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2008 Jeep Commander

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2008 Jeep Commander is a mid-size SUV offering a blend of off-road capability and family-friendly features. Available engine options included a 3.7L V6 producing 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque, a 4.7L V8 making 305 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7L HEMI V8 outputting 330 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque. The 3.7L V6 was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 4.7L and 5.7L V8s were equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Commander’s spacious interior, towing capacity, and classic Jeep styling. However, common complaints include relatively poor fuel economy, some reliability concerns, and a somewhat cumbersome driving experience due to its size and weight.

Engine

3.7L V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop around the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. This can lead to oil spots on the driveway, a burning oil smell, and potentially low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets is the typical solution.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the thermostat housing, radiator, or water pump, leading to overheating.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

4.7L V8

  • Exhaust Manifold Bolts
    • Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts are a common issue, leading to exhaust leaks and a ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold.
    • Solution: Replacing the broken bolts, which can be challenging due to their location and potential for corrosion.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on how many bolts are broken.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 3.7L, oil leaks can occur from the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 3.7L, coolant leaks from the thermostat housing, radiator, or water pump, leading to overheating.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.7L HEMI V8

  • HEMI Tick
    • Description/Symptoms: A characteristic ticking noise that is often attributed to the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) solenoids or exhaust manifold leaks. While sometimes considered normal, excessive ticking can indicate underlying issues.
    • Solution: Diagnosis is critical. It could be exhaust manifold bolts, MDS solenoid issues, or more serious internal engine problems.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the cause.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the rear main seal, oil pan gasket, and valve cover gaskets.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking seals or gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (paired with 3.7L V6)

  • Shifting Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping, or failure to shift properly.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the transmission, which may involve replacing solenoids, valve body components, or a complete transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (paired with 4.7L and 5.7L V8)

  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at highway speeds, especially during light acceleration. This can be related to the torque converter clutch.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter, which can be a labor-intensive job.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Shifting Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 4-speed, harsh or erratic shifting, slipping, or failure to shift properly can occur.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the transmission, which may involve replacing solenoids, valve body components, or a complete transmission rebuild.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Ball Joints
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear and play in the front ball joints, leading to clunking noises, wandering steering, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sway Bar Links
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn sway bar links can cause clunking noises, especially when going over bumps or turning.
    • Solution: Replacing the sway bar links.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per side.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Air Suspension (if equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear air suspension system, if equipped, can experience leaks or compressor failures, leading to a sagging rear end or a failure to maintain ride height.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the leaking air springs, compressor, or related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the failed part.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: A common issue with many Chrysler vehicles of this era, the TIPM can experience internal failures, leading to a variety of electrical problems, including fuel pump relay failure (causing no-start conditions), intermittent starting problems, and malfunctioning accessories.
    • Solution: Replacing the TIPM or repairing the faulty relay.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window/Door Lock Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows or door locks.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the wiring, switches, or motors involved.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per window/door.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rear Liftgate Wiring Harness
    • Description/Symptoms: The wiring harness that runs to the rear liftgate can experience damage due to repeated opening and closing, leading to problems with the rear wiper, defroster, or liftgate lock.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the damaged wiring harness.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunction, including getting stuck open or closed, or water leaks.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the sunroof mechanism or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Heater Blend Door Actuator
    • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the heater blend door actuator, resulting in one side of the vehicle blowing hot air while the other blows cold air (or vice-versa).
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty blend door actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Jeep Commander, while offering a rugged and spacious SUV experience, suffers from several common issues. The TIPM electrical problems are a significant concern due to their potential to cause a variety of malfunctions. Engine and transmission issues, particularly oil leaks and shifting problems, can also be costly to address. The suspension components are also prone to wear. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of repairs when considering a 2008 Jeep Commander.

Jeep, Commander
Jeep Commander 2008
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