🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Compass

Year:

2008

Trim Levels Covered:

All

Product Type:

Owner's Manual

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2008 Jeep Compass was positioned as a compact SUV, often referred to as a 'crossover' by the manufacturer. It aimed to blend the capability and rugged image associated with Jeep with the comfort and fuel efficiency of a car-based platform. It competed in a segment with popular models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape.

Competitive Analysis:

The Compass offered a more affordable entry point into the Jeep brand compared to traditional SUVs like the Cherokee or Grand Cherokee. Its design featured Jeep styling cues but with a unibody construction for better on-road manners. The 2008 model year saw it competing against a mature and competitive segment, where practicality, fuel economy, and reliability were key purchasing factors.

Key Features:

Available Freedom Drive I (AWD) or Freedom Drive II (off-road capable AWD with low range), distinctive Jeep styling, comfortable ride for its class, practical interior space, availability of features like heated seats and sunroof.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Areas:

Driver and passenger safety, instruments and controls, features (climate control, audio, steering wheel, security, cruise control), pre-driving checks (fuel, break-in, cargo), driving (engine and transmission operation), maintenance (minder, fluid checking, minor services, storage), troubleshooting (flat tire, dead battery, overheating, fuses), technical information (specifications, tires, emissions), warranty and customer relations, index.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-350 pages (typical for a 2008 owner's manual).

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Vehicle safety systems (SRS, seat belts, child restraint systems), instrument cluster and indicators, dashboard controls, climate control system, audio system, steering wheel controls, security and alarm systems, cruise control, fuel system, engine operation, transmission operation, basic fluid checks, minor maintenance procedures, vehicle storage, tire maintenance, basic electrical components (fuses), emissions control systems.

Procedures Included:

Proper use of safety restraints, understanding dashboard indicators, operating climate control, using audio and cruise control systems, vehicle break-in procedures, cargo loading best practices, engine and transmission operation guidelines, fluid level checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks and adjustments, basic troubleshooting for common issues (flat tire, dead battery, overheating), fuse identification and replacement, vehicle storage procedures.

Technical Depth:

Operational and basic maintenance guidance for the end-user. Focuses on user-friendly explanations of vehicle features, controls, and routine maintenance. Does not cover in-depth diagnostic procedures or component-level repairs typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed)

Print Quality:

Standard OEM print quality.

Binding Type:

Staple or perfect bound booklet.

Paper Type:

Standard uncoated paper for owner's manuals.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.4L DOHC 16-valve I4 World Engine

Engine Code:

GEMA (Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance)

Horsepower:

172 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Oil Capacity:

4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change. Recommended oil: SAE 5W-20 meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 7.0 US quarts (6.6 L). Recommended coolant: MOPAR OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 5-year/100,000 mile formula (MS-9027).

Bore X Stroke:

3.46 x 3.70 inches (88 x 94.5 mm)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Cylinder Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (NSG370)

Optional Transmission:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT2) / AutoStick Automatic Transmission

Transmission Fluid Spec:

CVT: Mopar CVTF 4. Optional Automatic/Manual: Refer to manual for specific fluid type, typically ATF+4 for automatics or gear oil for manuals.

Gear Ratios Manual:

1st: 3.45, 2nd: 1.87, 3rd: 1.33, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.79, Reverse: 3.27

Gear Ratios Cvt:

Refer to manual for specific ratios as CVTs operate on a continuous range.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

174.0 inches (4420 mm)

Exterior Width:

69.3 inches (1760 mm)

Exterior Height:

63.6 inches (1615 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 8.1 inches (205 mm) for models with Freedom Drive II.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3200-3400 lbs (1450-1542 kg), depending on drivetrain and options.

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approximately 20.1 cubic feet (570 L)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approximately 53.5 cubic feet (1515 L)

Approach Angle:

Approximately 20.0 degrees (FWD) / 20.5 degrees (4WD w/ FDII)

Departure Angle:

Approximately 28.0 degrees (FWD) / 28.5 degrees (4WD w/ FDII)

Breakover Angle:

Approximately 18.0 degrees (FWD) / 19.0 degrees (4WD w/ FDII)

Tire Size Standard:

215/60R17

Wheel Size Standard:

17 x 7.0 inch

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 4.5 inch (5 x 114.3 mm)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4 Stars (Driver) / 4 Stars (Passenger)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Acceptable (for 2008 models tested)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist, Electronic Roll Mitigation.

Passive Features:

Front advanced multi-stage airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system, crumple zones, reinforced passenger compartment.

Airbag Types:

Advanced multi-stage front, front seat-mounted side, front and rear side-curtain.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Standard AM/FM/CD audio system. Optional Sirius satellite radio, Boston Acoustics premium audio system, and Uconnect hands-free communication system (optional on some trims).

Driver Assistance Features:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control, ABS, Brake Assist, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Connectivity Features:

Optional Uconnect system provided Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and voice commands. Auxiliary audio input jack.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil Change:

Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, when using synthetic oil. Consult the manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions and oil type.

Service Intervals Tire Rotation:

Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months.

Service Intervals Air Filter:

Inspect every 6,000 miles (9,600 km), replace as needed. Typically every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).

Service Intervals Cabin Filter:

Inspect annually, replace as needed. Typically every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-5774.

Fluid Specifications Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific type. Typically Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901) or equivalent.

Known Issues:

Common issues reported for the first-generation Compass can include CVT transmission issues (hesitation, slipping), electrical problems (window regulators, power locks), suspension noises, and occasional engine performance concerns. The manual will guide on proper maintenance to mitigate some of these.

Service Intervals Spark Plugs:

Inspect at 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed. Iridium spark plugs typically have a longer lifespan, consult manual for specifics.

Service Intervals Transmission Fluid:

CVT fluid change is typically recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km), but refer to the manual for the specific interval for the CVT2.

Service Intervals Coolant Flush:

Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 3 years thereafter.

Service Intervals Brake Fluid Flush:

Inspect annually, replace as needed. Manufacturer often recommends replacement every 2-3 years regardless of mileage.

Fuel Recommendation:

87 octane unleaded gasoline recommended. Higher octane fuel may provide slight performance improvements but is not required.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep has a long and storied heritage dating back to World War II, synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness. The brand is known for its iconic SUVs like the Wrangler, Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee.

Model Evolution:

The Jeep Compass was introduced for the 2007 model year as part of Chrysler's strategy to expand its SUV lineup and appeal to a broader market. It was built on the same platform as the Dodge Caliber and Patriot, sharing many components. The 2008 model year represented the early production phase of this first-generation Compass.

Production Years First Gen:

2007-2016

Platform:

GS platform (shared with Dodge Caliber and Patriot).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The 2008 Jeep Compass generally received mixed reviews. While praised for its Jeep styling and affordability, it was often criticized for its powertrain refinement, interior quality, and less robust off-road capability compared to traditional Jeep models. Specific awards are not prominent for this model year, emphasizing its position as an entry-level crossover.