Underneath the dash of a 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee (and most cars), behind the radio and glove box, lies a series of doors that open and close to control the temperature and direction of the climate control system’s airflow. In addition to the plastic doors, this complex system utilizes sensors, cables, springs, and electrical wiring to keep you comfortable inside your car, regardless of the weather outside.
Repair Pal has received reports of this type of failure for all the second-generation Grand Cherokee model years and 15 other model years. While the failure could happen on a practically new Grand Cherokee, the average issue occurs at just over 100,000 miles after the vehicle is a few years old. A failure of this type generally presents as cold air blowing from one side of the vehicle while hot air emits from the other or no air coming from the vents.
The first step to getting an issue like this repaired is taking your vehicle to a shop for diagnosis. Depending on the shop you visit, this diagnosis will cost around $100, and most will apply that amount to the repair if you have them fix it.
The repair cost depends on the part that failed. At least one Grand Cherokee owner reported a quote of $1,500 to repair the blend door. Another owner performed a DIY fix of a broken door behind the vehicle’s glove box with a wooden stick to restore airflow to a second-generation Grand Cherokee’s cabin.
