The Good
The 2009 Jeep Compass offers a blend of practicality and Jeep heritage. Its advantages include its relatively low price point, making it an accessible option. For the budget-conscious, it offers decent fuel efficiency. Emotionally, it provides the Jeep brand image at a lower cost, even if off-road capabilities are limited. Its compact size is practical for city driving.
The Bad
The 2009 Jeep Compass suffers from several weaknesses. The engine performance is often criticized as underpowered. Reliability can be a concern, with reports of transmission issues. The interior materials and build quality are not particularly impressive. Check for rust, especially in areas with harsh winters. Road noise is another common complaint.
2009 Jeep Compass: Quick Overview
Key Specs for the 2009 Jeep Compass:
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L I4 DOHC 16V: Available on Sport trim.
- 2.4L I4 DOHC 16V: Available on Sport and Limited trims.
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L: Approximately 158 hp.
- 2.4L: Approximately 172 hp.
- Fuel Economy (MPG):
- 2.0L (FWD, Manual): Around 23 city / 29 highway.
- 2.4L (FWD, CVT): Around 21 city / 25 highway.
- 2.4L (4WD, CVT): Around 20 city / 23 highway.
- 0-60 Times: Typically in the 9-10 second range for the 2.4L engine. The 2.0L engine is considerably slower.
- Towing Capacity: Generally around 1,000 lbs when properly equipped.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sport: Basic features include cloth seats, air conditioning, and a basic audio system.
- Limited: Upgrades include leather seats, premium audio, heated front seats, and alloy wheels.
- North Edition: (Availability may vary): Enhanced features suited for colder climates, and often includes all-wheel drive.
2009 Jeep Compass Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Jeep |
| Model | Compass |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Minivan |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | BELVIDERE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0L L4 |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6 Manual/Standard |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| 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
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Jeep Compass Have?
Recalls for the 2009 Compass may exist, so it's essential to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any open recalls related to safety. Long-term reliability is a significant concern, with many owners experiencing multiple repairs over the vehicle's lifespan. Rust can be a major issue, especially in regions that use road salt. Owners should carefully inspect the undercarriage and body panels for signs of corrosion.
Specific to the 2009 model year, issues with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) have been reported, leading to various electrical malfunctions. It's wise to obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic to assess the overall condition and potential repair costs before buying a used 2009 Jeep Compass.
How long will the 2009 Jeep Compass last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard. Available safety features included side curtain airbags and front-seat-mounted side airbags. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning available.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA should be consulted for specific performance in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. The 2009 Compass's crash test performance was generally not considered outstanding, with some marginal ratings in certain categories. Check official sources for detailed crash test results based on specific testing methodologies of that era. The level of safety equipment was basic for the time and is considerably less comprehensive than what is offered in modern vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2009 Jeep Compass Prices and Market Value
2009 Jeep Compass Cost of Ownership
2009 Jeep Compass Fuel Efficiency
2009 Jeep Compass Safety Rating
NHTSA
2009 Jeep Compass Recalls & Defects
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
2009 Jeep Compass Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Jeep Compass Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Alternatives to consider include the Honda CR-V, known for its reliability and practicality; the Toyota RAV4, another reliable option with good resale value; and the Mazda CX-5 (later models), offering a more engaging driving experience. Even the Ford Escape provides a slightly better balance of features and reliability. While the Compass may seem attractive due to its lower price, the long-term costs and potential headaches associated with its reliability issues make the other options a better value for most buyers.
Ranks #1620 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★) |
| 1620 | 2009 Jeep Compass | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Jeep Compass a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
BIGMUMM19 on January 29, 2021
It's not 100 percent safe . Drive shaft constantlyElectrical problems. Bad switch in drive steering. Drive shafts always going bad. Ride bad in high wind , rainy and snowy conditions I have paid more for fixing the car since I own it
Fire marshal bill 120 on July 17, 2019
Biggest piece of garbage I have ever ownedNever ever buy anything Chrysler, bought it with 70000 drove it off the lot,2days go by engine light comes on,needs new intake manifold ,drove for a while all of sudden crank sensor goes then cam sensor by the way I replace .it now has 118000 and having exact same thing dealer says not their problem..
Rujero on May 11, 2017
Reliable, Capable, Fun to DriveI have owned many cars and trucks over the years but none have been as functional and fitting to my lifestyle than my Jeep Compass. It does everything I want it to do. It gets through any weather. Plenty of space. Enough power to pass and merge onto the highway but the engine is still getting 30 mpg. I own a 2009 and I am not as big of a fan of the exterior styling... I think the newer ones look much more attractive, but that's just a personal preference. Interior design is standard Jeep. I LOVE the fact that it has an AUX port and a house hold 125amp power outlet. It's not the most forgiving vehicle on bumps in the road, hence my rating on comfort, but that is a typical with Jeeps. My compass is a manual transmission with over 165k miles and it is still going strong. I believe it will be reliable well over 200k miles. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a small 4x4 that still gets great MPG.
lesuner on April 30, 2011
worth the moneyI've got the Jeep Compass in Aug 2009 and it's been so far the best car i ever have, good on gas, roomy and fast on the highway
jimbo on October 28, 2010
Great Car for the MoneyI have a 2009 Jeep Compass has approx 16K miles on it with manual transmission and 2.4L engine. Interior is adequate, like the exterior and ride and reliability very good so far. Mileage has been approx 25 with a/c running and close to 30 without. Ride is more like a truck but overall handling is good. Feels very solid on the road, will keep this one for awhile.
MikeC on February 21, 2010
good payi have had my compass 2 months so far the only problen is a moon roo leak. it ride like a jeep. its fun around town, not crayz about the highway ride, but its a jeep not caddy. next time i'll get an auto trans and 4x4. i have a 2wd limited. after the snow we got this year 4x4 would be nice. im getting 28.5 mpg on avg. i got a great deal at $16,000 with 50000 miles. next time i get a jeep i hope they create something newer,better and outstanding. the compass fales short of that, but it does a great job for daily use and it looks beter than all the same looking suv's out there.
BIGMUMM19 on January 29, 2021
It's not 100 percent safe . Drive shaft constantlyElectrical problems. Bad switch in drive steering. Drive shafts always going bad. Ride bad in high wind , rainy and snowy conditions I have paid more for fixing the car since I own it
Fire marshal bill 120 on July 17, 2019
Biggest piece of garbage I have ever ownedNever ever buy anything Chrysler, bought it with 70000 drove it off the lot,2days go by engine light comes on,needs new intake manifold ,drove for a while all of sudden crank sensor goes then cam sensor by the way I replace .it now has 118000 and having exact same thing dealer says not their problem..
Rujero on May 11, 2017
Reliable, Capable, Fun to DriveI have owned many cars and trucks over the years but none have been as functional and fitting to my lifestyle than my Jeep Compass. It does everything I want it to do. It gets through any weather. Plenty of space. Enough power to pass and merge onto the highway but the engine is still getting 30 mpg. I own a 2009 and I am not as big of a fan of the exterior styling... I think the newer ones look much more attractive, but that's just a personal preference. Interior design is standard Jeep. I LOVE the fact that it has an AUX port and a house hold 125amp power outlet. It's not the most forgiving vehicle on bumps in the road, hence my rating on comfort, but that is a typical with Jeeps. My compass is a manual transmission with over 165k miles and it is still going strong. I believe it will be reliable well over 200k miles. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a small 4x4 that still gets great MPG.
lesuner on April 30, 2011
worth the moneyI've got the Jeep Compass in Aug 2009 and it's been so far the best car i ever have, good on gas, roomy and fast on the highway
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma