1990 Jeep Comanche problems
The Jeep Comanche (designated MJ) is a pickup truck variant of the Cherokee compact SUV (1984–1992) manufactured and marketed by Jeep for model years 1986-1992 in rear wheel (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) models as well as two cargo bed lengths: six-foot (1.83 metres) and seven-foot (2.13 metres).
Introduction
During the mid-1980s, according to AMC chairman W. Paul Tippett Jr. "People are finding trucks a reasonable and sophisticated alternative to cars." To satisfy the demand and to compete with Japanese competitors, both AMC and Chrysler were preparing compact pickups for the 1986 and 1987 model years (respectively). Also at this time the financial health of AMC was poor and the automaker was in need of cash as it was preparing a new line of midsize sedans (the Eagle Premier) scheduled to be produced at a factory being built in Canada (Brampton Assembly), but the best thing the company had going for it was its popular line of Jeeps and introducing a compact Jeep pickup truck in the fall of 1985 was expected to help.
The Jeep Comanche was introduced in mid-August 1985, at a lavish event staged at the ballroom of the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino (currently Bally's Las Vegas) for AMC's over 1,500 North American dealers. American Motors included Chinese officials as part of the negotiations establishing Beijing Jeep (now Beijing Benz). The goal was to produce and sell Comanches in China through this joint venture.
The new trucks were unveiled by Jose Dedeurwaerder, an engineer and international business executive with 23 years of experience with Renault, who had just been appointed as AMC's new president. The base price of the two-wheel drive model was $7,049 (adjusted only for inflation equal to US$19,969 in 2023 dollars), making it the lowest priced Jeep model for the 1986 model year.
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Common 1990 Jeep Comanche problems
The Jeep Comanche, produced from 1986 to 1992, was marketed for its sturdy drivetrain, great fuel economy, easily replaceable parts, and long life.
The Comanche's rust susceptibility was a major issue, but it wasn't the only reason for its poor sales. The compact truck category was on the decline from 1986 to 1992, and the Comanche's sales suffered significantly compared to its competitors.
Another factor that impacted the Comanche's sales was Chrysler's acquisition of Jeep in 1987. Chrysler rebranded Jeep as an SUV-exclusive brand, which made the Comanche's truck production redundant.
Despite these challenges, the Comanche had many positive features. It was known for its high reliability and longevity, with a potentially sturdier drivetrain than the rest of the vehicle.
In summary, the Jeep Comanche faced significant rust issues, declining sales, and changes in ownership that led to its discontinuation in 1992. Despite these challenges, it had many positive features that made it a popular vehicle during its production run.
Is the Jeep Comanche reliable?
A Comanche is no less unreliable than any vehicle that has been abused and mistreated, nor is it any more reliable than any vehicle that has been properly maintained and operated. The AW4 is one of the better transmissions available. The unibody has proven to be equal to, if not superior to frame-body construction.
What engine is in a 1990 Jeep Comanche?
Used 1990 Jeep Comanche - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 2.5 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 121 hp @ 5,250 rpm |
Are Jeep Comanches rare?
From 1985 to 1989, production exceeded about 25,000 units per year. In 1991, production declined to around 9,500 units in 1990 and 5,100 in 1991. By 1992, its end year, Chrysler only built around 950 Comanches before the Jeep Comanche Pickup was discontinued.
How much is a Jeep Comanches worth?
The average Jeep Comanche costs about $17,245.27. The average price has increased by 40.6% since last year. The 2 for sale on CarGurus range from $12,900 to $22,500 in price.
Is the Jeep Comanche reliable?
How Durable Is The Jeep Comanche? - Find the best Jeep deals! The Comanche enjoys an unheard-of lifespan for its producing era. The 4.0-liter inline-six is likely the most durable engine out of all of them, and several models have been driven over 250,000 miles without any significant problems.
Why was Jeep Comanche discontinued?
As sales dropped, the Comanche was planned for discontinuation. In 1990, the National Council of Jeep-Eagle dealers asked Chrysler to discontinue the Comanche, and allow them to sell a version of the Dodge Dakota pickup.
What engine is in a 1990 Jeep Comanche?
Used 1990 Jeep Comanche - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 2.5 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 121 hp @ 5,250 rpm |
What is the value of a 1990 Jeep Comanche?
The value of a used 1990 Jeep Comanche ranges from $1,197 to $6,844, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
1990 Jeep Comanche car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Jeep Comanche problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Parking brake problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Jeep Comanche vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Jeep Comanche complaints
The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Jeep Comanche.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1J4FJ57L0LL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE BRAKE PEDAL SLOWLY GOES DOWN . THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED THAT THE PUMP MOTOR KEEPS RUNNING THAT AND INJECTION SYSTEM THROTTLE CONTROL STICKS AT IDLE. THE DEALER BLED THE MASTER CYLINDER AND EVERYTHING SEEMS FINE. *SCC *NLM
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-07-02
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1J7FT66L1LL
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: 5SPD WONT HOLD TRUCK&TRAILER ON STEEP LAUNCH RAMP.PARKING BRAKE DISENGAGES.DEALERS DON'T KNOW HOW TO FIX RECURRING PROBLEM.I'VE ASKED FOR HAND BRAKE BUT THEY SAY THE CAN'T CONVERT FROM FOOT TO HAND BRAKE. HAD TRUCK FOR 10 YEARS AND THIS IS MY MAIN BUYER'S REMORSE. I'LL NEVER CONSIDER ANOTHER VEHICLE WITH A FOOT PARKING BRAKE AGAIN.CAB DID PAY SMALL VISIT TO THE DRINK DUE TO JUNKY PARKING BRAKE.THIS NEEDS TO BE RESOLVED ONCE AND FOR ALL.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-09-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1J7FT66L1LL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE STARTED AND EXCELERATED AND CAUSED A LINEUP OF CRASHES.UPDATE ON THROTTLE COULD HAVE MINIMIZED OR PREVENTED, BUT HEARING THE PROBLEMS OTHERS HAVE HAD AND CONSIDERING NOT UPDATING. FIRST FIVE YEARS VEHICLES BRAKES AND EXHAUST WERE SORRY. HAVE REPLACED ALL WITH AFTER-MARKET STUFF AND ALL PROBLEMS HAVE STOPPED. JEEP SHOULD CONSIDER BETTER EQUIPMENT, ESPECIALLY BECAUSE TRUCKS GENERALLY ARE USED TO PULL TRAILERS SUCH AS ME. STILL WANT MY PARKING BRAKE FIXED. I WOULD LIKE A RELIABLE HAND BRAKE AS IN SOME MODELS.
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-07-02
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1J7FT66L1LL
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: 5SPD WONT HOLD TRUCK&TRAILER ON STEEP LAUNCH RAMP.PARKING BRAKE DISENGAGES.DEALERS DON'T KNOW HOW TO FIX RECURRING PROBLEM.I'VE ASKED FOR HAND BRAKE BUT THEY SAY THE CAN'T CONVERT FROM FOOT TO HAND BRAKE. HAD TRUCK FOR 10 YEARS AND THIS IS MY MAIN BUYER'S REMORSE. I'LL NEVER CONSIDER ANOTHER VEHICLE WITH A FOOT PARKING BRAKE AGAIN.CAB DID PAY SMALL VISIT TO THE DRINK DUE TO JUNKY PARKING BRAKE.THIS NEEDS TO BE RESOLVED ONCE AND FOR ALL.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-09-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1J7FT66L1LL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE STARTED AND EXCELERATED AND CAUSED A LINEUP OF CRASHES.UPDATE ON THROTTLE COULD HAVE MINIMIZED OR PREVENTED, BUT HEARING THE PROBLEMS OTHERS HAVE HAD AND CONSIDERING NOT UPDATING. FIRST FIVE YEARS VEHICLES BRAKES AND EXHAUST WERE SORRY. HAVE REPLACED ALL WITH AFTER-MARKET STUFF AND ALL PROBLEMS HAVE STOPPED. JEEP SHOULD CONSIDER BETTER EQUIPMENT, ESPECIALLY BECAUSE TRUCKS GENERALLY ARE USED TO PULL TRAILERS SUCH AS ME. STILL WANT MY PARKING BRAKE FIXED. I WOULD LIKE A RELIABLE HAND BRAKE AS IN SOME MODELS.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT WILL NOT LATCH INTERMITTENTLY AND ALSO COMES UNLATCHED WHILE DRIVING. NLM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-12
- VIN: 1J7FJ66L2LL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR IS NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY IN MY JEEP. I FOUND THAT TERE ARE 3 SERVICE BULLITENS REQUIREING THE REPLACEMENT OF THE SAME. THERE IS ALSO ONE RECALL INDICATING THE PART SHOULD BE REPLACED. I CALLED UP JEEP (CHRYSLER) THEY SAID THAT THE RECALL DOES NOT APPLY TO MY JEEP. IT WAS MADE DURING THE MONTHS LISTED IN THE RECALL AND THE SERIAL NUMBER ON THE SENSOR APPLIES THE THE LIST IN THE SERVOCE BULLETINS. I INITIATED A CASE WITH CHRYSLER THE COMPLAINT # IS 55441434. PLEASE CLARIFY THIS ISSUE IF YOU CAN ASAP. THE JEEP IS DANGEROUS TO OPERATE, BECAUSE OF THIS MALFUNCTIOING SENSOR.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-17
- VIN: 1J7FT26E5LL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE LINES LET GO. WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED, NOTHING HAPPENED. ALL OF THE BRAKE LINES ARE RUSTED OUT, NO OTHER RUST ON THE VEHICLE. DEALER CONTACTED AND WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PAINT PEELING.
PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1J7FT36L2LL
- Components: PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: EMERGENCY BRAKE CABLE SYSTEM FAILED, DUE TO RUST AND CORROSION.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1J7FT36L2LL
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: REAR BRAKES FAILED DUE TO RUST AND CORROSION.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-05
- VIN: 1J7FT36L2LL
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GAS TANK: DRIVING DOWN FREEWAY AND HEARD A NOISE, PULLED OVER AND THE GAS TANK WAS HITTING AGAINST THE DRIVESHAFT. BOLT THAT HOLDS THE STRAP HAD COME OUT OF SLOTS. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE TRANSMISSION SOME TIME IT WILL NOT SHIFT INTO GEAR . TT
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-22
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1JFT36L0LL2
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: ONE TIE ROD BROKE, CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL/ACCIDENT. TT
1990 Jeep Comanche recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Jeep Comanche.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, OR WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT DISC BRAKE ROTORS CAN EXPERIENCE SEVERE CORROSION IF OPERATED FOR AN EXTENSIVE PERIOD IN THE "SALT BELT." IF THE ROTORS ARE NOT REPLACED, THE CORROSION CAN EVENTUALLY COMPROMISE THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE STAMPED STEEL CENTER HUB SECTION OF THE ROTOR.
- Consequence: THE REDUCED STRENGTH CAN ALLOW THE CAST IRON WEAR SURFACE TO SEPARATE FROM THE HUB, REDUCING THE BRAKE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE ROTORS WITH ROTORS THAT ARE COATED WITH A CORROSION PROTECTION.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
- Summary: MALFUNCTION OF FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM THROTTLE POSTITION SENSOR COULD CAUSE INTERMITTENT HIGH ENGINE IDLE SPEED IMMEDIATELY AFTER STARTING ENGINE.
- Consequence: HIGH ENGINE IDLE WHEN CAR IS FIRST PLACED IN GEAR COULDRESULT IN UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION.
- Remedy: REPLACE THROTTLE POSITION SENSORS WITH SENSORS THAT WOULD SEND CORRECT SIGNALS TO THE FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM.
Negative 1990 Jeep Comanche car reviews
Positive 1990 Jeep Comanche car reviews
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Great little pickup! It's so fun to drive and very capable with its 4-wheel drive. The design is well thought out and good looking, making it easy to maintain. I absolutely love it!
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This truck is destined to become a classic because of how rare it is. I have driven it both as a commuter and as a recreational vehicle, and I continue to be amazed by its handling, ground clearance off road, and four-wheel drive capabilities. I have regularly done routine maintenance and replaced the rear main seal, so it is reliable and great off road. Although I would like to put a lift and bigger tires on it, it wheels great as is.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Jeep Comanche problems:
Jeep Comanche - History, Major Flaws, & Why It Got Cancelled ...
Mar 31, 2021 ... In this video we are looking at the Jeep Comanche! This was a compact pickup, and the first truck with a unibody and removable bed.
Jeep Comanche Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Top Jeep Comanche Problems · Oil seepage from head gasket · Engine Oil Leaks From Valve Cover, Oil Pan, and Timing Cover Gaskets · Broken Exhaust Manifold Studs.
89 Jeep Comanche, old and dirt cheap, is it worth it? please help ...
Feb 23, 2017 ... ... engine/tranny, ease of repair, reliability, availability of parts, common problem areas, and simply whether or not this can be trusted to ...
1990 Jeep Comanche Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Most Common 1990 Jeep Comanche Problems ... Engine Oil Leaks From Valve Cover, Oil Pan, and... Engine oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket and ...
School me on the 4.0 renix engine - MJ Tech: Modification and ...
Nov 27, 2011 ... ... Jeeps was lacking is the engine to chassis ground. ... 1990 models. ... That's what I'm sharing in my first post-tried and true repairs for known ...
Other years of Jeep Comanche
Are you having problems with your 1990 Jeep Comanche?
Damion Deckow 2024-02-01
My first car was a Jeep Comanche. Despite the fact that it had been badly cared for before I bought it, it was fairly reliable. I never had any problems with the engine or transmission, but it consistently leaked power steering fluid despite multiple attempts to repair it. I really liked the power of the I6 4 liter engine and was also impressed with its durability. When I swerved to miss a deer and went through a small (12 inch diameter) tree, the frame was undamaged (although the grill and bumper were destroyed) and the truck was fully drivable after I replaced the headlights. It lasted until the clutch slave cylinder went out, which requires the removal of the engine to replace.