What a Track Hawk is and where to find one

A Track Hawk is a Jeep Grand Cherokee with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, produced by Jeep Performance Parts. Jeep stopped making them new in 2021, so nearly all Track Hawks for sale are used vehicles. You will find them listed on Autotrader, Cars.com, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and dealer inventory sites — search for "Jeep Grand Cherokee Track Hawk" or "Jeep Track Hawk" to cast the widest net.

Because Track Hawks are performance vehicles with high mileage potential and significant wear patterns, buying one requires more inspection than a standard used car. The engine is powerful and expensive to repair, so understanding the vehicle's history and condition before you commit money matters more than it does with other used Jeeps.

Prices vary widely depending on model year, mileage, condition, and location. A 2018 Track Hawk with 60,000 miles will cost substantially more than a 2017 with 100,000 miles. Check multiple listings in your region to understand the current market before making an offer.

Key Takeaways

  • Track Hawks were only produced from 2018 to 2021, so you are shopping for used inventory only.
  • The supercharged V8 engine is powerful but expensive to maintain and repair, making service history and current condition critical to your decision.
  • Have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a mechanic familiar with supercharged engines, not a general shop.
  • Insurance costs for Track Hawks are higher than standard Grand Cherokees because of the engine and performance classification.
  • Fuel economy is poor — expect 14 to 17 miles per gallon combined — so factor ongoing fuel costs into your budget.

What to check before you buy

Before you hand over money, you need a pre-purchase inspection by a mechanic who has worked on supercharged Jeeps or similar performance vehicles. A general shop may miss problems specific to the supercharger system. Call ahead and confirm the mechanic has experience with Track Hawks or comparable supercharged engines.

Ask the mechanic to inspect the supercharger itself for leaks, the intercooler system for cracks, and the engine bay for signs of overheating. Request a full diagnostic scan to check for stored or pending fault codes. Track Hawks that have been driven hard or modified often show electrical or cooling system issues that a basic inspection will not catch.

Pull the vehicle history report using the VIN on Carfax or AutoCheck. Look for service records showing regular oil changes — supercharged engines need synthetic oil and more frequent changes than standard engines. If the history is sparse or shows long gaps between services, that is a red flag. Also check whether the vehicle has been in accidents, had title issues, or been declared a total loss by an insurance company.

Test drive the vehicle yourself and listen for knocking, grinding, or whining sounds from the engine. The supercharger makes a distinctive whine when accelerating — that is normal — but grinding or metal-on-metal sounds are not. Feel how the transmission shifts and whether the brakes respond evenly. If anything feels off, do not proceed without a full inspection.

Negotiating price and closing the deal

Track Hawk prices have stabilized since 2021, but they remain volatile compared to standard Grand Cherokees. Use the inspection results to negotiate. If the mechanic finds deferred maintenance — worn brake pads, old spark plugs, a supercharger that needs service — ask the seller to reduce the price or fix the items before sale. Many sellers will choose a price reduction rather than pay for repairs themselves.

Get a written bill of sale that includes the VIN, current mileage, sale price, and the date of sale. Both you and the seller should sign it. This document protects you if a title dispute arises later and serves as proof of purchase for your insurance company.

Before you drive the vehicle home, contact your insurance company and add it to your policy. Do not assume your current coverage extends to a new vehicle — some policies require you to notify the insurer within a set number of days. Track Hawks typically cost more to insure than standard Grand Cherokees, so get a quote before you commit.

Understanding insurance and fuel costs

Insurance premiums for Track Hawks are higher because the vehicle is classified as a performance car with a powerful engine. Rates depend on your age, driving record, location, and the coverage limits you choose. Contact your current insurer and at least two others to compare quotes before you buy. A Track Hawk may cost 20 to 40 percent more per month to insure than a standard Grand Cherokee, depending on your profile.

Fuel economy on a Track Hawk ranges from 14 to 17 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving. If you drive 12,000 miles per year and gas costs $3.50 per gallon, you will spend roughly $2,500 to $3,000 annually on fuel alone. The vehicle requires premium gasoline (91 or 92 octane), which costs more than regular unleaded. Budget for this before you buy.

Maintenance costs are also higher than a standard Jeep. Synthetic oil changes, supercharger service, and performance brake pads all cost more. Set aside money for unexpected repairs — a supercharger rebuild or transmission service can run into thousands of dollars.

Common problems to watch for

Track Hawks with high mileage sometimes develop supercharger issues, including oil leaks from the seal and reduced boost pressure. These repairs are expensive and require specialized knowledge. Ask the seller whether the supercharger has ever been serviced or rebuilt. If it has not and the vehicle has over 80,000 miles, budget for potential work.

Transmission problems are also reported on some Track Hawks, particularly those driven aggressively or towed. The eight-speed automatic transmission can develop shift hesitation or delayed engagement. A full diagnostic scan will reveal whether the transmission has stored codes related to shifting.

Cooling system failures occur on some models, especially those driven in hot climates or used for towing. Ask whether the radiator, thermostat, and cooling fans have been replaced or serviced. If the vehicle has been overheated in the past, the engine may have internal damage that does not show up when ready.

Deciding between private sale and dealer purchase

Buying from a private seller usually means a lower price, but you have no recourse if something breaks when ready after purchase. Most private sales are "as-is," meaning the seller makes no promises about the vehicle's condition. Get everything in writing, including the inspection results and any agreed-upon repairs.

Buying from a dealer typically costs more, but many dealers offer a short warranty — often 30 to 90 days — that covers major mechanical failures. Some dealers will allow you to return the vehicle within a set period if you discover problems. Ask what warranty is included before you buy and get the terms in writing.

Certified pre-owned Track Hawks are rare because Jeep does not have a large certified program for this model. If you find one, it will have passed a manufacturer inspection and come with an extended warranty, but you will pay a premium for that assurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Track Hawk cost?

Prices range from roughly $35,000 to $55,000 depending on model year, mileage, condition, and location. A 2018 with high mileage costs less than a 2021 with low mileage. Check local listings to see what sellers are asking in your area.

Do I need special insurance for a Track Hawk?

You need standard auto insurance, but premiums are higher than for a regular Grand Cherokee because of the engine and performance classification. Contact your insurer before you buy to understand the cost difference.

Can I modify a Track Hawk?

Yes, but modifications can affect warranty coverage and insurance rates. Inform your insurance company about any changes. Some modifications also void the manufacturer warranty if the vehicle is still under coverage.

What is the difference between a Track Hawk and a regular Grand Cherokee?

The Track Hawk has a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 645 horsepower, while a standard Grand Cherokee has a 3.6-liter V6 producing around 290 horsepower. The Track Hawk is faster, louder, and much more expensive to maintain and insure.

Should I buy a Track Hawk with over 100,000 miles?

It depends on the service history and inspection results. A well-maintained Track Hawk with 100,000 miles may be reliable, but a neglected one with 60,000 miles could have hidden problems. Always get a pre-purchase inspection regardless of mileage.