89 Jeep Comanche For Sale: Your Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

89 Jeep Comanche For Sale: Your Ultimate Buyer’s Guide jeeps.truckstrend.com

The 1989 Jeep Comanche, affectionately known by its chassis code "MJ," stands as a unique and enduring testament to Jeep’s innovative spirit. Born from the highly successful XJ Cherokee platform, the Comanche offered the rugged capability and iconic styling of a Jeep SUV, but with the added utility of a pickup truck bed. For enthusiasts, off-roaders, and classic vehicle collectors, an ’89 Jeep Comanche for sale isn’t just a transaction; it’s an opportunity to own a piece of automotive history, a versatile workhorse, and a highly customizable platform. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through everything you need to know when seeking out your perfect 1989 Jeep Comanche.

The Enduring Appeal of the 1989 Jeep Comanche

89 Jeep Comanche For Sale: Your Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

The ’89 Jeep Comanche holds a special place in the hearts of many, primarily due to its distinctive blend of features. Unlike traditional body-on-frame pickups, the Comanche utilized the XJ Cherokee’s unibody construction, giving it a lighter weight, a more car-like ride, and superior handling characteristics for its time. It combined the ruggedness and off-road prowess synonymous with the Jeep brand with the practicality of an open bed, making it a truly versatile vehicle.

The 1989 model year is particularly noteworthy as it falls within the sweet spot of the Comanche’s production, benefiting from refinements while still retaining its classic charm. It’s often equipped with the legendary 4.0-liter inline-six engine (the Renix version), known for its bulletproof reliability and ample torque, making it highly sought after by those who appreciate durability and performance. Its relative scarcity compared to the XJ Cherokee also adds to its collectibility and allure today.

Key Features and Specifications of the ’89 Comanche

Understanding the core attributes of the 1989 Jeep Comanche is crucial for any prospective buyer. While individual vehicles will vary based on trim and options, here’s a general overview:

• Engine: The most common and desirable engine is the 4.0L AMC inline-six (Renix MPI). This engine produced around 177 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque, offering excellent low-end grunt. Some earlier, less common models might have the 2.5L AMC inline-four.
• Transmission: Buyers could choose between a 5-speed manual (usually the AX-15 or BA-10/5) or a 4-speed automatic (AW4). The AX-15 and AW4 are highly regarded for their durability.
• Drivetrain: Available in both 2-wheel drive (2WD) and 4-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. The 4WD models typically featured the New Process NP231 (part-time) or NP242 (full-time) transfer cases, providing robust off-road capability.



• Suspension: Coil springs upfront (like the XJ) and leaf springs in the rear for load carrying. This combination offered a good balance of ride comfort and utility.
• Bed Lengths: Comanches were available with two bed lengths: a 6-foot (short box) and a 7-foot (long box), with the long box being rarer.
• Trim Levels: Common trims included SporTruck, Pioneer, Chief, Laredo, and the top-tier Eliminator, each offering different levels of features and aesthetics.

What to Look For When Buying an ’89 Jeep Comanche

Purchasing a vintage vehicle like the ’89 Comanche requires a keen eye and thorough inspection. Here’s a practical guide to what to prioritize:

1. Rust, Rust, Rust: This is the Comanche’s Achilles’ heel.

   
   • Unibody "Frame" Rails: Critically inspect the unibody rails, especially near the front control arm mounts, transmission cross member, and where the rear leaf springs attach. This is structural and expensive to repair.
   • Cab Floorboards: Check for soft spots or holes, particularly under the pedals and seats.
   • Bed and Bed Supports: The bed can rust through, especially the floor and the structural crossmembers underneath. Pay attention to the seam where the bed meets the cab.
   • Rocker Panels and Fenders: Common rust areas, though less critical than the unibody.
   • Door Sills: Check the integrity of the sills.

2. Engine Health (4.0L Renix):

   • Cold Start: Listen for excessive ticking, knocking, or smoke.
   • Oil Leaks: Common areas include the rear main seal, valve cover, and oil filter adapter. Minor leaks are typical; major ones are concerning.
   • Cooling System: Check for radiator leaks, condition of hoses, and proper thermostat operation. Overheating is a known issue if neglected.
   • Renix System: Ensure the sensors (TPS, O2, MAP) are functioning correctly. A rough idle or poor performance could indicate issues.

3. Transmission and Drivetrain:

   • Manual (AX-15/BA-10/5): Check for smooth shifts, no grinding, and a healthy clutch. BA-10/5 is less robust than the AX-15.
   • Automatic (AW4): Ensure shifts are firm and timely, not slipping or harsh. Check fluid condition (should be reddish, not burnt).
   • 4WD System: Engage 4WD (high and low range) and drive a short distance (on a loose surface if possible) to ensure the transfer case engages and disengages smoothly. Listen for clunks or grinding.
   • Axles: Check for excessive play in U-joints and wheel bearings.

4. Suspension and Steering:

   • Bushings: Inspect control arm bushings, leaf spring bushings, and sway bar bushings for wear.
   • Shocks: Check for leaks or excessive bounce.
   • Steering: Look for excessive play in the steering wheel, indicating worn steering box, tie rod ends, or ball joints.

5. Electrical System:

   • Test all lights (headlights, tail lights, turn signals, brake lights), wipers, horn, power windows (if equipped), and radio.
   • Check for aftermarket wiring nightmares, which are common in older modified vehicles.

6. Interior Condition:

   • Seats, dashboard, headliner, and door panels. While cosmetic, significant damage can add to restoration costs.
   • Ensure all gauges work.

Pricing Considerations: What to Expect

The price of an ’89 Jeep Comanche can vary wildly based on condition, mileage, trim level, 2WD vs. 4WD, engine, transmission, and geographical location. Here’s a general guide:

Condition Category	Description	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Key Factors Influencing Price
Project/Parts Vehicle	Non-running, major mechanical issues, severe rust, significant missing components. Suitable for parts or a full frame-off restoration.	$1,000 – $3,500	Extent of rust, presence of rare components (4.0L/4WD), long bed.
Driver Quality (Needs Work)	Runs and drives but requires significant mechanical repairs, moderate to severe rust, worn interior, cosmetic flaws. Not daily driver ready.	$3,500 – $7,000	Engine health, transmission type (manual often higher), 4WD presence, completeness.
Good Driver/Well-Maintained	Reliable daily driver, minimal structural rust, minor cosmetic flaws, well-kept interior, may have tasteful modifications.	$7,000 – $15,000	Low mileage, documented maintenance, 4.0L/4WD, specific trim levels (Eliminator), desirable mods.
Show Quality/Restored	Immaculate condition, rust-free, fully restored or exceptionally well-preserved original, low mileage, all systems functional.	$15,000 – $30,000+	Professional restoration, rare factory options, perfect paint/interior, provenance, long bed/Eliminator.

Note: These are estimates. Market demand, specific modifications, and seller urgency can significantly impact actual sale prices.

Restoration vs. Daily Driver: Setting Expectations

Before you buy, decide what you want the Comanche for.

• Daily Driver: If you need a reliable daily driver, focus on vehicles in the "Good Driver" category. Be prepared for regular maintenance, as it’s an older vehicle. Parts for the 4.0L engine and XJ-shared components are readily available, but Comanche-specific body panels and interior pieces can be harder to source.
• Project/Restoration: If you’re looking for a project, a "Driver Quality" or "Project" vehicle can be a rewarding endeavor. However, understand that restoration costs can quickly exceed the vehicle’s market value. Extensive rust repair, especially to the unibody, requires specialized skills and significant financial investment.

The Ownership Experience and Community

Owning an ’89 Comanche is a unique experience. While parts for the 4.0L engine and many XJ-shared components are abundant and relatively inexpensive, Comanche-specific parts (like the bed, tailgate, specific glass, and some interior pieces) can be scarce and expensive. Fortunately, there’s a passionate and active community of Comanche owners online (forums, Facebook groups) that offers invaluable advice, parts leads, and technical support. This community aspect is a significant benefit of ownership.

Common Modifications and Upgrades

The ’89 Comanche, like its XJ sibling, is a highly modifiable platform:

• Lift Kits: Ranging from mild 2-inch lifts for tire clearance to extreme 6+ inch lifts for serious off-roading.
• Wheels and Tires: Larger tires are common for improved off-road performance and aesthetics.
• Engine Performance: Intake and exhaust upgrades, header swaps, and ECU tuning can enhance performance.
• Axle Upgrades: Stronger axles (e.g., Ford 8.8, Dana 44/60) are popular for serious off-roaders.
• Interior Refreshes: Upgrading seats, sound systems, and gauges can vastly improve the daily driving experience.

Concluding Thoughts: Is the ’89 Comanche Right for You?

The 1989 Jeep Comanche is more than just an old truck; it’s a piece of Americana, a versatile utility vehicle, and a platform for adventure. Its unibody construction, legendary 4.0L engine, and strong ties to the beloved XJ Cherokee make it a compelling choice for those seeking something truly unique. While rust and the scarcity of specific parts can present challenges, the strong community support and the sheer fun of owning and driving an MJ often outweigh these concerns. If you’re prepared for the realities of vintage vehicle ownership and appreciate the blend of rugged utility and classic Jeep charm, an ’89 Jeep Comanche for sale might just be your next great automotive adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 89 Jeep Comanche For Sale

Q1: Is the 1989 Jeep Comanche a good daily driver?
A1: With proper maintenance and attention to common issues (primarily rust and cooling), a well-maintained 1989 Comanche can be a reliable daily driver. However, as a 30+ year old vehicle, expect ongoing maintenance and be prepared for potential breakdowns that newer vehicles typically avoid.

Q2: What’s the main difference between an ’89 Comanche and an ’89 Cherokee (XJ)?
A2: The primary difference is the body style. Both share the same unibody chassis forward of the B-pillar, but the Comanche has a pickup truck bed, while the Cherokee is an SUV with an enclosed cargo area. The Comanche also has a longer wheelbase than most XJs.

Q3: Are parts hard to find for an ’89 Comanche?
A3: Many mechanical parts (engine, transmission, front suspension, interior components) are shared with the highly popular XJ Cherokee, making them relatively easy and affordable to find. However, Comanche-specific body panels (bed, tailgate, rear fenders), some rear suspension components, and unique interior trim pieces can be very difficult and expensive to source.

Q4: What’s the best engine for the ’89 Comanche?
A4: The 4.0-liter inline-six (Renix MPI) is widely considered the best and most desirable engine for the ’89 Comanche due to its legendary reliability, strong torque, and ease of maintenance and modification.

Q5: How much rust is too much when buying a Comanche?
A5: Any rust is a concern, but structural rust on the unibody "frame" rails, especially near suspension mounting points, is a major red flag and can be prohibitively expensive or impossible to repair correctly. Surface rust on body panels is less critical but still indicates neglect.

Q6: Should I buy a 2WD or 4WD Comanche?
A6: This depends on your intended use. 4WD models are generally more desirable, command higher prices, and offer superior off-road capability and resale value. 2WD models are lighter, slightly more fuel-efficient, and can be good for light utility or street-only use.

Q7: Can I put an XJ Cherokee bed on a Comanche?
A7: No, the XJ Cherokee is an SUV with an integrated body. The Comanche has a separate, albeit welded-on, truck bed. They are not interchangeable.

Q8: What’s the average fuel economy for an ’89 Comanche?
A8: Fuel economy for a 4.0L 4WD ’89 Comanche typically ranges from 15-20 MPG combined, depending on driving style, maintenance, and modifications (like larger tires or lift kits). 2WD models might see slightly better figures.