Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops servicing Jeep Liberty KJ models.
Competitors:
Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra, Chevrolet Tracker
Vehicle Appeal:
Off-road capability (Command-Trac NV150/NV241, optional Selec-Trac NV241OR), rugged styling, practical interior space.
Manual Value:
Provides in-depth technical information essential for maintaining and repairing the Jeep Liberty KJ, saving time and money on repairs.
Powertrain:
Engine (3.7L V6, 2.4L I4), Transmission (42RLE Automatic, NV150/NV241 Transfer Case), Drivetrain (4x4, 4x2)
Chassis:
Suspension (Independent Front, Solid Rear Axle), Steering, Brakes (ABS, Rear Drum/Front Disc, Optional Rear Disc), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instruments, Body Control Modules, Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), HVAC Controls, Audio Systems, Power Accessories
Body And Trim:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Glass
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt inspection/replacement, spark plug replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), scan tool data interpretation, live data analysis, component resistance and voltage testing
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and electrical schematics.
Engine 1 Displacement:
3.7L (226 cu in)
Engine 1 Configuration:
SOHC V6
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 205-210 hp @ 5200 rpm (varies by year)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 235-240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies by year)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.4L (148 cu in)
Engine 2 Configuration:
DOHC I4
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 150 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Management:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, EGR (where applicable)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Pump:
In-tank electric
Transmission Type:
42RLE Automatic Transmission
Transmission Type Manual:
5-speed Manual (NV150) - less common, primarily with 2.4L engine
Transfer Case:
Command-Trac NV150 (Part-time 4WD) or Selec-Trac NV241OR (Full-time 4WD, optional)
Gear Ratios 42Rle:
Detailed in manual (e.g., 2.804:1 1st, 1.451:1 2nd, 1.000:1 3rd, 0.700:1 4th)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length:
173.5 inches (4407 mm)
Width:
71.5 inches (1816 mm)
Height:
68.5 inches (1740 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 30.3 cu ft
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 67.4 cu ft
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3700-4200 lbs (varies by configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (with proper equipment and 3.7L engine)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:
4-star (2002-2003 models)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:
4-star (2002-2003 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
5-star (2002-2003 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
4-star (2002-2003 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control (TCS)
Electronic Stability:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - introduced later in production cycle
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, optional side curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system, optional satellite radio.
Navigation:
Optional navigation system available on some higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Tire Pressure:
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) introduced in later model years.
Power Outlets:
12V power outlets for accessory charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type: copper, platinum, or iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or more frequently under severe driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity and API service classification, e.g., Chrysler MS-6395).
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Heater core leaks, AC evaporator issues, rear differential leaks, PCM failure (early models), front sway bar end links wear, brake rotor warping.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect and clean the battery terminals. Check for coolant leaks, especially around the firewall. Lubricate suspension components as per schedule.
Brand Legacy:
Jeep, an iconic American brand, has a long history of producing rugged, capable off-road vehicles since the 1940s.
Model Introduction:
The Jeep Liberty (KJ) replaced the Jeep Cherokee (XJ) in North America for the 2002 model year.
Design Philosophy:
Designed as a more modern and refined SUV than its predecessor, but retaining Jeep's off-road DNA.
Facelift:
Received a minor facelift for the 2005 model year, including updated front and rear styling, improved interior materials, and powertrain refinements.
Production Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Generation Codes:
First Generation (KJ)
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Variable, with some model years receiving below-average reliability ratings due to common issues. Consult specific year ratings.
Ieda Awards:
No widely publicized major award wins for the Liberty KJ generation.
Terrain Ratings:
Highly regarded for off-road capability relative to its segment, particularly with the Selec-Trac system.
