The second-gen Jeep Grand Cherokee debuted in September 1998, and the manufacturing started in 1999. This particular model was known as the WJ. The Overland was introduced – as the premium variant of the WJ lineup in 2002. It had all the luxury Grand Cherokee offered at that time.
Aside from the fact that the Grand Cherokee has been made luxurious, the root essence is nothing but offroad capability. The Grand Cherokee model dominated the luxury offroad vehicle segment – having Wrangler-like offroad prowess, coupled with all the comfort you could get.
Jeep’s track record was built by developing the real thing. Jeep cars have considerable off-road capabilities to match their rugged appearance. Jeep’s reputation for off-road competence is built on the lavishly furnished Grand Cherokee and the agile Wrangler. Let’s get on with our 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Guide.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specs
For the 1999 model year, the Grand Cherokee has been modified. This top-of-the-line vehicle from Daimler Chrysler Jeep has been the division’s best-seller by far. According to Automotive News, sales fell 17.7 percent in 2001, yet the 223,612 vehicles sold helped maintain the Jeep brand’s strong market dominance.
The four-door Grand Cherokee is bigger than the two-door Liberty. It competes with midsize models such as the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and others, as well as premium sport utility vehicles such as the Infiniti QX4 and Lexus RX 300.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Variants/Trim Levels
There are three trim levels to select from:
- 4WD Laredo 4dr SUV and RWD Laredo 4dr SUV
- 4WD Overland 4dr SUV
- 4WD Limited 4dr SUV and RWD Limited RWD 4dr SUV
Laredo 4WD 4dr SUV
Because of its engine, this is one of the most recognizable choices. The 4.0 L inline 6 engine coupled with a 4-speed automatic transmission is recognized for its dependability. Because the same engine was used in several different Jeeps, replacement components are easily available if something goes wrong. This trim level comes with two drivetrain options: rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. It has a seating capacity of 5 and a combined MPG of 16.
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Cylinders | Inline 6 |
| Engine | Gas |
| Drive Type | Four-wheel drive |
| Total Seating | 5 |
| Horsepower | 195 hp @ 4,600 rpm |
| Combined MPG | 16 |
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36,000 mi. |
| Torque | 230 lb.-ft @ 3,000 rpm |
Overland 4WD 4dr SUV
Although it has more power due to the 4.7 L bore and two more cylinders than the inline-6, this is the most frequent choice with a V8 engine. Jeep has a 5-speed automatic gearbox. This is the power you need if you need to tow something huge. The primary selling feature of this trim is its 265 hp capability.
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Cylinders | V8 |
| Engine | Gas |
| Drive | Four-wheel drive |
| Seating | 5 |
| Combined MPG | 16 |
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36,000 mi. |
Limited 4WD 4dr SUV
The Limited trim level comes with a 4.0 L inline 6-cylinder engine and a 4-speed automatic gearbox. The engine horsepower is the same as in the Laredo model, at 195 hp. For further information, see the table below.
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Cylinders | Inline 6 |
| Combined MPG | 16 |
| Engine | Gas |
| Drive | Four-wheel drive |
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36,000 mi. |
| Total Seating | 5 |
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee MPG
We’ve created a table with all of the trim levels and engine options. These are the estimated values; the actual values are somewhat lower. Some issues with the MAF sensor or other components that are directly or indirectly engaged in combustion would also result in a decrease in mileage.
| 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee trim levels | City/Highway |
| Laredo 4WD 4dr SUV Inline 6 4.0L | 13/18 |
| Laredo RWD 4dr SUV Inline 6 4.0L | 14/19 |
| Overland 4WD 4dr SUV V8 4.7L | 12/14 |
| Limited 4WD 4dr SUV Inline 6 4.0L | 13/18 |
| Limited RWD 4dr SUV Inline 6 4.0L | 14/19 |
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Prices
Edmunds can help you determine the market worth of your 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee. On average, the trade-in value of a 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee with no options and driven about 12,000 miles, while around $1,424 per year in “Clean” condition and around $2,263 if sold privately. If the vehicle is in bad condition, deduct a few thousand dollars for each of the two lowest condition categories.
Overland with no options
| Condition | Private Party ($) | Trade-In ($) | Dealer Retail ($) |
| Outstanding | 2,682 | 1,880 | 3,444 |
| Clean | 2,422 | 1,699 | 3,116 |
| Average | 1,904 | 1,337 | 2,461 |
| Rough | 1,385 | 974 | 1,806 |
Limited 4WD 4dr SUV with no options
| Condition | Private Party ($) | Trade-In ($) | Dealer Retail ($) |
| Outstanding | 2,264 | 1,475 | 2,946 |
| Clean | 2,045 | 1,333 | 2,666 |
| Average | 1,607 | 1,049 | 2,106 |
| Rough | 1,169 | 764 | 1,545 |
Limited RWD 4dr SUV with no options
| Condition | Private Party ($) | Trade-In ($) | Dealer Retail ($) |
| Outstanding | 2,121 | 1,471 | 2,729 |
| Clean | 1,916 | 1,329 | 2,469 |
| Average | 1,506 | 1,046 | 1,950 |
| Rough | 1,096 | 762 | 1,431 |
Laredo 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 4A) with no options
| Condition | Private Party ($) | Trade-In ($) | Dealer Retail ($) |
| Outstanding | 2,505 | 1,576 | 3,280 |
| Clean | 2,263 | 1,424 | 2,968 |
| Average | 1,778 | 1,120 | 2,344 |
| Rough | 1,294 | 817 | 1,720 |
Laredo RWD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 4A) with no options
| Condition | Private Party ($) | Trade-In ($) | Dealer Retail ($) |
| Outstanding | 1,511 | 2,399 | 3,140 |
| Clean | 1,366 | 2,167 | 2,841 |
| Average | 1,074 | 1,703 | 2,244 |
| Rough | 783 | 1,239 | 1,647 |
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Accessories
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Floor Mats
The links to the top aftermarket floor mats are mentioned in the reference. These are the most highly rated mats for sale. The reaction from consumers has been quite positive, and it would fit well in your 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee, regardless of trim level.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Seat Covers
There are several alternatives available that we can’t just select one. Seat coverings should match the color of your vehicle’s paint or, better yet, your taste. Here’s a link to a website where you can get seat coverings for your 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Racks
If you’re searching for a roof rack to store your camping gear or anything else for your vacation, look no further – we’ve narrowed it down to one roof rack with the highest rating. Here is a link to Amazon.com. It offers a variety of finest styles and forms for client selection at reasonable costs.
Best 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Replacement Parts
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee TiresÂ
The original tire size for the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee is 245/70R16 and 235/65R17 depending on the trim level. It is advised to replace tires with the same tire size mentioned in the owner’s manual. If the tire size differs from the standard/recommended, the drive quality will be affected.
If you are looking to buy tires, you can check out the Tirerack, they have plenty of options to choose from. You will find the ones you are looking for.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Air Filters
The air filters of K&N are among the finest on the market. For the best performance, purchase the K&N Cold Air Intake, which is linked to Amazon. This air filter is designed for the 4.7 L V8 engine. The fitting test may be validated by verifying the engine type and car model using the provided link.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Headlights
There are several alternatives in the aftermarket, and it all comes down to personal preference. According to our study, the ideal headlight upgrade includes DRLs. Here’s a general link where customers may check out the design of their choosing at a reasonable price to one of the finest in the industry.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Brake Pads
If you are seeking the best 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Brake Pads, then our top selection is a good place to start. Here’s a link to one with the most promise and the highest ratings. Bosch is frequently regarded as the superior option.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Mods
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Lift Kits
If you’re looking to buy an old Jeep, odds are you’ll alter it to become an Outlander. The first thing you should do is install lift kits. You won’t be able to add bigger wheels and tires without lift kits, and you won’t be able to handle such rough terrains with standard tires. Fox or Bilstein Shocks are the finest options because they are still dependable.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Maintenance Schedule
You want your Jeep Grand Cherokee to endure as long as possible. With preventative maintenance, your Grand Cherokee may be on the road long into the 200,000-mile milestone.
Not sure what services your car needs and when they should be performed? That is not an issue. There’s no need to estimate when it’s time to get Grand Cherokee maintenance, and there’s no need to wait until anything goes wrong. Rely on the maintenance program designed just for your 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee!
Jeep, the manufacturer of your vehicle, determines the suggested maintenance plan. Scheduled maintenance services might vary based on driving conditions, climate, and other considerations; nevertheless, fluid exchanges, filter replacements, new brake pads, oil changes, and tire rotations are likely to be included in your vehicle’s recommended maintenance services.
Keeping up with scheduled service appointments is an excellent way to keep your Grand Cherokee operating longer, enhance vehicle safety, and avoid costly repairs caused by 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee problems later.
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2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Recalls
There are five recalls for the 2003 model year, which are listed below:
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Air Bags
Recall No. 15V046000 dated 2015-01-28; Due to electrical noise exceeding the tolerance of the airbag electronic control module (ECM), a component in the ECM may fail, allowing the front airbags, side airbags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy accidentally while the vehicle is being driven. Owners were advised to take their Grand Cherokees to the nearest dealership to have the problem repaired for free.
2003 Jeep grand Cherokee Headlamps/Amber Reflector
Recall No: 09E025000 dated May 11, 2009; A car collision may occur as a result of poor illumination vision. DOPE, INC. was the company that created these lamps/reflectors. A total of 42,540 units were impacted. Because they lack the required amber side reflectors, these headlights do not satisfy the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, “lamps, reflecting devices, and associated equipment.” Dope, Inc. notified the owners and issued a full refund for the noncompliant combination lights. Front Seat Electric Heater Element Overheats
Recall No: 06V-197 dated April 09, 2009; Overheating has the potential to start a fire or cause harm. CHRYSLER LLC produced the front seat electric heating element. This impacted a total of 103,409 seat unit components. Dealers were urged to provide free replacements for the front seat heating elements.
2003 Jeep grand Cherokee Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinder
Recall No: 06E022000 dated March 13, 2006; A lack of brake fluid may cause a decrease in brake line pressure and an elevation in stopping distance, which can escalate to a vehicle collision. BRAKE PARTS, INC. BRAKE PARTS, INC., manufactured the Hydraulic master brakes. SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC 7,440 components were also impacted as a result of this problem.
A potential cause of this failure is that an internal seal in the main cylinder loses elasticity, allowing brake fluid to leak when exposed to high cold temperatures.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Common Problems
Every machine has its ups and downs, and this jeep is no exception. Aside from regular wear and tear, the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee is likely to have the following issues.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Electrical Systems
Because of an electric system failure, the side windows collapse when driving, and there is occasionally a popping noise in the steering or elsewhere in the front end. When in cruise mode, it is sometimes impossible to utilize the accelerator button on the steering wheel since it does not halt acceleration once pressed.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Engine
The common issues with the engine are that the hydraulic cooling fan stops, and the engine may operate with direct power from the battery to the solenoid. The hydraulic fan solenoid works in certain ways but does not function while the car is driving. It causes the car to overheat and requires it to be pulled off the road.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Fuel System Gasoline
The majority of customers had trouble starting the car after it had been shut off for an extended length of time. It was claimed that the fuel injectors are not getting enough fuel levels. The dealer then changed the gasoline filter and regulator; nevertheless, he suffered a similar failure soon after the repair. The failure mileage was 90,000 miles, whereas the current mileage was 110,000.
2003 Jeep grand Cherokee PowerTrain
Another often reported issue was that the car will not shift into reverse after being parked. The reason for the breakdown was not identified, and neither the local dealer nor the manufacturer was informed. Most of the time, this issue is readily solved, but it may get worse while stopped in traffic.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The airbags were an often-cited issue. Due to electrical noise exceeding the ECM’s tolerance, a component in the airbag electronic control module (ECM) may fail, enabling the side airbags, front airbags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being driven. This issue, however, was addressed at no cost.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Resale Value
A Jeep Grand Cherokee will decline by 51% after 5 years, with a resale value of $23,466. While we don’t suggest purchasing a new Grand Cherokee since they lose 25% of their value in the first year, you may discover some excellent bargains on the secondhand market if you do your research.
The cheapest Jeep Grand Cherokee costs less than $2000, while the costliest costs about $7000. The cost varies according to the vehicle’s condition.
However, if we take a look at the price, you can rest certain that with this price tag, if you want to sell it in the future, it won’t be difficult. The engine components, as well as other replacement parts, are readily accessible – in general, they have a high resale value.
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Competitors
The 2nd Gen Jeep Grand Cherokee competes against a number of competitors given below:
- GMC Yukon
- Ford Explorer
- Toyota 4Runner
- GMC Acadia
- Nissan Patrol
- Chevrolet Tahoe
When you are trying to find the second option in case you aren’t able to find something that you can spend your hard-earned money on – that’s when this list will come in handy. There are competitors on this list that are better in some ways. In GMC, you would find more luxury but the maintenance cost will be high.
If you are leaning towards the Chevrolet Tahoe, you would again have to spend a lot on maintenance and repairs as Tahoe is the flagship vehicle of Chevrolet, thus the badge would take the cost through the roof.
Other competitors are also fine, but the best alternative to the Jeep Grand Cherokee would be the all-time favorite 4th Gen Toyota 4Runner. The only drawback would be the higher buying cost which is worth it as you would be getting the reliability of a truck in the Toyota 4Runner – and not to mention the lower maintenance cost.
FAQs
Question: Are 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokees Reliable?
Answer: Jeeps are reliable in general. Other than routine maintenance and normal wear and tear, jeeps are solid as a rock, which includes the Jeeps flagship Grand Cherokee. Being close to its more offroad capable brother – The Wrangler, Jeep Grand Cherokee offers offroad capability alongside luxury.
Offroad vehicles are made tough, thus you won’t have to worry about the reliability of the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Question: Does 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Have A Key Fob?
Answer: Yes, the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a Key fob. It has 3 main functions.
- Locking the doors
- Unlocking the doors
- Panic button for emergencies.
The recommended battery for the keyfob is the Panasonic CR2016 or equivalent.
Question: Does 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Have A Cabin Air Filter?
Answer: Yes, the 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a cabin air filter. The location however is pretty unusual. Instead of being behind the glove box compartment, it is located under the front of the windshield. You can open the black grills to get to the cabin air filter. AQ1097 will fit in all trim levels of Jeep Grand Cherokee available between 1999-2010.
Question: What Is The Difference Between Limited And Laredo?
Answer: Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo is the basic trim level having the 16-inch wheels as standard. It comes with 4.0L inline 6 as standard and 4.7L V8 as optional. 4WD comes as optional. On the other hand, Limited is the higher trim level having 17-inch wheels as standard. The 4.7L V8 however isn’t available in this trim level. Extra features are available in the Limited trim level that isn’t available in Laredo.
Final Thoughts
2003 Jeep Grand Cherokees are extremely cost-effective. You can find one in great shape for less than any other competitor having the same features. The initial buying cost is low as well as the regular maintenance. The aftermarket support for Jeeps regarding the offroad mods has always been a huge advantage, which puts Jeep Grand Cherokee in the game.
While searching for your Jeep Grand Cherokee, watch out for salvage titles and I always go for the clean ones. While inspecting, you have to make sure that there is no prevailing rust. If the Grand Cherokee in question hasn’t been looked after the way it should have been, you would see a lot of body rust. A little rust is no big deal, but if the frame is rusted to the point where it has holes, then you shouldn’t prefer that one. Happy Offroading!
References
- Review: 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland (theautochannel.com)
- 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Safety Recalls (autoblog.com)
- 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliability – Consumer Reports
- 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Value – $762-$3,444 | Edmunds
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ) – Wikipedia
- 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee OVERLAND Overview Jeep Buyers Guide (theautochannel.com)
- Amazon.com: Bosch BE791 Blue Disc Brake Pad Set for 1999-04 Jeep Grand Cherokee – REAR: Automotive
- 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Maintenance Schedule | Firestone Complete Auto Care
- 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Recalls | Cars.com
- 2003 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 4 DR | NHTSA
- Amazon.com : jeep+wj+headlights
- Amazon.com: K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: High Performance, Increase Horsepower: 50-State Legal: Compatible with 1999-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 4.7L V8,57-1513-1: Automotive
- Tire Rack – Your performance experts for tires and wheels
- Second-Generation “WJ / WG” Jeep Grand Cherokee Guide | JeepSpecs.com
- Used 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee for Sale Near Me | Cars.com
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