Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Honda Passport

Verdict: Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Honda Passport

The Honda Passport demonstrates superior reliability with an average score of 83/100 compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee's 67/100. Although the Passport has a higher owner complaint rate of 11.6 per 10,000 sold versus the Grand Cherokee's 6.8, it significantly outperforms in recall history with only 29 recalls over eight years compared to 97 for the Grand Cherokee. Additionally, the Passport's estimated annual repair cost is lower at $521, making it a more cost-effective choice for maintenance. Overall, the Honda Passport offers better reliability, despite a slightly higher complaint rate, with fewer recalls and lower repair costs being key differentiators.

Reliability problem analysis

The Jeep Grand Cherokee exhibits a higher volume of complaints, particularly in the electrical system with 846 total issues, 15 of which are crash-linked, compared to the Honda Passport's 123 complaints with 2 crash-linked incidents. The Grand Cherokee also encounters significant issues in the steering and service brakes categories, with 14 and 18 crash-linked complaints respectively, which are areas of concern not as prominently reported in the Passport. In contrast, the Honda Passport's most reported problem is in the electrical system, but it generally has fewer complaints across all categories and lower crash-linked incidents. Notably, the Jeep Grand Cherokee's airbag complaints have a high crash-link rate with 37 of 63 complaints linked to crashes, indicating a severe safety issue not mirrored in the Honda Passport.

Which one to buy

If you prioritize reliability and lower repair costs, the Honda Passport is your best bet. With a higher reliability score of 83/100 and fewer recalls at 29, it offers peace of mind for those who want a dependable vehicle. Despite a slightly higher owner complaint rate of 11.6 per 10,000 sold, its estimated annual repair cost of $521 is lower than the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This makes it ideal for budget-conscious drivers who want to minimize maintenance expenses.

For those who don't mind a bit of risk for a potentially more rugged experience, the Jeep Grand Cherokee might be appealing. Its reliability score of 67/100, along with a higher number of recalls at 97, suggests some trade-offs in dependability. However, if you value a vehicle with a robust build and can handle potential electrical or power train issues, this model could suit your adventurous lifestyle. Be prepared for a higher estimated annual repair cost of $666 and a major repair risk of 13%.

Cost of ownership

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has an annual repair cost of $666, translating to a total of $3,330 over five years, compared to the Honda Passport's $521 per year or $2,605 over the same period. Both vehicles have a similar repair frequency of 0.3 visits per year, but the Grand Cherokee carries a 13% risk of major repairs—a factor not specified for the Passport.

For cost-conscious buyers, the Honda Passport represents better value, with lower annual repair costs and no listed risk of major repairs, potentially offering peace of mind and savings of $725 over five years compared to the Grand Cherokee. Independent repair cost data suggests this makes the Passport a more economical choice.