Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size, 7-passenger SUV with a distinct boxy styling and a focus on capability and ruggedness, differentiating it from more car-like competitors.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier, Saab 9-7X.
Unique Selling Points:
Boxy, upright styling; available HEMI V8 engine; optional Quadra-Drive II 4WD system; 7-passenger seating capacity; significant towing capability.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving money, understanding their vehicle better, and ensuring proper upkeep for longevity and performance.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (gasoline and diesel), exhaust system, emission controls, engine assembly/disassembly.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter system, charging system, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensors, actuators, wiring diagrams.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair for manual transmissions (if applicable, though typically automatic for Commander).
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair for automatic transmissions (e.g., W5A580, NAG1 for diesel, W5A900 for gasoline V8s), including diagnostics, fluid changes, and overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Four-wheel-drive (4WD) system, Quadra-Drive II operation, transfer case service, propeller shafts, differentials (front and rear), axle shafts, CV joints.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), traction control, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement.
Suspension:
Front suspension (independent SLA), rear suspension (multi-link solid axle), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear (rack and pinion or recirculating ball, depending on application), steering column, power steering fluid.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting system (headlamps, taillamps, interior), power distribution, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, glass, sealing, underbody protection, frame repair considerations.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, climate control module diagnostics.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System) diagnostics, seat belt service, related sensors and modules.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, brake inspection, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for component replacement, overhaul, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including use of scan tools (e.g., OBD-II), interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and electrical circuit testing.
Installation:
Instructions for the installation and removal of various components and accessories.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
3.7L V6:
Engine Code: (typically EGJ or similar for Chrysler/Jeep 3.7L), Displacement: 3.7 liters (226 ci), Horsepower: ~210-235 hp, Torque: ~235-245 lb-ft, Configuration: SOHC V6, Fuel Delivery: Multi-point fuel injection.
4.7L V8:
Engine Code: (typically P for Chrysler/Jeep 4.7L), Displacement: 4.7 liters (285 ci), Horsepower: ~290-305 hp, Torque: ~325-335 lb-ft, Configuration: SOHC V8, Fuel Delivery: Multi-point fuel injection.
5.7L V8 Hemi:
Engine Code: (typically X or W for Chrysler/Jeep 5.7L HEMI), Displacement: 5.7 liters (345 ci), Horsepower: ~357-360 hp, Torque: ~389-390 lb-ft, Configuration: OHV V8 with HEMI 2-spark-plug-per-cylinder head, Fuel Delivery: Multi-point fuel injection, Features: Multi-displacement System (MDS).
3.0L Crd Diesel:
Engine Code: EXF (Mercedes-Benz OM642), Displacement: 3.0 liters (183 ci), Horsepower: ~215 hp, Torque: ~376 lb-ft, Configuration: DOHC V6, Fuel Delivery: Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi), Turbocharged: Yes, Intercooled.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per owner's manual, typically 87 for 3.7L/4.7L, 91 recommended for 5.7L HEMI), Diesel Fuel for CRD models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and engine oil type used. Consult specific engine recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, depending on driving conditions and fluid type.
Coolant Change:
Typically every 30,000 to 100,000 miles (48,000 to 160,000 km), depending on the type of coolant used (e.g., HOAT or OAT).
Engine Oil 3.7L/4.7L:
SAE 5W-20, API certified (check manual for specific viscosity and certification for HEMI).
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20, Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395 (often with MDS, requires specific oil properties).
Engine Oil 3.0L Crd:
Specific synthetic diesel engine oil meeting MB 229.51 or equivalent specification.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (for older transmissions) or ATF SP-IV/NAG1 fluid for Mercedes-derived transmissions (e.g., W5A580).
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 5/150 Extended Life or HOAT (Hybrid OAT) coolant, typically orange or pink.
Common Problems:
Water pump leaks (especially 5.7L HEMI), exhaust manifold cracks (5.7L HEMI), transmission issues (particularly with the NAG1 diesel transmission), SRS warning lights due to faulty clock spring or seat sensors, rear liftgate struts weakening, front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods).
Diesel Specific Issues:
Potential for glow plug issues, DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) regeneration problems if not driven properly, EGR valve issues (common on many modern diesels).