Need A Little Help

HAPPYDAN · Feb 5, 2014

Hey, All! 1 or 2 questions regarding the Patriot. But first - confession time. After being seriously burned by Ford and Chrysler, I have not owned, purchased or driven an American-made auto for over 35 years. For the last 15 years I have enjoyed a love affair with the Subaru Forester. But my current ride has 184k miles and needs to be replaced soon. The new ones are too
big, expensive, and gadgety for my needs, as are all the foreign offerings.
Enter the Jeep Patriot. There is very little info available for this car, and the "Official" test reports don't give it much credit. Since I only recently found out it exists, Chrysler doesn't do much to promote it. WEWA is absolutely overrun with Wranglers and Cherokees, and are they pricey! To get what I want, I would probably have to order. Simply, 4x4, manual trans, air conditioning and NO E-Gadgets! Some owners reports are quite positive, and Consumer Reports gives it an above average reliability rating. So, I invite anyone with a similar configuation Jeep Patriot to provide some feedback, positive or otherwise. Thanks in advance!

harold · Feb 5, 2014

what's your budget?
what do you want it to do?
do you want a brand new ride or will you take one that's maybe a year old?
manual or auto?

RossoRacer · Feb 5, 2014

I've got a 2010 Patriot Sport FD1 with the CVT, bought new in Dec. 2009 for $21,900 out the door, tax, title, and the $1500 rebate at the time all factored in. Crank windows, manual locks, mirrors, and seat adjustment, basic stereo(which works pretty well, I've no need of custom speakers), no cruise control, etc. As for how I like it, well, I love it. Got ticked even when some coworkers put sticky notes all over it on a cold evening(as ice/snow started to fall). However, I'm not exactly gentle with it when I buzz down my home dirt road at 55mph, which it handles with ease. Got into a couple minor fender-benders, it's fixed easily no problem. The simplicity of the Patriot keeps earning it bad reviews from the spoiled Kelley blue book people and such, but that's what makes it such a true non-grand-package Jeep, is it's simplicity. The CVT has absolutely no reason to be slammed, I have had absolutely no problems with it in the past 4 years, save occasional lack of power when trying to oh, say, take a steep hill at the sand dunes or tow my pastor's XJ out of a mud pit. And that's probably due to the light-duty 2.4L inline-4 anyways.

Billofthenorth · Feb 5, 2014

My 2012 is about what you are looking for, I had to order mine too but I think the wait was less than a month til delivery. I have the 2.4l engine with 5 speed manual trans and a/c. Stock 16" steel rims and tires, no other gadgets.

I have just over 18,000 miles and have had no issues. It is an amazing snow beast, is getting around 25 - 26 mpg this winter and often gets 29 - 30 in the summer months.

I've had it on logging trails over the summer and it's a pretty good light duty off roader. It'll seat 4 (or is it 5? I've never had that many people in it) with a little room behind the rear seats for 'stuff'. I'm 6'4" and have plenty of head and leg room although side to side knee room could be better.

I'm glad I bought it.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxTater180 · Feb 5, 2014

I like you wanted a simple car. I didn't want 4x4 but did want a manual trans. I wanted a few accessories but not heavy electronics. Well, the problem is finding what you want on the lot. The dealers here won't dicker when you order. So, I found one that a dealer was stuck with. He offered a great price. When I got there they backed out on the deal citing a problem with the title because of repairs made to the trans. I don't know if this was salesmanship or not but they found another car that had a few more options that came at cost. They were eager to sell anything with a manual trans. The dealership was factory owned at the time and was selling all the overage. I think wanting a manual trans gives you an advantage when you can buy off the lot.

Since you want the manual you may get a similar deal. The 4x4 may be your biggest problem. I don't think I have ever seen one. So you may have to order.

FWIW, I love my Patriot. It does have the pwr windows, locks, sun roof, electronics package, air, 16 inch wheels and sound package. The Pat does a decent job towing. It is rated 1000lbs as is and 2000lbs with the oil cooler. The hitch and lights are easy DIY additions. I started out wanting a simple car. Oh well.

harold · Feb 5, 2014

we own an 09 Forester 2.5 manual XS and an 08 Patriot diesel manual

i much prefer the Forester build quality and seats but the engine is very average
i love the diesel engine of the Jeep, but build quality is pretty poor, seats only ok
for towing, the petrol Forester is underpowered, the diesel doesn't even feel it

we bought the Jeep new for $30k and the Forester 3 years old for $18k

i wouldn't buy the Forester new (too exp), i'd buy it used
i wouldn't buy the Jeep used (need the warranty for the weak parts) i'd buy it new

my 2c

HAPPYDAN · Feb 6, 2014

Thanks all for the input! Sounds like what I suspected - dealers often don't carry the "basic" version, especially so here in the "Land of Silk and Money". Somehow the word got out that Western Washington has the highest per capita concentration of millionaires in the world. But, some of us retired from the Army and don't fit that mold. I do love my Foresters - the older versions (<2007). I've had 3, all pretty basic. In each case, I found a manual trans the dealer wanted rid of. How does the clutch and manual trans on the Patriot feel? Smooth, notchy, etc. Do you ever have to double-clutch to downshift? I like roll windows and manual door locks, but A/C is a must have. How is it for 3-4 hour highway trips, 60-65 mph? I drive some single-track logging roads, but no real off-road stuff. Sounds like the Patriot would handle anything the Forester would, maybe more! Again, any comments are much appreciated!

RossoRacer · Feb 6, 2014

Mine's very good quality, feels more solid than my mom's '97 Chevy 1500 did when I drove that. It's a bit more secure, but roomy for it's size. I used to drive it 7-8 hours either way to college, as that's what it was originally for, and it was extremely comfortable if I had the seat adjusted right. I believe A/C is standard, and the bonus package involves setting what temperature you want the cabin at(a little too fancy for me anyways, especially in a Jeep). Can't tell you about the manual, but I can tell you if there's not one readily available, you need not have any qualms about the CVT, it's a dream to drive. And, it will take more than most people give it credit for, as a few of us have proven.......

Metaxa · Feb 6, 2014

No such thing as a plain vehicle anymore...they all have advanced electronics and safety features like traction control, anti-roll, etc.

But plain as in not optioned out is what I bought...its my work vehicle although work is drawing to a close for me. But I will keep it as my daily driver for sure.

I'm in a 2011 Sport, 4x2 with only the big engine, air, auto and the 17" wheels. Options are a bit different up here in Canada.
I drive in an around 200 kms (125 miles) per day for work with about 60% of that on highway, maybe 30% in towns and 20% on industrial and logging roads.

Sometimes I deek from one mill to another across some closed (deactivated) logging roads and my Patriot handles them all with sure-footedness and a confidence inspiring ride.

I don't know about your logging mains but ours are good gravel but when you hit the side ones or especially the deactivated ones you are dealing with blast rock and they can be tuff roads indeed.

cockpit fits me fine, the only mod I did in there was to raise the back of my driver seat up an inch or so...I don't care for that slung back, high belt line feel, I like to sit up at the wheel. I'm 5'11" and 180 or so...maybe a bit more...maybe...

Monster in snow, good on ice especially with proper tires. I run snowflake in mountain designated winter tires because I'm in the bush far enough often enough that I don't have cell coverage so I take any advantage. The unit hasn't let me down yet and we have pushed snow, ice, mud (real logging road mud) and whatever out of the way.

I like the looks of the box on box body style so it beats all the rest out there too.

I get a combined mileage of 30-32 Imperial mpg. I don't have an EVIC so I can't break in out but I'm more than pleased with that. That doesn't change much summer to winter for me but we don't do the ethanol thing up here either.

I've had no mechanical issues, no non regular maintenance issues at all except for no lube in my rear drums from the factory. What has failed is a multitude of plastic stuff...if only Jeep had spent $50 more per unit, eh? Just trim bits and funny stuff like my CVT filler tube breaking. Warranty covered them all and my servicing dealer (which is not my sales dealer) is offering me level three pricing on those trim bits now I'm out of warranty.

Bearing in mind it is an entry level vehicle, built to meet a price, based on an ugly arse car it is a fantastic buy. Hope my experiences help you along.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxTater180 · Feb 6, 2014

HAPPYDAN said:
Thanks all for the input! Sounds like what I suspected - dealers often don't carry the "basic" version, especially so here in the "Land of Silk and Money". Somehow the word got out that Western Washington has the highest per capita concentration of millionaires in the world. But, some of us retired from the Army and don't fit that mold. I do love my Foresters - the older versions (<2007). I've had 3, all pretty basic. In each case, I found a manual trans the dealer wanted rid of. How does the clutch and manual trans on the Patriot feel? Smooth, notchy, etc. Do you ever have to double-clutch to downshift? I like roll windows and manual door locks, but A/C is a must have. How is it for 3-4 hour highway trips, 60-65 mph? I drive some single-track logging roads, but no real off-road stuff. Sounds like the Patriot would handle anything the Forester would, maybe more! Again, any comments are much appreciated!

I had a steep learning curve with the clutch and shifting. I hadn't driven one in many years. No double clutching required, all syncro. I suggest finding one and test driving it.

jamesdak · Feb 6, 2014

Well from one old soldier to another, I am loving mine. I was looking for a small SUV to replace an F-150 the just got totaled when some fool hit me. I really thought I'd be back into a Subaru too as I have owned them in the past. But the Patriot checked all the boxes for me. Now I've only had it a few weeks now but it was a better choice for me over the Forester and others. They are priced really well too. I wanted the FDII package though for my off-road needs so had to get the CVT. I've yet to experience anything negative about this tranny.

You know if you are a USAA member you can use there car buying program to get a good no hassle deal. I picked up my 2014 for right at $4000 under MSRP with a simple email and 5 minute phone call.

Wooden Dog · Feb 6, 2014

I live in Western Washington, and when I bought my Patriot in 09, I specified exactly what I wanted: 5-speed, 4X4, Green, AC, Cruise, CD player, AM/FM. Dealer didn't have one, I told him if he wanted to sell me something he needed to find one. So he did, down i Oregon. They went and got it, and I bought it.Sticker was $19,680, I paid about $17,000 after various discounts.
5 years and 50,000 miles, and no big issues at all. Goes through snow like crazy, stable on ice and in rain, 21-23 mpg in city driving, 27-33 on the highway.

2LZ · Feb 6, 2014

For some reason, 4X4 manuals are a rare bird.
I know that harold has a good comparison between the Forrester and the Patriot but something must have changed in recent years. My buddy has a 'virtually new' 2012 Forrester and I have the '14 Pat. Regarding things such as solid door shutting and general interior noise (lack of echo/hollow sound), my Pat is far more solid sounding, quieter and better insulated than his Forrester...and he even says so. Plus, you may have a good amount of room BEHIND you in the Forrester, the Pat has driver cab area room hands down over the Forrester. his Forrester is almost like being in a VW bug. The windshield and dash are right there in front of you.
Styling-wise, yes, the Forrester inside is far more "Jetson" than the Pat with the swoopy lines that match the door panels with the dash, etc.......but that's not a big deal to me. I kind of like things comfy but I don't like it when manufacturers brutally sacrifice function on the Alter of Style.

I would suggest going and driving one or more Patriots and get a good idea of what's to like and what's not....and then you'll probably have to order yours if you choose to go that way.

HAPPYDAN · Feb 6, 2014

I'm just overwhelmed by the support you all are providing! This is the best I had hoped for. RossoRacer - I like your photo! Looks like rough roads are no problem. The hiway ride sounds good, too. I have a 3 hr drive to my cabin near Stevens Pass, and 2-3 times a yr to Bend OR about 6-7 hrs. METAXA - Your dealers sound more amenable to their customers than ours! Dealers were the reason I swore off US made 35 yrs ago. Obvious warranty issues were met with comments like "Get Lost" and "you didn't buy it here" and "It's not covered under warranty". Never had any problems with dealers of Japanese cars (Toyota, Nissan, Suzuki, Mazda, Subaru). I hope things have changed. TATER - That's what I wanted to hear about the clutch. JAMESDAK - Thanks for the USAA tip. I'll look into that for sure. WOODEN DOG - May I ask which dealer was willing to do that for you? I need to go there. 2LZ - Yeah, IMHO Sub ruined the Forester when they redesigned it into a SMFV - Shopping Mall Family Vehicle, just like all the others. I ski, hunt, fish, camp, kayak, bike, hike and climb and I need a roof rack I can reach w/o a step stool! To all - Thanks again for all your valuable input. Sounds like a winner!:notworthy::smiley_thumbs_up:

RossoRacer · Feb 6, 2014

Lol, when my suspension was squeaking like a year ago, I took mine into a dealer 400 miles from where I bought it, and they looked it over, there were a few loose parts, the stuff that comes from using it like a Jeep, though not as crazy as some folks I personally know. They had it about a week, ended up replacing pretty much the whole suspension for free, 'cause it was still under warranty. Really nice folks, both out here and at the other place, near college. If there isn't a rig set up the way you want it at your local dealer, I'd recommend asking if there's one at least close enough to what you want that you'd be satisfied with it that they can get in, before ordering straight from the factory, so you can get it a few weeks sooner.

Metaxa · Feb 6, 2014

HappyDan, read this:

http://www.expeditionswest.com/equi...source=Jalopnik+Newsletter&utm_campaign=dc739b87ae-UA-142218-9&utm_medium=email

somewhere out there is a good write up of a biker/kayaker/hiker/etc guy and the why of how he ended up in a Patriot too...i can't find it. Maybe someone else can.

RossoRacer · Feb 6, 2014

Yeah, the expeditionportal review. http://www.expeditionportal.com/jee...ortal.com/jeep/2597-the-little-overlander-expo-s-long-term-patriot-project.html

Wooden Dog · Feb 7, 2014

HAPPYDAN said:
I'm just overwhelmed by the support you all are providing! This is the best I had hoped for. RossoRacer - I like your photo! Looks like rough roads are no problem. The hiway ride sounds good, too. I have a 3 hr drive to my cabin near Stevens Pass, and 2-3 times a yr to Bend OR about 6-7 hrs. METAXA - Your dealers sound more amenable to their customers than ours! Dealers were the reason I swore off US made 35 yrs ago. Obvious warranty issues were met with comments like "Get Lost" and "you didn't buy it here" and "It's not covered under warranty". Never had any problems with dealers of Japanese cars (Toyota, Nissan, Suzuki, Mazda, Subaru). I hope things have changed. TATER - That's what I wanted to hear about the clutch. JAMESDAK - Thanks for the USAA tip. I'll look into that for sure. WOODEN DOG - May I ask which dealer was willing to do that for you? I need to go there. 2LZ - Yeah, IMHO Sub ruined the Forester when they redesigned it into a SMFV - Shopping Mall Family Vehicle, just like all the others. I ski, hunt, fish, camp, kayak, bike, hike and climb and I need a roof rack I can reach w/o a step stool! To all - Thanks again for all your valuable input. Sounds like a winner!:notworthy::smiley_thumbs_up:

It was Rairdon in Kirkland, though I'm pretty sure the dealer in Bellevue would do the same.

blackspider · Feb 7, 2014

http://www.larsondodge.com/auto/new-2014-jeep-patriot-sport_4wd/1183619/

nickeleye · Feb 7, 2014

I recently had an issue with my CVT failing, and poor support in Canada.
It doesn't appear to be a common issue though, I think mine was just a sh*t happened kinda case (sh*t happened just after warranty expired).

However the lack of power sluggish comments I could care less about, I absolutely loved this vehicle.

I've driven a forester, that's what my father drives, and we drove my patriot across the country in winter and he's really liking the patriot as well now.

I do kinda of wish I had gotten a manual trans though now.

Need A Little Help

HAPPYDAN

harold

RossoRacer

Billofthenorth

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxTater180

harold

HAPPYDAN

RossoRacer

Metaxa

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxTater180

jamesdak

Wooden Dog

2LZ

HAPPYDAN

RossoRacer

Metaxa

RossoRacer

Wooden Dog

blackspider

nickeleye

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