2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel · GL57 KNS

The Mercedes-sourced 3.0-litre CRD diesel fitted to most UK Grand Cherokee WKs leaks oil from the sump gasket and the oil temperature sender unit, with drips collecting on the ground beneath the engine. Auto Express advises looking for drips on the ground, and CarBuyer confirms these leaks are a known issue. A slow seep can become a steady drip, and if the oil level is allowed to drop it risks serious engine damage. The leaks are often missed until a service reveals a wet underside, so a thorough check is essential on a used example.

The WK's rear shock absorbers and anti-roll-bar bushes are known weak spots. CarBuyer identifies shock absorbers and anti-roll-bar bushes as weak areas, and RAC notes worn rear shock absorbers on used examples. Worn bushes cause clunks and reduced body control, while failing shock absorbers give a bouncy ride and poor stability — especially when the large, heavy Grand Cherokee is loaded or towing, a common UK use. Replacement is straightforward but adds to the cost of running an already expensive-to-run SUV.

Multiple brake-related recalls affected the Grand Cherokee WK, covering brake calipers, control modules and servos, plus a recall on automatic gearboxes where park mode could fail — a serious safety issue if the car rolls after being left in park. Auto Express lists four brake campaigns and a park-mode recall, and CarBuyer advises checking the DVSA recall database. An unresolved recall means a used buyer may inherit an expensive or potentially unsafe braking or parking fault, so the VIN should always be verified before purchase.