2009 Jeep Commander

Introduction

The 2009 Jeep Commander is a mid-size SUV renowned for its rugged off-road capabilities and roomy interior. It comes with a choice of two engine options: a 3.7L V6 engine and a 5.7L Hemi V8 engine. Both engines can be paired with either a 5-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission.

While the Jeep Commander has its strengths, it has also been plagued by various issues reported by owners.

Engine

3.7L V6 Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, engine overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: 08V286000

5.7L Hemi V8 Engine

• MDS Lifter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from engine, loss of power, engine misfires
  • Solution: Replace lifters
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Spark Plug Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, shuddering, overheating
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushings Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from front suspension, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Breakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, instability while driving
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical System Failures:
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning gauges, power windows, or lights
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the component

Exterior

• Body Panel Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on fenders, doors, or rear hatch
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per panel

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the dashboard
  • Solution: Remove and reinstall loose trim pieces
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies based on labor cost
• Climate Control Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning AC or heater system
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the component

Summary

The 2009 Jeep Commander has a mixed reputation in terms of reliability. While some owners praise its off-road capabilities and spacious interior, others have experienced numerous issues, including engine failures, transmission problems, suspension wear, electrical glitches, and body rust. The severity and cost of these issues can vary significantly, but many require costly repairs that can potentially impact the vehicle’s long-term value and ownership experience.