2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

When diagnosing the check engine light on a 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that emphasizes simpler solutions first. Begin by visually inspecting the vehicle for any obvious issues, such as ensuring the gas cap is securely fastened and in good condition, as a loose or damaged cap is a frequent cause of the check engine light activation. Next, connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle's OBD port to retrieve the specific error code associated with the warning light; this code is essential for identifying the underlying problem. After obtaining the code, research its meaning using the vehicle's manual or reliable online resources to gain a clearer understanding of potential issues. Additionally, check basic engine components, including oil and coolant levels, since low fluids can also trigger the check engine light. If these initial steps do not uncover the cause, it may be wise to consult a professional mechanic for a more comprehensive diagnosis and repair. By adhering to this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and address any issues with your Jeep Grand Cherokee.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee, it serves as a crucial alert that something may be amiss under the hood. One of the first things to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can lead to fuel vapor leaks, triggering the light. If the cap is secure, the next potential issue could be a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a vital role in maintaining fuel efficiency and controlling emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also cause the light to activate, often indicating a failure in the exhaust system. Engine performance issues may arise from faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, which can lead to misfires and further complications. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while a faulty thermostat may cause the engine to overheat or run inefficiently. Other possible causes include issues with the EGR valve, transmission problems, and electronic control module (ECM) malfunctions. By being aware of these common problems, you can take proactive steps to diagnose and address the issue, ensuring your Jeep Grand Cherokee operates at its best.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee?

When it comes to your 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the check engine light is not just a minor inconvenience; it serves as a critical warning system for your vehicle's health. Ignoring this alert can lead to escalating issues that may compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. A flashing check engine light, in particular, indicates a serious problem that requires immediate attention, as it could signify a malfunction in the emissions system or other vital components. For DIY enthusiasts, this means that timely diagnostics and repairs are essential to avoid costly damage and ensure the longevity of your vehicle. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your Jeep's functionality but also enhance your driving experience, making it a priority for any responsible vehicle owner.

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