1990 Jeep Comanche

Introduction: The 1990 Jeep Comanche is a compact pickup truck that was produced from 1986 to 1992. It is powered by a standard 2.5L inline-4 engine producing 117 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission. Optional engine choices include a 4.0L inline-6 engine with 177 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission.

Owners appreciate the Comanche’s ruggedness, off-road capability, and compact size. However, it has received criticism for its limited interior space, weak engine options, and poor fuel economy.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4 Engine

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, engine misfires, white or blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing the head gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or grinding noises from the engine, difficulty starting, loss of power.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L Inline-6 Engine

• Oil Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchronizer Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially into 2nd or 4th gear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

3-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle accelerates slowly or hesitates when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Overhauling or replacing the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or broken leaf springs, reduced ride quality, unstable handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light illuminated, trouble starting.
  • Solution: Replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical malfunctions, intermittent problems, no power to specific components.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the corroded wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Surface rust, bubbling paint, holes in body panels.
  • Solution: Applying rust-proofing measures, repairing or replacing rusted components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or warping on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or sagging headliner fabric.
  • Solution: Reattaching or replacing the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1990 Jeep Comanche is known for its ruggedness and off-road capability, but it also has several common issues that owners should be aware of. Engine problems, such as head gasket failure and timing chain failure, can be costly repairs. Transmission issues, including synchronizer wear and transmission slipping, can also impact the vehicle’s reliability. Additionally, suspension wear, electrical malfunctions, and interior issues can affect the overall driving experience and comfort. It is important for potential buyers to carefully inspect used Comanches and consider the potential costs of repairing or maintaining these issues.