The Jeep Commander is a boxy, large SUV that was produced from 2006 to 2010.
This model’s off-road prowess is supplemented by spacious seating, respectable towing capacity, and classic Jeep styling.
In this article, we’ll be analyzing all of the best and worst model years of the Commander.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Jeep Commander Are:
The best Jeep Commander model years are 2010 and 2009. The worst model years of this model are 2006, 2007, and 2008. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Jeep Commander?
2010 Jeep Commander
The 2010 Commander is the final model year ever produced and it is also the most reliable according to NHTSA data.
- For 2010 a powerful, 5.7-liter V8 became standard for the Limited models, as well as a power liftgate.
- For the entry-level Sport trim, third-row seating and foglights became standard.
The 2008 Commander has strong engine options, a quiet interior, off-road capabilities, and a long list of standard features.
It comes in 2 trim levels: Sport and Limited.
The Sport variant is equipped with a 3.7-liter V6 engine (210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque) while the Limited trim has a significantly larger 5.7-liter V8 engine (357 horsepower and 389 pound-feet of torque).
Surprisingly, gas consumption between the 2 trims are identical. EPA claims that both can achieve 16 MPG for combined city and highway driving.
In terms of towing capacity, there is a major difference. The Sport trim can tow up to 6,500 pounds while the Limited trim can tow as much as 7,400 pounds.
- Edmunds: 4.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: 83 / 100
2010 Commander, Edmunds Review:
“I was looking for a reasonably priced smaller SUV with a 3rd row for my 2 kids if an extra adult or two wants to come along. So far I am very pleased with the overall package…”
Related: 11 Best & Worst Jeep Patriot Years (With Facts & Stats)
2009 Jeep Commander
The 2009 Commander is another top choice for those looking for a retro and rugged vehicle. Compared to its predecessors, the 2009 Commander is a far safer choice and received far fewer complaints.
It has a comfortable and quiet interior, generous seating, and powerful engine options.
New for this model year are upgrades to power and fuel efficiency, with all trims achieving between 15 and 16 MPG, depending on trim level (according to the EPA).
Speaking of trims, there are 3 available: Sport, Limited, and Overland.
The base Sport trim has a 3.7-liter V6 (210 horsepower) with an option to upgrade to a 4.7-liter V8 (305 horsepower).
For the Limited trim, it comes standard with the previously mentioned 4.7-liter V8 with an option to avail of a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 (357 horsepower).
Finally, the top-spec Overland comes standard with the aforementioned 5.7-liter Hemi V8.
According to reviews online, these are the best features of the model:
- Comfort
- Interior
- Driving experience
- Ride quality
- Spaciousness
- Sound system
- Safety
This model year secured a perfect 5-star safety rating (based on government crash tests). Notable safety features include, anti-lock disc brakes, stability control with rollover mitigation, and full-length side curtain airbags.
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.1 / 5.0
- J.D. Power: NA
2009 Commander, Edmunds Review:
“This car has been perfect for me. I live in a rural area with LOTS of snow and drive 50 miles round trip a day to work. Dependable and safe. It’s been a great SUV!”
Consumer Scores For Best Jeep Commander Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | J.D. Power Consumer Rating |
| 2010 Jeep Commander | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
| 2009 Jeep Commander | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.1 / 5.0 | NA |
Related: 24 Best & Worst Jeep Grand Cherokee Years (Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Jeep Commander?
2006, 2007, and 2008 Jeep Commander
The 2006, 2007, and 2008 Commander model years are the most problematic models – they were also the first models produced. They all shared similar issues however the worst model is 2006 (awarded “Beware Of The Clunker by CarComplaints.com), followed by 2007 and then 2008.
Most complaints were filed under the “Electrical System” category with owners reporting a variety of issues, including:
- Guages going crazy
- Loss of power
- Radio malfunction
- Cruise control has a mind of its own
- Steering lock-up
- Warning indicators flashing
- Headlight issues
Vehicle stalling was also widely reported. Many of these complaints were linked to a faulty ignition switch, a recall was issued.
The ignition switch position would unintentionally switch while driving. This causes a loss of engine power, power steering assist, power brake assist or disable the airbag function.
“We have had the car stall out on the highway at high speeds making it a rather dangerous situation…” – CarProblemZoo.com
“While driving my 2007 Jeep Commander, it will shut off. Other times the lights will flicker off and car seems to stall. This problem happens without any warning. It is very scary to be driving on the interstate and the car just stops!” – CarProblemZoo.com
Door handles breaking was another common problem – owners reported that they would not open due to the fact that they are broken, cracked, and damaged just from everyday use.
“Purchased vehicle used with 89k. One door handle broke and the remaining three were ready to crumble.” – CarComplains.com
“My driver door handle broke off as well as the second row passenger side door handle. I was told by the dealer that it would cost me approximately $900 each because they have to replace the entire door panel.” – CarComplaints.com
Water leaking into the cabin was a complaint many owners reported.
“The sunroof leaks! I have cleared the drain tubes …. blew air through them, then poured hot water down. They drained fine. It rained two days later and the floor on the driver’s side splashed as I got in. Water came from the grab handles and near the sun visor. TWO DAYS LATER… water dripped from the entertainment system!” – CarComplaints.com
“sun roof leaks, water comes in through “A” post on the passenger side. tried to blow air through the drain holes but didn’t seem to help. can hear water gurgling above on the driver’s side also.” – CarComplaints.com
- The 2006 Commander had a total of 178 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 2,501 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2007 Commander had a total of 45 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 1,468 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
- The 2008 Commander had a total of 30 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 615 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
Other common problems:
- Engine stalls while driving
- Door handle broken
- Motor destroyed
- Wheel bearing noise
- Engine will not turn over
- Rust under windshield trim
- 4-wheel-drive activates randomly
2006 Jeep Commander
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 Jeep Commander | 8 | 66 | 4 |
| 2009 Jeep Commander | 6 | 83 | 3 |
| 2008 Jeep Commander | 30 | 615 | 5 |
| 2007 Jeep Commander | 45 | 1,468 | 6 |
| 2006 Jeep Commander | 178 | 2,501 | 6 |
What Problems Do Jeep Commander Have?
- Engine stalls while driving
- Door handle broken
- Motor destroyed
- Wheel bearing noise
- Engine will not turn over
- Rust under windshield trim
- 4-wheel-drive activates randomly
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Jeep Commander?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | 9.1 | $8,397 – $13,164 | City: 15 /Highway: 21 |
| Chevrolet Suburban | 9.0 | $7,278 – $12,670 | City: 9 – 15 /Highway: 14 – 21 |
| Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid | 8.9 | $12,137 – $12,716 | City: 21 /Highway: 22 |
| GMC Yukon | 8.9 | $8,320 – $12,422 | City: 12 – 15 /Highway: 19 – 21 |
| GMC Yukon Hybrid | 8.9 | $8,802 – $9,285 | City: 21 /Highway: 22 |
| Toyota Sequoia | 8.7 | $9,542 – $18,295 | City: 13 – 14 /Highway: 18 – 19 |
| Ford Expedition | 8.0 | $7,781 – $11,373 | City: 12 – 14 /Highway: 17 – 20 |
| Jeep Commander | 7.1 | $5,755 – $8,314 | City: 13 – 15 /Highway: 19 – 20 |
| Nissan Armada | 7.0 | $7,611 – $10,493 | City: 9 – 12 /Highway: 13 – 18 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/jeep/commander
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/jeep/commander
https://www.edmunds.com/jeep/commander/2010/review/
https://www.kbb.com/jeep/commander/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2010/jeep/commander
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Jeep/Commander/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/jeep/commander/
https://www.cars.com/research/jeep-commander/recalls/
