1987 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.

1987 Jeep Wagoneer

Social links

Common 1987 Jeep Wagoneer problems

The Jeep Wagoneer, produced from 1962 to 1991, is known for its luxury 4x4 capabilities and unique silhouette. While the most reliable years of the Jeep Wagoneer tend to be from the second generation, which spanned from 1984 to 1991, there are still common problems that owners of the 1987 model have reported.

One common problem with the 1987 Jeep Wagoneer is issues with the paneling. This can include rust, dents, or other forms of damage that can affect the vehicle's appearance and structural integrity. It is essential to thoroughly inspect the paneling of any used 1987 Jeep Wagoneer before purchasing, as these issues can be costly to repair.

Another common problem reported by owners of the 1987 Jeep Wagoneer is issues with the stereo system. This can include malfunctioning speakers, a faulty radio, or other audio-related problems that can affect the overall driving experience. It is essential to test the stereo system before purchasing a used 1987 Jeep Wagoneer, as these issues can be challenging to diagnose and repair.

Additionally, some owners of the 1987 Jeep Wagoneer have reported AC control problems. This can include issues with the air conditioning system, such as a lack of cool air or a malfunctioning control panel. These issues can be particularly problematic during hot weather and can affect the overall comfort of the vehicle. It is essential to thoroughly test the AC system before purchasing a used 1987 Jeep Wagoneer, as these issues can be costly to repair.

Transmission failures are another common problem reported by owners of the 1987 Jeep Wagoneer. This can include issues with the transmission slipping, jerking, or failing to shift properly. These issues can affect the overall performance and drivability of the vehicle and can be costly to repair. It is essential to have the transmission inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchasing a used 1987 Jeep Wagoneer.

Finally, some owners of the 1987 Jeep Wagoneer have reported brake issues. This can include problems with the brake pads, rotors, or other brake-related components. These issues can affect the overall safety and performance of the vehicle and can be costly to repair. It is essential to have the brakes inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchasing a used 1987 Jeep Wagoneer.

In summary, while the 1987 Jeep Wagoneer is known for its luxury 4x4 capabilities and unique silhouette, there are still common problems that owners have reported. These include issues with the paneling, stereo system, AC control, transmission, and brakes. It is essential to thoroughly inspect and test any used 1987 Jeep Wagoneer before purchasing to ensure that these issues are identified and addressed.

1987 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 is the best year for the classic Jeep Wagoneer?

The most reliable Jeep Wagoneers tend to be those from the second generation, which extended between 1984 and 1991. This recent launch means there aren't too many Wagoneers on the road, limiting information about reliability.

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 1987 Jeep Wagoneer get?

Based on data from 3 vehicles, 119 fuel-ups and 14,343 miles of driving, the 1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer gets a combined Avg MPG of 9.57 with a 0.78 MPG margin of error.

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 is the gas mileage on a 1987 Jeep Wagoneer?

1987 Jeep Cherokee/Wagoneer

EPA MPGOwner MPG Estimates
1987 Jeep Cherokee/Wagoneer 4WD 4 cyl, 2.1 L, Manual 5-spd
Regular GasolineView Estimates How can I share my MPG?
17 combined city/highway MPG 15 city 20 highway 5.9 gals/ 100 miles
1987 Jeep Cherokee/Wagoneer 4WD 6 cyl, 4.0 L, Manual 5-spd

What year Wagoneer was the best?

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.

1987 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
  • Steering problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Power train problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Jeep Wagoneer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1987 Jeep Wagoneer complaints

The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Jeep Wagoneer.

2002-06-07

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-04-30
  • VIN: 1JCMT7545HT
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: SEE LETTER SENT VIA USMAIL. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK
2000-10-17

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-05-20
  • VIN: 1JCMT75458H
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: 00 T 005 000/TREAD SEPARATION: RIGHT REAR TIRE EXPERIENCED A TREAD SEPARATION WHILE TRAVELING ON A DIRT ROAD AT 25-30 MPH, NOTICE A FLAPPING SOUND BEFORE THE PROBLEM COMMENCE. DRIVER AND PASSENGER IN A 1987 JEEP, WAGENEER; AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT INSTALL AT 80400 MILES, DOT UNAVAILABLE. *AK
1999-09-21

STEERING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-09-04
  • VIN: 1JCMR7541HT
  • Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: ON A TRIP AND AT 65 MPH WENT OVER RAIL ROAD CROSSING AND AS SUSPENSION TRAVELED FELT LIKE THE DRIVE LINE WAS COMMING THROUGH THE FLOOR PAN.SOMETHING IN THE DRIVE TRAIN DID INDEED BOTTON OUT NOT THE SUSPENSION. ALSO STEERING WHEEL BROKE LOOSE ON THIS TRIP AND HAD TO BE REPAIRED BECAUSE THE BOLTS BROKE LOOSE INSIDE SHAFT AND HAS SENCE BEEN REPAIRED BUT DEVELOPED GRINDING LEAVING STOP LIGHTS.I SUSPECTED SOMETHING BOTTOMING OUT HURT TRANSMISSION,I SEARCHED THIS SITE AND DISCOVERED THE SERVICE BULLETIN ON THE TO LONG DRIVE LINE IN REAR.TOOK TO JEEP TO HAVE TRANSMISSION REPAIRED AND ASKED ABOUT DRIVE LINE BEING TO LOND AND DAMAGING THR TRANSFER CASE.THEY HAVE JEEP WEEK AND CALL SAY NOTHING AT ALL WRONG AND CHANGED FLUID AND DO AT THIS TIME SAY YES THEY KNOW ABOUT TO LONG DRIVE LINE BUT THEY DON'T THINK THATS IT AND SEND ME ON MY WAY.TRANSMISSION HEAR GEAR WHINE I SUSPECT THEY DID NOT LOOK INTO DRIVE LINE SO I ENGAGE TRANSFER CASE IN DRIVEWAY AND IT LOCKED INTO DRIVE AND EXTREAME BREAKING SOUND HEARD AND NOW DOES NOTHING BUT GRINDS.I CALL JEEP TELL I HAVE YOUR SERVICE BULLETIN ON THIS TRANSFER CASE DAMAGE WITH THE TO LONG DRIVE LINE HE SAYS LET ME SEE.I READ PART NUMBER OFF MY DRIVE LINE AND COMPAIR TO WHAT BULLETIN SAYS SHOULD BE RIGHT PART NUMBER.CLEARLY I HAVE THE TO LONG A SHAFT. JEEP DEALER SAYS OH WELL.I CALL JEEP CUST SERVICE AND EXPLAIN TO THEM.THEY SAY THERE IS NO SUCH PROBLEM WITH JEEP DRIVE LINE TO LONG AND THIS IS WAY OUT OF WARRENTY I SAY I UNDERSTAND THIS BUT HAD THE PROPER LINE BEEN INSTALLED THIS NEVER WOULD HAVE BOTTOMED OUT AND BROKE AN 1800.00 TRANSFER CASE. JEEP CORP SAYS OH WELL WE ARN'T REPLACING YOUR TRANSFER CASE AND WILL NOT EVEN HELP IT'S MY PROBLEM BECAUSE IT'S NOT WARRENTY.ACCORDING TO YOUR NOTICE #8706..ITEM#92817 DRIVE LINE COULD HAVE BROKE AND AT 65 MPH COULD HAVE POSSABLE CAUSED WRECK OR WORSE MY SON WAS IN THE REAR SEAT. JEEP DEALER HERE SAYS THEY KNOW ABOUT THE DRIVE LINES.JEEP CORP CLAIMS NO SUCH THING SO I OWN IT..YES I DO.
1999-03-22

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-02-02
  • VIN: 1JCMT754LHT
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM IS ENCLOSED WITH NO PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE, WHICH COULD RESULT IN PLASTIC FILL BOTTLE EXPLODING IF ENGINE OVERHEATS. (1ST VEHICLE ON DOC# 607835).
1997-10-22

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1JCMR7514HT
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: CRUISE CONTROL FAILED PRIOR TO RECALL, RECALL REPAIRS REFUSED DUE TO THE MONTH THAT VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED (87V-022). *AK
1997-09-29

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-01-07
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Number Of Deaths: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1JCMT754XHT
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE DUE TO THE GAS TANK RUPTURING DURING A REAR END ACCIDENT. AS A RESULT OF THE FIRE, IN LESS THAN A MINUTE THE FIRE ENGULFED THE ENTIRE REAR END, RESULTING IN A FATALITY AND TWO INJURIES. *AK
1996-05-10

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-03-25
  • VIN: 1JCMT7739HT
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: STEERING WHEEL LOOSE DUE TO LOOSE BOLTS. *SD
1995-12-05

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-10-21
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ELECTRIC CONTROL MODULE FAILED, CAUSING FUEL PUMP/FUEL INJECTION TO CONTINUE RUNNING EVEN WITH KEY REMOVED.
1995-12-05

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-10-21
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: SERPENTINE IDLER PULLEY BELT BEARING FAILED. *DSH
1995-06-27

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1JCHR7547HT
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: PURCHASE JEEP NEW AND THE FRONT SEAT BELT AUTOMATIC RESTRAINT NEVER WORK KEEP TAKING IT TO THE DEALER SAY DON'T HAVE TIME TO FIX THE SEAT BELT . TT
1995-04-07

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-03-10
  • VIN: 1JCMR7542HT
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: DRIVERS SEAT FRAME BROKE UPON APPLYING BRAKES. *AW

1987 Jeep Wagoneer recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1987 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.
1987-03-18
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES
  • Summary: VEHICLE MAY CONTAIN AN OUT OF TOLERANCE THROTTLE BODY.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD PREVENT THE ACCELERATOR FROM RETURNING TOIDLE WHEN RELEASED.
  • Remedy: REPLACE SUSPECT THROTTLE BODIES.
1987-02-25
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: CRUISE CONTROL MODULE COULD HAVE INCONSISTENT CRUISE CONTROL OPERATION.
  • Consequence: INCONSISTENT CRUISE CONTROL OPERATION COULD RESULT INLOSS OF CONTROL AND AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: REPLACE MODULE, AS NECESSARY.
1986-12-11
  • Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: A STUD MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED ON TOP OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD OF ENGINE THAT COULD CONTACT THE FUEL SUPPLY HOSE. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: CHAFING OF THE FUEL HOSE COULD OCCUR WHICH COULD RESULT IN A FUEL LEAK.
  • Remedy: REMOVE STUD AND REPLACE FUEL SUPPLY HOSE AND LINE ASSEMBLY ON VEHICLES WITH ACCUMULATED MILEAGE.
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.
Leave your review of 1987 Jeep Wagoneer

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1987 Jeep Wagoneer problems:

1987 jeep wagoneer problems | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
1987 jeep wagoneer problems | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
https://www.jeepforum.com/threads/1987-jeep-wagoneer-problems.940698/

Jan 4, 2010 ... Ok i have a 1987 Amc Jeep Wagoneer and its story is..(its kinda long).. but any way i bought this jeep a few days ago and all seemed well ...

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 ... Tony Danis, great question sir. “What were the most common quality and reliability issues with the 1984-1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer series?

Common problems/weak parts on the 4.0 6cyl cherokee 84-01 ...
Common problems/weak parts on the 4.0 6cyl cherokee 84-01 ...
https://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f11/common-problems-weak-parts-4-0-6cyl-cherokee-84-01-a-391283/

Mar 21, 2007 ... rear main seal is a big one, it always seems to leak a little no matter what. '87 Jeep Cherokee Laredo 4.0L, NP231, AW4, 5.5" lift, s10 ...

Your Guide to
Your Guide to "EXTREMELY common problems with an XJ (and ...
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f59/your-guide-extremely-common-problems-xj-how-fix-them-135869/

May 16, 2012 ... Let's keep this going! Powered By. 10 Sec. 3.8M. 621. Wrangler 392, 4Xe, and Grand Cherokee L Mega Off-Road DEMO!!! -- Camp Jeep LA Auto Show.

Common YJ Problems | Jeep Wrangler Forum
Common YJ Problems | Jeep Wrangler Forum
https://www.wranglerforum.com/threads/common-yj-problems.650681/

Apr 17, 2014 ... The 1987-1990 YJs with the optional 258 CID (4.2 liter) I6 are cheap in price and so easy to work on, horsepower is low (112) but the torque 210 ...

Other years of Jeep Wagoneer

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
jeep wagoneer 1990 photo
Wagoneer 1990
Jeep

19

5

2

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1991 photo
Wagoneer 1991
Jeep

2

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1992 photo
Wagoneer 1992
Jeep

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1993 photo
Wagoneer 1993
Jeep

6

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1987 Jeep Wagoneer?

Add car complaint
1987 Jeep Wagoneer photo