Head-to-head reliability
JEEP Grand Cherokee vs Toyota Camry
How the JEEP Grand Cherokee and Toyota Camry compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
JEEP Grand Cherokee vs Toyota Camry: The Grand Cherokee averages 332 complaints per year with 96 recalls, while the Camry averages 214 complaints per year with 31 recalls. Owners report serious issues like sudden loss of propulsion in the Jeep and brake failures in the Camry. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the JEEP Grand Cherokee or Toyota Camry more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
JEEP Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee, over the past decade, has accumulated a high volume of complaints, averaging about 332 per year, with a significant portion related to electrical and engine issues. Owners frequently report hybrid/electric system malfunctions, sudden loss of propulsion, and persistent warning lights, indicating that these problems can affect daily drivability and safety. The high number of recalls (96) suggests that the manufacturer has been actively addressing some issues, but the frequency of complaints points to ongoing reliability concerns that a buyer should weigh carefully.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry, with an average of about 214 complaints per year, shows a lower complaint rate than the Grand Cherokee, but still has notable issues in the powertrain, engine, and brakes. Owners report transmission grinding, sudden acceleration incidents, and brake failures, which are serious safety concerns. The Camry has fewer recalls (31) but the nature of the complaints, especially those involving loss of control, means that a thorough inspection is essential before purchase.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | JEEP Grand Cherokee | Toyota Camry |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 3,319 | 2,143 Better |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 96 | 31 Better |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 174 Better | 181 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 331.9 | 214.3 Better |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 122 Better | 163 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 2 | 1 Better |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
JEEP Grand Cherokee
- 01ELECTRICAL SYSTEM1,177
- 02ENGINE705
- 03UNKNOWN OR OTHER687
- 04POWER TRAIN449
- 05SERVICE BRAKES321
Owners report serious malfunctions between hybrid and electric systems, causing loud engine noises and failure of both modes to work properly. Persistent fuel and oil refresh warnings remain even after refueling, indicating software or sensor issues that can be frustrating and potentially leave the driver stranded.
There are multiple reports of sudden loss of propulsion at highway speeds, requiring towing on multiple occasions. This dangerous defect can occur without warning, posing a significant safety risk to the driver and passengers.
Some owners describe progressive alignment issues, with the caster out of specification, leading to poor handling and uneven tire wear. Others report serious safety issues with brand-new vehicles, suggesting quality control problems at the factory.
A strange thump at highway speeds and shuddering at lower speeds are reported, which dealers often dismiss as normal. These symptoms can indicate driveline or transmission problems that may worsen over time, affecting ride comfort and reliability.
“See attached document for complaint. This letter is to fo rmally notify you of my vehicle's fai lure to conform to the express warranties under the Ill inois Lemon Law, and to demand compensation. The vehicle had a significant defect that was not, and r bel i…”
“There is a serious malfunction between the hybrid and electric systems. The engine is making a loud noise, and neither the hybrid nor electric mode functions properly. In addition, the fuel and oil refresh warning remains on, even after refueling. These issue…”
Toyota Camry
- 01POWER TRAIN395
- 02UNKNOWN OR OTHER342
- 03ENGINE315
- 04SERVICE BRAKES290
- 05ELECTRICAL SYSTEM246
Owners report grinding noises from the front end upon acceleration, with dealers confirming transmission issues that require replacement. Some transmissions are on backorder, leaving owners without a vehicle for extended periods.
Recurring HVAC odors, like vinegar or mildew, are common when the air conditioning is used in warmer weather. This is unpleasant and may require repeated cleaning or part replacements to resolve.
There are reports of uncontrollable sudden acceleration, leading to crashes and total loss of the vehicle. Additionally, some owners receive engine maintenance required warnings related to a coolant valve bypass recall, but their VIN is not included, causing confusion and potential safety risks.
Brake failure incidents are reported, such as no response when pressing the pedal on a downhill slope, forcing the driver to take evasive action. This is a critical safety issue that requires immediate attention.
“I turned into a restaurant’s parking lot, found a spot and slowly drove into the lot, I eased off the gas pedal and gently applying the brake as the lot has a slight downward slope. When I reach the chunk (the parking block), I added more force to the brake,…”
“Grinding noise coming from front end upon acceleration. Brought to dealership who confirmed noises coming from transmission. Transmission needs to be replaced per dealer recommendation. Recalls on 2021 Toyota Camry for same issue. Transmissions on backorder a…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
JEEP Grand Cherokee — 96 recalls
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) vehicles. A software error within the hybrid control processor may result in a loss of drive power.
The risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will update the hybrid control processer software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 14, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 73C. Veh…
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Jeep Wrangler 4Xe and 2022-2026 Grand Cherokee 4Xe vehicles. The high voltage battery may fail internally and lead to a vehicle fire while parked or driving.
The risk: A vehicle fire can increase the risk of injury.
The fix: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures and not to charge their vehicles until the remedy is completed. Dealers will update the high voltage battery software, and replace the high voltage battery, as necessary, free of…
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2023-2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vehicles. A software error in the occupant restraint controller module may cause the delayed deployment of the side air bags during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the…
The risk: Delayed air bag deployment during a crash increases the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will update the occupant restraint controller module software, free of charge. Some owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 18, 2026. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number…
The defect: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) vehicles. A software error within the hybrid control processor may result in a loss of drive power.
The risk: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: Dealers will update the hybrid control processer software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 14, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 73C. Veh…
Toyota Camry — 31 recalls
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short cir…
The risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The lug nuts that attach the wheels to the vehicle may be loose, which can result in wheel detachment.
The risk: A wheel that detaches from a moving vehicle can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Dealers will inspect and tighten the lug nuts, and replace any damaged components, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
Buyer analysis
JEEP Grand Cherokee or Toyota Camry: which should you buy?
The Toyota Camry has fewer complaints per year (214 vs 332) and fewer recalls (31 vs 96), indicating a lower frequency of reported issues. However, both vehicles have serious safety-related complaints, so the difference in numbers does not guarantee reliability; it suggests that the Camry may have fewer overall problems, but buyers should still be vigilant.
Key differences
- Jeep Grand Cherokee has significantly more electrical system complaints (1177) compared to Camry (246), indicating a higher likelihood of hybrid/electric system failures.
- Camry has more brake-related complaints (290) than Grand Cherokee (321) but a higher proportion of brake failure incidents, including sudden loss of braking.
- Grand Cherokee has a much higher recall count (96 vs 31), suggesting more widespread defects that have been officially recognized.
- Camry owners report transmission grinding and sudden acceleration, while Grand Cherokee owners report sudden loss of propulsion, both serious but different failure modes.
- Inspect the hybrid/electric system thoroughly, including checking for any warning lights and test-driving to ensure smooth operation in both modes.
- Check for any history of sudden loss of propulsion or engine issues by reviewing service records and asking the seller directly.
- Test the brakes at various speeds and on slopes to ensure there is no delay or failure, and listen for any grinding noises from the transmission during acceleration.
- Check the air conditioning system for any unusual odors, as this is a common complaint that may require costly repairs.
Before you buy
- Obtain a vehicle history report to check for any open recalls or previous accident damage.
- Have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, focusing on the electrical system, engine, and transmission.
- Test drive both vehicles on the highway and in stop-and-go traffic to feel for any vibrations, thumps, or hesitation.
- Ask for all service records and verify that any recalls have been addressed.
- Consider purchasing an extended warranty to cover potential costly repairs, especially for the Grand Cherokee's electrical and engine issues.
Year by year
Which model years to avoid
Complaints per model year for both vehicles — lower is better. The spikes are the years to scrutinize.
| Year | JEEP Grand Cherokee | Toyota Camry |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 45 | 119 |
| 2025 | 70 | 153 |
| 2024 | 240 | 48 |
| 2023 | 381 | 62 |
| 2022 | 366 | 59 |
| 2021 | 401 | 155 |
| 2020 | 234 | 270 |
| 2019 | 365 | 393 |
| 2018 | 853 | 736 |
| 2017 | 364 | 148 |
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific JEEP Grand Cherokee or Toyota Camry in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- JEEP Grand Cherokee vs Toyota Camry
- JEEP Grand Cherokee total complaints
- 3,319
- Toyota Camry total complaints
- 2,143
- JEEP Grand Cherokee total recalls
- 96
- Toyota Camry total recalls
- 31
- JEEP Grand Cherokee avg complaints/year
- 331.9
- Toyota Camry avg complaints/year
- 214.3
- More reliable overall
- Toyota Camry
- JEEP Grand Cherokee top complaint area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Toyota Camry top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN