Jeep Patriot 4x4 problems

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The Jeep Patriot (MK74) is a front-engine five-door compact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Jeep, having debuted with the Jeep Compass in April 2006 at the New York Auto Show for the 2007 model year. Both cars, as well as Dodge Caliber shared the GS platform, differentiated by their styling and marketing, with the Patriot exclusively offering a four-wheel drive system, marketed as Freedom Drive II.

The Patriot was manufactured at Chrysler's Belvidere, Illinois assembly plant alongside the Compass. Although the model was still selling well even as it was essentially unchanged as it entered its 11th model year, production ended with the 2017 model year.

Design

In the U.S. the Patriot uses either the 2.0 L or 2.4 L World gasoline I4 engine. Both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are available. The Patriot features two four-wheel drive systems both of which are electronically controlled.

The standard four-wheel drive system is called Freedom Drive I. This is a full-time Automatic 4WD that directly drives the front differential carrier from the transmission output and is exclusively front-wheel drive whenever 4WD is not commanded by the powertrain control module or the driver. The transaxle supplies power to the rear drive unit via a driveshaft that is in constant mesh with the front carrier. The driveshaft joins the front transaxle through a small, fixed ratio gearbox which Jeep refers to as the Power Transfer Unit.The driveshaft is suspended by a centrally mounted carrier bearing and delivers torque to an assembly at the rear of the vehicle Jeep refers to as the Rear Drive Unit. An electronically controlled multi-plate wet clutch located inside the rear drive unit variably couples this driveshaft with a pinion gear that drives an open differential carrier and delivers power to the rear wheels. The clutch coupling force is sufficient to supply up to 100% of available engine torque to the rear axle. A driver accessible control located between the front seats allows the driver to command a locked 4wd mode that simulates the behavior of a fixed center coupling on a conventional 4WD vehicle. In both the default operating mode and the driver selected 4WD mode, the operation of this clutch is computer controlled and it will disconnect and revert to automatic operation above 35 miles per hour. To prevent static driveline windup the powertrain controller will vary the force of clutch engagement while the vehicle is traveling on a curved path, using input from a steering angle sensor.

An optional four-wheel drive system called Freedom Drive II is based on Freedom Drive I and operates similarly, however in combination with a unique CVT transmission it is capable of a 19:1 gear reduction simulating a low range usually found in vehicles with dedicated transfer cases. This 19:1 "crawl" ratio is achieved with a much lower (numerically higher) ring and pinion ratio compared to non Freedom Drive II vehicles and permits the driver to optionally hold this initial ratio for enhanced control at very low speeds.

Freedom Drive II is part of an equipment package including several other enhancements intended for use on more difficult terrain and Jeep Patriots with this package bear Jeep's "Trail Rated" badging.

All Jeep Patriots include an enhanced traction control system that operates on both driven axles (4WD models) or on the front axle only (2WD models) to supply torque to all four wheels effectively and without a locking or limited slip differential. This system is branded BLD by Jeep and operates by applying braking force to a wheel on either (driven) axle if that wheel is measured spinning faster than the other wheel on the same axle. BLD remains in effect even if the driver selects the traction control off option.

The 2.4 L GEMA I4 is an option for the 4X2 model Patriot.

For Europe and Australia, a 2.0 L (1968 cc; 120 cid; 140ps) Volkswagen-manufactured diesel engine is fitted along with a 6-speed manual gearbox. All EU cars are fitted as standard with four wheel drive and a version of the Freedom Drive System that tuned differently from the U.S. versions, but with similar capability to FDII with brake traction control and three switchable electronic stability control and traction control settings for on or off-road use.

The Patriot won the 2007 Green 4x4 Award and the 2008 4x4 of the Year in the UK.

photo of Jeep Patriot 4x4 car production

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Jeep Patriot 4x4 model years

jeep patriot 4x4 2010 photo
Patriot 4x4 2010
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jeep patriot 4x4 2009 photo
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Patriot 4x4 2008
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Common Jeep Patriot 4x4 problems

The Jeep Patriot 4x4 has been known to have several common problems, based on complaints from owners and reviews.

  • Suspension problems: Suspension issues are also common in the Jeep Patriot. Some owners have reported problems with the suspension, including a lack of response to the first or second gear, even on flat and dry roads.
  • Gearbox/clutch problems: Some owners have reported problems with the gearbox/clutch in the Jeep Patriot, including issues with shifting and clutch engagement.

In summary, the Jeep Patriot 4x4 has several common problems, including fuel tank issues, corrosion, electrical problems, loss of acceleration, engine problems, 4x4 problems, suspension problems, and gearbox/clutch problems. If you are considering purchasing a Jeep Patriot 4x4, it is important to be aware of these potential issues and to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.

Jeep Patriot 4x4

What is the biggest problem with Jeep Patriot?

Common Jeep Patriot Problems

  • Premature CVT failure - The Patriot's continuously variable transmission is prone to failure. ...
  • Water leaking into the cabin - Numerous Patriot models are known to have leaky cabins. ...
  • Stalling engine - One of the worst issues with the Patriot lineup is the stalling engine.

Is the Jeep Patriot a true 4x4?

In the U.S. the Patriot uses either the 2.0 L or 2.4 L World gasoline I4 engine. Both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are available. The Patriot features two four-wheel drive systems both of which are electronically controlled. The standard four-wheel drive system is called Freedom Drive I.

What year did Jeep Patriot stop using CVT transmission?

For 2014, Jeep adds the PowerTech 6F24 six-speed automatic to the option list for all three models, replacing the deeply unloved continuously variable transmission. It matches the six-speed to the carry-over 2.0- and 2.4-liter four-cylinders.

How many miles will a Jeep Patriot last?

With proper care, most Jeep Patriots will last around 200,000 miles before encountering severe repairs you might consider replacing the car. It's a solid choice for the classic Jeep appearance with off-roading capabilities. For some, this car will last almost two decades.

Recalls Jeep Patriot 4x4

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Jeep Patriot 4x4.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Jeep Patriot 4x4 2007
  • Report Received Date: 2007-05-07
  • Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: WHEELS:HUB
  • Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH REAR DISC BRAKES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD (FMVSS) NO. 135, "LIGHT VEHICLE BRAKE SYSTEMS." THE LENGTH OF THE REAR WHEEL HUB MOUNTING BOLTS MAY PREVENT ACTUATION OF THE PARK BRAKE.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD ALLOW UNINTENDED MOVEMENT OF THE VEHICLE UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR WHEEL HUB MOUNTING BOLTS AND REPAIR THE PARK BRAKE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 8, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

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Jeep Patriot 4x4 photo