Jeep Comanche Pickups For Sale: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

Jeep Comanche Pickups For Sale: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide jeeps.truckstrend.com

In the realm of classic American pickups, few vehicles stir the same blend of nostalgia, rugged capability, and cult fascination as the Jeep Comanche. Produced for a relatively short seven-year run from 1986 to 1992, the Comanche (dubbed the MJ by enthusiasts) stands as a unique chapter in Jeep’s storied history. It combined the beloved unibody chassis and robust powertrains of the XJ Cherokee with the practicality of a pickup bed, carving out a niche that remains highly sought after today. For those looking to own a piece of this distinctive heritage, navigating the "Jeep Comanche Pickups For Sale" market requires a blend of historical knowledge, mechanical insight, and a keen eye for condition. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with everything you need to know before bringing a Comanche home.

The Enduring Appeal of the Jeep Comanche

Jeep Comanche Pickups For Sale: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

The Jeep Comanche was born from a desire to offer a compact pickup that could leverage the immense success and parts commonality of the XJ Cherokee. Unlike traditional body-on-frame pickups, the Comanche adopted the XJ’s unibody construction, integrating a short "frame" section at the rear to support the bed. This innovative design contributed to a lighter vehicle with a car-like ride, yet it retained the legendary off-road prowess synonymous with the Jeep name.

What makes the Comanche so desirable today?

• Classic Jeep Styling: It shares the iconic square-headlight aesthetic of the XJ, a timeless design that appeals to many.
• Robust Drivetrain Options: Primarily known for its durable 4.0L inline-six engine, paired with reliable automatic (AW4) or manual (AX-15) transmissions and capable transfer cases (NP231 Command-Trac or NP242 Selec-Trac).
• Off-Road Capability: Its relatively compact size, solid axles (Dana 30 front, Dana 35 or rarer Dana 44 rear), and potent 4WD systems make it an excellent trail rig.
• Versatility: From a quirky daily driver to a dedicated work truck or an off-road beast, the Comanche adapts to various roles.
• Rarity & Collector Status: With only just over 200,000 units produced, the Comanche is far less common than its XJ sibling, contributing to its growing collector appeal and increasing values.

This unique combination of classic looks, proven mechanics, and limited production ensures that the Comanche will continue to be a compelling option for enthusiasts and practical users alike.

What to Look For When Buying a Jeep Comanche

Purchasing a vehicle that’s 30+ years old always comes with caveats. With the Comanche, a thorough inspection is paramount. Here’s a detailed checklist of what to prioritize:

1. Rust: The Unibody’s Worst Enemy

Given their age and often harsh usage, rust is the single biggest enemy of the Comanche. Pay close attention to:

• Rocker Panels: These are prime areas for rot due to salt and moisture.
• Floorboards: Both driver and passenger sides, especially near the footwells. Check under the carpet.
• Rear Bed Floor and Sides: The bed is exposed to the elements and cargo.
• Rear Leaf Spring Mounts: Crucial structural points that often rust out, leading to unsafe conditions.
• Cab Corners and Door Bottoms: Common areas for corrosion.
• Frame Rails (Integrated Section): Inspect the rear "frame" section under the bed for severe rust or repairs. A heavily rusted unibody can make a Comanche unfixable.

2. Engine: The Heartbeat of the Comanche

While the 2.5L I4 and early 2.8L V6 were offered, the 4.0L inline-six is overwhelmingly the preferred engine.

• 4.0L Renix (1986-1990) vs. High Output (HO) (1991-1992): The HO is generally considered more powerful (190hp vs. 177hp) and slightly more refined due to its updated fuel injection system. Both are incredibly durable.
• Listen for: Ticking noises (lifters), knocking (rod bearings), or rough idling.
• Check for Leaks: Common oil leaks include the rear main seal, valve cover, and oil filter adapter. Coolant leaks can come from the water pump, radiator, or hoses.
• Cooling System: Inspect the radiator, fan shroud, and hoses for cracks or brittleness. Overheating is a known issue if the system isn’t maintained.

3. Transmission and Transfer Case

• AW4 Automatic: This Aisin-Warner unit is famously robust. Check for smooth shifts, proper engagement of all gears, and healthy fluid (red, not brown or burnt).
• Manual Transmissions (AX-4/5/15): Test clutch engagement, listen for grinding during shifts, and check for leaks. The AX-15 (5-speed) is the strongest manual option.
• Transfer Case (NP231/NP242): Test 2WD, 4-High, and 4-Low engagement. Listen for unusual noises. The NP231 (Command-Trac) is part-time 4WD, while the NP242 (Selec-Trac) offers a full-time 4WD option.

4. Axles, Suspension, and Steering

• Axles (Dana 30 Front, Dana 35/44 Rear): Check for leaks at the differential covers and pinion seals. Listen for humming or clunking sounds during driving. The Dana 44 rear axle (rare, found on some 4.0L models, especially with towing packages) is significantly stronger than the Dana 35.
• Suspension: Look for sagging (especially rear leaf springs), worn shocks, and cracked bushings.
• Steering: Check for excessive play in the steering wheel, which could indicate worn tie rods, ball joints, or a tired steering box.

5. Electrical and Interior

• Electrical: Test all lights, gauges, power windows, locks, and the HVAC system. Dash gauge issues are common.
• Interior: Assess the condition of seats (tears, sagging), headliner (sagging), dash (cracks), and door panels.

Understanding Comanche Trim Levels and Options

The Comanche was offered in several trim levels, each with varying features and aesthetics:

• Base (MJ): Basic work truck, often with manual windows/locks, no A/C.
• Custom: A step up from base, offering minor cosmetic upgrades.
• Chief: More stylized, often with chrome accents and improved interior.
• Pioneer: A popular mid-range trim with more features.
• Laredo: The top-tier luxury trim, featuring chrome grilles, upgraded interiors, and more power options.
• Eliminator: The sporty trim, introduced in 1987, often equipped with the 4.0L engine, bucket seats, and unique graphics. These are often the most sought-after.

Beyond trim, key options included:

• Engine: 2.5L I4, 2.8L V6 (early, avoid), 4.0L I6.
• Bed Lengths: Short box (6-foot) and Long box (7-foot). The long box is rarer.
• Drivetrain: 2WD or 4WD.
• Transmission: Manual or Automatic.

Where to Find a Jeep Comanche For Sale

Finding a Comanche today requires patience and knowing where to look:

• Online Marketplaces: Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay Motors are primary sources. Set up search alerts for "Jeep Comanche," "Jeep MJ," or even "XJ pickup."
• Dedicated Forums and Groups: The Comanche Club forum (ComancheClub.com) is an invaluable resource, often featuring classifieds from enthusiasts. Facebook groups dedicated to Comanches or XJ Cherokees are also excellent places to find listings.
• Classic Car Dealerships: Less common, but some specialized dealerships might occasionally stock a well-preserved example.
• Auctions: Online auction sites like Bring a Trailer or Cars & Bids, and live auctions like Mecum, occasionally feature exceptionally clean or highly customized Comanches, often fetching premium prices.
• Word of Mouth: Let friends, family, and local mechanics know you’re looking.

Tips for Searching: Be prepared to travel for a good example. Expand your search radius, as clean Comanches are becoming rarer in many regions.

Pricing Your Comanche Purchase: What to Expect

The price of a Jeep Comanche can vary dramatically based on condition, mileage, trim, engine, 4WD status, and regional demand. The 4.0L, 4WD models, especially the Eliminator or Laredo trims, command higher prices. Rust-free examples are significantly more valuable.

Here’s an estimated price guide:

Condition Category	Description	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Key Considerations
Project/Parts Truck	Non-running, significant structural rust, major mechanical failures, incomplete, or severely neglected.	$500 – $2,500	Requires extensive fabrication, mechanical overhaul, and potentially a donor vehicle. For experienced restorers only.
Running Driver	Runs and drives, but has noticeable rust (surface to moderate), cosmetic flaws (dents, faded paint), and/or minor mechanical issues requiring attention.	$2,500 – $6,000	Functional for daily use, but will require ongoing investment in repairs, maintenance, and cosmetic improvements.
Good Condition	Minimal to no structural rust, solid frame/unibody, 4.0L engine preferred, all major systems functional, average mileage for its age. Clean interior.	$6,000 – $12,000	A reliable daily driver or a solid base for mild customization. Expect typical wear and tear.
Excellent/Restored	Very little to no rust, professionally maintained or restored, low original mileage for its age, pristine interior and exterior.	$12,000 – $25,000+	Collector-grade. Often original 4.0L 4×4, Laredo or Eliminator trims. Can fetch significantly more for exceptional examples.
Highly Modified	Custom builds, engine swaps (e.g., V8), extensive off-road modifications, show-quality paint and interior.	Varies Widely	Price depends heavily on the quality of work, components used, and the target market. Due diligence is crucial.

Note: These are estimates based on current market trends (as of late 2023/early 2024). Prices fluctuate based on location, specific trim, engine, mileage, originality, and overall market demand.

Common Challenges and Solutions for Comanche Owners

Owning a vintage vehicle like the Comanche isn’t without its challenges, but most have well-known solutions within the enthusiast community.

• Parts Availability: While unique body panels (bed, cab corners) can be difficult to source new, most mechanical components (engine, transmission, axles, suspension, interior bits) are interchangeable with the ubiquitous XJ Cherokee, making them relatively easy to find new or used. Aftermarket support for upgrades is also strong.
• Rust Repair: This is often the biggest hurdle. Professional bodywork can be expensive. Many enthusiasts tackle minor rust repair themselves, but significant structural rust often requires skilled fabrication.
• Finding Knowledgeable Mechanics: Not all mechanics are familiar with older Jeeps. Joining online forums can help you find local specialists or empower you to learn DIY maintenance.
• Fuel Economy: Don’t expect modern fuel economy. The 4.0L is robust but thirsty, typically yielding 15-20 MPG.
• Safety Features: As a 1980s-90s vehicle, the Comanche lacks modern safety features like airbags, ABS, or traction control. Drive accordingly.

Practical Advice and Actionable Insights

1. Set a Realistic Budget: Beyond the purchase price, factor in immediate maintenance (fluids, filters, spark plugs), potential repairs (tires, brakes, suspension components), and any desired modifications.
2. Inspect Thoroughly (or Hire Someone): If you’re not mechanically inclined, arrange for a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a trusted mechanic familiar with older Jeeps. This small investment can save you thousands.
3. Test Drive Extensively: Drive at various speeds, on different surfaces if possible. Test 4WD engagement (if applicable). Listen for unusual noises, feel for vibrations, and check steering and braking.
4. Check Documentation: Ask for service records, original owner’s manuals, and ensure a clear title.
5. Join the Community: The Jeep Comanche community is passionate and helpful. Forums like The Comanche Club offer a wealth of knowledge, how-to guides, and troubleshooting assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What years were Jeep Comanches made?
The Jeep Comanche (MJ) was produced from the 1986 model year through 1992.

2. Is the Comanche a unibody or body-on-frame?
The Comanche is primarily a unibody vehicle, sharing its front end and cab with the XJ Cherokee. However, it incorporates a partial, integrated "frame" section at the rear to support the pickup bed, making it a unique hybrid design.

3. What’s the best engine for a Comanche?
The 4.0L inline-six engine (especially the High Output version from 1991-1992) is overwhelmingly considered the best for its power, reliability, and widespread parts availability.

4. Are parts hard to find for a Comanche?
Mechanical parts (engine, transmission, axles, suspension, steering) are largely interchangeable with the widely produced XJ Cherokee, making them relatively easy to find. Unique Comanche-specific body panels (bed, rear fenders, cab corners) and some interior trim pieces are much harder to source new and often require searching used parts networks or reproduction specialists.

5. How capable is a stock Comanche off-road?
Very capable. Its relatively light weight, short wheelbase (on short-bed models), excellent approach and departure angles, and robust 4WD systems make it a formidable and agile off-road vehicle, especially with the 4.0L engine.

6. What are the most common rust spots on a Comanche?
The most common areas for rust are the rocker panels, floorboards, bed floor, rear leaf spring mounts, and cab corners. Thoroughly inspect these areas before purchase.

7. What’s the difference between Renix and HO 4.0L engines?
Renix refers to the engine management system used in 4.0L engines from 1987-1990. The HO (High Output) 4.0L was introduced in 1991 and featured a revised cylinder head, intake manifold, and fuel injection system, increasing horsepower and generally improving reliability and tuning potential.

8. Can I put a V8 engine in a Comanche?
Yes, V8 engine swaps (typically GM LS or Mopar Magnum engines) are popular modifications for Comanches, but they require significant fabrication, specialized parts, and advanced mechanical expertise.

Conclusion

The Jeep Comanche is more than just a pickup; it’s a statement. It represents a unique blend of Jeep’s rugged heritage and a distinct design philosophy that sets it apart from conventional trucks. While finding a clean example may require patience and a discerning eye, the reward of owning and driving this iconic vehicle is immense. With its robust mechanicals, timeless styling, and growing enthusiast support, a well-chosen Jeep Comanche can provide years of reliable service, off-road adventures, and a continuous source of pride for its owner. Embark on your search informed, inspect diligently, and soon you might just find your perfect piece of Jeep history.