1986 Jeep Wagoneer problems

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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.

1986 Jeep Wagoneer

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Common 1986 Jeep Wagoneer problems

The Jeep Wagoneer, produced between 1963 and 1991, is known for its unique silhouette, extensive space, and off-roading capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that potential buyers should be aware of.

  • Paneling Issues: One common problem with the Jeep Wagoneer is related to the paneling. The exterior and interior paneling may have issues, such as gaps, misalignment, or poor fit, which can affect the vehicle's appearance and functionality.
  • Stereo System Problems: The stereo system in the Jeep Wagoneer may also present issues. These problems can range from malfunctioning buttons or knobs to poor sound quality or complete system failure.
  • AC Control Problems: The air conditioning control system in the Jeep Wagoneer can be problematic. This may include issues with the controls themselves, leaks in the system, or poor cooling performance.
  • Transmission Failures: Transmission failures are another common problem with the Jeep Wagoneer. These failures can result in difficulty shifting, slipping, or complete transmission failure, which can be costly to repair.
  • Brake Issues: Brake problems are also prevalent in the Jeep Wagoneer. These issues can range from worn-out brake pads or rotors to more serious problems, such as leaks in the brake lines or a malfunctioning brake system.
  • Engine Problems: Engine problems are a common issue in the Jeep Wagoneer, particularly with the V-8 engines. These problems can include oil leaks, ignition system woes, low oil pressure, and complex vacuum systems that can be prone to failure.
  • Heating and Cooling System Problems: The heating and cooling system in the Jeep Wagoneer can also be problematic. This can include issues with the heating module, coolant temperature fluctuations, and overheating warnings.
  • Safety Issues: Some Jeep Wagoneer owners have reported safety issues, including regular component failures and recalls. These issues can affect the vehicle's overall safety and performance, and may require costly repairs.
  • Expensive Maintenance Costs: The Jeep Wagoneer can be expensive to maintain, with an estimated annual repair cost of $691, with 15% of those repairs expected to be severe in nature.

In summary, the Jeep Wagoneer is known for its unique design and off-roading capabilities, but potential buyers should be aware of common problems such as paneling issues, stereo system problems, AC control problems, transmission failures, brake issues, engine problems, heating and cooling system problems, safety issues, and expensive maintenance costs. It is recommended to have a trusted mechanic inspect any used Jeep Wagoneer before purchasing it to ensure that it is in good condition and to avoid any potential issues down the line.

1986 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 can a Wagoneer last?

According to vehiclehistory.com, a typical Jeep Grand Wagoneer will last around 150,000 miles, with some of the better versions lasting up to 200,000 miles. The way you drive, natural wear and tear, and your maintenance levels can all influence this item in the Jeep Grand Wagoneer.

Are old Jeep Wagoneers reliable?

The Jeep Wagoneer's history can broadly be broken down into three generations, including the most recent relaunch. The most reliable Jeep Wagoneers tend to be those from the second generation, which extended between 1984 and 1991.

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.

Why was the 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 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.

1986 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:

  • Tires problems
  • Seat belts problems
  • Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Jeep Wagoneer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1986 Jeep Wagoneer complaints

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Jeep Wagoneer.

2000-09-29

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-06-19
  • VIN: 1JCNJ15N1GT
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: PE#00020; FRONT PASSENGER'S TIRE BLEWOUT. VEHICLE WAS MOVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH. TIRE EXPERIENCED A LARGE RIP WHERE THE TREAD MET THE SIDEWALL. TIRES WERE PURCHASED BRAND NEW AT A TIRE CENTER. APPROX. MILEAGE ON THE TIRES 500 MILES.*AK
2000-08-21

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-08-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: THE RIGHT REAR TIRE BLEW I LOST CONTROLL AND TOTALED THE VEHICLE WITH MY TWO CHILDERN WITH ME.( DOT NUMBER: W1HL TIRE SIZE: 9235/75R15 )
1998-08-13

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: FILL IN
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEATBELTS IN REAR OF VEHICLE ARE DEFECTIVE. SEATBELT RETRACTORS ARE FAULTY. THEY STICK AND JAM. CONSUMER HAS REPLACED WITH MANUAL SEATBELTS. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
1995-12-14

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-10-01
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: BOLT HOLDING ADJUSTABLE STEERING WHEEL COLUMN HAS LOOSENED, DEALER TIGHTENED AND PUT LOCK WASHERS ON THEM. TT
1995-01-10

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-12-01
  • VIN: 1JCWB7568GT
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLE FELL APART, CALLED DEALER, HE SAID PART IS ON NATIONAL BACK ORDER DON'T KNOW WHEN THEY GOING TO GET THE PART. TT

1986 Jeep Wagoneer recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1986 Jeep Wagoneer.

1989-11-21
  • Manufacturer: DABRYAN COACH BUILDERS
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: TIRE RESERVE LOAD LABEL MAY NOT HAVE BEEN INSTALLED.
  • Consequence: VEHICLES WOULD NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 110.
  • Remedy: INSTALL PROPER LABEL.
1988-07-01
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM RESERVOIR CANISTERS MAY DEVELOP LEAKS DUE TO BUMPER IMPACT.
  • Consequence: THIS WOULD RESULT IN LOSS OF POWER BRAKE ASSIST AND ANINCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE.
  • Remedy: REPLACE BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM CANNISTERS WITH NEW TYPE CANNISTERS; ALSO, INSTALL A RESTRICTION ORIFICE TO ENSURE SUFFICIENT VACUUM IN EVENT CANNISTER LEAKAGE OCCURS.
1986-12-09
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: STEERING:LINKAGES
  • Summary: STEERING LINKAGE COUPLERS REMAINED IN ACID ETCHING BATH TOO LONG. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: COUPLERS COULD BE OUT OF TOLERANCE RESULTING IN STEERING WHEEL MISALIGNMENT WITH EVENTUAL LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
  • Remedy: REPLACE OUT OF TOLERANCE STEERING LINKAGE COUPLERS.
1986-11-07
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
  • Summary: ACCELERATOR CABLE BUSHING COULD DISCONNECT FROM THE ACCELERATOR LEVER ASSEMBLY. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THIS COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF ENGINE CONTROL WITH ENGINE RETURNING TO IDLE.
  • Remedy: REPLACE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BRACKET AND LEVER ASSEMBLIES.
1985-10-29
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: JEEPS MAY HAVE AN IMPROPERLY CONNECTED FUEL LINE FITTING WHICH COULD BECOME DISCONNECTED AND CAUSE GASOLINE TO BE SPILLED. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IF THE FUEL LINE BECOMES DISCONNECTED, SPILLS GASOLINE AND AN IGNITION SOURCE IS PRESENT, A FIRE OR EXPLOSION MAY OCCUR.
  • Remedy: RECONNECT FUEL LINE FITTING, AS REQUIRED.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1986 Jeep Wagoneer problems:

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 ... 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, ...

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Oct 14, 2008 ... Stock XJ Cherokee Tech. All XJ Non-modified/stock questions go here - 1986 Cherokee 2.5L Ignition Problem (Dead) - Hi all. New to this site.

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83 Wagoneer 360 - A few problems, help please! - The AMC Forum ...
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1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Reviews - Carsurvey.org
1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Reviews - Carsurvey.org
http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/jeep/grand_wagoneer/1986/

Apr 28, 2010 ... The Wagoneer came to me with a few issues. Nothing new has broken since I purchased it. Mostly, oil leaks, blown light bulbs, broken seat belt ...

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1986 Jeep Wagoneer photo