1988 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.

1988 Jeep Wagoneer

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Common 1988 Jeep Wagoneer problems

The Jeep Wagoneer, produced from 1962 to 1991, is known for its luxury 4x4 capabilities and powerful engine. However, as with any vehicle, the 1988 Jeep Wagoneer has its fair share of common problems reported by owners.

One of the most common issues reported is related to the air conditioning (A/C) and heating system. Owners have reported problems with the rear heater failing, followed by the front heater, due to a "bad heating module".

Another common issue with the 1988 Jeep Wagoneer is related to the engine. The V-8 engine, which is the most likely entry point for most Grand Wagoneers, is prone to oil leaks, particularly at the rear main seal.

The vacuum system in the 1988 Jeep Wagoneer is another area where problems can arise. The system is complex, a result of both emissions control requirements and the decision to stick with a carburetor throughout the truck's production run.

While the 1988 Jeep Wagoneer is known for its powerful engine and high towing capacity, its combined fuel economy of only 11 miles per gallon has contributed to slow sales, particularly in the early 1990s.

In summary, the 1988 Jeep Wagoneer has several common problems reported by owners, including issues with the A/C and heating system, the engine, and the vacuum system. While the vehicle is known for its powerful engine and high towing capacity, its poor fuel economy and outdated platform have contributed to its discontinuation.

1988 Jeep Wagoneer engine

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.

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.

What engine is in a 1988 Jeep Grand Wagoneer?

1988 Jeep GRAND WAGONEER (5.9L 8 -cyl Engine Code [N] N) Motor Oil, Filters and Lubricants - AMSOIL.

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 engine is in a 1988 Jeep Grand Wagoneer?

1988 Jeep GRAND WAGONEER (5.9L 8 -cyl Engine Code [N] N) Motor Oil, Filters and Lubricants - AMSOIL.

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.

1988 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:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Jeep Wagoneer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1988 Jeep Wagoneer complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Jeep Wagoneer.

2002-06-21

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-04-14
  • Fire: 1
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: WHILE TRAVELLING, A FIRE EMERGED FROM UNDER THE HOOD OF VEHICLE. CONSUMER PULLED OFF THE ROAD AND VEHICLE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES.(OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT #10-91-182) *JG
1998-04-21

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-02-07
  • VIN: 1JCMT7549JT
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH FAILED CAUSING UNCONTROLLED ACCELERATION.
1996-10-18

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-10-08
  • VIN: 1JCNJ15U9JT
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: VEHICLE STALLED DUE TO EXHAUST SYSTEM LEAKS. *AK
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1988 Jeep Wagoneer 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 ... Stock XJ Cherokee Tech. All XJ Non-modified/stock questions go here - What are Some common problems? - Hi, I'm new to the site and I was ...

1988 Jeep Wagoneer: quits..fuel pressure gauge..engine dies
1988 Jeep Wagoneer: quits..fuel pressure gauge..engine dies
https://www.justanswer.com/jeep/3n8oj-1988-jeep-wagoneer-starts-immediatly-quits-connected.html

Jun 20, 2010 ... Some 1988 to early 1990 vehicles equipped with the 4.0 liter engine may experience an engine no-start, hard restart, or an engine die-out. This ...

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 ... Rust: Due to its metal body, the Grand Wagoneer is susceptible to rust and corrosion, especially in areas with high humidity or harsh weather ...

New purchase of 1988 jeep and its problems - Jeep Cherokee Forum
New purchase of 1988 jeep and its problems - Jeep Cherokee Forum
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f2/new-purchase-1988-jeep-its-problems-219881/

Dec 3, 2015 ... Stock XJ Cherokee Tech. All XJ Non-modified/stock questions go here - New purchase of 1988 jeep and its problems - I just purchased a 1988 ...

1988 jeep cherokee major problems | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
1988 jeep cherokee major problems | Jeep Enthusiast Forums
https://www.jeepforum.com/forum/f11/1988-jeep-cherokee-major-problems-1414365/

Sep 6, 2012 ... I got this jeep about 7 months ago it hasnt ran in 4 years but luckily was running when I got it since then I put a new fuel tank and fuel ...

Other years of Jeep Wagoneer

jeep wagoneer 1989 photo
Wagoneer 1989
Jeep

16

3

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jeep wagoneer 1990 photo
Wagoneer 1990
Jeep

19

5

2

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

2

2

0

  • 5
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  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1992 photo
Wagoneer 1992
Jeep

1

0

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  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1993 photo
Wagoneer 1993
Jeep

6

0

0

  • 5
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  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
jeep wagoneer 1994 photo
Wagoneer 1994
Jeep

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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1988 Jeep Wagoneer photo