Transmission light came on and car slowed to 40 mi?
My 2008 Jeep Patriots transmission light came on today had never done this, but I was driving 65-75 temp was 100, car slowed to 40 and started whining
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2008 Jeep Patriot Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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The 2008 Jeep Patriot has a lot to offer at an affordable price. Launched into an ever-shifting SUV segment that is in disarray due to volatile gas prices, the Patriot is priced at about the same level as a compact sedan, yet comes with such standard features as antilock brakes, traction control, an electronic roll-mitigation system and side-curtain airbags, as well as all that typical SUV interior space, all delivered in a rugged-looking package that hearkens back to Jeeps of an earlier era while remaining contemporary for today's buyers.
Of course, to achieve its affordable price, something had to give, and in this case it's a standard 4-wheel-drive system. The base Patriot, called the Sport, is a front-wheel-drive vehicle with a 2.4-liter, double-overhead-cam 4-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard.
The base Sport comes with a stripped-down list of standard features, but still includes bucket seats, a 4-speaker AM/FM stereo system with a CD player, a tilt steering wheel, intermittent wipers, an anti-theft system, rack-and-pinion steering, halogen headlights and brake assist, which provides maximum braking in emergencies.
As far as that front-wheel-drive system is concerned, research shows that only a small percentage of today's SUV drivers actually go off-road (according to Jeep), so off-road capabilities aren't required in a typical suburban SUV. But for those who seek a less traveled route, the Patriot is available with a choice of two optional 4-wheel-drive systems. The Freedom-Drive I, designed for light off-road capability, is a full-time 4-wheel-drive system with a lock mode, which can handle deep snow, sand or other difficult surfaces at speeds under 10 miles per hour. The Trail-Rated Freedom-Drive II Off-Road Group is an off-road package that merges 4-wheel-drive capability with an optimized engine and transmission for rock crawling, as well as such features as hill descent control, brake lock differentials, a 1-inch higher ground clearance, a heavy-duty cooling system and body sealing for water-fording capability.
For better fuel efficiency, the Patriot is available with an optional 158-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing. It's available only in the Sport 4x2 with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for maximum efficiency. However, drivers and reviewers have noted that while it's efficient, the CVT can be noisy in aggressive motoring situations, such as when accelerating rapidly or ascending a steep slope.
In addition to the Sport 4x2 and 4x4 models, the Patriot is available in more feature-laden Limited 4x2 and 4x4 versions.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2008 Jeep Patriot
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Tanya K
Oct 20, 2023
There is no comparison in the Preference of the jeepsOct 20, 2023
by Jennifer J
Aug 11, 2020
Too much mileage for me although I realize its an 08.Aug 11, 2020
by Frank Jr C
Apr 22, 2015
We purchased this Jeep in 2008 and have been pleased with the performance. The Jeep is easy to maintain, but a little disappointing in the fuel area. The Jeep Patriot Limited is comfortable to seat 4 people comfortably and a decent area of storage in the back. This Jeep Patriot Limited is not the 4X4, but has a useful luggage rack on top!Apr 22, 2015
User rating:
by Tanya K
Oct 20, 2023
There is no comparison in the Preference of the jeepsOct 20, 2023
by Jennifer J
Aug 11, 2020
Too much mileage for me although I realize its an 08.Aug 11, 2020
by Frank Jr C
Apr 22, 2015
We purchased this Jeep in 2008 and have been pleased with the performance. The Jeep is easy to maintain, but a little disappointing in the fuel area. The Jeep Patriot Limited is comfortable to seat 4 people comfortably and a decent area of storage in the back. This Jeep Patriot Limited is not the 4X4, but has a useful luggage rack on top!Apr 22, 2015
by Anonymous
Mar 10, 2014
There is nothing particular that I dislike about this car. I think that for the price it is a great vehicle and pretty good equipped too. I love Jeeps. And Patriot is the most affordable option. I consider this vehicle the best value among the small SUV segment. The cargo area, when the seats are fold down is surprisingly big. It provides great fuel economy with very decent performance. The vehicle handles really well on snow or rain.Mar 10, 2014
by Tricia H
Feb 28, 2014
I bought this vehicle from the executive lot brand spanking new in 2008. It has style, comfort, spacious seating and cargo space, great gas mileage, 4x4, great control and stability. I would definitely prefer owning another in the near future. Wish we hadn't had been involved in a 4 car pile up on the expressway...Feb 28, 2014
by Josh T
Mar 22, 2013
Sharing the same basic platform with the Jeep Compass and Dodge Caliber, this small SUV is great on mileage and has the look of the classic Grand Cherokee. Low maintenance overall and surprisingly roomy interior. Options include stain resistant seat material and heated seats on the Sport model.Mar 22, 2013
by Scott F
Jan 15, 2011
When I originally test drove a Patriot it performed extremely well. I was sorely disappointed with the version that ended up in my driveway. The difference between the two thru the process of elimination was the one that I bought had the tire and wheel package which put Goodyear Wrangler SR-A's on it. Never did I ever think that a tire could ruin the performance of a good car that much. I was preparing the car to sell and put what I thought was a pretty good inexpensive tire on the car to enhance the saleability. What I got was a great car with the best damn tires I have ever put on a car! The tires are Hankook Optimo H727's. They changed the performance of the car so much that I kept the Patriot and sold an '09 Dodge Avenger instead.
The fuel usage has improved dramically with the new tires. It has gone from 18-20 mpg around town to 23-25! Handling is amazing for small SUV. Jan 15, 2011
by Paul A
Aug 14, 2010
it is reliable, semi-rugged, I wouldn't drive it off road for too long, but it handles well it retains its value relatively well and the gas mileage is ok somewhere between 23-26MPG. it is average as far as driving is concernedAug 14, 2010
by Anonymous
Dec 08, 2009
Great on gas, good heater which is handy because we live in northern Canada, good visibility, Steers great, wish it had more ground clearance/sat higher..fun car to drive..good dollar value, needs better tires, like the mags tho'Dec 08, 2009
by Joe G
Sep 20, 2009
This vehicle is great. We have the Base-Sport model with not a lot of options, but it is a fantastic vehle. it doesnt do so well in the snow and feels kinda small. but overall, it is a great car.Sep 20, 2009
by Jo H
Aug 09, 2009
I love my jeep because it's big and ugly and has a heart, and is different from all of the run of the mill clone cars. It also bugs the hell out of me though because it was obviously built on a Friday by blind monkeys so is a bit rattly at times. Aug 09, 2009
by A-V N
Apr 08, 2009
Good and solid daily driver. Engine could use a few more horses and the automatic transmission takes some getting used to but wife loves it so I got no bad things to say about it. Build quality isn't excellent and it's missing a few interior features (like working marker lights on a few switches). It's rugged and easy to clean interior makes a dog owner happy.Apr 08, 2009
by Chris R
Dec 18, 2008
This is a great vehicle. Although its a front wheel drive, this thing is almost unstoppable in snow. The high ground clearance is great in heavy snow.
The only thing I am not a big fan of is the lack of forward motion when hitting passing gear in AUTO. Makes alot of noise but doesnt go anywhere. However I find if you run it in the autostick mode, it has tons of get up and go. Engine is phenominal. Dec 18, 2008
by Jessica L
Dec 04, 2008
Its only a 4 cyl. so it doesnt have a lot go, but the good thing is it take 20 bucks to fill up the tank!! yeehaw! its brand new and its an automatic but if you want some extra kick its got manual too!!! I wish it was a keyless entry i got the most basic package!Dec 04, 2008
by Patsy M
Dec 04, 2008
handling is great- accelerates quickly, can move into busy traffic without worries, brakes respond very well!
no repairs needed other than routine maintenance!
although I love the look, we chose a blue that really looks grey to me, I would prefer an offering of a bluer blue, not the bright garish blue that was offered.
interior is almost perfect, but could be darker so dirt doesn't show as easily.
it is an automatic and I would adjust how it shifts because it is too easy to shift into low instead of drive.
for long term travel the seats could be a little more plush, but for short trips and around town it is great.
gas mileage has been fantastic in these high expense times, usually 25-29 in town and past 30 on trips at times.
I would definitely recommend the Jeep Patriot and have many times since we have owned it!Dec 04, 2008
by Nick D
Sep 18, 2008
The accelleration is a little bit slower than you might think because of the CVT transmission, but I'm getting close to 31 mpg on the highway! Its solid, has enough room for my friends and all of our stuff, and wasn't that expensive either. I would suggest it to anyone.Sep 18, 2008
by David L
Sep 03, 2008
Fuel efficient on two wheel drive and its 4 wheel drive is good enough to drive around in winter. Acceleration is terrible. The only reason why I didn't rate performance terrible is because i beat my cousins accent by 1 1/2 meters. But it has enough power to drive around the city and runs smoothly on highway. Exterior and interior are not bad. Colours : Ext. Green/Int. Sand. The only fun factor is in winter when you see people shoveling for 30 minutes when i just put it on 4 wheel drive and drive off.Sep 03, 2008
by Chad T
Aug 24, 2008
Great performing 4 cylinder Jeep. Great on gas and very nice to drive. Put on new chrome 18" Platinum Snyper wheels and P225/50R18 Goodyear Assurance Triple Tread tires. This makes it look alot better than with the stock steel wheels. Over all this is an exceptional vehicle. Would recommend it to anyone.Aug 24, 2008
by Rudy A
Jun 24, 2008
no sunroof on sport version
foglights not includedJun 24, 2008
by Blayne S
Jun 22, 2008
Fun SUV great around town
fun to drive Jun 22, 2008
by Alison M
Jun 18, 2008
Excellant off roadJun 18, 2008
by Sara N
Jun 11, 2008
I've hauled photo equipment, groceries, mirrors, tools, lawn equipment, luggage, just about anything you can think of in the Jeep. The seats in the back split, so if you have two passengers and want to haul something, you can without a problem. I currently have my grand-daughters car seat in the middle of the back seat. She's pretty secure and loves sitting up so high vs. in a normal car.Jun 11, 2008
by Roberto G
May 25, 2008
cm cmcmcmcmcmmcmc lol!!1 me encanto ahhaaaMay 25, 2008
by Francois G
Mar 14, 2008
Love it but the CVT transmission can be improvedMar 14, 2008
by Chris L
Feb 15, 2008
Solid, Good Lokking ITS A JEEP!Feb 15, 2008
by Laura T
Feb 07, 2008
I really don't have a lot to say about it, it's perfect. Feb 07, 2008
by Carlene L
Jan 17, 2008
It still stands up to the outdoors and yields what you would expect from a Jeep, but the fuel mileage, especially for a 4x4, is amazing. Here's a small SUV that gets the same mileage as a mid-size car. It's a reliable vehicle, that suits the urban lifestyle, yet lets you get out and rip it up on weekends.Jan 17, 2008
by Anonymous
Dec 28, 2007
It came with all the features I was expecting.Dec 28, 2007
by Anonymous
Sep 18, 2007
If you're looking for an SUV that works well on the road and off, gets great mileage and has
that traditional Jeep appeal--all at a great price--this car may be for you. I was also
impressed with the technology in this lower priced model: from wireless sensors that tell you
when your tires are low to a built-in flashlight. It's not as refined an interior as some of the
comparable Japanese rivals (RAV 4, Forester) but it drives better than either.Sep 18, 2007
by Anonymous
Sep 15, 2007
Much nicer ride than a CherokeeSep 15, 2007
What users have asked
Tires on a Jeep Patriot
Will a 245/70/17 fit on my Jeep Patriot without rubbing?
795 views
2008 jeep patriot RED LIGHTNING BOLT
continues to go into lip mode. I have replaced 2 o2 sensors, 2 camshaft sensors, 1 crankshaft sensor , Gad pedal(throttle position sensor, did gas pedal reset and still not fixing the issue. Im not trying to go to JEEP to have it reflashed any suggestions
36 views
Turn signals both go on
When I signal to go right, the left signal will also go on intermittently then the right one. The opposite does NOT happen when I signal to go left. Anyone know how I may fix this?
14 views
Jeep Patriot wont start
Just drove my jeep home. Came inside and ran back out. Went to start it and nothing. No turnover. No engine noise. No ignition sounds. Nothing but a fan blowing in my face. Any ideas?
855 views
Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2008 Jeep Patriot?Compare this car
2008 Jeep Patriot Pricing
Original MSRP
$15,475 to $21,945Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: mast · CD changer: 6 · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Boston Acoustics premium brand speakers · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: Sirius ready · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 4
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.5 · Front brake width: 1.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 9.0 · Rear brakes: drum
Comfort Features
Dash trim: simulated alloy · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front and rear · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Ashtray: with lighter · Assist handle: passenger side · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 1 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: door pockets · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 4.12
Engine
Alternator: 120 amps · Battery: 525 CCA
Exterior Features
Body side moldings: body-color · Door handle color: black · Grille color: body-color · Paint: pearl · Pickup tonneau cover: soft · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Adjustable rear headrests: integrated headrests · Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Locks
Power door locks: speed sensitive central locking
Mirrors
Auto-dimming mirrors: rearview · Exterior mirrors: manual
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black · Sunroof: one-touch
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front and rear · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Passenger seat folding: folds flat · Rear seat folding: split · Rear seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: vinyl
Security
Anti-theft alarm system: remote
Spare Tire
Size: full-size
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.4 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.90
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: coil over shock · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheels: aluminum
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent · Liftgate window: fixed
Air Conditioning
Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: mast · CD changer: 6 · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Boston Acoustics premium brand speakers · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: Sirius ready · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 9
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.5 · Front brake width: 1.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 10.3 · Rear brake width: 0.39 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Dash trim: simulated alloy · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front and rear · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Ashtray: with lighter · Assist handle: passenger side · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 1 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: door pockets · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual
Drivetrain
4WD Type: on demand · Axle ratio: 4.12 · Locking differential: center
Engine
Alternator: 120 amps · Battery: 525 CCA
Exterior Features
Body side moldings: body-color · Door handle color: black · Grille color: body-color · Paint: pearl · Pickup tonneau cover: soft · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Adjustable rear headrests: integrated headrests · Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Locks
Power door locks: speed sensitive central locking
Mirrors
Auto-dimming mirrors: rearview · Exterior mirrors: manual
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black · Sunroof: one-touch
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Passenger seat folding: folds flat · Rear seat folding: split · Rear seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: cloth
Security
Anti-theft alarm system: remote
Spare Tire
Size: full-size
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.4 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.90
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: coil over shock · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheels: aluminum
Wheels
Width: 6.5
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent · Liftgate window: fixed
Air Conditioning
Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: mast · CD changer: 6 · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Boston Acoustics premium brand speakers · HD radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 4
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.5 · Front brake width: 1.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 10.3 · Rear brake width: 0.39 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Dash trim: simulated alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Ashtray: with lighter · Cargo cover: retractable · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Front power outlet: 115V · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 1 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: door pockets · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 4.12
Engine
Alternator: 120 amps · Battery: 525 CCA
Exterior Features
Door handle color: black · Grille color: body-color · Paint: pearl · Pickup tonneau cover: soft · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Adjustable rear headrests: integrated headrests · Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Mirrors
Auto-dimming mirrors: rearview · Exterior mirrors: power
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black · Sunroof: one-touch
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front and rear · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat folding: folds flat · Rear seat folding: split · Rear seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: leather
Security
Anti-theft alarm system: remote
Spare Tire
Size: full-size
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.4 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.90
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: coil over shock · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear
Tires
Type: all season
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent · Liftgate window: fixed
Air Conditioning
Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: mast · CD changer: 6 · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Boston Acoustics premium brand speakers · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 4
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.5 · Front brake width: 1.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 10.3 · Rear brake width: 0.39 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Dash trim: simulated alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Ashtray: with lighter · Cargo cover: retractable · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Front power outlet: 115V · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 1 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: door pockets · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual
Drivetrain
4WD Type: on demand · Axle ratio: 4.12 · Locking differential: center
Engine
Alternator: 120 amps · Battery: 525 CCA
Exterior Features
Door handle color: black · Grille color: body-color · Paint: pearl · Pickup tonneau cover: soft · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Adjustable rear headrests: integrated headrests · Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: manual folding
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Roof rack color: black · Sunroof: one-touch
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front and rear · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat folding: folds flat · Rear seat folding: split · Rear seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: leather
Security
Anti-theft alarm system: remote
Spare Tire
Size: full-size
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.4 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.90
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: coil over shock · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Tires
Type: all season
Wheels
Width: 6.5
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent · Liftgate window: fixed