2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee belongs to the SUV family, which means it is designed to be a utility car. Compared to the others in its category, it possesses a higher power with more tractive capability. This version was developed by the Mercedes Benz in collaboration with Doge, and therefore not a traditional jeep in American Motors inventory. It has a 5.7 –liter V8 engine, its multi-displacement system shutting down 50% of its cylinders in cruising or mere acceleration. Most will love its improved leather seats which have been designed to accommodate different sizes of people. With the driver seat strategically in a symmetrical instrument panel, the steering wheel is at a great angle. However, it does not come without its issues. We will try to explain some of the common 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee PCM problems below.
Contents
Difficulty in Starting
This problem is also encountered in the 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It is a result of wrong input getting into the vehicle from a faulty PCM. This will likely cause a problem in the ignition, and if the extent of the 2005 powertrain Control Module pcm defection is to a point of not being able to adjust to the timings, your jeep will not open at all.
However, many car owners confuse this with a blown alternator or even a faulty starter. If there’s nothing wrong with those parts, be keen to check your PCM. It is also important to know that the jeep may also lose its power during acceleration as a result of fuel system failure.
The Check Engine light is on
If PCM provides incorrect inputs, as it occasionally does, other issues may crop up. Many Jeep Grand Cherokee owners have mentioned engine light issues, as well as power steering as one of those issues. The Check Engine light occasionally turns on. Majorly, this is caused by faulty 02 sensors, emissions challenges, and PCM issues. To be sure though, ensure you engage a mechanic with the right tools to analyze the car error codes to determine if your PCM is to blame.
In case you end up replacing the engine control module and still realize that the Check Engine light is still showing, do not blame the replacement PCM yet. There could be something else wrong with your jeep, and you should have it diagnosed and fixed any random error codes. The repair cost are worth it.
Engine Performance Issues in the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Like any car out there, the engine is the most vital component in ensuring the Cherokee works optimally. Immediately you learn of any faults in the engine, make it a priority to have it checked well. If the engine issues are frequent with your jeep, it is a good sign that some engine components are not functioning as they should, or to some degree, there could be erroneous engine codes.
One of the common indicators of a faulty engine is some red deposits around the oil fill cap, which could be accompanied by some leaking at the rear seal. Depending on the extent of the engine damage, you may even encounter stalling as you drive. If you ignore this, the damage will affect the car’s velocity and cruise control leading to significant repair cost implications. In addition, be on the lookout for any engine shaking and any rough idling. In case you identify them, ensure you get it checked. It is also important to note that the check engine light could or could not display in this case.
Faulty Wiring
The selling point of the Grand Cherokee is its rigged nature, as admirers see it ready to hit the road. However, many customers have come out to complain that a number of the 2005 models had challenges with the door harnesses. The major issue was their unresponsiveness and in some rare instances, the electrical components went off when driving. Although this is a scenario that can be fixed by the right mechanic, this particular scenario has greatly raised eyeballs among many owners. The alarm will especially be a bother since it will be going off every time it is triggered involuntarily.
Door harnessing issues are a simple indication of faulty wiring. However, it is always important to run the necessary diagnostic checks to exactly determine where the issue is originating from. This, when done well, will help keep your jeep in great working condition.
Inoperative Drivetrain System
Having a faulty drivetrain system has been one of the thorns in the flesh for many 2005 Grand Cherokee jeep owners. When this happens, you will easily notice a few strange behaviors. One of them is a drastic failure of the rear axle seal, accompanied by a faulty front driveshaft that will turn out to be quite inconvenient. If the powertrain driveline problem is ignored, more complications will occur such as damaging the 4*4 transfer case.
It is therefore recommended to perform routine checks and repair any ECM issues with time. Eventually, this will improve your jeep’s performance. At this point, we will point out the importance of choosing legitimate spares during replaced pcm .
Slightly flawed Steering
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has highlighted a few problems with the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee steering. This happens when there is a problem with the hydraulic power system. When this happens the car efficiency will significantly decrease. As is with many cars, a problematic steering wheel comes as a result of natural wear and tear. For the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee pcm problems, the car will show different signs that one should take seriously. The most notable one is the squeaking noise heard whenever one is making turns. This could be accompanied by a feeling of loose steering. Whenever you identify such a problem, ensure you get a proper diagnosis from a mechanic you trust.
Another problem may be a few unreliable suspensions. This is normally caused by a flawed control arm, making the whole suspension quite unreliable. In the case where the front wheel ball joints are hardly functioning well, the response for the suspension will reduce.
Conclusion
As highlighted above, the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee PCM Problems can extend beyond the check engine light coming on and you should always have a certified mechanic diagnosed the underlying issues for you.
Many of these problems can be fixed by having original spare parts. If you are experiencing any electrical problems or any PCM-related issues, feel free to reach out to us for help
FAQs
How do I tell if Jeep PCM is bad?
The obvious indication is the check engine light being on. Also, mostly your car will have trouble starting, or not starting at all. Although this could be caused by a different PCM error, it could be an indication of something wrong with your ECM computer.
Sudden loss of your gas mileage could also be an indication of a faulty PCM, as well as erratic shifting.
How do I test a Jeep PCM?
First, you need to verify that there is active battery voltage crossing into the PCM at pin connectors. Ensure that the two found wires are reading zero resistance. The 2 black/tan wires should be in the black connector, at the points of pins 31 and 32. The last step will be testing for reference voltage (5v) that will be originating from the PCM right at pin 17 (color orange) at the tan connector, with pin 31 carefully at the white connector. If the power input together with the grounds are all set but still nothing comes out of the 2 reference leads, the PCM is damaged.
How do you reset the computer on a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
To reset the 2005 Jeep grand Cherokee computer problems, first, disconnect the positive terminal from the battery and lay it on the ground for about 30 seconds. This is meant to discharge the capacitors and maintain adaptive memory for the engine control. Then reconnect the battery cable while turning the ignition on without starting the engine. Turn the headlight on and off, then turn off the ignition key.
What are common problems with a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The major problems with the 2005 Jeep grand Cherokee include occasional faulty wiring, slightly flawed steering, selected engine performance issues, and automatic transmission failures / transmission controlissues.
FAQs
What is the recall on a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee PCM? ›
Recall Central: 2005-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Commander SUVs for Transmission Software. Chrysler is recalling more than 400,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander models for a transmission circuit board issue that could allow inadvertent shifting into neutral.
What causes powertrain control module failure? ›More often than not, software concerns—not internal hardware problems—cause PCM issues. Other common causes of PCM failure include an overload from a shorted component or circuit, power surges, charging system problems, and environmental issues, such as moisture and extreme temperatures.
What are the most common problems with the Jeep Grand Cherokee? ›The four most common Jeep Grand Cherokee problems are erratic electronic shifting, engine stalling while driving, alternator failure, and ignition switch malfunction. Let's take a closer look at how each issue affected specific generations.
How do you know if a PCM is good? ›One way to check whether a PCV valve is functioning is to remove it from the hose or tube and shake it. If you can hear a metallic rattling noise, it's likely in good working order. If you do not hear anything when you shake the valve, it is likely that it is no longer opening and closing like it should.
How do you know if you need a new PCM? ›- Your “check engine” light is on.
- Other warning lights may be on, including traction control and ABS.
- You lose fuel economy for no apparent reason.
- Your car stutters when starting, requires multiple attempts, or won't start at all.
- Stuttering or stalling during idling.
PCM's typically fail for one of two reasons: voltage overloads (often due to a short in a solenoid or actuator circuit) or environmental factors (corrosion, thermal stress or vibration). If water gets inside a PCM, it can short circuits and set up irreversible corrosion that ruins electronic connections.
Can you reprogram a bad PCM? ›PCMs are built with microchips that can be reprogrammed electronically without being removed from the vehicle. Reflashing is a process where you electronically transfer approved files from a vehicle manufacturer's website using a diagnostic connector.
What is the most common failure of an ECM? ›The most common source of ECM failure is in one of the wiring harnesses. If the wires to the transmission or fuel injectors become corroded, they can lose conductivity, leading to a failure. Fortunately, these issues can usually be resolved by replacing the corroded wires.
What is the code for bad PCM? ›Error code P0201 occurs when the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) or ECM (Engine Control Module) detects a cylinder 1 injection circuit malfunction. In other words, this error code is triggered when these modules determine a low or high voltage drop or resistance at the injector 1.
What happens when your power control module goes out? ›A faulty ECM can send poor data to your vehicle's transmission control module (TCM). As a result, the vehicle cannot properly shift gears or apply power, causing the shift to feel awkward, delayed, or even jarring. When this occurs, the engine may sporadically become more active or stall out.
What does the PCM fuse control? ›
It controls all the relays and fuses of a car. The PCM power relay or ECM power relay work as a switch and transfer power to the ECM. However, if the ignition key turns off, the switches within the PCM power relay will not receive battery power. As a result, your vehicle will not operate properly.
What are common problems with a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee? ›- Throttle Body. Symptoms of a Bad Throttle Body. ...
- Ignition Switch Problems. Symptoms of Ignition Switch Problems on the 3rd Gen Jeep Grand Cherokee. ...
- Fuel Pump Failure. Fuel tank on a 3rd gen Jeep Grand Cherokee. ...
- Starter Motor Failure. ...
- Thermostat Issues.
Regardless of model, it's a good general rule to avoid model years with many customer complaints, mechanical difficulties, and expensive upkeep, just like any other product you buy. Grand Cherokee model years 2011, 2014, and 2015 are the most likely to have mechanical flaws and, therefore, some of the worst to buy.
What year of Jeep Cherokee should I avoid? ›2014, 2015, And 2016 Are The Jeep Cherokee's Most Problematic Model Years. According to the Car Complaints website, the 2014 Cherokee has the most overall complaints as rates as the most problematic model year due to expensive overhauls at low mileage.
Which is best PCM? ›Which career is best for PCM? The best career options for PCM are Engineering, Architecture, Merchant Navy, Pilot, Bachelor of Science.
When should I replace my PCM? ›Signs Your ECM or PCM Might Need Replacing
Engine Performance Issues – You'll notice a reduction in fuel efficiency, power, and acceleration. Car Not Starting – Your vehicle does not start or is difficult to start. The engine may still crank but won't be able to start without vital inputs from the computer.
Plus, every PCM we sell is 100% plug and play, meaning you can install it yourself without visiting a dealer, and comes with our 100% Iron Clad Guarantee and free Lifetime Warranty. So you can rest easy knowing you are choosing the correct PCM and save the time and cost of taking your car into a dealership.
Is the ECM and PCM the same thing? ›Most people, including automobile technicians, confuse the two for each other. The main difference between the two is that the ECM controls specific parts of the engine, regulating and sending commands. While the PCM is used in newer models to control almost all engine functions.
Does the PCM control the fuel pump? ›The fuel pump relay is controlled by the PCM by providing the relay with a ground. The PCM chooses to turn the relay on when it sees the motor is running. If the PCM doesn't see an indication of the motor running, it will not supply a ground path to the relay and the fuel pump will not receive power.
Will disconnecting battery reset PCM? ›On some older cars, disconnecting the battery will reset the system but in most new cars it does nothing, except potentially reset the clock and radio station presets.
How do you recalibrate PCM? ›
- Press and hold the PCM info button for approximately 10 seconds until the PCM reboots.
- Immediately select the following from the PCM CAR > OPTION > Set PCM System > Reset PCM > Vehicle Handover > Yes > Yes.
A failed relay will disable the dash lights and warning chimes that normally come on when the key is inserted into the ignition, and will probably be unable to start or turn over the vehicle.
Can PCM affect transmission shifting? ›A powertrain control module also controls engine and transmission functions. It is responsible for timing shifts, shift feel, and engaging the clutch. When your PCM fails, your transmission is likely to stop shifting, shift too soft or harsh or cause complete transmission failure.
Do you need 2 keys to program a PCM? ›Your vehicle has the Passive AntiTheft System (PATS) which requires two keys to be programmed to a replace- ment ECM/PCM in order to start. This requires a scan tool with capability to program PATS type E keys.
What is a PCM recall? ›Recall summary
Usually, the PCM is programmed to enter a “failsafe” mode that will cool the vehicle down if the engine gets too hot. Due to a software calibration issue, however, the software in the recalled vehicles may not trigger the failsafe mode until temperatures exceed safe limits.
The average cost for a Jeep Wrangler powertrain control module replacement is between $680 and $735. Labor costs are estimated between $48 and $60 while parts are priced between $633 and $674.
What is recall N23 on 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee? ›Last year, Chrysler issued Safety Recall N23, covering roughly 469,000 2005-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokees and 2006-2010 Jeep Commanders. These SUVs are equipped with the NVG 245 transfer case, and their transfer-case actuator modules contain a circuit board that may develop cracks.
How much does it cost to fix a PCM in a car? ›The Best in Auto Repair
The average cost for powertrain control module replacement is between $964 and $1,038. Labor costs are estimated between $76 and $96 while parts are priced between $888 and $942. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location.
PCM Reprogramming or reflashing is essentially a software upgrade and may be required to resolve a hot or cold starting issue, idle roughness, stalling, or an emissions failure.
What causes lost communication with ECM PCM? ›The most common cause of a U0100 code is a faulty battery. If the voltage in your battery drops too low, it can affect network communications, which can cause your vehicle to come back with a U0100 code.
Can a PCM be reset? ›
Press and hold the PCM info button for approximately 10 seconds until the PCM reboots.
Can a PCM be reprogrammed? ›PCMs are built with microchips that can be reprogrammed electronically without being removed from the vehicle. Reflashing is a process where you electronically transfer approved files from a vehicle manufacturer's website using a diagnostic connector.
How do I reset my TCM Jeep Grand Cherokee? ›Without starting your vehicle, turn your ignition to the “ON” position. Locate the button labeled “STEP” in your Jeep Grand Cherokee. Press the “STEP” button until you get to a menu screen that indicates how many miles you have left until service. Press and hold the “RESET” button.
Why does my Jeep Cherokee jerk when I accelerate? ›Dirty fuel injectors are among the most common reasons for why an accelerator becomes jerky. The dirty injector leads to your car losing power when you attempt to accelerate while at a stop and when you try to drive at a consistent speed. This is the result of an engine misfire.
Do you have to reflash a PCM? ›Reflashing must be done in the car.
If you replace a failed GM PCM with an unprogrammed service unit, a program must be written into the PCM before the car will run, but the PCM must be installed in the car to load the program. If you own flashing equipment, it's no problem.
Most people, including automobile technicians, confuse the two for each other. The main difference between the two is that the ECM controls specific parts of the engine, regulating and sending commands. While the PCM is used in newer models to control almost all engine functions.
Can PCM be serviced? ›The good thing about PCM repair is that you do not always have to replace the unit. In many cases, our technicians run several diagnostic tests which can pinpoint the problem, and then repair it. When diagnosing issues with your PCM, technicians can determine was the issues are by use of diagnostic trouble codes.