Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving significant labor costs compared to dealership service. Offers deep understanding of vehicle systems for informed decisions.
Digital Advantage:
Print-on-demand flexibility, instant access, ability to back up for data security (unlike some DRM-restricted manuals).
Electronic ignition, distributorless ignition system (DIS) on some later models, but likely distributor for '88
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (AX-5 or AX-15)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (AW4 - Chrysler/Aisin Warner collaboration)
Features
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
ATF+3 (Chrysler spec, equivalent to Dexron II/III in practice for this era)
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac (2WD/4WD Part-time) or Command-Trac (4WD Part-time)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
113.0 inches (2870 mm)
Overall Length:
174.7 inches (4437 mm) (Short Bed)
Overall Width:
70.3 inches (1786 mm)
Overall Height:
65.9 inches (1674 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
3,300 - 3,700 lbs (1497 - 1678 kg) depending on configuration
Towing Capacity Approx:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with proper equipment and engine
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Not comprehensively rated by modern standards, but generally considered robust for its era.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Four-wheel disc or front disc/rear drum brakes depending on configuration, Power steering
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Seat belts (lap and shoulder front, lap rear), Energy-absorbing steering column
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System Type:
Basic AM/FM Radio, Cassette Player (optional CD player might have been available on higher trims).
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 2 or 4 speakers, depending on trim level.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Vehicle Speed Control (Cruise Control) available as an option.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Minimal by modern standards. Primarily manual controls for HVAC and audio.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical for this era, consult manual for specific synthetic oil recommendations if applicable).
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (using conventional green coolant).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:
Every 60,000 miles or as needed.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 (check owner's manual for temperature ranges and viscosity variations).
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) - Ethylene Glycol based
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Radiator leaks (especially plastic end tanks on original radiators).
Common Issue 2:
Water pump failures.
Common Issue 3:
Leaf spring U-bolt loosening or breakage under heavy load.
Common Issue 4:
Cracked cylinder heads on early 4.0L I6 engines (though less common on 1988 models compared to earlier years).
Common Issue 5:
Aging electrical connectors and grounds causing intermittent issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Heritage:
Jeep's legacy is deeply rooted in off-road prowess and utility, dating back to World War II. The Comanche carried this reputation forward into the light truck segment.
Model Evolution
Comanche Introduction:
Introduced in 1986 as Jeep's entry into the compact pickup market, sharing its platform with the highly successful XJ Cherokee.
Comanche Design Philosophy:
Focused on utility, off-road capability, and the familiar Jeep driving experience, setting it apart from more car-like competitors.
Production
Production Years:
1986-1992
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Ownership Changes:
Produced under AMC ownership initially, then Chrysler after the 1987 acquisition.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Design And Engineering Awards:
While specific awards for the 1988 Comanche are not readily documented, the XJ platform it shared was praised for its pioneering unibody SUV design and off-road capability.