Long-Term Road Tests
2007 Jeep Compass Limited
December 10, 2007
Over the weekend I folded our Jeep Compass's rear seats flat to haul some cargo. When returning them to their upright position I discovered that their seatback recline angle can be set to multiple positions, including this one. This position is less than 90 degress relative to the seat bottom (that's my handy T-square for 90-degree reference). Who sits like this?
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- Posted by: Dark Helmet December 10, 2007, 3:09 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
December 3, 2007
With our 2007 Jeep Compass, its CVT makes it nearly impossible to get a jump on traffic when merging onto the freeway. It hardly has any power and even if you mash the accelerator to the floor it feels like the car doesn't understand what you're trying to do. "Wuuuut, Wilbur? Ohhhhh, you want me to go faster?..
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- Posted by: Caroline Pardilla December 3, 2007, 12:02 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
November 26, 2007
"How did you get stuck with the Compass?" one editor asked me as I had purposely picked our 2007 Jeep Compass for the long Thanksgiving weekend. "Cuz I didn't want to deal with shifting the Fit," I replied. (I was left with slim pickings for the holiday; not that I'm complaining.) I'm currently training for a marathon and the last thing my legs want after a 13-mile training run is to deal with a clutch in stop-and-go traffic. Besides I knew that the Compass' heated seats would feel like heaven to my aching body...
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- Posted by: Caroline Pardilla November 26, 2007, 3:01 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
November 5, 2007
Friday morning our Long Term Jeep Compass had a date with Buerge Jeep’s Service Center for an oil change, a brake squeal, a window screech, and the long-awaited CVT TSB update.
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- Posted by: Mike Magrath November 5, 2007, 4:06 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
October 11, 2007
I remember hearing a while back that Chrysler/Jeep hadn't always intended to produce both the Compass and Patriot. The two Caliber-clone designs were shown to a focus group. The Compass was overwhelmingly preferred by women and the Patriot preferred by men. At that point, they decided to sell both...
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- Posted by: JRiz October 11, 2007, 10:20 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
October 10, 2007
Our long-term Jeep Compass earned its keep during the past week, when It hauled Brownies and camping equipment to the annual Girl Scout Camporee and carpooled kids to and from elementary school.
Despite the fact that the Girl Scout campground had warned (too late) against leaving food in vehicles, nary a feral cat or a ravaging squirrel smashed through the Compass' passenger window to gorge on the peanut butter chocolate chip granola bars I had left exposed in the Jeep's open dash storage bin.
Instead, the Compass suffered a worse fate at the elementary school parking lot where an unknown driver side-swiped the Jeep's rear passenger side and fled the scene.
Sheesh. What kind of lesson in responsiblity is that for your kids?..
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- Posted by: Kelly Toepke October 10, 2007, 2:49 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
September 28, 2007
Wow, I so don't like our 2007 Jeep Compass. It has no guts whatsoever. Whenever I tried passing someone last night on the freeway -- pressing the accelerator, then stomping on it -- it wouldn't respond. "Huuuuuuuuh?" it seemed to be saying...
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- Posted by: Caroline Pardilla September 28, 2007, 2:42 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
September 27, 2007
Right off the bat, I’ll tell you that I’m not the biggest fan of the Compass. Its power is meager, its styling is dubious, and it’s not even that comfortable. But I think that has all been said before, so I went into this looking for something nice to say…and I found it. With the rear seats folded down, this diminutive Jeep has a surprising amount of space. I was in a situation on Sunday where I was going to the gym in the morning, scuba in the afternoon, and yoga in the evening, each of which needed its own gear and equipment. I wasn’t sure if the Compass could handle it, but sure enough it had room to spare despite all the tanks and flippers and all. So there it is, the silver lining to the Compass. It may not haul well, but it does haul a lot.
Glenn McClanan, Broadband Producer @ 11,472 miles
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- Posted by: Glenn McClanan September 27, 2007, 1:52 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
September 20, 2007
OK. I need to say it straight-up. I'm not a big fan of the 2007 Jeep Compass. I think it's pretty damn unattractive...
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- Posted by: Doug Lyoyd September 20, 2007, 12:02 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
September 18, 2007
I've put about 1,250 miles on our long-term 2007 Jeep Compass in the past two weeks, most of consisting of highway miles amassed during four-hour, one-way trips. For a vehicle to be a successful long-distance tourer in my opinion, it must rank high in terms of comfort, amenities, storage, passing power, quietness and range. Here's how I think the Compass stacks up.
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- Posted by: Brent Romans September 18, 2007, 11:48 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
September 13, 2007
Like its platform sibling, the Dodge Caliber, the Jeep Compass can be had with an optional audio system with flip-down speakers mounted in the liftgate. When the speaker box is lowered (pictured), the speakers point directly outwards.
It might seem gimmicky. And maybe it is...
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- Posted by: Brent Romans September 13, 2007, 7:35 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
September 7, 2007
Our long-term 2007 Jeep Compass emits a loud horn honk every time you lock it with the keyless remote. Since I live and park within close proximity of my neighbors (the joys of apartment living), I immediately applied the usual button-mashing protocol to disable this feature.
No dice, so I immediately RTM'd, and oddly enough, there's no provision to disable the honk...
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- Posted by: Erin Riches September 7, 2007, 5:29 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
September 6, 2007
Earlier this week my husband and I went to the mall by ourselves and left complimenting each other on the fact that we didn't buy anything for our seven-year-old daughter.
On the way home, we decided to stop at Ikea. Forty-five minutes later, we were loading Emma's new desk, chair, desk lamp, and other accessories into the Jeep Compass' cargo area. So much for self-control...
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- Posted by: Kelly Toepke September 6, 2007, 10:19 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
September 5, 2007
As we've noted on multiple occasions on this blog, and in our full road test, the 2007 Jeep Compass makes no great strides in interior design, materials quality, or fit and finish.
I don't especially enjoy sitting in the vehicle, but I realized today that I don't like it any less than the cabins of all the Cherokees (regular, not Grand) that various friends and family members have owned. My dad still drives a Cherokee, and it's obvious he gets a kick out of its rugged image. He looks for any opportunity to shift into 4 Lo. Cash-strapped friends from college were much the same way... they didn't care that they ended up with a base trim vehicle with a manual gearbox, they just wanted in on the Jeep life.
When you drive the Compass, it's obvious the decision-makers at Jeep failed to understand this tradeoff.
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- Posted by: Erin Riches September 5, 2007, 3:16 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
August 31, 2007
Our Magellan Maestro 4050 navigation system has made a voyage to our Jeep Compass. With its crisp graphics and easy-to-use software, I've finally found something about the Compass I like. I didn't get to try out all the bells and whistles, but it did get me home from an afternoon appointment. When I disagreed with its set course, it quickly recalculated without fuss...
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- Posted by: JRiz August 31, 2007, 11:10 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
August 30, 2007
I like the look of the Jeep Compass. The Inferno Red paint is a nice deep shade and the 18-inch chrome wheels are pretty spiffy. See how they reflect on my driveway in the morning sunlight.
I would like to see a more powerful engine offered than the 172-horsepower 2.4-liter inline 4...
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- Posted by: Donna Derosa August 30, 2007, 3:30 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
August 28, 2007
The Compass is far from perfect. One attribute alone makes the vehicle seem worse. Too much road noise. Fix that and I could appreciate the better than expected stereo and comfortable seats all the more...
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- Posted by: Brian Moody August 28, 2007, 9:26 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
August 20, 2007
It seems like the Jeep Compass is having a hard time standing up to the heat this summer. Over the weekend I was parked in a subterranean parking structure that was quite hot. A few short minutes after pulling out into the fresh air, I was shocked to actually see a sizable crack appear in the Compass’ windshield right above eye level. I knew that nothing fell on the car and spoke to one of the other editors who immediately suspected the heat.
In an urgent move to take care of this hazard I called the service center which told me that it would be over a week before they could fit me in, but they came through nonetheless and gave me the direct line to the glass company they work with. Within 24 hours Class Auto Glass was at my house with a new windshield and had the old one replaced in a short 2 hour turnaround. It was all taken care of so efficiently that I didn’t even manage to get a good picture of the damaged windshield to share with you all.
The total cost for the repair and labor was $325.00, but I was assured that this was markedly lower than the fee I would have paid if I had gone through the dealer service center. The repairman confirmed our suspicions and indicated that it was likely a hear fracture in the glass, yet another knock on the Jeep’s durability in my opinion.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator @ 8,200 miles.
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- Posted by: August 20, 2007, 6:41 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
August 8, 2007
I took the Jeep Compass into the local service center for its’ check-up yesterday. Apart from taking over a week to get the appointment everything went pretty smoothly. After the joy I experienced from the quick drop-off with a 5 minute turnaround the “courtesy shuttle” took over 45 minutes to arrive back at the service center from its’ most recent outing which was a bit frustrating, but can be chalked up to getting them at the wrong timing in the shuttle cycle.
Went back to pick up my car about 6 hours later, and was informed that they think they’ve gotten to the bottom of the rear reverse light problems- a new bulb. I explained to the technician that I’d been in twice before for this same complain and they’ve checked the bulb, but he insisted that now the problems are fixed. I reversed out with both lights shining brightly but we’ll see how long that lasts!
Overall, it was painless. I even save about $20.00 with the Jeep servicing coupons I had received in the mail. In addition to the pesky light, the service included oil and filter change, tire rotation, air filter service, and a servicing of the PCV system. The total cost was a cool $74.89. Ah, feeling fresh again!
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, 8,620 miles.
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- Posted by: August 8, 2007, 2:24 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
July 23, 2007
Yesterday was a Sunday slotted for home improvements, you know those fix up things that have been sitting on my punch list for weeks if not months waiting to be taken care of. Number one on the list was organizing my back patio and actually making something of the unused space. We began the trek early at a local garden center figuring out what plants and flowers would be right for the beautification without requiring too much in the maintenance category (I’ve been known to be the cause of death for a number of purchased plants in the past!) The salesman sold me on three times the amount I was originally intending to buy and all was peachy until I had to load my potted purchases into the Compass. Though we had to work quite a bit to shift everything around in order to make it all fit, I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of foliage we were able to squeeze into the compact crossover.
Driving home was a bit of a challenge since there was little room for me amid the mini- nursery, but I made in one piece along with my new garden. Extra kudos for the plastic-lined Ultrafloor in the Compass’ cargo area, it made clean up of the spilled soil extremely easy and efficient.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator
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- Posted by: July 23, 2007, 1:51 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
July 19, 2007
It feels like it's been a while since we've generated any optimistic conversation about the Jeep Compass Limited and I'm starting to feel like it's too easy to be negative. I've driven around this week trying to stay positive and focus a bit on where this car succeeds rather than it's failures. Sometimes it's the little things that count and are often overlooked. Point #1- the turning circle. The Compass' smaller crossover build and nice compact feeling makes sharp turns easy and controllable. As I've mentioned in previous posts my parking space is tight and requires a quick left turn upon entering my garage. This has never been a problem with the Compass as it responds well to small spaces and handles smoothly on turns.
So I'm still on the lookout for some more positive qualities, I'll get back to you when I can figure them out!
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator
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- Posted by: July 19, 2007, 12:37 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
July 12, 2007
I haven't written about the Compass all week out of frustration. It seems that the recurring rear tail light issue is back. This time I figured I'd save you all your sanity and not jump to conclusions. It's been over a week now and I can safely say the light is out. Now it's not impossible that it's just a mere bulb outage, but given the Compass's tail light track record of randomly turning on and off, I'm skeptical.
The real frustration though has been with the service center. I could not get an appointment until mid next week and the operator told me I'd need to stop in prior to that to check if it's a bulb issue first. The service center is not exactly out of the way, but if this is indeed a wiring issue I will have to make two trips to even get someone to give it a serious look. I pointed out that I've already been in twice for this same complaint and he intimated that I'm not the only one.
I'll remain optimistic and keep you posted...
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator
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- Posted by: July 12, 2007, 3:36 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
June 28, 2007
For some odd reason the outdoor temperature gauge on the Jeep Compass Limited has been stuck at 68 degrees all week. Now it’s clearly much hotter here these days and the most I’ve seen it go up is one or two degrees. Funny, the weather reports have been claiming highs in the mid-80’s. Could just be those weather reporters, they’re always a little off!
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator
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- Posted by: June 28, 2007, 9:04 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
June 20, 2007
The famed “June gloom” is nowhere to be seen in Southern California which means that summer has officially arrived. Along with summer comes the essential for strong and effective air conditioning. I generally hold off as long as possible. It’s always nice to keep the windows open and fresh air coming in and avoid the use of precious and costly gas. But recently with temperatures high, the dark leather seats in the Jeep Compass are getting pretty toasty and nothing will cool down that cab aside from full on A/C. The good news is that what the Compass lacks in road power it has in it’s air conditioning. It’s nothing fancy and has pretty standard operation the A/C cools the Compass down in a matter of moments.
Back to my dismal fuel reports from last week, I will admit that my A/C use over the last week definitely taxed the Crossover’s fuel efficiency numbers. I know that’d be the case with any car, but it’s especially shocking when the city driving mpg numbers are so low to begin with.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, 7,700 miles.
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- Posted by: June 20, 2007, 2:38 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
June 13, 2007
I know the old adage says you get what you pay for. But whatever we saved by going for a car priced at $21,925 MSRP we’ve certainly spent at the pump. Back in November I reported that the Jeep Compass Limited was getting an average of 15 mpg highway driving and things haven’t improved markedly since then.
A few days of serious track test driving got us closer to 20 mpg, but I can’t imagine that the 26 mpg highway advertised on the Jeep website is even a remote possibility.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator: 7,500 miles.
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- Posted by: June 13, 2007, 2:59 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
June 6, 2007
Recent blog entries on the Jeep Compass have complained about the bulky plastic finish throughout the interior of the vehicle. The bottom line is that you get what you pay for and Jeep has done a pretty nice job making the Compass interior look stylish.
The real problem though is that the design of both the front and rear panels increase blind spots in the vehicle. I’ve found this to be particularly distracting on the drivers’ side front and passenger side in the rear when turning or changing lanes. It’s by no means impossible to navigate, but perhaps Jeep could have done a better job refining the Compass’ design to allow for more maximum driver visibility.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator
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- Posted by: June 6, 2007, 3:02 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
May 27, 2007
Last week I noted the usefulness of the Compass’ open storage bin in front of the front passenger seat. I find myself reaching into it most often for CD’s and then realized part of the reason this compartment has been so convenient for me is closely related to one of the Compass’ major inconveniences- no CD changer. Perhaps I’m the only one still driving around this city without at MP/3 player, but reaching over to change those CD’s can be quite the annoyance.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator
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- Posted by: May 27, 2007, 8:20 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
May 22, 2007
Way back when I started driving the Compass I complimented the Compass’ interior design, but asked about the need for the open storage bin above the glove compartment. While I originally thought it was an unnecessary invitation for clutter, I really have found it to be a useful depository for CD’s and other papers I may need within quick reach. While it challenges my inner pack rat to keep it organized, it’s nice not to have to always reach into a glove compartment or open the armrest to access my stuff. I have however noticed that it can be a bit irritating for the front seat passenger to be staring at all that stuff.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator
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- Posted by: May 22, 2007, 9:29 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
May 17, 2007
Among various options and accessories, the Jeep Compass offers something called a power-equipment group, common among cars of it’s class to include conveniences for the driver including powered mirrors, locks and keyless entry. Within this group Compass advertises its’ Power Windows “With Driver’s One-Touch-Down-Feature.” Our vehicle is power-equipment equipped and there’s nothing one-touch about the windows. While I actually find it equally annoying for a car’s power windows to be so sensitive to the touch that they’re wide open after just gracing the controls, the Compass’ use of the word “Auto” on the driver’s window control is downright misleading, there’s nothing automatic or powerful about this!
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator
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- Posted by: May 17, 2007, 3:37 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
May 7, 2007
My premise for this post is that I am not a car snob. Yes, I enjoy driving nice cars like the rest of you, but when it comes to getting to and from work, lugging cargo and transporting kids, as long as it’s functional and comfortable I’m fine. Now for the caveat.
This week, the long awaited return of the beloved Jeep Compass Limited took place. After some work at the car doc the Compass is back and shiny as new (yet another reference to the head-turning Inferno Red paint). I was truly looking forward to the Compass’ return to health, but it seems that my experiences in driving other vehicles over the last few weeks have changed my tune.
I am most specifically referring to the Toyota RAV4. While they are close in class size, there is nothing "close" about the experience of driving the RAV4 and the Compass. Even I, a self-professed simple driver, was totally impressed by the RAV’s power, stability, and smooth drive. I knew instantly that this was way more powerful than the Jeep, but the realization didn’t fully kick in until the return of the Compass. With the Compass, I have to work harder to get places and the high noise level and truck-like drive are so much more apparent to me than they ever were before.
Generally, they say absence makes the heart grow fonder. In this case it may have allowed me and the beloved crossover to grow further apart?
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator
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- Posted by: May 7, 2007, 3:41 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
April 26, 2007
I recall really liking our Long Term Jeep Commander so I was thinking the Jeep Compass would drive and feel like a mini-Commander. No such luck.
It looks alright on the outside. Now that the body damage has been fixed, I especially like the maroon color combined with the chrome wheels...
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- Posted by: Brian Moody April 26, 2007, 8:11 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
April 5, 2007
The Jeep Compass has one of the more attractive-looking interiors in its class. The aesthetic is simple and clean, and I dig the geometry of all its sharp angles. I especially like the sleek look of its shifter.
But the cabin's good looks won't dull the pain when you bang your elbow on the Jeep's hard-as-a-rock center armrest...
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- Posted by: Warren Clarke April 5, 2007, 11:32 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
April 4, 2007
As Vehicle Testing Assistant Mike Schmidt handed me the keys to the Jeep Compass last night he said, "Just so you know, there's a big scratch on the side. I just didn't want you to freak out." And I'm sooo glad he told me that because chances are when my friend I picked up for dinner said, "That's a gnarly scrape," I would have most definitely freaked out.
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- Posted by: Caroline Pardilla April 4, 2007, 12:07 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
April 2, 2007
Following the recent run-in (literally) our Jeep Compass will be making its' way to repair heaven for some much needed exterior touch ups. The need for quick action became even more apparent to me as I was followed in to a local department store by the valet attendant to ensure that I was aware of the nasty dent and scratch on the passenger side of the car. I get it, he didn't want to get blamed upon pick-up, but really was it necessary to yell for me across the shoe department?
In any case, I will miss the Compass while it's in the shop. It's easy to find fault and criticize a car's every detail when you blog about it on a weekly basis, but as I got out of the Compass this morning to return it to the shop I did realize how comfortable I've grown with it. Looking forward to its' quick and full recovery!
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- Posted by: April 2, 2007, 11:29 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
March 19, 2007
Challenged by some readers of my blog as to whether or not there are actually other Compass’ on the road I’ve tasked myself with keeping a steady count. Indeed I have not been disappointed, I’ve zoned in on many a sibling for my Jeep Compass Limited, in fact I’d say I see them pretty regularly.
So why all the doubt? Why do blog readers assume mine is the only one on the streets? First of all Jeep was not completely daring when it came to designing the Compass model. On the road, the Compass looks a lot like other models in the Jeep fleet and is not fully distinguishable. Perhaps, Jeep decided to stick with what works.
When it comes to color though, our Compass is in the minority. I’ve written a number of times about the Inferno Red exterior paint, something I have not seen at all on the road apart from my own ride. My eyes are constantly peeled for the elusive Inferno Red which explains my pleasant surprise at finally seeing my twin on the road this morning.
But, the delight quickly turned to dismay, it wasn’t in fact another Compass, but it was in fact Inferno Red! I pulled closer to see the Dodge Caliber, looking strikingly like my Compass, does anyone agree?
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Marketing Coordinator
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- Posted by: March 19, 2007, 11:38 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
March 14, 2007
For someone who generally has trouble with programming electronic devices this week’s time change made me quite frantic trying to adjust all the clocks in my life.
So I was pleasantly surprised that the time change function in the Compass was very much self explanatory. It took me no more than one minute at a red light and I was fully time adjusted.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: March 14, 2007, 9:36 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
March 13, 2007
Another perk to driving the Compass in the beautiful California sunshine is the one-touch ease of the Compass’ power sunroof. This may be an optional feature, but I’d say it’s quite necessary. I recently noticed that since I’ve been driving the Compass I don’t think I’ve ever closed the sunroof cover, it’s nice to always have that light coming in. I tried covering it this week and it totally changed my mood in the vehicle. As Spring officially approaches, I was even able to do some driving with the glass panel fully uncovered, it was a breeze!
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: March 13, 2007, 8:42 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
March 7, 2007
And so the perfect days of my Jeep Compass Limited have come to a screeching or should I say scratching halt. I hearken back to the memory of whooping whistles from pedestrian on-lookers (ok fine, they were almost entirely imagined, but nonetheless fabulous!). My attractive Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat took a beating this week when I tightly hugged the cement pole that borders my parking space.
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- Posted by: March 7, 2007, 1:03 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
February 26, 2007
I love the 115 volt outlet in the center console of the Jeep Compass. Though I’m a big fan of technology, I can never seem to remember to keep mine charged. Fast-forward to last week as I was about to start a conference call on my nearly dead Blackberry. Pop in goes the charger into a regular outlet and instantly I’m charged and ready to roll. The Compass is good to me and my last minute forgetful tendencies.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: February 26, 2007, 4:46 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
February 12, 2007
As if the incessantly squeaking brakes aren’t enough to make my head ache while driving the Jeep Compass, I’ve began noticed squeaky windows too. Every time I roll the window up or down a high-pitched shrill sound reverberates through the car.
Now I know what you’re thinking…give it a break! Wear ear plugs and deal with the fact that cars communicate! Ok, I know I’m being picky, but it does give me the sense that something with the Compass isn’t exactly squeaky clean.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: February 12, 2007, 12:12 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
January 29, 2007
Now you might not be able to make the claim that the Jeep Compass should win 2007 Car Design awards or even deserves special accolades for its’ comfort and style, but I’ve been on a recent kick with the small little comforts Jeep made sure not to leave out of this lower end model and I want to share another one that recently impressed me.
This weekend I took special notice of the Compass’s driver and front passenger seats’ adjustable seatbelt heights. This may be common among cars, but in the past I’ve found them to be difficult to adjust and readjust and something I’d rather do without. Not so in the Jeep Compass. In this short SUV, tall people are welcome! Though I myself have it set to the shortest level, I appreciate knowing that I can take your average NBA player for a ride and use the no-hassle seatbelt adjuster to make sure he’s safe. Would he have enough legroom you ask…well that’s another question entirely!
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: January 29, 2007, 12:28 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
January 25, 2007
I’m embarrassed to say that I’ve been driving the Compass for over six months now and I just realized that the handle-like space on the driver’s seat console actually pops open to become this nifty cell-phone holder. The truth is I never looked for such a feature because the Compass has so much other storage space for small items. The two large cup holders under the console really function as my carry-alls for the garage opener, phone, keys, you name it.
Now that I have this newfound space I’m almost not sure what to do with it. As the picture evidences, the phone-holder doesn’t work too well with my Razor phone, though it fits, it’s not that easy to slide in and out or to reach for a quick call. And with the panel raised I don’t get as functional a use out of the armrest console.
Nonetheless, it’s nice to know that the designers of the Jeep Compass thought of yet another small detail to make my commuting hours more convenient.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska: Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: January 25, 2007, 2:32 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
January 18, 2007
When I first began driving the Compass, I found the loud honking that accompanies the door lock to be irritating. Every time I lock the car, the horn sounds with a single toot at a deafening pitch. In fact, when I’ve locked the car in the garage of my apartment building, the sharp sound announces my arrival to my family before I’ve even put the keys into my front door.
But as the months have flown by, I’ve grown used to the sound effects. Just the other day I was able to locate my car easily in a large beach parking lot when the inferno red color wasn’t enough. I just pressed the lock function on the key and was quickly directed to me vehicle by the shrill sound.
The irony is that when I do need to use the loud horn while driving in the Compass it’s harder to come by. I’ve found myself reaching to honk and missing the horn. It is not so easy to activate, unless of course you come at it with a real punch. Next time I really need someone’s attention I may just try locking the doors instead!
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: January 18, 2007, 10:45 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
January 11, 2007
Yesterday, our Jeep Compass and I made a few critical violations of the Dealer Visit Commandments:
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- Posted by: January 11, 2007, 4:44 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
January 4, 2007
Well it seems that mocking one's husband's ability to determine whether a car's lights are out is never a good thing. Back at the beginning of November I posted about an unnecessary visit I made to get my Compass checked out after my husband told me that the Compass' rear tail light was shot. As soon as I pulled into the dealer it was miraculously working in fine form, only causing me to doubt my poor husband's tired eyes.
But today I saw it with my own eyes, the rear tail light is out...for now at least. The funny part is that I'm hoping it stays that way until I get back to the dealer. If not, they may think I'm making a new sport out of dealership visits. Those free coffee and donuts they have in the waiting room really aren't that worthwhile!
And so the saga continues...
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: January 4, 2007, 1:21 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
January 2, 2007
Over the New Years weekend I went to pick up an elderly relative of mine in the Jeep Compass Limited. Somehow old-age and wisdom allows people carte blanche to criticize about many things that have changed about our modern world, as he’ll often tell me “the computers are too confusing, TV media is inappropriate or fashion these days is ridiculous.” But in all the complaints I’ve heard from those in their golden years, none is more common than, “Your car is too high, too big and impossible to climb into!”
So this weekend after bracing myself for another rant as I picked up my uncle, I was pleasantly surprised by his complementary reaction. He loved the lower height of the Compass and found it easy to get into, while still nice to have a higher vantage point of the road. I explained to him that the Jeep Compass is following the trend of crossover vehicles, bigger than sedans, but not quite as obnoxious as some of the other gas guzzlers on the road. “Finally” he said in his raspy mumble, “something that’s being done right in 2007!”
Alison Steinlauf Anziska - Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: January 2, 2007, 10:57 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
December 11, 2006
Random Acts of Kindness are not dead! Even in what sometimes feels like a heartless world people still do stop to help each other out as evidenced yesterday in an episode I encountered on the streets of LA. Our Jeep Compass Limited's headlights turn on anytime the keyless entry is operated. Like many newer cars, the headlights stay on for a few minutes after locking the car and also go on when unlocking the vehicle. Last week, in broad daylight, I unlocked the car and began fastening my son into his car seat. Noticing the illuminated headlights, a concerned driver passed me and then took the time to back his car up over half the block to alert me to the battery drain this headlight activity could cause. Without stopping to explain that my Compass tends to run its headlights at any opportunity, I politely thanked him and continued fastening my son's seatbelt. It put a smile on my face, but also put me in a permanent state of concern. Almost every time I lock my car now, I look back at the headlights and wonder, "did I leave my lights on or is this just part of the routine?"
Alison Steinlauf Anziska: Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: December 11, 2006, 4:07 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
December 4, 2006
As a self-professed radio nut, I’ve found the Compass steering wheel radio controls to be useless. Not only are they hard for my fingers to find while I’m driving, they all feel the same so it takes a while to figure out which button does what. I’m a pretty coordinated person and after 3 months driving the Compass it’s easier for me to reach over for the main radio controls. So much for modern convenience!
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: Alison Anziska December 4, 2006, 4:51 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
November 27, 2006
I spent the day accomplishing errands and getting in and out of the Compass. Something about this in and out motion was easier than usual and it took me a while to figure out just what it was. While I often have the problem of reaching down to the floor of the passenger seat for my bag, I realized that the Compass design allows me to keep my essentials right next to me in the driver’s side console. In most cars I’ve driven, this is a problem because of the gear shift location, but the Compass has an elevated gear shift, which not only makes it easier and more comfortable to use, but frees up some extra space for us packrats.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: Alison Anziska November 27, 2006, 2:50 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
November 21, 2006
One of the beauties of LA driving is that despite the world renowned traffic one can often cut corners by driving through alleys that parallel the roadways. Now this doesn’t help much when you’re bumper to bumper on the 405, but the traffic on major surface streets can get pretty nasty in the 6 o’clock rush hour and it’s always nice to know there’s a short cut nearby. Now, I’m not advocating spending time in dark alleys, but last week while driving home later than usual, I got stuck in one of these traffic snarls and opted for the back route. I was confident that my Jeep Compass, a blood relative to the rest of the Jeep family would have no troubles. As soon as I embarked on my “short-cut” my sense of confidence vanished.
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- Posted by: Alison Anziska November 21, 2006, 8:43 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
November 16, 2006
In a recent posting I mentioned the highly entertaining Jeep Compass website and now I'd like to describe what I think is it's most brilliant feature, Jeep Compass Karaoke.
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- Posted by: Alison Anziska November 16, 2006, 2:49 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
November 13, 2006
The best part by far is that Jeep has outfitted the cargo area with what they call the
Ultrafloor, a vinyl load floor which is both removable and washable. A lot of the other SUV’s I’ve driven have floor carpeting in the cargo area which often slips around and retains dirt and sand, making them very hard to keep clean. In contrast, the Compass cargo area is durable against dirty stroller wheels and inevitably spilled groceries. The tire-tread design of the cargo flooring gives it a sleek yet rugged look one would expect from Jeep. I may be a Mom, but this ‘aint no minivan!
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator @ 3,000 miles
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- Posted by: Alison Anziska November 13, 2006, 2:50 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
November 9, 2006
I was perusing the ever entertaining Jeep.com site (will share that joy another time) and came across the lead quote advertising the Jeep Compass, "Finally a fuel efficient SUV at an affordable price!"
I wonder... fuel efficient, what does that really mean when we're talking SUV? And more importantly is the Compass' fuel performance really worthy of that strategically placed exclamation point? Case in point, they advertise 23/26 mpg (city/highway) and yet my weekend road trip (mostly highway) afforded me a mere 15.5 mpg. Granted EPA ratings are generated under perfect conditions, but 15 mpg, that's dismal...and definitely not worthy of the exclamation!
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: Alison Anziska November 9, 2006, 1:55 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
November 1, 2006
As I pulled out of the driveway yesterday in the Jeep Compass Limited, my husband motioned that one of the rear reverse lights was out on my car. Frustrated at the thought of having to visit the service center for an unscheduled visit on such a new vehicle, I decided to call the local Jeep dealer to book an appointment before I had the chance to get into a cycle of procrastination.
I arrived at the service center early this morning only to be looked at like a crazy woman. All the Compass' lights, rear and front are operating at full capacity. No lights out? This news made me wonder if I should I have skipped the Jeep doctor and booked my husband an eye doctor appointment instead?
No worries, all was not lost, I did decide to leave the Compass for its' 3,000 mile tune-up instead. A quick and efficient $28.35 made me feel like my travels weren't a waste after all.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: Alison Anziska November 1, 2006, 3:27 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
October 30, 2006
My family and I took a short road trip over the weekend north up the PCH.
My husband, who prefers driving manual vehicles and often simulates gear shifting activity on most automatic gear shifts, loved the Compass’ CVT2 Autostick Transmission. While I complained of accidentally engaging the manual mode, he was especially pleased with its’ ease of operability. The ride felt rough in the passenger seat. No offence to the driver, but I was holding tight on every turn as the Compass manual mode felt like it lacked stability, especially on every curve on the road.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator @2900 miles
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- Posted by: Alison Anziska October 30, 2006, 2:47 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
October 23, 2006
I’m loving the ease of loading my belongings into the Compass trunk. Early reports focused on the stinginess of cargo-space, 22.7 cubic feet behind the two passenger seats, but I have found it quite good for packing in groceries and other purchases. The only difficulty I’ve had so far is storing my folded umbrella stroller. Because the space is somewhat narrow, the stroller won’t lay flat along the trunk floor and so it ends up taking up more space than it should, something Jeep may want to rethink if they are trying to appeal to Moms on the go.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska- Communuty Coordinator
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- Posted by: Alison Anziska October 23, 2006, 2:02 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
October 18, 2006
In an effort to run in the big leagues, our Jeep Compass Limited is outfitted with a CVT2 Autostick transmission. Even though a CVT or Continuously Variable Transmission doesn’t have distinct gears, Autostick provides a means to simulate gear shift selections associated with manual vehicles. This is a nice option, allowing a driver who is more comfortable with automatic driving to feel more in control of the power. However, Jeep hasn’t quite accomplished this flawlessly.
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- Posted by: October 18, 2006, 1:30 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
October 13, 2006
The Jeep Compass' interior is beginning to feel more and more like home. Its leather seats are extremely comfortable and though the dashboard's height originally bothered me, all the vehicle's functions are easily accessible from the driver's seat. Just one question, what exactly is that open storage bin for above the glove box? For those of us who have to work hard to suppress our inner pack-rat it provides some tempting space for unnecessary clutter.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska, Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: October 13, 2006, 11:22 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
October 10, 2006
The needle of the compass in our Compass appeared stuck pointing southwest for the past few days. We were unable to account for the needle's failure to move regardless of the direction the car was pointing. Southwest just didn't make sense until...
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- Posted by: October 10, 2006, 12:43 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
October 3, 2006
Our Inferno Red Compass is quite the looker. While I've seen plenty of other Jeep Compasses on the road, I haven't seen any others in the bright red. Complements are pouring in from drivers and pedestrians alike, and the sharp bright color should be credited for attracting all the attention. Young hipsters especially gave a thumbs-up to the vehicle's overall look with specific kudos to the styling of the grill, chrome wheels and of course the Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat. Perhaps, the fountain of youth is bottled in an Inferno Red paint can after all.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska- Community Coordinator
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- Posted by: October 3, 2006, 10:05 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
September 29, 2006
As a young mom, often on the go with kids paraphernalia I've always been a fan of the Compact SUV; it gets me where I want to go, provides me a feeling of power on the road and doesn't prohibit me from safe parallel parking like its larger SUV siblings.
However, having said all that, my first few days driving the Jeep Compass around town made me feel like the little old lady who is too short to see over her dashboard. While crossover vehicles may be all the rage, the Compass overall design left me a little lower-down and lacking the broad visibility I love about driving an SUV. Parallel parking may be easier, but I feel like the littlest guy on the road, having difficulty seeing past all the giants at a red light.
Alison Steinlauf Anziska- Community Coordinator @ 2300 miles.
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- Posted by: September 29, 2006, 1:37 PM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
September 21, 2006
Yesterday our long-term Jeep Compass AWD Limited went to the test track and was put through our complete battery of instrumented testing. And here are the numbers.
Acceleration
0-30 mph: 3.9 sec.
0-45 mph: 6.9 sec...
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- Posted by: September 21, 2006, 11:09 AM
- Categories: 2007 Jeep Compass Limited
