Understanding Jeep Grand Cherokee Screen Delamination
The issue of screen delamination in the Jeep Grand Cherokee arises when the adhesive that binds the screen to the digitizer begins to break down, often due to excessive heat generated by the screen itself. Fortunately, there are several approaches to remedy this problem:
- Repair the screen
- Clean the screen
- Seek professional assistance
If you are inclined towards DIY projects, fixing this issue can be straightforward. For a comprehensive understanding of the repair process, continue reading.
What Causes Jeep Grand Cherokee Screen Delamination?
The delamination of your Jeep Grand Cherokee screen is primarily attributed to the intense heat produced by the display. This heat can cause the glue that connects the screen to the digitizer to melt away, leading to gaps and, ultimately, delamination. Symptoms of screen delamination include ghost button presses and various screen malfunctions. However, this issue is generally considered less critical than the navigation screen turning black.
In many cases, if your screen has delaminated, you may be eligible for a replacement under warranty or an extended warranty. The digitizer is the outermost layer of the touchscreen that you interact with, and it is connected to the main display via a glue-like adhesive.
This adhesive not only serves to connect the digitizer to the main screen but also acts as a thermal barrier, helping to shield the display from external heat sources such as environmental conditions or hand temperature. Once this glue dries out, it allows contact between the digitizer and the screen, resulting in the formation of bubbles that can obscure visibility and functionality, although they typically do not cause significant issues.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Jeep Grand Cherokee Screen Delamination
To address screen delamination, you can either clean the interior of the screen and apply new adhesive or opt for a complete replacement. Here’s a detailed breakdown of both methods.
Method 1: DIY Screen Repair of Your Jeep’s Radio
Before you begin the repair process, make sure you have the necessary tools:
- Dash Pry Tool
- Blue Nylon Pry Tool
- Metal Pry Tool
- Ribbon Cable Unlocking Tool
- Screwdriver (Seven Millimeters or Phillips Head)
- Protective Film Removal Tool
Step 1: Remove the Display
Utilize a dash pry tool or open the lower cubby to release the retaining clips on the bezel surrounding the UConnect display. Disconnect the cable and place the bezel aside.
Step 2: Access the Radio
Locate and remove the four screws (typically seven millimeters) securing the radio in place. Once removed, carefully pull out the radio and disconnect the connectors.
Step 3: Release the Tabs
Using the blue nylon pry tool, gently insert it between the black metal frame and the silver housing. Release the eight metal tabs (two on each side) by lifting the thin sheet metal, taking care to avoid damaging any cables.
Step 4: Remove the Metal Frame
Continue working around the screen until all eight metal tabs are disengaged, resulting in a loose metal frame. Exercise caution with vehicles exhibiting extensive glue leakage to prevent damage to the wires connected to the metal chassis.
Step 5: Lift the Screen
Carefully lift the screen away from the metal housing, noting the sticky residue left from the adhesive. Be cautious regarding the black wire connected to the chassis to avoid breaking it.
Step 6: Remove Phillips Head Screws
Using a standard Phillips head number two screwdriver, remove the six screws securing the circuitry to the LCD housing. Avoid lifting anything immediately after removing the screws to prevent potential damage.
Step 7: Flip the Unit Over
Firmly hold both the top and bottom metal sections together and flip the unit over, keeping the LCD face up to prevent spacers and components from dislodging.
Step 8: Disconnect Ribbon Cables
Lift the LCD and disconnect the ribbon cables secured by black latches, pivoting them 90° to release. Extract the cables from their housing, avoiding excessive stress.
Step 9: Replace the Old LCD Panel
Set aside the old LCD panel and transfer the display ribbon cable to the new panel, ensuring correct alignment and secure locking. Gently position the new LCD panel with the unlocked ribbon cable connectors facing upwards.
Step 10: Secure Phillips Head Screws
Replace the six Phillips head screws, ensuring they are tightened evenly without overtightening. It’s advisable to follow a star pattern or alternate tightening for uniformity.
Step 11: Lock Metal Latch Tabs
Flip the unit back over and use a metal pry tool to press down on the metal latch tabs, ensuring they are securely engaged to prevent any disconnections in the back half with connectors.
Step 12: Reinstall the Radio
Remove the protective film from the new LCD panel with care. Temporarily position the metal frame over the panel to hold it in place. Tighten all screws securely and flip the unit back over to finalize the securing of metal latch tabs. Reinsert the radio into the Grand Cherokee by sliding it into place and securing it with the four screws. Reconnect all previously disconnected connectors, ensuring they are matched correctly.
Step 13: Power Up the Repaired Radio
Upon powering up the radio for the first time after repair, turn off the vehicle and allow the radio to enter sleep mode. This process may take anywhere from five minutes to two hours, during which the radio will configure itself to the vehicle’s computer.
Step 14: Verify the Repair
Once the radio has configured itself, check for restored functionality, ensuring the delamination issue has been resolved. Confirm that all buttons work as expected, along with features like heated and cooled options, and Sirius XM functionality.
Step 15: Final Check
Ensure that the radio is fully configured and free from delamination issues. For additional guidance, consider watching instructional videos on screen replacement.
Method 2: Clean the Digitizer Screen
Follow the same initial steps to remove the digitizer screen as described in the previous method. Once removed, you will notice dried-out glue in the delamination area. Use isopropyl alcohol to clean the entire surface. It is advisable to use a spray bottle to apply the alcohol evenly across the screen.
After cleaning, wipe off the alcohol with paper towels and finish by applying some glass cleaner to restore clarity to the display. Repeat this cleaning process on the digitizer as well. While the digitizer may appear blurry after cleaning, rest assured that it will regain clarity once it is reattached to the screen.
Important Tips:
- Wear rubber gloves to prevent smudges and dirt from transferring to the screen.
- Avoid scratching the screen to prevent the need for a complete replacement.
- Do not substitute isopropyl alcohol with acetone, as acetone can damage the screen irreparably.
- Be gentle when applying the digitizer frame to avoid compromising the touchscreen’s functionality.
After cleaning, replace the digitizer onto the screen and reinstall the radio back into your Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Method 3: Consult Your Jeep Grand Cherokee Dealer
If you are uncertain about the DIY process, it may be best to seek help from a professional. Ensure that you have a warranty, as repairs without one can be costly.
Is There Any Drawback to This Method?
Overall, there are no significant downsides to this repair method, provided you follow the steps carefully. Removing the glue responsible for delamination should resolve the issue. However, be aware that the quality of the screen interaction may diminish slightly, although it should still function adequately. If you encounter persistent touchscreen issues, contacting the dealer for professional repair is advisable.
Is This Applicable to All Jeep Grand Cherokee Models?
Yes, this DIY method is applicable to all Jeep Grand Cherokee models. The delamination issue is particularly prevalent in models manufactured between 2017 and 2019, often due to manufacturing defects. If you have a warranty, your dealer should replace the screen. Otherwise, you can attempt the DIY method at home.
Is There Any Recall for Jeep Grand Cherokee Screen Delamination?
As of now, there has been no recall issued for the Jeep Grand Cherokee screen delamination issue. Although numerous Jeep Cherokee users have reported similar problems, there hasn’t been a significant case filed against the manufacturer, resulting in a lack of recall on this matter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How do you reset the screen on a Jeep Grand Cherokee?
To reset the screen on a Jeep Grand Cherokee, simultaneously press the tuning knob and the volume button for at least 15 seconds. The screen will turn off, and after a brief pause, it will automatically turn back on.
Can I customize my Jeep screen?
Absolutely! You can customize the Jeep screen settings according to your preferences.
What is the cost to repair the Jeep Grand Cherokee screen delamination?
The cost to repair screen delamination in a Jeep Grand Cherokee generally ranges from $200 to $600. If a full screen replacement is necessary, expenses can soar as high as $1200.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Jeep Grand Cherokee screen delamination is primarily caused by the adhesive deteriorating due to heat from the screen. You have the option to tackle this issue yourself or seek professional repair services. If you choose the DIY route, proceed with caution, and with the help of this guide, you can restore your Grand Cherokee screen to full functionality.