Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking a practical, all-wheel-drive capable vehicle with a distinct Jeep styling and affordability.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester.
Jeep Identity:
Offers Jeep's signature seven-slot grille, rugged styling cues, and available Freedom Drive I or Freedom Drive II AWD systems for enhanced capability.
Practicality:
Designed as a practical, everyday vehicle with flexible cargo space and a comfortable interior.
Driver Safety:
Seat belts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System), child protection (LATCH system, child seat installation).
Instruments Controls:
Indicators, gauges, information display, dashboard layout, steering column controls (wipers, lights, horn, etc.).
Features:
Climate control system, audio system operation, steering wheel mounted controls, security system, cruise control.
Driving Preparation:
Fuel requirements, vehicle break-in procedures, cargo loading and weight distribution.
Driving Operation:
Engine operation, transmission modes and operation, driving techniques.
Maintenance:
Maintenance Minder system, fluid level checks, minor service procedures, vehicle storage procedures.
Emergency Procedures:
Flat tire changes, jump starting a dead battery, addressing engine overheating, fuse identification and replacement.
Technical Information:
Vehicle specifications (dimensions, weights), tire information (sizes, pressures), emissions control systems.
Customer Relations:
Warranty information, customer service contact details.
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 200-300 pages (typical for owner's manuals of this era).
Powertrain:
Engine operation and basic maintenance, transmission engagement and operation.
Chassis:
Brake system indicators, steering column controls, suspension awareness (driving behavior).
Electrical:
Indicator lights, dashboard gauges, fuse box locations and identification, basic electrical features (lighting, audio).
Body:
Door locks, windows, climate control, seat belts, cargo area.
Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, operating climate controls, using infotainment features.
Maintenance:
Checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid; tire pressure checks; basic cleaning.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights, basic steps for common issues like flat tires or dead batteries.
Safety:
Proper use of seat belts, child seat installation guidance, understanding SRS system.
Depth:
Designed for the vehicle owner, focusing on safe operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features and warnings. Does not cover in-depth mechanical or electrical repair procedures.
Format:
Physical printed booklet (as implied by product name).
Quality:
Standard OEM print quality for owner's manuals of the era, typically black and white with occasional color diagrams.
Binding:
Stapled or perfect bound booklet.
Paper:
Standard paper stock, durable enough for glove compartment use.
Transmission Type FWD:
5-speed Manual (Standard on some trims)
Transmission Type AWD:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - 'AutoStick' feature (optional on FWD and AWD models)
AWD Systems:
Freedom Drive I (full-time AWD with lock mode), Freedom Drive II (CVT with 4WD Low, locking center differential, increased ground clearance, and off-road tires for more serious off-road capability).
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
Good (for 2006 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
Good (for 2006 model year)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Acceptable (for early models)
Traction Control:
Available on some models
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard on all 2006 models (ESC/ESP)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Airbags Front:
Standard front advanced multi-stage airbags
Airbags Side:
Available front seat-mounted side airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for all occupants.
Child Seats:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM CD player, optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system, optional SIRIUS Satellite Radio.
Display:
Basic information display in the instrument cluster for trip computer, odometer, and warnings.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims, operated via steering wheel buttons.
Keyless Entry:
Available with remote keyless entry system.
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack on some models for connecting external music devices.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to specific recommendations in the manual or on the oil cap).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Recommended every 5,000 - 7,500 miles
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs typically around 100,000 miles; timing belt/chain inspection/replacement varies (consult manual for specifics).
Engine Oil:
Typically SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic (check dipstick or manual for exact spec and capacity, approx. 4.5 quarts for 2.4L).
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically orange or pink. Capacity approx. 7.5 quarts. Always use the specified type and mixture (50/50).
Transmission Fluid Cvt:
Specific CVT fluid (e.g., Mopar CVTF) is critical. Capacity approx. 5.5 quarts. Never use conventional ATF.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on specific system requirements.
Cvt Reliability:
Early CVT transmissions in this era could be prone to issues if not properly maintained or if overheated. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Suspension Components:
As with many crossovers, front suspension components like struts, ball joints, and bushings can wear over time, especially with heavy use or driving on rough roads.
Powertrain Control Module Issues:
Occasional reports of PCM (Powertrain Control Module) issues or software glitches.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history of producing rugged, off-road capable vehicles dating back to WWII.
Compass Introduction:
The Jeep Compass was introduced for the 2007 model year as a more car-like, compact SUV alternative to traditional Jeep offerings like the Wrangler and Cherokee.
Mk Platform Significance:
Based on the compact Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) platform, shared with vehicles like the Dodge Caliber and Mitsubishi Outlander.
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA