1991 Jeep Comanche problems

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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.

1991 Jeep Comanche

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Common 1991 Jeep Comanche problems

The Jeep Comanche, produced in 1991, is known for its robust engine and off-road capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of problems. Based on complaints from owners, the most common issues with the 1991 Jeep Comanche are radiator overheating and leaking, paint issues, and recalls related to brakes, equipment, fuel system, and steering.

Radiator Overheating and Leaking:
The most reported problem with the 1991 Jeep Comanche is the radiator overheating and leaking. This issue can cause significant engine damage if not addressed promptly. The average mileage when this problem occurs is around 157,000 miles, but it can happen earlier or later depending on the vehicle's maintenance history.

Paint Issues:
Another common problem with the 1991 Jeep Comanche is paint issues, particularly the clear coat coming off the hood and roof. This problem is due to the paint issues that plagued many car and truck companies in the 1990s. The clear coat coming off can lead to sun fading and discoloration, which can affect the vehicle's appearance.

Recalls:
The 1991 Jeep Comanche has had several recalls related to brakes, equipment, fuel system, and steering. The largest recall of the model came in 1986 when cars were invited to dealerships for troubleshooting with six issues. The common problems for this model include brakes (6), equipment (6), fuel system (2), and steering (2).

In summary, the 1991 Jeep Comanche is known for its robust engine and off-road capabilities, but it has its share of problems, including radiator overheating and leaking, paint issues, and recalls related to brakes, equipment, fuel system, and steering. These issues can affect the vehicle's performance, appearance, and safety, so it's essential to address them promptly and maintain the vehicle's regular maintenance schedule.

1991 Jeep Comanche engine

Are Jeep Comanches reliable?

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. But even when problems do occur, replacing parts is typically inexpensive.

How many Jeep Comanches were made in 1991?

5,188

Phaseout and aborted name revival

YearNumbers
198925,311
19909,576
19915,188
1992952

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.

What was the last year of the Jeep Comanche?

1992

1986-1992 JEEP® COMANCHE (MJ)

The Jeep® Comanche (also called the MJ) was a pickup version of the XJ Cherokee. The Comanche pickup originally sported much identical running gear to the XJ, though you could get a 2.1L Renault I-4 diesel engine for the '86 MJ model year.

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.

How many 1991 Jeep Comanches were made?

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.

What is the payload of a 1991 Jeep Comanche?

1,585.0 lbs.

Used 1991 Jeep Comanche - Specs & Features

Dimensions
Turning circle39.1 ft.
Curb weight3,100 lbs.
Maximum payload1,585.0 lbs.
Gross weight5,365 lbs.

1991 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:

  • Parking brake problems
  • Structure problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Jeep Comanche vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1991 Jeep Comanche complaints

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Jeep Comanche.

2004-09-07

PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-04-08
  • Components: PARKING BRAKE
  • Summary: THE EMERGENCY BRAKE DOES NOT HOLD.WHEN THE DRIVERS DOOR IS CLOSED IT RELEASES.THIS CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO ROLL.THIS IS A STANDARD TRANSMISSION.*AK
2002-11-12

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-10-30
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1J7SA2653ML
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKES FAILED CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO HIT A TELEPHONE POLE WITH IT'S REAR QUARTER PANEL, THE CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE #747 BUT WAS REFUSED REPAIR, THE CONSUMER REPLACED THE PADS AND ROTOR HIMSELF AND IS REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT. MR *NLM
2002-10-25

PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: PLEASE PROV
  • Components: PARKING BRAKE
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS IN PARK THE EMERGENCY PARKING BRAKE DISENGAGES AND THIS CAN CAUSE A ACCIDENT. DEALER NOTIFIED TS
1998-07-17

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE SPRING HAS BROKEN, CAUSING THE SEAT BELT TO DETACH FROM BELT BUCKLE WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE. PLEASE PROVIDE DETAILS. *AK
1996-04-29

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-27
  • VIN: 1J7FJ3652ML
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: FAILURE ON THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR, THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR FELL OFF DUE TO A BROKEN HINGE. *AK
1996-04-29

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-04-27
  • VIN: 1J7FJ3652ML
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: FAILURE ON THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR, THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR FELL OFF DUE TO A BROKEN HINGE. *AK

1991 Jeep Comanche recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1991 Jeep Comanche.

1998-01-12
  • 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.

Positive 1991 Jeep Comanche car reviews

  1. Khalil Hilpert 2024-11-21

    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!

  2. Barney Turner 2024-10-03

    This Jeep Comanche is so much fun to drive on and off the road. It's almost unstoppable when you take it off-road! The engine runs great and it has fantastic off-road performance.

  3. Ramon Stracke 2024-08-20

    Hey there! I wanted to share my experience with my Comanche. I was lucky enough to find one with just under 200,000 miles for only $1,700! After putting about 5000 miles on it, I decided to sell it. Overall, it was a great little truck that was easy to work on, had good power, and was definitely unique. If you're in the market for one, I would definitely recommend it! Just be sure to check for any cracked exhaust manifolds, as they are prone to that.

  4. Morton Prohaska 2024-07-10

    I bought this truck brand new after looking at all the other trucks available, and I have never regretted it. It's so much fun to drive, and it handles and rides great. Plus, it has all the power you could ever need. These trucks really know how to run! It's even climbed some really rough and rocky terrain with hills so steep that my friends wouldn't ride with me, even after going up and down a number of times. One of my friends even named the steepest slope on his Tennessee mountain 'Comanche Hill' because he and others were so amazed. They thought I was crazy, but I never doubted the truck's ability. While clearing trees, it even pulled the front-end off the ground and finally tore the bumper brackets in half, but it never quit or ran out of power!

  5. Arne Schaden 2024-05-12

    Hey there! I'm the proud owner of a 1991 Jeep Comanche pickup. I bought it for $4000 back in 1999 when it was completely stock. When I turned 16 in 2002, I decided to upgrade it to a 4WD and installed a new transmission and transfer case. I also gave it a 6

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1991 Jeep Comanche problems:

Jeep Comanche Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Jeep Comanche Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/jeep/comanche

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.

What are Some common problems? - Jeep Cherokee Forum
What are Some common problems? - Jeep Cherokee Forum
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/what-some-common-problems-29380/

Nov 19, 2009 ... Hi, I'm new to the site and I was wodnering what some common problems are with a 1989 jeep cherokee poneer. ... I changed mine out to a 91 style ...

Non-Running Mj...help!!! - MJ Tech: Modification and Repairs ...
Non-Running Mj...help!!! - MJ Tech: Modification and Repairs ...
https://comancheclub.com/topic/42589-non-running-mjhelp/

Mar 31, 2014 ... These renix 4.0's are notorious for wiring problems. You've got a few grounds that are common failure points and can cause erratic issues ...

Crank position sensor problems (maybe) | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
Crank position sensor problems (maybe) | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
https://www.jeepforum.com/threads/crank-position-sensor-problems-maybe.889010/

Oct 29, 2009 ... Jeep Cherokee & Comanche Forums · XJ Cherokee ... TESTING PROCEDURE 1991 - 2001 4.0L H.O. engines 1. Near ... A VERY common failure on your vintage.

Jeep Comanche Acceleration Issues - MJ Tech: Modification and ...
Jeep Comanche Acceleration Issues - MJ Tech: Modification and ...
https://comancheclub.com/topic/53928-jeep-comanche-acceleration-issues/

Sep 19, 2017 ... If its a stock renix TB, use cruiser Tip #14 . Easiest way to check MAP is with a known good one. Check MAP vacuum line.

Other years of Jeep Comanche

jeep comanche 1992 photo
Comanche 1992
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jeep comanche 1985 photo
Comanche 1985
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jeep comanche 1986 photo
Comanche 1986
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jeep comanche 1987 photo
Comanche 1987
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jeep comanche 1988 photo
Comanche 1988
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jeep comanche 1989 photo
Comanche 1989
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1991 Jeep Comanche photo