec290 hp4x4
2022Overland 4xe PHEV 2.0L Turbo I-4 + Elec 17.3-kWh5.30 sec13.90 sec375 hp4x4

Service quick specs OEM factory data

Capacities, torques and tune-up values from the factory service manual.

This engine holds 6.0 qt of 0W-20 engine oil, Synthetic · 75W-85 · GL-5 in the differential, DOT 3 · SAE J1703 · DOT 4 · DOT 3 brake fluid. The firing order is 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2.

Lubricants & capacities

Automatic Transmission FluidATF
Automatic Transmission Fluid CapacityHP50 & HP95
Automatic Transmission FluidATF
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity9.5 qt
Brake FluidDot 3 · DOT 4 · DOT 3
Brake FluidDOT 3 · SAE J1703 · DOT 4 · DOT 3
Differential Gear OilGL-5 · Synthetic · 75W-85
Differential Gear OilSynthetic · 75W-85 · GL-5

Engine torques

Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor Bolt(s)9.0 ft-lbs
Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor Bolt(s)6.67 ft-lbs
Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor Bolt(s)9.0 ft-lbs
Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor Bolt(s)9.0 ft-lbs
Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor Bolt(s)9.0 ft-lbs
Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor Bolt(s)9.0 ft-lbs
Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor Bolt(s)9.0 ft-lbs
Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor Bolt(s)9.0 ft-lbs

Chassis torques

Differential Fill Plug26.0 ft-lbs
Differential drain Plug26.0 ft-lbs
Differential Fill Plug26.0 ft-lbs
Differential drain Plug26.0 ft-lbs
Transfer Case Fill PlugMP2010: 18.0 ft-lbs; MP3023: 20.0 ft-lbs
Transfer Case Drain PlugMP 2010: 18.0 ft-lbs; MP3023: 20.0 ft-lbs
Transfer Case Fill Plug20.0 ft-lbs
Transfer Case Drain Plug20.0 ft-lbs

Ignition

Cylinder Firing Order1-2-3-4-5-6
Cylinder Firing Order1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2
Spark Plug ManufacturerMopar
Spark Plug Gap0.043 in
Spark Plug Torque15.0 ft-lbs
Spark Plug ManufacturerMopar
Spark Plug Gap0.043 in
Spark Plug Torque18.0 ft-lbs

Battery & A/C

RefrigerantR1234yf
Refrigerant Capacity1.25 lbs.; Refer to underwood AC specification label. If R-134-a is specified
Oil GroupPAG
Oil TypeND-12
Oil Capacity4.0 oz
RefrigerantR1234yf
Refrigerant Capacity1.25 lbs.; Refer to underwood AC specification label. If R-134-a is specified
Oil GroupPAG

Service checks

Fuel Pump Pressure Minimum56.0 psi
Fuel Pump Pressure Maximum60.0 psi
Fuel Pump Pressure Minimum56.0 psi
Fuel Pump Pressure Maximum60.0 psi
Fuel Pump Pressure Minimum56.0 psi
Fuel Pump Pressure Maximum60.0 psi
Fuel Pump Pressure Minimum56.0 psi
Fuel Pump Pressure Maximum60.0 psi

Brakes

Brake Caliper Bolt to Carrier TorqueFront: 24.0 ft-lbs; Rear: 20.0 ft-lbs
Brake Caliper Carrier to Hub Bolt TorqueFront: 148.0 ft-lbs; Rear: 89.0 ft-lbs
ABS Sensor Torque6.7
Brake Caliper Bolt to Carrier TorqueFront: 24.0 ft-lbs; Rear: 20.0 ft-lbs
Brake Caliper Carrier to Hub Bolt TorqueFront: 125.0 ft-lbs; Rear: 89.0 ft-lbs
ABS Sensor Torque6.7
Brake Caliper Bolt to Carrier TorqueFront: 41.0 ft-lbs; Rear: 89.0 ft-lbs
Brake Caliper Carrier to Hub Bolt TorqueFront: 125.0 ft-lbs; Rear: 89.0 ft-lbs

Multi-step torque procedures OEM · verified

Inspection Procedure (Upper) — tightening sequence 1 stages
1Place jack stands as far out as possible under both lower control arms. Step 3: The vehicle can now be lowered onto the jack stands supporting as much weight as possible. Step 4: Remove front tires. Step 5: Place plunger on upper side of upper ball joint making sure that it is perpendicular to boss machined surface. Step 6: Use a pry bar between upper control arm and knuckle to pry upward. Step 7: Document movement from the dial indicator. Step 8: Replace upper control arm and ball joint if travel exceeds specifications.
Inspection Procedure (Lower) — tightening sequence 1 stages
1Place jack stands as far out as possible under both lower control arms. Step 3: The vehicle can now be lowered onto the jack stands supporting as much weight as possible. Step 4: Place a dial indicator on the upper side of lower control arm. The plunger should be placed on lower surface of knuckle. Step 5: Use a pry bar to pry upward under tire. Step 6: Document travel. Step 7: Replace lower ball joint if travel exceeds specifications.
Connecting Rod (Large End) Bearings — tightening sequence 1 stages
115.0 ft. lbs., Step 2: 90°15 ft. lbs
Connecting Rod (Large End) Bearings — tightening sequence 1 stages
115.0 ft. lbs., Step 2: 90°15 ft. lbs
Connecting Rod (Large End) Bearings — tightening sequence 1 stages
130.0 ft. lbs., Step 2: 90°30 ft. lbs
Crankshaft Pulley and/or Damper Bolts — tightening sequence 1 stages
130.0 ft. lbs., Step 2: 105°30 ft. lbs
Cylinder Head — tightening sequence 1 stages
122.0 ft. lbs., Step 2: 33.0 ft. lbs., Step 3: 33.0 ft. lbs., Step 4: 125° do not use a torque wrench for this step., Step 5: Loosen all fasteners in reverse order., Step 6: 22.0 ft. lbs., Step 7: 33.0 ft. lbs., Step 8: 33.0 ft. lbs., Step 9: 130° do not use a torque wrench for this step. **Step 4 can be completed in 2 steps. Step 1: 35°, Step 2: 90° ** Step 9 can be completed in 2 steps. Step 1: 40°, Step 2: 90°22 ft. lbs
Cylinder Head — tightening sequence 1 stages
1Bolts 1-1025 ft. lbs
Cylinder Head — tightening sequence 1 stages
1Bolts 1-1025 ft. lbs
Cylinder Head — tightening sequence 1 stages
122.0 ft. lbs., Step 2: 33.0 ft. lbs., Step 3: 33.0 ft. lbs., Step 4: 125° without using a torque wrench. Step 5: Loosen all fasteners. Step 6: 22.0 ft. lbs., Step 7: 33.0 ft. lbs., Step 8: 33.0 ft. lbs., Step 8: 130° without using a torque wrench.22 ft. lbs
Engine Flywheel Bolts — tightening sequence 1 stages
137 ft. lbs., Step 2: 92 ft. lbs., Step 3: 3037 ft. lbs
Main Bearings — tightening sequence 6 stages
1Using new bolts, install the twenty six M12 bolts (1 - 26) and the three M8 bolts finger tight.
2Using the tightening shown, tighten all M12 bolts to 33 ft. lbs.33 ft. lbs
3Using a torque angle gauge, tight the internal bed plate bolts (1 - 16) an additional 110 degrees.110 degrees
4Tight the external bed plate bolts 89 ft. lbs.89 ft. lbs
5Tighten the three M8 bolts 22 ft. lbs.22 ft. lbs
6Check the torque of the M12 bolts in a counterclockwise direction with the torque wrench set at 85
Oil Pan to Block Bolts — tightening sequence 1 stages
1M6 Bolts3.66 ft. lbs
Oil Pan to Block Bolts — tightening sequence 1 stages
1Tighten all bolts finger tight., Step 23.66 ft. lbs

Factory maintenance schedule OEM · verified

Normal service, condensed from the factory interval matrix.

Under the factory schedule, replace the engine oil and filter every 6,000 mi; spark plugs every 96,000 mi; coolant at 150,000 mi. The big-interval services (at 150,000 mi for coolant, and the transmission fluid) are the ones owners most often skip — on a lower-mileage example, assume the original fluids are still in it and check them first.

Every 6,000 miBrake Line (inspect) · CV Joint Boot (inspect) · Driveshaft U-Joint (inspect) · Engine Oil (drain & refill) · Engine Oil Filter (replace) · Tire & Wheel Assembly (rotate)
Every 10,000 miBattery (inspect) · Brake System (inspect) · Engine Coolant System (inspect fluid level) · Engine Coolant System Hoses (inspect) · Exhaust System (Complete) (inspect)
Every 12,000 miBrake Linings (inspect) · Exhaust System (Complete) (inspect) · Suspension System (inspect) · Tie Rod (inspect)
Every 24,000 miCabin Air Filter (replace) · Differential (inspect fluid level)
Every 30,000 miEngine Air Filter Element (replace) · Parking Brake System (inspect) · Transfer Case Assembly (drain & refill)
Every 60,000 miAccessory Drive Belt (inspect)
Every 96,000 miSpark Plugs (replace)
Every 100,000 miPCV Valve (replace)
At 150,000 miDrive Belt (replace) · Drive Belt Tensioner (inspect) · Engine Coolant System (drain, flush & refill)

Owner how-tos

Condensed service procedures for routine maintenance. Procedures that require dealer diagnostic equipment are identified and summarized only.

Common procedures

Key fob — remote (RKE) programming programming new fob buttons Dealer tool OEM · verified
Tool requiredDRBIII scan tool (dealer / locksmith)
WhyTransmitter codes are written into the receiver in the passenger door module
Anti-theft (SKIS) — module initialization after immobilizer module replacement Dealer tool OEM · verified
When neededAfter Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) replacement
Tool requiredDRBIII scan tool
Also requiredThe vehicle's four-digit PIN code

Reliability & federal safety record

Owner-reported issues, recalls, investigations and service bulletins on record with NHTSA — an unfiltered look at what owners actually experience.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee represents a notable inflection point within its generation: complaints rose to 397 from just 224 in 2020, recalls jumped to 12 from 3 the prior year, and TSBs surged to 1,303 from 528. While 2022 saw complaints slightly decline to 358, recalls escalated further to 23, indicating that the issues flagged in 2021 persisted into the next model year. The top complaint categories—exterior lighting, steering, and powertrain—suggest electrical and drivetrain concerns, though the data does not specify root causes. The 2021 model also recorded 20 crash-related complaints and 8 fire complaints. Given this profile, the 2021 model year appears to sit near the peak of reliability issues for this generation, making it a less ideal purchase compared to the relatively cleaner 2020 or later units that benefited from later engineering refinements.

12
Open recalls
NHTSA campaigns
1303
Service bulletins
Manufacturer communications
0
ODI investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
397
Owner complaints
20 involved a crash · 8 a fire
NHTSA crash-test rating federal NCAP · out of 5 stars
Overall★★★★
Frontal★★★★
Side★★★★★
Rollover★★★★★

Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component

All 397 complaints on record, top 8 components.

Unknown Or Other32
Exterior Lighting30
Steering29
Power Train24
Electrical System20
Fuel/Propulsion System16
Steering,Lane Departure14
Engine12

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation complaint database.

Recalls NHTSA · verified

Showing 2 of 12 campaigns on record for this vehicle.

21V797000Exterior Lighting:HeadlightsReported 14/10/2021

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vehicles not equipped with automatic high beams. When the master lighting switch is set to the auto position, the high beam headlights will not… Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 28, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403…

21V950000Exterior Lighting:Lighting Control Module:SoftwareReported 09/12/2021

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vehicles equipped with smart lighting modules (SLM). An incomplete SLM software update may cause one or both headlights to become inoperable. As… Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the SLM software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at…

Technical service bulletins NHTSA · verified

Showing 5 of 1303 bulletins on record with NHTSA.

BulletinDateComponentSummary
1126402026-06-30EngineTHROTTLE BODY – NONE
1126392026-06-30EngineTHROTTLE BODY – NONE
1131232026-06-29Service BrakesSPRING KIT - DISC BRAKE PAD
S2208000045 REV.D2026-06-26StructureBackup Camera Poor Image Quality Inspection
9100811 Rev 42026-06-25SuspensionClunking when going over bumps, potholes, or turns. During diagnosis dealers may find…

Common OBD-II trouble codes

The most common OBD-II codes for this vehicle's emissions system. These are standardized SAE J2012 definitions, not vehicle-specific fault reports.

P0420
Catalyst system efficiency below threshold — Bank 1
P0300
Random / multiple cylinder misfire detected
P0171
System too lean — Bank 1
P0455
Evaporative emission system leak detected — large leak
P0128
Coolant thermostat below regulating temperature
P0442
Evaporative emission system leak detected — small leak

VIN tools

Decode factory build data for a specific vehicle by VIN.

VIN
Decode a VIN to confirm the transmission and build data for a specific Grand Cherokee. OEM
Build data
Plant, GVWR class, engine and body data for any 17-character VIN.
Recalls
Check open recall campaigns against a specific vehicle by VIN.

Vehicles with shared specs

Find every vehicle that shares this one's battery, bulbs, oil capacity, platform or parts.

Reference guides

Cross-vehicle references for the kinds of data on this page.

Frequently asked

How much oil does the 2021 Grand Cherokee take?

6.0 qt of Mopar 0W-20, per the factory manual.

Does the 2021 Grand Cherokee have open recalls?

NHTSA lists 12 recall campaign(s) for this model year. Check your specific vehicle by VIN.

What gas mileage does the Grand Cherokee get?

EPA figures are 19 city / 26 highway / 21 combined mpg.