1983 Jeep Wagoneer problems

jeep logo

The Jeep Wagoneer is a sport utility vehicle (SUV) nameplate of Jeep vehicles, with several models marketed for the 1963 through 1993 model years and again since the 2022 model year.

Various versions of the Wagoneer were manufactured in the US and other nations by Kaiser Motors (1962−1971), by American Motors (1971−1987), by Chrysler (1987−1993), and Stellantis from 2021.

A revival of the Jeep Wagoneer was introduced as a concept version on September 3, 2020, and as the production model on March 11, 2021. Sales begin in the second half of 2021 with 2022 model year versions.

1983 Jeep Wagoneer

Social links

Common 1983 Jeep Wagoneer problems

The Jeep Wagoneer, particularly the 1983 model, has been known to have several common problems that owners have reported. Here are some of the issues in detail:

  • Engine Problems: Another issue that has been reported by customers is various engine problems. These can include oil leaks, ignition system woes, low oil pressure, and a complex vacuum system that can cause issues.
  • Transmission Failures: Transmission failures have also been reported as a common problem with the Jeep Wagoneer. The 1983 model came with a three-speed 727 automatic transmission sourced from Chrysler, which was paired with Selec-Trac four-wheel drive and Dana 44 axles. Transmission failures can be expensive to fix, with the cost of repairing a bad transmission estimated to be around $2000.
  • Brake Issues: Brake issues have also been reported as a common problem with the Jeep Wagoneer. It is essential to have a mechanic inspect the brakes before purchasing a used Jeep Wagoneer to ensure they are in good working condition.
  • Paneling Problems: Problems with the paneling have been reported as a common issue with the Jeep Wagoneer. This can include issues with the vinyl-enabled wood-paneled exterior, which was a signature feature of the Grand Wagoneer.
  • Stereo System Issues: Issues with the stereo system have also been reported as a common problem with the Jeep Wagoneer. This can include problems with the radio, speakers, and other components of the stereo system.
  • Problems with the Choke: The 1983 Jeep Wagoneer's automatic choke has been known to stay closed occasionally, which can prevent the engine from starting unless the choke is manually opened. This issue has been reported to occur after a short drive with a proper warm-up, and it is unclear whether a new carburetor is necessary to fix the problem.
  • Ticking Noise: A ticking noise has been reported as a common problem with the Jeep Wagoneer's engine. This noise can be caused by a variety of issues, including worn-out components or cam shaft drive gear failure. It is essential to isolate the source of the noise to determine the appropriate course of action.
  • Transmission Shifting Issues: The 1983 Jeep Wagoneer's transmission has been known to have shifting issues, with the shift points being erratic and the lack of power being transmitted from the engine to the rear wheels. This issue has been attributed to a possible sticking governor or other likely causes, and it is essential to have the transmission inspected by a mechanic to determine the appropriate course of action.

In summary, the Jeep Wagoneer, particularly the 1983 model, has been known to have several common problems that owners have reported. These issues include AC/heater problems, engine problems, transmission failures, brake issues, paneling problems, stereo system issues, problems with the choke, ticking noise, transmission shifting issues, and vacuum leaks. It is essential to have a mechanic inspect a used Jeep Wagoneer before purchasing it to ensure that these issues are addressed and that the vehicle is in good working condition.

1983 Jeep Wagoneer engine

Are old Jeep Wagoneers reliable?

The 1984-1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer series was known to have a few common quality and reliability issues, including: Rust: Due to its metal body, the Grand Wagoneer is susceptible to rust and corrosion, especially in areas with high humidity or harsh weather conditions.

What was the best year for Jeep Wagoneer?

Although Wagoneer didn't change a whole lot in all that time, people tend to consider the Grand Wagoneer of 1984-91 the best of the bunch. The last of the Wagoneers offered a wonderful mix of amenities, power, and utility in a V-8-powered woodgrain box that could go anywhere and do anything.

What year is the Jeep Grand Wagoneer in breaking bad?

1991

The year 1991 was chosen because the Diecast model shows 1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer.

How many miles per gallon does a 1983 Jeep Wagoneer get?

Based on data from 2 vehicles, 36 fuel-ups and 5,766 miles of driving, the 1983 Jeep Wagoneer gets a combined Avg MPG of 14.21 with a 0.90 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 5 outliers (12.20%) removed.

Are old Jeep Wagoneers reliable?

The 1984-1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer series was known to have a few common quality and reliability issues, including: Rust: Due to its metal body, the Grand Wagoneer is susceptible to rust and corrosion, especially in areas with high humidity or harsh weather conditions.

Why was the Jeep Wagoneer discontinued?

The Grand Wagoneer would sail through its twilight years with minor changes and was discontinued after 1991, a victim of more rigorous safety standards and its unfortunate single-digit fuel economy.

What was the best year for Jeep Wagoneer?

Although Wagoneer didn't change a whole lot in all that time, people tend to consider the Grand Wagoneer of 1984-91 the best of the bunch. The last of the Wagoneers offered a wonderful mix of amenities, power, and utility in a V-8-powered woodgrain box that could go anywhere and do anything.

What year was the Jeep Wagoneer in breaking bad?

1991

The 1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured in the TV series "Breaking Bad" driven by the wife of the series' protagonist, Skyler White.

1983 Jeep Wagoneer car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Wheels problems
  • Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Jeep Wagoneer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1983 Jeep Wagoneer complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Jeep Wagoneer.

2004-03-04

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-03-02
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: WHILE VEHICLE WAS ABOUT TO MAKE A STOP IN THE DRIVEWAY REAR DRIVER SIDE WHEEL RIM SPLIT IN HALF. *AK *LA
2000-08-17

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1JCNJ15N6DT
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: TOLD BY DEALER THEY DO NOT MAKE REPLACEMENT SEAT BELTS!

1983 Jeep Wagoneer recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1983 Jeep Wagoneer.

2007-08-27
  • Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR INADEQUATELY TESTED WHICH MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP TO LEAK.
  • Consequence: A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.
  • Remedy: FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.
1987-11-23
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
  • Summary: THE KEY OPERATED TAILGATE WINDOW WILL CONTINUE TO CLOSE IF THE SPRING LOADED KEY DOES NOT RETURN TO OFF POSITION WHEN RELEASED.
  • Consequence: WINDOW COULD CLOSE ON A CHILD OR OTHERS RESULTING INPERSONAL INJURY.
  • Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD NOT LEAVE KEY IN TAILGATE OF UNATTENDED VEHICLE. REPAIR MECHANISM TO ASSURE PROPER KEY RETURN OPERATION.
Leave your review of 1983 Jeep Wagoneer

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1983 Jeep Wagoneer problems:

83 Wagoneer 360 - A few problems, help please! - The AMC Forum ...
83 Wagoneer 360 - A few problems, help please! - The AMC Forum ...
https://theamcforum.com/forum/83-wagoneer-360-a-few-problems-help-please_topic46956.html

Jan 29, 2013 ... A small crack in a hose will cause big problems. Sometimes is is just easier to buy a box of vacuum tubing replace it all. #2 The choke needs a ...

1983 wagoneer transmission problem | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
1983 wagoneer transmission problem | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
https://www.jeepforum.com/threads/1983-wagoneer-transmission-problem.457666/

Sep 2, 2007 ... Shifting 1-2 is at about 25 - 27 mph, 2-3 shift is 50+ mph. After several miles it sometimes revents to a normal pattern but most often shift ...

What were the most common quality and reliability issues with the ...
What were the most common quality and reliability issues with the ...
https://www.quora.com/What-were-the-most-common-quality-and-reliability-issues-with-the-1984-1991-Jeep-Grand-Wagoneer-series

Feb 2, 2023 ... 1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer series?” I could be a complete smart ass and tell you the common quality and reliability issues with any Jeep is made;.

Full-Size Jeeps (Cherokee Chief, Wagoneer) - What To Look Out ...
Full-Size Jeeps (Cherokee Chief, Wagoneer) - What To Look Out ...
https://www.overlandbound.com/forums/threads/full-size-jeeps-cherokee-chief-wagoneer-what-to-look-out-for.6877/

Full-Size Jeeps (Cherokee Chief, Wagoneer) ... Anything to look out for, as far as common problems with these? ... I just sold my 83' golden eagle ...

Wagoneer SOA pulls to one side/SOLVED!!!!! - Full Size Jeep Network
Wagoneer SOA pulls to one side/SOLVED!!!!! - Full Size Jeep Network
https://fsjnetwork.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=9876

It pulls to the right when hitting bumps and i know it's common to experience such issues with a SOA type lift. ... 1983 Jeep Wagoneer Limited

Other years of Jeep Wagoneer

jeep wagoneer 1984 photo
Wagoneer 1984
Jeep

3

3

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1985 photo
Wagoneer 1985
Jeep

1

3

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1986 photo
Wagoneer 1986
Jeep

5

5

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1987 photo
Wagoneer 1987
Jeep

11

6

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1988 photo
Wagoneer 1988
Jeep

3

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1989 photo
Wagoneer 1989
Jeep

16

3

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1983 Jeep Wagoneer?

Add car complaint
1983 Jeep Wagoneer photo