Jeep Commando For Sale Craigslist: Your Ultimate Guide to Buying and Selling a Classic Off-Roader

Jeep Commando For Sale Craigslist: Your Ultimate Guide to Buying and Selling a Classic Off-Roader jeeps.truckstrend.com

The lure of a classic Jeep is undeniable, a call to adventure and a tangible link to automotive history. Among these iconic vehicles, the Jeep Commando holds a special place. Produced from 1966 to 1973, this versatile utility vehicle combined the ruggedness of a CJ with a more refined, wagon-like body, offering a unique blend of practicality and legendary off-road capability. For enthusiasts and collectors, finding a Jeep Commando is often a passion project, and one of the most accessible hunting grounds remains Craigslist.

"Jeep Commando For Sale Craigslist" isn’t just a search query; it’s an entry point into a vibrant, often local, marketplace where direct owner-to-owner transactions make dreams of classic vehicle ownership a reality. This comprehensive guide will navigate the intricacies of buying and selling a Jeep Commando on Craigslist, providing insights, practical advice, and a roadmap to a successful acquisition or sale.

Jeep Commando For Sale Craigslist: Your Ultimate Guide to Buying and Selling a Classic Off-Roader

The Allure of the Jeep Commando: A Brief History and Appeal

Before diving into the marketplace, it’s essential to understand what makes the Jeep Commando so desirable. Introduced as the Kaiser Jeep Commando (C101) in 1966, it aimed to compete with the burgeoning SUV market, offering a more comfortable and enclosed alternative to the open-top CJ models. Available in several body styles – including a Roadster, Pickup, and Wagon – the Commando quickly gained a reputation for its versatility.

Early models (1966-1971) typically featured the sturdy F-head Hurricane inline-four engine or the more powerful Dauntless V6, borrowed from Buick. In 1972, under AMC ownership, the Commando underwent a significant redesign (C104), adopting a longer nose to accommodate AMC’s inline-six and V8 engines. While the "Commando" name was officially dropped for these later models, enthusiasts still refer to them as such due to the distinct body style.

The Commando’s appeal lies in its unique blend of classic Jeep aesthetics and slightly more refined features. Its relatively compact size, coupled with robust four-wheel drive systems, makes it an incredibly capable off-road vehicle. For many, it represents an ideal platform for restoration, customization, or simply enjoying a piece of vintage Americana. However, like any classic vehicle, finding one in good condition, or understanding the true scope of a "project," requires diligence, especially when dealing with online marketplaces like Craigslist.

Navigating Craigslist for Your Dream Commando: A Buyer’s Guide

Craigslist is a treasure trove for classic vehicles, but it requires a strategic approach. Here’s how to effectively search and evaluate listings for a Jeep Commando:

1. Searching Effectively:

• Keywords are Key: Don’t just search "Jeep Commando." Expand your terms to include "Kaiser Jeep," "Willys Commando," "C101," "C104," and specific years (e.g., "1969 Jeep Commando").
• Location Filters: Start broad, then narrow your search to local areas. Be prepared to travel for the right vehicle.
• "More Like This": Once you find a promising listing, look for the "more like this" option to discover similar vehicles posted by other sellers.

2. What to Look For in Listings:

• Photos: This is your first line of defense. Look for high-resolution photos from multiple angles: exterior (front, back, sides, top), interior (dashboard, seats, floorboards), engine bay, and if possible, the undercarriage. Red flags include few photos, blurry images, or shots that strategically hide problem areas.
• Description: A detailed description is invaluable. It should ideally include:
  • Year, make, model, and specific body style.

  

  • Engine type (e.g., Dauntless V6, AMC 304 V8) and transmission (manual/automatic, number of speeds).
  • Mileage (if known and verifiable, though often inaccurate for classics).
  • 2WD or 4WD.
  • Known issues: rust (be specific about locations), mechanical problems, electrical quirks.
  • Recent repairs or upgrades (e.g., new brakes, rebuilt engine, lift kit).
  • Reason for selling.
  • Title status (clean, salvage, etc.).
• Price: Compare the asking price to similar vehicles you’ve seen online or in local markets. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true (often scams) or excessively high without clear justification.

3. Initial Contact and Follow-Up:

• Be Polite and Specific: When you contact the seller, introduce yourself and ask specific, informed questions based on the listing. Avoid generic "Is it available?" messages.
• Request More Info: Ask for additional photos, especially of specific areas like the frame or known rust spots. Request the VIN for a background check.
• Schedule a Viewing: If the initial contact is positive, arrange to see the vehicle in person.

Essential Inspections and Due Diligence for Buyers

Once you’re on-site, a thorough inspection is crucial. Remember, many Commandos on Craigslist will be "project" vehicles.

• Rust: The Commando’s Arch-Nemesis: This is often the biggest killer of classic Jeeps. Check common rust areas:
  • Frame: Inspect the entire frame, especially near body mounts, spring perches, and where the steering box attaches. Pitting and surface rust are common, but severe rot is a deal-breaker.
  • Body: Floor pans, rocker panels, fenders (especially where they meet the cowl), tailgate, and the bottom edges of the doors.
  • Under the Carpet: Pull up any carpet or floor mats to check for hidden rust.
• Mechanical Condition:
  • Engine: Look for oil leaks, listen for knocks, excessive smoke from the exhaust, or unusual noises. Check fluid levels.
  • Transmission: Test shifting in both 2WD and 4WD. Listen for grinding or difficulty engaging gears.
  • 4×4 System: Engage and disengage 4WD (high and low range). Ensure the transfer case shifts smoothly.
  • Brakes: Check for spongy pedal, pulling, or excessive noise.
  • Steering: Check for excessive play in the steering wheel.
  • Suspension: Look for broken springs, worn shocks, or cracked bushings.
• Electrical System: Test all lights (headlights, tail lights, turn signals, brake lights), gauges, wipers, heater, and horn.
• Paperwork: Verify the title. Ensure the VIN on the title matches the VIN on the vehicle. Check for any liens. Request any service records.
• Test Drive: Drive the vehicle on various surfaces if possible. Listen for noises, check acceleration, braking, and steering response. Note any vibrations or pulling.
• Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): For higher-priced Commandos or those you’re serious about, consider hiring a local mechanic specializing in vintage vehicles to perform a comprehensive PPI. It’s a small investment that can save you thousands.

Selling Your Jeep Commando on Craigslist: A Seller’s Blueprint

If you’re parting ways with your Commando, Craigslist offers a direct path to enthusiastic buyers.

1. Preparation is Key:

• Clean Thoroughly: A clean vehicle photographs better and leaves a strong first impression. Wash, vacuum, and wipe down surfaces.
• Fix Minor Issues: Address small, inexpensive problems (e.g., burnt-out light bulbs, loose trim) that can detract from the perceived value.
• Gather Paperwork: Have your clean title, registration, and any service records readily available.

2. Photography:

• High-Quality, Well-Lit Photos: Take photos in good natural light, from all angles. Include close-ups of features, the engine bay, interior, and any modifications.
• Honesty in Photos: Don’t hide flaws. Take clear pictures of any rust spots, dents, or tears. Transparency builds trust.

3. Crafting the Listing:

• Detailed and Honest Description: This is paramount. Include:
  • Year, model, specific body style (e.g., 1970 Jeep Commando Wagon).
  • Engine type, transmission, 4×4 status.
  • Condition: Be realistic (e.g., "Drivable Project," "Good Original Condition," "Fully Restored").
  • Known issues: Explicitly state rust locations, mechanical quirks, or electrical problems.
  • Recent work: List any maintenance, repairs, or upgrades with dates.
  • Asking Price: Set a realistic price based on your research (see pricing table below).
  • Contact Information: How you prefer to be contacted (email, phone, text).
• Why You’re Selling: A brief, honest reason can help build rapport.

4. Pricing Strategy:

• Research Comparables: Look at what similar Commandos in similar condition are selling for on Craigslist, eBay, and other classic car sites.
• Be Realistic: Factor in condition, originality, rarity, and modifications. A project vehicle will fetch significantly less than a fully restored one.
• Leave Room for Negotiation: Most buyers expect to negotiate, so price accordingly, but don’t overprice excessively.

5. Dealing with Inquiries and Safety:

• Be Responsive and Honest: Promptly answer questions truthfully.
• Filter Out Scammers: Be wary of requests for wire transfers, overpayment schemes, or buyers who want to ship the vehicle sight-unseen without a local inspection. Cash in person is often safest.
• Meet Safely: Arrange to meet in a public place for the initial viewing. If a test drive is involved, ensure you’re comfortable with the buyer and ideally bring a friend. Do not share personal financial information.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Buying or selling a classic vehicle on Craigslist, particularly something as niche as a Jeep Commando, can present unique challenges.

• Scams: Both buyers and sellers can encounter fraudulent schemes.
  • Solution: Always insist on inspecting the vehicle in person. For sellers, accept only cash or a verified bank check. Never ship a vehicle until funds are fully cleared.
• "Project" Status: Many Commandos on Craigslist are unfinished projects or require significant work.
  • Solution (Buyers): Understand your budget for restoration, your mechanical skill level, and the availability of parts before committing. Get a clear understanding of what "project" entails from the seller.
  • Solution (Sellers): Be extremely transparent about the vehicle’s condition, especially its flaws. Provide photos and detailed descriptions of what needs work.
• Parts Availability: While many mechanical components are shared with other Jeeps or common AMC/GM parts, specific Commando body panels or interior pieces can be challenging to source.
  • Solution: Research common parts sources (online forums, specialized vendors) before buying a project.
• Distance: The perfect Commando might be hundreds of miles away.
  • Solution: Factor in travel costs for inspection, or arrange a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic near the vehicle. Shipping costs can add significantly to the final price.

Jeep Commando Price Guide (Estimated on Craigslist)

The price of a Jeep Commando on Craigslist is highly variable, depending heavily on its condition, originality, body style, engine, and location. This table provides a general range; specific listings can fall outside these estimates.

Condition Category	Description	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Key Considerations
Parts/Bare Project	Incomplete, non-running, severe rust, missing major components. Primarily for parts or full frame-off resto.	$1,500 – $4,500	Requires extensive fabrication, mechanical overhaul. High investment in time and money. Often titled, but sometimes just a bill of sale.
Drivable Project	Runs and drives, but needs significant mechanical work, bodywork, rust repair, and interior attention.	$4,500 – $10,000	Can be driven home (carefully). Expect to spend significant money on parts and labor. Rust is often present but not always frame-threatening.
Good Original/Driver	Functional, mostly complete, minor rust, possibly older repaint, minor mechanical issues. Can be enjoyed as is.	$10,000 – $20,000	Suitable for regular driving with routine maintenance. May have some modifications (lift, tires). Interior might show wear. A good base for a rolling restoration or just enjoying.
Nicely Restored/Custom	Professionally restored or very well-maintained original. Minimal rust, strong mechanicals, good paint.	$20,000 – $35,000+	Ready to show or drive reliably. Custom builds (engine swaps, significant suspension upgrades) can push prices higher. Quality of restoration and originality play a huge role.
Show Quality/Concours	Meticulously restored to original specifications or a very high-end custom build. Flawless.	$35,000 – $50,000+	Rare to find on Craigslist, more likely through specialty dealers or auctions. Represents the peak of Commando value.

Disclaimer: These are general estimates. Prices are influenced by market demand, specific engine/transmission configurations (e.g., Dauntless V6 or V8 models often command more), rarity of body style (Roadsters are rarer), and geographical location.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What years were Jeep Commandos produced?
A1: The Kaiser Jeep Commando (C101) was produced from 1966 to 1971. The AMC-era Jeep (C104), often still called a Commando by enthusiasts due to its body style, was produced in 1972 and 1973.

Q2: What engines came in the Commando?
A2: Early models (C101) featured the 134 cu in (2.2 L) F-head Hurricane I4 or the 225 cu in (3.7 L) Dauntless V6. Later models (C104) offered AMC engines: the 232 cu in (3.8 L) or 258 cu in (4.2 L) I6, and the 304 cu in (5.0 L) V8.

Q3: Are parts hard to find for a Commando?
A3: Mechanical parts (engine, transmission, transfer case, axles) are often shared with other Jeeps or common AMC/GM vehicles and are generally available. Body panels and specific interior trim pieces can be harder to source, sometimes requiring fabrication or finding donor vehicles.

Q4: What’s the difference between a C101 and C104?
A4: The C101 (1966-1971) has a shorter nose and came with the F-head 4-cylinder or Dauntless V6. The C104 (1972-1973) has a longer, redesigned nose to accommodate AMC’s larger inline-six and V8 engines, and officially dropped the "Commando" name.

Q5: How much rust is too much when buying a Commando?
A5: This depends on your budget, skills, and goals. Surface rust is manageable. Significant rust on the frame (pitting, holes, flaking) is a major red flag as it compromises structural integrity and is very costly to repair. Rust in critical body mounts or suspension points should also be a deal-breaker unless you’re planning a full frame-off restoration with professional welding.

Q6: Can a Jeep Commando be a daily driver?
A6: While possible, it’s generally not recommended for modern daily driving without significant restoration and upgrades (e.g., modern braking system, power steering, updated suspension, fuel injection). They lack modern safety features, comfort, and fuel efficiency. They are best suited as weekend cruisers, off-road toys, or project vehicles.

Conclusion

The journey of finding a Jeep Commando for sale on Craigslist is an exciting one, connecting enthusiasts directly with a piece of automotive history. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic looking for a new project or a passionate collector seeking a unique addition, Craigslist offers unparalleled access to these classic off-roaders.

Success hinges on patience, thorough research, and diligent inspection. For buyers, understanding the nuances of Commando models, common problem areas like rust, and the importance of a pre-purchase inspection are vital. For sellers, transparency, quality photography, and a realistic pricing strategy will attract the right buyer. By following the guidance in this article, you can confidently navigate the Craigslist marketplace and ensure a positive experience, bringing your Jeep Commando dreams to life.