89 Jeep Comanche For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding Your Dream Classic Pickup

89 Jeep Comanche For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding Your Dream Classic Pickup jeeps.truckstrend.com

The 1989 Jeep Comanche, often referred to by its chassis code MJ, isn’t just another used pickup truck; it’s a cult classic, a unique blend of Jeep’s legendary off-road capability and the utility of a compact pickup. Born from the unibody architecture of the beloved Cherokee XJ, the Comanche offers a distinct driving experience that resonates with enthusiasts, adventurers, and collectors alike. Finding an "89 Jeep Comanche For Sale" today means more than just browsing listings; it’s embarking on a quest for a piece of automotive history that offers surprising versatility and enduring appeal.

In an era dominated by ever-larger trucks, the Comanche stands out for its manageable size, robust construction, and the iconic 4.0-liter inline-six engine that powers so many cherished Jeeps. Its rarity, coupled with its rugged dependability and the strong aftermarket support it shares with the XJ, makes the 1989 Comanche a highly sought-after vehicle. Whether you’re looking for a capable trail rig, a practical daily driver with character, or a project to restore, understanding what to look for and where to find one is crucial. This comprehensive guide will navigate the intricacies of purchasing an 89 Jeep Comanche, helping you make an informed decision and ultimately drive home your piece of Jeep heritage.

89 Jeep Comanche For Sale: A Comprehensive Guide to Finding Your Dream Classic Pickup

I. Why the 1989 Jeep Comanche Remains a Coveted Classic

The Jeep Comanche was produced from 1986 to 1992, and the 1989 model year represents a sweet spot for many enthusiasts. It inherited the strong unibody chassis of the Cherokee, known for its excellent rigidity and relatively light weight, while adding a separate bed for cargo hauling. This unique unibody-cab-on-frame-bed design provided a comfortable ride characteristic of an SUV combined with the utility of a truck.

Key Features of the 1989 Model Year:

• Engine: The star of the show is almost universally the 4.0L AMC (Renix) inline-six engine. This engine, known for its bulletproof reliability, ample torque, and ease of maintenance, delivers impressive power for its size. While a smaller 2.5L four-cylinder was also available, the 4.0L is overwhelmingly preferred.
• Transmission Options: Buyers could choose between the rugged Aisin-Warner AW4 automatic transmission or the equally robust Aisin AX-15 5-speed manual, both highly regarded for their durability.
• Drivetrain: Available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations, the 4WD models typically featured the NP231 Command-Trac transfer case, a simple and effective part-time system.
• Trim Levels: The 1989 Comanche offered various trim levels, including the base Pioneer, the mid-range Chief, the more luxurious Laredo, and the sporty Eliminator. Each offered different interior appointments and exterior styling cues.



• Bed Lengths: Comanches were available with either a 6-foot (Short Bed) or 7-foot (Long Bed) cargo box, adding to their versatility.

The enduring popularity of the Comanche stems from its incredible blend of attributes: its legendary off-road prowess inherited from the Cherokee, its practical pickup bed, its distinctive styling, and the sheer dependability of its core mechanical components. It’s a vehicle that feels robust and capable, yet nimble enough for daily driving, making it a truly unique offering in the classic truck market.

II. What to Look For When Buying an 89 Jeep Comanche

Purchasing an older vehicle, especially one as sought-after as the Comanche, requires a meticulous inspection. Age and past usage can take their toll, and knowing common weak points can save you significant time and money down the line.

• Rust: The Ultimate Deal Breaker: This is paramount. Comanches are notorious for rust, particularly in regions exposed to salt or high humidity.
  • Unibody Rails/Frame: Crucial structural integrity check. Look under the front and rear, especially where the bed meets the cab.
  • Floor Pans & Rocker Panels: Check inside the cab, under the carpet, and along the exterior rockers.
  • Bed: Inspect the bed floor, inner fenders, and especially the rear cross member where the bumper mounts.
  • Fenders & Doors: Common areas for surface rust and bubbling.
• Engine & Drivetrain (4.0L Renix I6):
  • Oil Leaks: Check valve cover, oil pan, rear main seal. Some weeping is common; active drips are a concern.
  • Cooling System: Inspect radiator (cracks, leaks), water pump (leaks, noise), thermostat housing, and hoses. Overheating is a common XJ/MJ issue.
  • Idle & Performance: Listen for smooth idle, check for misfires, hesitation, or unusual noises during acceleration. The Renix system can have sensor issues (TPS, O2, Crank Position Sensor) that affect performance.
  • Transmission (AW4 Auto / AX-15 Manual):
    • AW4: Check fluid color (red, not brown/burnt), smell. Shifts should be firm and smooth, not harsh or delayed.
    • AX-15: Listen for grinding, pop-outs, or difficulty shifting. Clutch feel should be consistent.
  • Transfer Case (NP231/NP242): Engage 4WD modes (2H, 4H, 4L) and listen for unusual noises. Check for leaks around seals.
  • Axles: Inspect for leaks at the differential covers and axle seals. Listen for humming or clunking sounds, which could indicate worn bearings or gears.
• Suspension & Steering:
  • Bushings & Ball Joints: Check for play in the steering wheel, clunking over bumps. Worn components are common.
  • Leaf Springs: Rear leaf springs often sag with age, especially if the truck carried heavy loads. Look for cracks or broken leaves.
  • Shocks: Check for leaks or excessive bounce.
• Brakes: Check for worn pads/shoes, corroded lines, leaking calipers/wheel cylinders. Ensure the parking brake works.
• Interior & Electrical:
  • Seats & Dash: Look for rips, tears, cracks, and general wear.
  • Electrical Components: Test all lights, wipers, power windows, radio, HVAC system. Electrical gremlins can be frustrating.
• Paperwork: Ensure the title is clear and matches the VIN on the vehicle. Ask for service records if available.

III. Where to Find an 89 Jeep Comanche For Sale

Finding an 89 Comanche requires patience and a broad search strategy. Due to their relatively low production numbers and increasing popularity, good examples are becoming harder to find.

• Online Marketplaces:
  • Craigslist & Facebook Marketplace: These are often the best places to find local listings from private sellers. Be prepared to travel for a good example. Use specific search terms like "Jeep Comanche," "MJ Jeep," or "Comanche pickup."
  • eBay Motors: Good for nationwide searches, sometimes featuring higher-quality or more specialized examples.
  • Bring a Trailer / Cars & Bids: Occasionally, well-preserved or custom-built Comanches appear on these auction sites, often commanding premium prices.
• Specialized Forums & Social Media Groups:
  • Jeep Comanche Forums (e.g., ComancheClub.com): These communities often have "For Sale" sections where enthusiasts list their vehicles. You’ll find knowledgeable sellers and often more detailed descriptions.
  • Facebook Groups: Search for "Jeep Comanche Owners," "Jeep MJ," or "Jeep XJ/MJ For Sale" groups.
• Classic Car Dealerships & Auctions: While less common for Comanches than for more traditional classic cars, some specialized dealerships or local auctions might occasionally have one, especially if it’s a restored or low-mileage example.
• Word of Mouth & Local Ads: Sometimes the best finds are through friends, local mechanics, or small ads in community papers.

IV. Pricing Your 89 Jeep Comanche (or Budgeting for One)

The price of an 89 Jeep Comanche varies wildly based on condition, mileage, modifications, and location. There’s a significant "Comanche premium" due to their rarity and desirability.

Factors Influencing Price:

• Condition: This is the primary driver. A rust-free, well-maintained, running example will command significantly more than a project truck.
• Mileage: Lower mileage generally means higher value, though condition often trumps raw numbers for older vehicles.
• Engine/Transmission: 4.0L with 4WD is the most desirable and commands the highest price.
• Trim Level: Eliminators and Laredos in good condition often fetch more than base Pioneer models.
• Modifications: Tasteful, high-quality modifications (lifts, axle upgrades) can increase value, but poorly executed or extreme mods might deter some buyers.
• Documentation: Service records and clear title add value.

Condition Category	Description	Estimated Price Range (USD)
Project	Non-running, significant rust, major mechanical issues, incomplete.	$500 – $2,500
Running Project	Runs but needs substantial work (rust repair, major mechanicals, interior).	$2,500 – $5,500
Driver Quality	Runs and drives reliably, some cosmetic flaws, minor mechanical needs, minor rust.	$5,500 – $9,000
Good Condition	Well-maintained, minimal rust, solid mechanics, clean interior, minor imperfections.	$9,000 – $15,000
Excellent/Restored	Near-showroom condition, professional restoration, low mileage, highly original.	$15,000 – $30,000+

Note: These are general estimates and can fluctuate based on market demand, region, and specific vehicle attributes.

V. Common Modifications and Upgrades

One of the great appeals of the Comanche is its mod-ability, largely thanks to its shared platform with the Cherokee XJ. Many owners choose to enhance their MJs for off-road performance or daily driving comfort.

• Lift Kits: Ranging from 2-inch budget boosts to 6-inch+ long-arm kits, lifts allow for larger tires and improved ground clearance.
• Larger Tires: Often paired with lift kits, larger all-terrain or mud-terrain tires significantly improve off-road capability and aesthetics.
• Axle Upgrades: While the stock Dana 30 front and Dana 35 rear axles are adequate for light to moderate trails, serious off-roaders often swap in a stronger Dana 44 or Ford 8.8 rear axle, and sometimes a high-pinion Dana 30 or Dana 44 front.
• Engine Performance: Aftermarket intake and exhaust systems can provide modest power gains. Some enthusiasts undertake engine swaps (e.g., LS V8, Cummins 4BT), though these are complex and costly.
• Bumper & Armor: Aftermarket steel bumpers, rock sliders, and skid plates protect the vehicle during off-road excursions.
• Interior Refresh: Upgrading seats, sound systems, or adding modern conveniences while retaining a classic feel.

VI. Challenges and Solutions

Owning a vintage vehicle like the 89 Comanche comes with its unique set of challenges, but most have viable solutions.

• Parts Availability: While mechanical parts (engine, transmission, drivetrain) are generally easy to find due to shared components with the ubiquitous XJ Cherokee, body panels, trim pieces, and specific interior components unique to the Comanche can be difficult and expensive to source.
  • Solution: Network within Comanche forums and Facebook groups, explore specialized aftermarket suppliers, and be prepared to scour junkyards or parts vehicles.
• Rust: As mentioned, rust is a pervasive issue.
  • Solution: A thorough pre-purchase inspection is critical. If buying a rusty project, be prepared for extensive welding and fabrication work, or budget for professional restoration. Rust prevention (undercoating, regular cleaning) is key for longevity.
• Renix Engine System: The Renix fuel injection system (pre-OBD-I) can be finicky. Diagnosis requires specific tools and knowledge, and some sensors are becoming harder to find.
  • Solution: Learn the Renix diagnostic procedures, invest in a Renix specific diagnostic tool (like the "Renxter" or dedicated scan tools), and consult online communities for troubleshooting tips. Some extreme cases involve converting to a later OBD-I or OBD-II system, which is a major undertaking.
• Finding a Good Example: The limited production numbers mean finding a well-preserved, rust-free, and mechanically sound 89 Comanche can be a prolonged search.
  • Solution: Be patient, expand your search radius, be ready to act quickly when a good one appears, and don’t be afraid to travel to inspect a promising candidate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the 1989 Jeep Comanche reliable?
A: Yes, very reliable. The 4.0L inline-six engine and the AW4 automatic transmission are legendary for their durability and longevity, often lasting well over 200,000-300,000 miles with proper maintenance.

Q: What’s the main difference between a Jeep Cherokee (XJ) and a Jeep Comanche (MJ)?
A: Both share the same unibody front end, chassis, and many mechanical components. The key difference is that the XJ is an SUV with an integrated body and roof, while the MJ is a pickup truck with a separate bed bolted to the unibody frame.

Q: Are parts hard to find for an 89 Comanche?
A: Mechanical parts (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes) are generally easy to find due to sharing with the very common XJ Cherokee. However, body panels, specific interior trim, and unique Comanche-only components can be challenging to source and may require searching specialized forums or junkyards.

Q: Can an 89 Jeep Comanche be a daily driver?
A: Absolutely. With proper maintenance and attention to common wear items, many Comanches serve as reliable daily drivers. Their compact size, decent fuel economy for a truck, and comfortable ride make them practical for everyday use.

Q: What’s a "good" price for an 89 Comanche?
A: A "good" price is subjective and depends heavily on the vehicle’s condition. A running, driving example with some rust and minor issues might range from $5,000-$8,000. A rust-free, well-maintained, or partially restored example can easily fetch $10,000-$15,000 or more.

Q: What were the common engine options for the 1989 MJ?
A: The most common and desirable engine was the 4.0L AMC (Renix) inline-six. A 2.5L AMC four-cylinder engine was also available, but it’s less powerful and generally less sought after.

Conclusion

The 1989 Jeep Comanche stands as a testament to practical design, rugged engineering, and enduring appeal. More than just a utility vehicle, it has evolved into a highly desirable classic, cherished for its unique blend of SUV comfort and pickup utility, all underpinned by the legendary Jeep 4.0L powertrain.

While the search for an 89 Jeep Comanche For Sale might require patience and a keen eye for detail, the reward of owning such a distinctive and capable vehicle is immeasurable. From tackling challenging trails to cruising down the highway, the MJ offers an authentic and engaging driving experience that modern trucks simply can’t replicate. With proper research, a thorough inspection, and a little dedication, you too can join the ranks of proud Comanche owners and enjoy a truly special piece of American automotive history.