The Good
The 2008 Jeep Commander's key advantages included its robust off-road performance, appealing to adventure-seeking buyers. Its three-row seating provided practicality for families. The distinctive, boxy design offered a rugged aesthetic. The available V8 engine delivered ample power. While not the most fuel-efficient, its value as a capable and spacious SUV was appealing.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2008 Jeep Commander included subpar fuel economy, particularly with the V8 engines. The third-row seating was cramped, limiting passenger comfort. Some owners reported electrical issues and problems with the Quadra-Drive II system. Suspension issues and rust are also concerns, especially in colder climates.
2008 Jeep Commander: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.7L V6: 210 hp
- 4.7L V8: 235 hp (later 305 hp)
- 5.7L HEMI V8: 330 hp
- Horsepower: Ranging from 210 hp to 330 hp, depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- 3.7L V6: 16 mpg city / 21 mpg highway (approximate)
- 4.7L V8: 14 mpg city / 19 mpg highway (approximate)
- 5.7L HEMI V8: 13 mpg city / 19 mpg highway (approximate)
- 0-60 Times:
- V6: Around 10 seconds
- V8: Between 7 and 8 seconds, depending on the engine.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,400 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V8, properly equipped.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Cloth seats, basic audio system, standard safety features.
- Sport: Upgraded cloth, alloy wheels, available sunroof.
- Limited: Leather seats, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats.
- Overland: Premium leather, wood trim, navigation system, premium sound, Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system.
2008 Jeep Commander Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2008 |
| Make | Jeep |
| Model | Commander |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Minivan |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | TOLEDO |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.7 6 |
| Engine Size | 3.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2008 Jeep Commander Have?
Recalls for the 2008 Jeep Commander included issues with the fuel tank, potentially leading to fuel leakage in the event of a rollover, and concerns about the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), which could affect airbag deployment. Long-term reliability concerns often center around the lifespan of the transmission and the durability of the engine components, particularly in models with high mileage or a history of infrequent maintenance. Earlier model years (2006-2007) seemed to have more reported issues than later years, suggesting some improvements were made during the production run, although the 2008 still has its fair share of known problems.
How long will the 2008 Jeep Commander last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included standard antilock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control. Side curtain airbags were also standard, providing head protection for all three rows. Optional safety features included side-impact airbags for the front seats.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) crash-test ratings for the 2008 Jeep Commander varied. It generally received good ratings in frontal and side-impact crash tests, but rollover ratings were lower, reflecting the vehicle's higher center of gravity. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted tests, and results should be consulted for a comprehensive safety assessment. Overall, while the Commander offered decent safety features for its era, modern SUVs offer significantly more advanced driver-assistance technologies.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2008 Jeep Commander Prices and Market Value
2008 Jeep Commander Cost of Ownership
2008 Jeep Commander Fuel Efficiency
2008 Jeep Commander Safety Rating
NHTSA
2008 Jeep Commander Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 Jeep Commander Compare to Other Minivan?
Alternatives to consider include:
- Toyota 4Runner: Superior reliability and off-road capability.
- Ford Explorer: More modern features and better on-road handling.
- GMC Acadia/Chevrolet Traverse/Buick Enclave: More spacious third-row seating and better fuel economy.
The 4Runner is a better alternative if reliability and off-road prowess are priorities. The Explorer offers a more comfortable and feature-rich experience for primarily on-road use. The GM triplets provide more passenger room and improved fuel efficiency, sacrificing some off-road capability.
Ranks #1654 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1654 | 2008 Jeep Commander | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Jeep Commander a Good Minivan?
Jeanne on January 2, 2021
Very nice carVery easy to drive nice looking car very comfortable love the third row seat and the ease of getting to it the seats fold up and you have easy access
Henry Rodgers on October 10, 2019
Absolutely incredible carThis is maybe the best SUV out there one of a kind. Great comfort. Great feeling. Works good. I like this car very very very much.
mistercomputerman on October 1, 2019
Fun SUVI have owned this Jeep for about 8 years. It has been a good car and has not given me any real issues. Fun to drive, has a decent amount of cargo space and the Overland trim has 3rd row seats and a BUNCH of extra options.
ljsideras on May 26, 2019
My car for 10 yearsThis 2008 Jeep Commander has been in my family for over 10 years. It's been all over the country from the coastline of Maine, through the heart of Ohio, in the mountains of Colorado, and westward to Lake Tahoe in California. It's been the most reliable car I've ever owned. It has pulled me through intense Colorado blizzards and been a comfortable cruiser on road trips up to Wyoming. I've been diligent on routine and milestone maintenance (have the service records to show), and it runs like a beauty. This car has a rich history of travel, and I always feel confident driving it in any condition.
Good on April 4, 2019
MazdaGood luck 2008 Jeep Commender Limited V8L, The paint has some slight scratches. Some dings are visible on this vehicle. There is more than 60% tread life left on the tires. The interior condition is average for this vehicle. The exterior condition is average for its age and mileage. The engine is functioning properly and has no issues. The transmission shifts very smoothly. Has front and rear moon roofs , leather and even a front DVD player! A must see and best of all is the price! A whole lot bang for the buck.
JesstheJeep on December 7, 2018
Great car bad on gas !Love this car ! Got it for college, however the gas mileage suck ! The engine is wonderful, the tires for this car is a little weird. And driving for too long the car gets really hot. All models do this.
DetroitCurls on November 13, 2018
Car with lots of featuresThis car met all of my needs. The hemi engine meant I was able to get where I needed to go. The leg room was great for me and all of my passengers. And of course the children who rode in my car often enjoyed the movies they could watch on the DVD player. The moonroof was another feature that added to the comfort. And the 4 wheel drive was a needed feature for driving through the snow at ease.
Mom of three busy kids on November 4, 2018
Great run around car.Vehicle was great and dependable. The only thing that I didn't like was the room in the back. The vehicle looks big from the outside, but we switched to a van once we had three kids because the trunk was too small.
CommandoBando on August 23, 2018
Great SUV 10 years runningHad this car eight years, no problems at all. Even the Commander RWD has great on-road and off-road performance. Great styling, aggressive but classic Jeep look.
Leontine on April 17, 2018
Better than expected!I always dreamed of having a Jeep so after my recent move from FL to Arizona, one of the first things I did was looking for a used Jeep. I wanted a used Wrangler Unlimited but while driving around looking for a house to buy I ran into two guys in an old Jeep. It was a Commander and they told me it was the best and most reliable Jeep they had ever owned. Making long story short, 3 days later I was driving a used 2008 Jeep Commander 4x4 and I never looked back. It had only 87k miles on it. In the past I have driven a 2014 Wrangler Unlimited belonging to my late boyfriend. I liked it but I got to say, the driving comfort AND visibility is so much better in the Commander. This car is so well made. Mine has two rows of seats and a TON of cargo space. Despite what some reviews tell you. Also this car is pure steel. The doors are so heavy, not like the flimsy doors and body on all modern cars you see. It's a true workhorse for sure. Never fails! What no one has mentioned ever is the paint job on these vehicles. Any of my previous cars got scratches on them and tiny dents from the slightest impact from branches, parking, keying, you name it. Yesterday I drove a narrow rocky trail and brushed heavily against tree branches and bushes left and right with my Commander. Not a scratch or dent on it afterwards. I've used and abused this car and although it is now 10 years old, the body and paint job look like new. If you want a nearly indestructible vehicle for adventure driving that is built like a tank, the Jeep Commander is it! I use mine for driving around town as it's my only car and I use it even more for crazy mountain and desert off-roading. Boulders and deep holes? No problem. I've had it now for 3 months and I'm more impressed with it every day. Take advantage of the low trade-in value because that won't last once the secret is out. I want a second one now. This thing goes anywhere!
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.