🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Liberty

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

KJ

Product Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jeep Liberty KJ, launched for the 2002 model year, was positioned as a compact to mid-size SUV offering a blend of on-road comfort and Jeep's renowned off-road capability, often targeting buyers seeking a more rugged alternative to lighter-duty crossovers.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Nissan Xterra in its segment.

Off Road Capability:

Distinguished by its body-on-frame construction and available four-wheel-drive systems (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), offering superior off-road prowess compared to most unibody competitors.

Design:

Unique styling inspired by the larger Grand Cherokee, with a distinctive upright grille and seven-slot design.

Powertrain Options:

Offered with a choice of two primary engines for 2003: a robust V6 and an efficient diesel, providing versatile performance characteristics.

Target Audience:

Dealership service technicians, independent repair shops, and knowledgeable Jeep Liberty owners.

Value Proposition:

Provides the exact same factory-authorized procedures and specifications used by dealerships, ensuring accurate and effective repairs, maintenance, and diagnostics.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for the 2003 Jeep Liberty KJ.

Diagnostic Coverage:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, and fault code explanations.

Electrical Coverage:

Extensive coverage of electrical systems, including wiring diagrams and component testing.

Mechanical Coverage:

In-depth coverage of all major mechanical components and systems.

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for FSMs of this era, specific count not provided in product info).

Type:

Factory Shop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Electronic Format:

PDF

File Packaging:

ZIP

Download Method:

Instant Download

Shipping:

No Shipping Cost

Delivery Time:

Immediate

Operating Systems:

Windows (95/98/ME/XP/Vista/7), Linux, MAC

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, internal components (pistons, rings, bearings, crankshaft, camshaft, valves), cylinder heads, timing systems, lubrication, cooling.

Engine Performance:

Fuel system (injection, delivery, evaporative), ignition system, emission control systems, engine management system (ECM).

Drivetrain:

Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, differentials (front and rear), drive shafts, axles, CV joints.

Chassis:

Frame construction, body mounting, suspension components (shocks, struts, control arms, springs), steering system, wheels, tires.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic components, friction materials (pads, shoes), rotors, calipers, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).

Electrical Powertrain:

Battery, starting system (starter motor, solenoid), charging system (alternator, voltage regulator), ignition system components.

Electrical Body:

Lighting systems (headlamps, taillamps, interior lights), instrument panel systems, audio systems, horn, speed control, turn signals, hazard warning, wipers/washers, power distribution, security systems, chime/buzzer warning systems.

Body Interior:

Seats and seat systems, locks, passive restraint systems (airbags, seat belts), interior trim, body panels.

Body Exterior:

Frame, bumpers, body panels, doors, glass, seals.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair.

Emission Controls:

Emission control systems and related components.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections.

Diagnosis:

Troubleshooting common and complex issues, interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment.

Rebuilding:

Complete overhaul and rebuilding procedures for engine, transmission, differentials, and other major assemblies.

Electrical Testing:

Component testing, circuit continuity checks, voltage drop tests, use of multimeters and oscilloscopes.

Alignment:

Wheel alignment specifications and procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed and organized wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, tolerances, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical parameters.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.

Diagnostic Tools:

Guidance on using scan tools and diagnostic equipment.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Systematic troubleshooting flowcharts for common issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically searchable text for efficient information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable for physical use.

Quality:

High resolution, clear text and diagrams (standard for factory digital manuals).

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

3.7L PowerTech V6

Engine 1 Displacement:

3701 cc (226 cubic inches)

Engine 1 Configuration:

SOHC V6

Engine 1 Power Hp:

Approx. 210 hp @ 5200 rpm (factory spec may vary slightly)

Engine 1 Torque Lb Ft:

Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (factory spec may vary slightly)

Engine 2:

2.4L PowerTech (Kicker) I4 (less common in 2003 models, more prevalent in earlier KJ)

Engine 2 Displacement:

2429 cc (148 cubic inches)

Engine 2 Configuration:

DOHC I4

Engine 2 Power Hp:

Approx. 150 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 2 Torque Lb Ft:

Approx. 165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 3:

2.8L VM Motori CRD Turbo Diesel I4 (later KJ, but worth noting for completeness if any minor overlap)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for gasoline engines.

Fuel Requirement:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

45RFE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Fluid 1:

Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) is the specified fluid.

Transmission Type 2:

NV1500 5-Speed Manual Transmission (primarily with 2.4L I4).

Transmission Fluid 2:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MS-9224) or equivalent GL-3/GL-4.

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac NV231 (Part-time 2WD/4WD High/4WD Low) and Selec-Trac NV244 (Full-time 4WD/4WD Low).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Length:

Approx. 173.5 inches (4407 mm)

Width:

Approx. 72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Height:

Approx. 72.5 inches (1841 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by configuration, typically starting around 4,000 lbs (1814 kg).

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) with the 3.7L V6 and proper towing package.

Standard Tire Size:

P235/75R16 (may vary by trim/options)

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Wheel Size:

16-inch (standard)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Not specifically provided in product info, but typical for this era SUV.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags. Side curtain airbags were optional.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, three-point for rear.

Child Safety:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all trims.

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS) available.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base models featured AM/FM radio with CD player. Optional premium audio systems, satellite radio (Sirius), and navigation systems were available on higher trims or as dealer-installed options.

Cruise Control:

Standard Speed Control System (cruise control) on most trims.

Power Accessories:

Available power windows, power locks, and power mirrors.

Instrument Panel:

Comprehensive instrument cluster with tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature, and warning indicators. Trip computer available on some models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for exact recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, depending on towing and severe usage. Manual transmission fluid checks and changes at longer intervals (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles).

Coolant Change:

Initial change at 100,000 miles (5 years), then every 50,000 miles (3 years).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Iridium spark plugs typically last 100,000 miles. Check manual for specific type and interval.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 is generally recommended for the 3.7L V6, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification. Consult manual for precise spec.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) for the 3.7L V6 with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid OAT) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Problem 1:

Front differential pinion seal leaks (especially on 4x4 models).

Common Problem 2:

Power steering pump leaks or noise. Idler pulley bearing failure.

Common Problem 3:

Cracked exhaust manifolds on the 3.7L V6 due to heat cycles.

Common Problem 4:

HVAC blend door actuator failure leading to temperature control issues.

Common Problem 5:

Front lower ball joint wear. Rear differential pinion seal leaks.

Common Problem 6:

Water pump leaks or bearing failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep, a brand with a rich history rooted in military vehicles, is synonymous with off-road capability and robust construction. The Liberty aimed to extend this legacy into the more accessible compact SUV market.

Kj Generation:

The KJ Liberty represents the first generation of the Jeep Liberty, produced from 2002 to 2007. It replaced the Jeep Cherokee (XJ) in Jeep's North American lineup, although the Cherokee continued to be sold in some international markets.

Manufacturing Plant:

Toledo South Complex, Toledo, Ohio, USA.

Production Years:

2002-2007

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Recognition:

While specific major awards for the 2003 model year are not prominently highlighted, the Liberty KJ generally received positive mentions for its off-road capability within its class during its production run.