🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Liberty

Model Code:

KJ

Production Years Covered:

2004-2007

Chassis Code:

KJ

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Compact SUV with a focus on off-road capability and utility

Competitors:

Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V

Powertrain Options:

Choice of inline-4, V6 gasoline, and a powerful diesel engine

Drivetrain Options:

Available in 2WD and 4WD configurations, including advanced off-road systems

Construction:

Body-on-frame construction, distinguishing it from many unibody competitors

Manual Value:

Provides in-depth, factory-accurate information essential for maintaining and repairing the specific KJ Liberty model, crucial for maximizing longevity and resale value.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for Jeep Liberty KJ

Included Sections:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical Systems, HVAC, Body, Interior, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting, Specifications, Maintenance Schedules

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

2.4L DOHC I4 (ED1), 3.7L SOHC V6 (ERH), 2.8L CRD Diesel (ENR)

Transmission Manual:

NV1500 5-Speed Manual, NV3500 5-Speed Manual

Transmission Automatic:

42RLE 4-Speed Automatic

Drivetrain:

Part-Time Command-Trac NV235, Full-Time Select-Trac NV241OR

Suspension:

Independent Front Suspension (IFS), Solid Rear Axle

Steering:

Power Rack and Pinion

Brakes:

Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs/Drums (depending on configuration), ABS System

Electrical:

Full electrical schematics, lighting, charging system, starting system, ignition system, instrument cluster, comfort and convenience features

HVAC:

Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, bumpers

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, tune-ups

Repair:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, differential repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing, scan tool usage

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail for DIY mechanics and professional technicians

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.4L DOHC I4 (ED1)

Engine 1 Hp:

150 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2:

3.7L SOHC V6 (ERH)

Engine 2 Hp:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm (later models up to 215 hp)

Engine 2 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (later models up to 235 lb-ft)

Engine 3:

2.8L CRD Turbo Diesel (ENR) - Availability varies by market

Engine 3 Hp:

150 hp @ 3800 rpm (early models), 163 hp @ 3800 rpm (later models)

Engine 3 Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm (early models), 335 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm (later models)

Gasoline Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Diesel Fuel System:

Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

NV1500 5-Speed Manual (primarily with 2.4L engine)

Optional Transmission 1:

NV3500 5-Speed Manual (primarily with 3.7L V6)

Optional Transmission 2:

42RLE 4-Speed Automatic (available with all engines)

42Rle Features:

Electronically controlled, Overdrive, Torque converter lock-up

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.1 inches (2644 mm)

Length:

171.5 inches (4356 mm)

Width:

71.8 inches (1824 mm)

Height:

72.1 inches (1831 mm) (with roof rails)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 95.2 cu ft (2696 L)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 39.4 cu ft (1115 L)

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 66.3 cu ft (1877 L)

Curb Weight Minimum:

Approx. 3700 lbs (1678 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5200 lbs (2359 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

4/5 stars (check specific model year for exact ratings)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) on later models

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags

Side Impact:

Optional front side airbags

Body Structure:

Reinforced cage construction, side impact beams

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Basic AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems, satellite radio readiness

Navigation:

Optional navigation system on higher trim levels

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited driver assistance features typical for the era; focus on core safety systems

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary input jacks on some models

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (severe duty), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty)

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (severe duty), 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal duty) - Consult manual for specifics on diesel

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 3 years

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Automatic:

Every 30,000 miles (severe duty) or 60,000 miles (normal duty)

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:

Every 60,000 miles

Engine Oil Specification Gasoline:

SAE 5W-30 (API SN or higher)

Engine Oil Specification Diesel:

SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic (API CJ-4 or higher)

Coolant Specification:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3

Common Issue 1:

Front suspension and steering component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links)

Common Issue 2:

Rear main seal leaks (V6 engines)

Common Issue 3:

Coolant leaks from the crossover pipe on V6 engines

Common Issue 4:

Heater core failures

Common Issue 5:

Power steering pump noise or failure

Common Issue 6:

ABS sensor failures

Common Issue 7:

Diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues on CRD models if not maintained correctly

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long-standing reputation for robust off-road vehicles, originating from its military roots.

Kj Generation:

The KJ Liberty (2002-2007) replaced the Cherokee (XJ) in Jeep's lineup in North America, introducing a more modern, rounded design while retaining body-on-frame construction.

Facelift Updates:

The 2005 model year received a significant facelift, including updated exterior styling (bumpers, grille, headlights) and interior refinements. The 2.8L CRD diesel engine was also introduced for this generation.

Manufacturing Locations:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Production Span:

2001-2007 (global production, with North American sales starting 2002)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions General:

While the Liberty KJ has not received widespread major automotive awards, it has been recognized for its off-road capability and utility by enthusiast publications.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

Variable depending on engine and drivetrain. Typically around 15-20 MPG city, 20-25 MPG highway for gasoline models.

Engine Certifications:

Emissions certifications vary by market and model year; refer to vehicle's underhood emissions label.