2008 Jeep Patriot fwd 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.

2008 Jeep Patriot fwd

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Common 2008 Jeep Patriot fwd problems

The 2008 Jeep Patriot is considered one of the worst years for this model due to various problems reported by owners. The most common issue is a leaky sunroof, with numerous reports of water leaking through the sunroof and causing damage to the dashboard, radio, and headlights. Some owners even reported being unable to drive their vehicles during rain due to the severity of the leaks.

Another significant problem with the 2008 Jeep Patriot is transmission failure. At around 100,000 miles, several owners have reported that their Jeep's transmission simply stopped working.

The 2011 Jeep Patriot also has a leaky sunroof, similar to the 2008 and 2009 models. However, the 2011 model also has a new problem: overheating transmission. At around 70,000 miles, many owners have noticed a whining engine noise before seeing the transmission temperature light coming on. This issue seems to be common with CVT transmissions.

The 2012 Jeep Patriot has a faulty CVT transmission, with numerous complaints of a whining noise, difficulty accelerating, and overheating warning. The typical repair cost is around $3,940.

The 2015 Jeep Patriot is considered the worst model year, with several familiar problems like TIPM failure and water leaks, but also a new stalling engine issue. According to owner complaints, the worst 2015 Patriot issue is the stalling engine, which can happen after filling up the gas.

Other common problems with the Jeep Patriot include a failing throttle body, noisy alternator, rust damage around the wheel wells and other lower areas, suspension and steering problems (control arms, sway bar links, tie rod ends), noisy wheel bearings, electrical issues, and water leaks in earlier models.

In summary, the 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2015 Jeep Patriot models have various mechanical problems that potential buyers should be aware of. These issues include leaky sunroofs, transmission failure, overheating transmission, faulty CVT transmission, and stalling engine. Additionally, other common problems include a failing throttle body, noisy alternator, rust damage, suspension and steering problems, noisy wheel bearings, electrical issues, and water leaks in earlier models.

2008 Jeep Patriot fwd engine

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.

What does FWD mean on Jeep Patriot?

While FWD means front-wheel drive, you might be wondering the difference between all-wheel drive and 4 wheel drive since they often get confused. Let's take a closer look to learn more about front-wheel drive, and compare all-wheel drive vs.

What year did Jeep Patriot stop using CVT transmission?

2014

The Jeep Patriot underwent many changes in trims or models for the 2014 model year; however, 2014 was the first model year that Freedom Drive 1 Patriots came with a Hyundai 6-speed automatic transmission instead of the CVT.

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.

Is the 2008 Jeep Patriot front-wheel drive?

The Patriot offers a choice of two engines, two transmissions and three drivelines. Standard are the familiar 2.4-liter four-cylinder from the Caliber and Compass, a five-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. The automatic option comes in the form of a continuously variable transmission.

What does FWD mean on Jeep Patriot?

While FWD means front-wheel drive, you might be wondering the difference between all-wheel drive and 4 wheel drive since they often get confused. Let's take a closer look to learn more about front-wheel drive, and compare all-wheel drive vs.

How much is a 2008 Jeep Patriot going for?

How much is a 2008 Jeep Patriot worth? The value of a used 2008 Jeep Patriot ranges from $1,136 to $4,754, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.

2008 Jeep Patriot fwd complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Jeep Patriot fwd.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2008 Jeep Patriot fwd recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2008 Jeep Patriot fwd.

2010-09-03
  • Manufacturer: MARATHON SEAT COVERS, INC.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: MARATHON IS RECALLING CERTAIN SEAT COVERS, BRAND SUPERHIDES WITH PART NUMBERS 593, 594, 578, 960, 228, 228-09, 267-08, 333, 625, AND 630, SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE SEAT COVERS ARE MADE OF HEAVIER THREAD AND ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH SEATS CONTAINING SIDE AIRBAGS. THE HEAVIER SEAT COVER COULD INTERFERE WITH FULL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
  • Consequence: AN IMPROPERLY DEPLOYED AIRBAG COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
  • Remedy: MARATHON WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND REPLACE THE SEAT COVER FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 14, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MARATHON AT 1-800-735-2769.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2008 Jeep Patriot fwd problems:

2008 Jeep Patriot Problems and Complaints - 15 Issues
2008 Jeep Patriot Problems and Complaints - 15 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2008-jeep-patriot/problems

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.

Common issues with the Jeep Patriot 2.4 liter engine | Jeep Patriot ...
Common issues with the Jeep Patriot 2.4 liter engine | Jeep Patriot ...
https://www.jeeppatriot.com/threads/common-issues-with-the-jeep-patriot-2-4-liter-engine.342111/

Sep 30, 2022 ... ... Jeep Patriot 2.4 with a manual transmission. ... I've had a 2008 ... Biggest problem plaguing the engine is the danged linkage between the seat and ...

Opinions on (or alternatives to) the 2008-2010 era Jeep Patriot? : r ...
Opinions on (or alternatives to) the 2008-2010 era Jeep Patriot? : r ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/4i377t/opinions_on_or_alternatives_to_the_20082010_era/

May 6, 2016 ... Consumer reports rates the Patriot as below average in reliability - there are common problems with the transmission, transfer case, paint, ...

Common problems??? | Jeep Patriot Forums
Common problems??? | Jeep Patriot Forums
https://www.jeeppatriot.com/threads/common-problems.57661/

Sep 29, 2010 ... :eek: t" Edition. Roof leaked on 3rd day of ownership and multiple times thereafter. Wheel Speed Sensor FAILED (3x!) causing ABS system to ...

Here Are The Jeep Patriot Years To Avoid - CoPilot
Here Are The Jeep Patriot Years To Avoid - CoPilot
https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/jeep-patriot-years-to-avoid/

Mar 27, 2024 ... According to CarComplaints, the top three problems with this model are: water leaking into the cabin, failure to accelerate while driving, and ...

Other years of Jeep Patriot fwd

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Patriot fwd 2009
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