2008 Jeep Patriot 4x4 problems
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.
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Common 2008 Jeep Patriot 4x4 problems
The Jeep Patriot 4x4 2008 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here's a detailed look at some of these issues:
These common problems can lead to inconvenience, additional costs, and safety concerns for Jeep Patriot 4x4 2008 owners. It is essential to address these issues promptly to ensure the vehicle's longevity and safety.
What problems does 2008 Jeep Patriot have?
A: As mentioned in the guide, the following Jeep Patriot years were most problematic: 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2015. These models are known to have issues with leaking sunroofs, transmission failure, and electrical problems.
How many miles does a 2008 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.
How does the Jeep Patriot 4x4 work?
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.
Are Jeep Patriots cheap to fix?
The Jeep Patriot Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 15th out of 26 for compact SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $596 which means it has average ownership costs.
What problems does 2008 Jeep Patriot have?
A: As mentioned in the guide, the following Jeep Patriot years were most problematic: 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2015. These models are known to have issues with leaking sunroofs, transmission failure, and electrical problems.
How does the Jeep Patriot 4x4 work?
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.
How long can a 2008 Jeep Patriot last?
According to vehiclehistory.com, you can expect the Jeep Patriot to last around 200,000 miles with proper care. If you're someone who ensures your vehicle is in pristine shape, it could last far beyond that point. It's a decent car for an off-roading experience behind the wheel with the classic Jeep appearance.
Is a 2008 Jeep Patriot Limited a 4 wheel drive?
2008 Jeep Patriot. The Jeep Patriot is an all-new compact SUV with plenty of room inside, using a powerful and economical 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that gets an EPA-rated 25 city and 29 highway miles per gallon, with four-wheel drive and a five-speed manual transmission.
2008 Jeep Patriot 4x4 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Jeep Patriot 4x4.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Jeep Patriot 4x4 problems:
08 Jeep patriot 2.4 4wd transmission problem | Jeep Patriot Forums
Jan 24, 2023 ... I have a Jeep patriot 2008 2.4 4wd CVT transmission is having problems. ... common issue causing all of them. Possibly a wiring/ground problem or ...
2008 Jeep Patriot Problems and Complaints - 15 Issues
Top 2008 Jeep Patriot Problems · CVT Transmission · Engine Will not Start Due to Wireless Control Module Fault · Water Leaks From the Front and/or Rear Roof Area.
4x4 problems | Jeep Patriot Forums
May 11, 2009 ... I was wondering if anyone else have experience a problem with the 4x4 not working. I currently have 3 lights in my dash, one for the 4x4, ...
Opinions on (or alternatives to) the 2008-2010 era Jeep Patriot? : r ...
May 6, 2016 ... Consumer reports rates the Patriot as below average in reliability - there are common problems with the transmission, transfer case, paint, ...
Common issues with the Jeep Patriot 2.4 liter engine | Jeep Patriot ...
Sep 30, 2022 ... I had a 2008 4x4 with a manual. The 2.4 is very unrefined, but can be very reliable if it is serviced correctly. The manual transmissions are ...
Other years of Jeep Patriot 4x4
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