Jeep Patriot

Lessmore wrote:

ib516 wrote:
They have improved (especially the 2014s with the conventional automatic), but they are still based on the Caliber - which isn't a good thing IMO. The only plus to them is the price.

I'm not very familiar with the Patriot. A family member is considering buying one. If you could expand issues of concern it would be appreciated.

He wants to make an informed decision and there doesn't seem a lot of info out there.

Thanks,

Les

The Caliber is a leftover relic from the lean times at Chrysler. The vehicle and engine were co-developed with Mitsubishi in the early 2000s. Those two facts are "cons" rather than "pros" at least in my mind. I considered the Patriot/Compass when we were shopping, but for a few thousand more, we ended up with a 2014 Cherokee - which is a vastly superior vehicle.

The dealers I spoke to said they have loads of the Patriots and Compasses sitting in inventory (even with deep discounts), and they can't get enough Cherokees to meet demand.

Now if the person is looking for a relatively cheap AWD vehicle, it might be worth looking at if the price is right.

My wife drives a 2009 and we love it. The full-time four-wheel drive system with locking capability is excellent. You'll find problems depending on the year and options, like any vehicle. We've had both control arms replaced under warranty... I believe they and ball joints are known issues. Other than that it's been awesome for her. If you're looking for a safe, affordable all/4-wheel drive vehicle, I would definitely recommend. These people can't get enough of them.

A bit backwards maybe. ;) I'd love a Duraburb, but not for $20k more! I love them both for different reasons.

APT wrote:
I had a 2007 Compass Limited 4WD 5-spd manual for 3.5 years which is the ugly step sister to the Patriot. It was a great vehicle for me at the time. I wouldn't touch the early CVT versions and I lost touch with the more recent models. But mine was flawless and fun.

Not sure this is the correct area as the tow ratings don't even reach popup range.

Thank you for providing your experience with the Compass. It's good to know that it was reliable. I will pass on this information.

I should of expanded a bit regarding tow ratings. He may be towing a boat trailer with 14-16 foot Lund V hull type aluminum boat with it.

I'm estimating the tow weight of this type of trailer and boat would be around 1000-1200 lbs.

The factory tow rating of the Patriot with the 2.4 liter engine and tow package is 2000 lbs.

As far as towing a pop up trailer, I think it would be able to handle a smaller folding trailer, or perhaps a tear drop style trailer, considering the tow rating. A folding trailer this size could be in the future.

I'm glad you jogged my memory on towing. If anyone has experience with towing a light trailer with the Patriot, please respond as to how it does.

Thank you.

ib516 wrote:
They have improved (especially the 2014s with the conventional automatic), but they are still based on the Caliber - which isn't a good thing IMO. The only plus to them is the price.

I'm not very familiar with the Patriot. A family member is considering buying one. If you could expand issues of concern it would be appreciated.

He wants to make an informed decision and there doesn't seem a lot of info out there.

Thanks,

Les

wow APT, i never would have thought. 2500 sub and TDI.

I had a 2007 Compass Limited 4WD 5-spd manual for 3.5 years which is the ugly step sister to the Patriot. It was a great vehicle for me at the time. I wouldn't touch the early CVT versions and I lost touch with the more recent models. But mine was flawless and fun.

Not sure this is the correct area as the tow ratings don't even reach popup range.

They have improved (especially the 2014s with the conventional automatic), but they are still based on the Caliber - which isn't a good thing IMO. The only plus to them is the price.

I would be glad to have one with either a 5 speed stick or a conventional automatic. I have a coworker who has one (CVT) with 200,000 miles and he loves it.

Fast Mopar wrote:
I know one person who has one and really likes it. I thought about getting one as a daily driver 3-4 years ago but did not because I am not a fan of CVT transmissions.

The CVT transmission has been something that hasn't been universally accepted. I don't care for them either. The 2014 models now offer a regular 6 speed automatic, along with the CVT and the 5 speed standard.