1989 Jeep Pioneer 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.

1989 Jeep Pioneer

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Common 1989 Jeep Pioneer problems

The Jeep Cherokee Pioneer 1989 is a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts, but like any vehicle, it has its fair share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer, based on complaints from owners:

  • Rough running engine and hesitation while accelerating: Another common problem with the 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer is a rough running engine and hesitation while accelerating. This issue can be caused by a faulty throttle position sensor or a dirty throttle body, which can be fixed by replacing the throttle body or the throttle position sensor itself.
  • Oil leaks: Oil leaks are also a common problem with the 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer. The valve cover gasket and the oil pan gasket tend to fail, causing oil to seep near the corners of the valve cover or leak underneath the vehicle. To fix this issue, the gaskets need to be replaced.
  • Reverse lights not working: Some 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer owners have reported issues with the reverse lights not working. This problem can be caused by a faulty transmission range selector switch, which is located on the passenger side of the transmission with a wiring harness that goes up and over the transmission. If the switch is defective, it needs to be replaced.
  • Exhaust manifold cracks: The exhaust manifold can crack, especially at its welding points. This issue can cause a ticking noise while driving, especially when accelerating. To fix this problem, the exhaust manifold needs to be replaced.
  • Distributor wires and ignition coils failure: Earlier versions of the 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer have a distributor with wires that can fail. Wire boots on the ignition coils can also deteriorate. If the Cherokee has a distributor, the wires need to be replaced, and the plug, cap, and rotor should also be replaced. If the Cherokee has ignition coils, the spark plugs should be replaced at the same time.

In summary, the 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer has several common problems, including idling and stalling issues, rough running engine and hesitation while accelerating, oil leaks, reverse lights not working, exhaust manifold cracks, and distributor wires and ignition coils failure. Owners of this vehicle should be aware of these issues and take appropriate measures to address them.

1989 Jeep Pioneer engine

What was the worst Jeep Grand Cherokee year?

A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee model years most recommended to avoid are 2011 and 2014. These years have been identified as having the most mechanical issues and complaints, leading to potentially expensive maintenance and repairs.

What is the 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer?

The 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer 4x4 represents a pivotal year in the evolution of the SUV, notably for its introduction of the high-output 4.0 Liter I6 engine, a significant upgrade in power and reliability, making it a sought-after choice for off-road enthusiasts and daily drivers alike.

What year did the Jeep Cherokee have problems?

While the fifth generation (2014-2020) of the Jeep Cherokee is known for its transmission problems, the 2014 and 2015 models are said to be the most problematic. These models suffer from stuck gears, poor throttle response, and rough coasting.

What is the biggest problem with Jeep Cherokee?

Some of the most common problems with Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs include the following:

  • Power Steering Failure: A vehicle's power steering system helps you maneuver your SUV, especially when turning or driving at low speeds. ...
  • Engine Issues. ...
  • Other Electrical System Problems. ...
  • Safety Concerns.

What is the main problem on a Jeep Cherokee?

Some of the common issues that plague the Jeep Cherokee include engine stalls, transmission problems, and transmission-related recalls.

Which year Jeep Cherokee is most reliable?

A: The most reliable Jeep Grand Cherokee model years are generally considered to be 1998, 1999, 2005, 2017, and 2018. These years are favored for their strong on- and off-road capabilities, engine performance, fuel economy balance, and modern amenities.

What year was the Jeep Cherokee Pioneer made?

The Pioneer and Pioneer Olympic were built from 1984-90 as an upscale Chief. The Sport ran from 1984-96, with a two-door model from 1989. From 1984-1990 the Jeep Wagoneer was offered with a fancy Limited option.

What are the most common problems with a 2014 Jeep Cherokee?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

  • Engine Minor. Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks. ...
  • Transmission Minor. ...
  • Exhaust. ...
  • Drive System. ...
  • Steering And Suspension. ...
  • In-car Electronics. ...
  • Fuel System/Emissions. ...
  • Noises And Leaks.

1989 Jeep Pioneer car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Jeep Pioneer problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Jeep Pioneer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Jeep Pioneer complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Jeep Pioneer.

2003-06-28

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-04-27
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: VEHICLE SPUN OUT OF CONTROL ON WET PAVEMENT DURING A LEFT TURN IN A RESIDENTIAL AREA. ENGINE ACCELERATED TO HIGH SPEED DESPITE REMOVING FOOT FROM ACCELERATOR AND PLACING ON FLOOR. CAR FISH-TAILED TWICE WITH WHEELS SPINNING AT HIGH SPEED PRIOR TO THE VEHICLE HITTING A CURB AND LEAVING THE ROADWAY. AFTER REALIZING THE CAR WAS CONTINUING TO SWERVE (CORRECTING LEFT AND RIGHT WITH THE STREERING WHEEL) AND NOT SLOWING, HAD THE PRESENCE OF MIND TO FINALLY PRESS ON THE BRAKE PEDAL, BRINGING THE VEHICLE TO A STOP. CRUISE CONTROL WAS NOT ENGAGED BUT HAD BEEN LEFT IN THE ON POSITION FROM THE PRIOR EVENING. CONDITIONS WERE LIGHT RAIN AND WET PAVEMENT. TIME FROM COLD START TO THE ACCIDENT WAS LESS THAN TWO MINUTES. *NLM
2000-09-14

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-09-12
  • VIN: 1J4FJ37L0LL
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: CONSUMER SMELLED AN ODOR OF GASOLINE INSIDE OF VEHICLE. HE LIFTED THE HOOD UP AND THERE WAS GASOLINE SPURTING FROM THE OUTLET SIDE OF FUEL RAIL. HE CONTACTED DEALERSHIP. *AK
1997-06-12

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1J4FJ38L2KL
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE SYSTEM INADEQUATE FOR VEHICLE WEIGHT.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1989 Jeep Pioneer problems:

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 ... Valve cover leaks. Oil filter adaptor leaks. Rear upper shock bolts break. Shackle bolts can break loose inside the body. Your cooling system is ...

Q&A: 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer - Engine Starts and Dies at ...
Q&A: 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer - Engine Starts and Dies at ...
https://www.justanswer.com/jeep/2qu7s-89-jeep-cherokee-pioneer-highway-speeds-engine-starts-dies.html

Nov 6, 2009 ... The most common problems on Jeep 4.0L are fuel pump and crank sensor. The crank sensor is easy to replace. If you need help, let me know ...

1989 Jeep Cherokee Idling, Stalling Problems. | NC4x4
1989 Jeep Cherokee Idling, Stalling Problems. | NC4x4
https://nc4x4.com/forum/threads/1989-jeep-cherokee-idling-stalling-problems.58741/

Aug 15, 2009 ... 1989 Jeep Cherokee Idling, Stalling Problems. ... It's a 1989 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer with the ... common issue for this problem. test your map ...

1989 Jeep Comanche problem | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
1989 Jeep Comanche problem | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
https://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f53/1989-jeep-comanche-problem-192936/

Sep 13, 2005 ... Blue Jeep Club Member #124 -1989 Comanche - Pioneer, LB, 4.0 I6 / BA10 / NP231 / D44 f&r w/Eaton E-Lockers & 4:56 gears. Comanche build-up ...

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 ... Hi Everyone, Recently I have been having hesitation issues with my truck. It is a 1989 Pioneer with a rebuilt '93 HO motor swapped in.

Other years of Jeep Pioneer

jeep pioneer 1989 photo
Pioneer 1989
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