Jeep Patriot Forums banner
Cancel
Create thread New Garage Forums

Hello! Need some advise for buying a used Patriot

Jump to Latest
1 - 12 of 12 Posts
B

blueslothking

· Registered
Joined
·
4 Posts
Discussion starter · #1 ·
Hi there. Been looking for a Patriot to replace our dead Outback.

Last night I test drove a 2012 2.0L Sport from a private seller. It was a little under-powered compared to the 2.4Ls I've been looking to buy, but the price seams good for the condition/miles on the vehicle and the money savings will be worth it to me. We'll be using mostly around town and for camping (rough gravel roads, but no 4wd necessary).

Everything seamed to be in good order. The transmission (CVT) was a bit different than I am used to, but seamed fine.

I am going back tonight to most likely buy it. Is there anything specific to the Patriot I should scrutinize as potential problems with the vehicle other than the general used car checklist (body damage, leaks, alignment, etc)?

Any advise appreciated.
 
#2 ·
Welcome, well almost. You said it felt a little under powered around town. What will it feel like loaded up a little around town and on the highway. How about loaded up with passengers and camping gear? Ac would further tap performance. Just saying...
Good Luck with your decision.

Keep the Shiny Side Up!
 
Save
Reply Quote Like Like
#3 ·
I have the 2012 2.0 Latitude...yes it's underpowered mostly because of the cvt. But it's not that terrible.
Many owners have complained of leaking sunroofs, also front end components seem to go bad early for many.
I haven't had that problem, but I only have 29k miles on mine.

Good luck and I hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine!
 
Discussion starter · #4 ·
Griff - what do you mean by front end components?

As for sunroof, I couldn't see any signs of leakage. It was the beige headliner, so I think it would be easier to spot damage.

Just got the carfax and looks like it taken to the dealer regularly for scheduled maintenance.

I don't think the power will bug me too much. I drive it up some hills and it did fine. Maybe not as fun to drive, but passable. If if I was buying new, or could find a used 2.4 anywhere close to this price for the condition, then I would go that route.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
#7 ·
CVT doesn't mean lack of power per se, unless you stomp on one in the Patriot. These things prefer more gradual pressure. Suspension is a common Chrysler issue from what I hear, and I can testify the Patriot is no different. If anything in the suspension gives you trouble, just replace with Moog parts and you should be fine. Also make sure the CVT has been well taken care of. Fluid/filter changes within 60k miles is always wise. Might seem pretty close for a tranny, but the CVT is still relatively new for widespread use and needs some TLC. Take care of it, and it'll take care of you.
 
#8 ·
The only advise I have is spelling ....advice :D

J/K ... had to
 
  • Like
Reactions: RossoRacer
Save
Reply Quote Like Like
Discussion starter · #9 ·
I ended up buying the patriot. Everything is good so far. I'm sure I'll be back with questions in addition to what I can gather searching through old posts.

I'm not sure how quick I'll get to them, but I intend to:

Add a basket on top (already got my old Yakima cross bars installed)
Add a hitch for cargo basket, bikes, etc (got a Curt one ordered already)
Aftermarket stereo
Backup Carmela
Possibly some light up top
Add a USB outlet or two

And most important, get rid of the flowery car freshener smell from the previous owner.

Image



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
#11 · (Edited)
Looks nice! As above, some have had front-end problems and some have had sunroof leaks, but I've had neither problem. Overall its a good solid vehicle. Mine has over 200,000 miles and still going strong. Just do the scheduled maintenance.
Yeah, the 2.0 is slow, but its fantastic on fuel economy.
Nobody knows about slow cars like me. My first car was a 1960 Ford Falcon with the 14CID-6. Now that was a slow car! BUT, it got 30MPG and got me through the first gas crisis in '74
CVT may take getting used to, but it only took a day or so. I prefer the CVT to either a conventional automatic or a manual.
 
#12 ·
I also recommend a good set of tires(P225-60R17 Firestone Destination LE2's work good for me). And...what's a "carmela"? Or is that another typo? ;)
 
1 - 12 of 12 Posts
About this Discussion
11 Replies
7 Participants
Last post:
RossoRacer
Jeep Patriot Forums
posts
678K
members
55K
Since
2006
Join our community to discuss the Jeep Patriot & Jeep Compass. Find answers to all your Jeep Patriot technical questions.
Full Forum Listing
Explore Our Forums
Jeep Patriot General Discussion Engine and Drivetrain Newbie Check-In Suspension and Tires Electrical and Audio