I was looking for a used SUV for my wife and to use with a tow dolly. Scanning Crigeslist in the summer of 2015 I seen an opportunity buy on a 2006 4x4, 4.7 v8, (Base) with the tow package. The price was $2,800, that's correct, $2,800! With only 126k miles needless to say it needed some work, lol. I was the second caller and a high school aged female told me that if the first person … didn't buy it she'd me call back. I thought, "Well that one's gone".
She does call me back and says that the first person wanted to bring his mechanic back for a second opinion, but didn't leave a deposit. The things that make you go hmmm, lol. I go and see the Commander and it needs some body work, the interior is filthy, both front door handles are broken, needs rear anti sway bar bushings, and has broken exhaust manifold bolts on both sides, which could be mistaken for upper valve train noise. The bodywork needed didn't effect the sheet metal, but only the front slip, one fender flare, and the rear bumper, which I was able to repair.
In ending, the majority of the work I did myself, like painting the front and rear bumpers and all fender flares with bedliner spray for about $75. Replacing both door handles, purchased from eBay for $65. I invested about $1,200 including fluid changes and a complete tuneup, which brought my total cost to about $4,000! Now that everything is done I cannot believe how well this vehicle drives and handles! I've owned a Jeep Grand Cherokee and in my opinion isn't as comfortable. This Commander was obviously neglected, but the engine and transmission are both smooth and responsive and the Tow / Haul feature is great. THIS COMMANDER IS BUILT TO LAST!