🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Liberty

Chassis Code:

KJ

Model Years Covered:

2003-2004

Vin Character 1:

1

Vin Character 10:

3 or 4

Vin Character 11:

Assembly Plant Code

Vin Character 7 8:

Body Style Code

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Mid-size SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)

Jeep Brand Heritage:

Known for off-road capability and ruggedness, building on the legacy of the original Willys Jeep.

Key Competitors:

Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra.

Body On Frame:

One of the few compact SUVs in its generation with a body-on-frame construction, contributing to its off-road prowess and towing capacity.

4X4 Capability:

Available with Jeep's renowned Selec-Trac NV231 or NV241 full-time 4WD systems, offering excellent off-road traction.

Styling:

Distinctive Jeep styling with upright grille, round headlights (on earlier models), and a generally boxy yet capable appearance.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All models (Sport, Limited, Renegade, etc.)

Repair Scope:

Mechanical and Electrical Repairs A-Z

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (typically 2000+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF, Printable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (including teardown and assembly), cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (42RLE), manual transmission (NV1500, NV3500 - if applicable), transfer case (NV231, NV241), drivelines, differentials, axles.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (independent short-long arm - SLA), rear suspension (solid axle with control arms and track bar), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc on some models), anti-lock braking system (ABS) components and diagnostics, parking brake system.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), powertrain control module (PCM), ignition system, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, audio system, climate control electronics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and testing.

Body Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, seals, underbody coatings, rust prevention.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heating system, ventilation, climate control module, refrigerant handling procedures.

Safety Restraint:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pre-tensioners, occupant classification system (OCS).

Preventive Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, tire rotations, brake inspections, battery maintenance, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.

Engine Repair:

Engine tune-up, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and bearing service, camshaft timing, internal component diagnostics.

Transmission Service:

Fluid and filter change, transmission removal/installation, internal component repair (specific to transmission type), clutch service (for manual), torque converter replacement.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake line and hose replacement, brake bleeding, ABS component testing and replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting wiring diagrams, component testing using multimeter/oscilloscope, PCM/ECU diagnostics and reprogramming, sensor testing, actuator testing.

Suspension Steering Repair:

Ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, shock absorber/strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, power steering pump replacement, steering gear service.

Body And Trim:

Door panel removal, interior trim replacement, bumper repair/replacement, tailgate latch service, glass installation, weatherstrip replacement.

HVAC Repair:

Refrigerant system evacuation and recharge, compressor replacement, condenser/evaporator service, blower motor replacement, heater core replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Information:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, fault code tables, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting flowcharts.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, alignment data, tire pressures.

Illustrations:

Tons of detailed pictures and diagrams for visual guidance.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Printability:

All pages are printable, allowing users to print only necessary sections.

Image Resolution:

High resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams and pictures.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Chrysler/Jeep PowerTech

Engine Code Gas:

2.4L DOHC I4 (PowerTech - less common in North America for these years, but possible), 3.7L SOHC V6 (PowerTech)

Engine Code Diesel:

2.5L VM Motori Turbodiesel (Export Markets)

3.7L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 205-215 hp @ 5200-5500 rpm (depending on exact model year/tune)

3.7L V6 Torque:

Approx. 235-240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (depending on exact model year/tune)

2.4L I4 Horsepower:

Approx. 150 hp @ 5800 rpm

2.4L I4 Torque:

Approx. 165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended for V6)

ECU Type:

PCM (Powertrain Control Module)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze (typically Mopar OAT, P/N 05010885AA or equivalent)

Oil Type 3.7L:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend (API SN or later)

Oil Capacity 3.7L:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter change

Oil Filter 3.7L:

Mopar MO-899 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 57712, Fram PH10151)

🔧 Transmission

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed Automatic 42RLE

Manual Transmission:

5-speed Manual NV1500 (2.4L) or NV3500 (3.7L) - less common for these specific years in North America, primarily found in export or specific configurations.

Transfer Case:

Selec-Trac NP231 (Command-Trac) or NP241 (Rock-Trac) full-time 4WD systems.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (API GL-3 or GL-4) or equivalent (e.g., SAE 75W-90)

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

Mopar Transfer Case Lubricant (MS-5521) or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III/Mercon ATF for NP231, specific NP241 fluid).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.2 inches (2647 mm)

Length:

Approx. 174.1 inches (4422 mm)

Width:

Approx. 72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Height:

Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm) (with roof rails)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,700 - 4,100 lbs (1680 - 1860 kg), depending on configuration

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2,000 - 3,500 lbs (907 - 1588 kg), depending on engine and towing package

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 900 - 1,000 lbs (408 - 454 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for 2003 model year tested)

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-star front passenger, 4-star rear passenger (for 2003 model year tested)

IIHS Ratings:

Acceptable for frontal offset.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Airbags:

Standard front airbags; optional side-impact airbags (availability varies by trim and model year).

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer.

Navigation:

Optional dealer-installed or factory navigation system on higher trims or as an option package.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Not typically standard on these model years, may be an aftermarket addition or dealer option.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard. May be available as an aftermarket upgrade.

Power Outlets:

12V auxiliary power outlets.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend oil.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement 3.7L V6:

Typically every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for ATF+4, depending on severe vs. normal usage.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (48,000 - 160,000 km) depending on coolant type and manufacturer recommendation (HOAT typically longer).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (typically Dexron III/Mercon ATF).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to vehicle manual for specific recommendation)

Common Issues Engine:

Oil leaks from valve covers and oil pan, occasional EGR valve issues, intake manifold gasket leaks.

Common Issues Transmission:

The 42RLE transmission can be prone to overheating and potential torque converter issues if not maintained properly. Shift solenoid failures can occur.

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and front sway bar bushings are common wear items, particularly for vehicles used off-road or in harsh climates.

Common Issues Electrical:

Faulty liftgate actuators, HVAC blower motor resistors, and intermittent power accessory issues can occur.

Common Issues Body:

Rust can affect the rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and frame components, especially in areas with salt use. Headlight lens hazing is also common.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

The Jeep brand, originating from WWII, is synonymous with ruggedness and off-road capability. The Liberty aimed to blend this heritage with a more comfortable and modern SUV package.

Kj Generation Introduction:

The KJ Liberty was introduced for the 2002 model year as a replacement for the Cherokee (XJ) in North America, although the XJ continued in production elsewhere for some time. It marked a shift towards a unibody construction for a compact Jeep SUV in its domestic market, though it retained a robust subframe and body-on-frame principles that provided SUV-like durability.

Kj Facelift:

The KJ Liberty received a minor facelift for the 2005 model year, featuring revised front and rear styling, and updated interior features. The 2003-2004 models represent the initial production run of this generation.

Manufacturing Plant:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Production Years:

2002-2007 (KJ platform)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Guide:

Consumer Guide Automotive awarded the Jeep Liberty a 'Recommended Buy' in its segment for several years, praising its off-road capability and value.

Kbb Value:

The Jeep Liberty KJ is generally known for retaining a decent resale value, especially well-maintained 4x4 models, due to its off-road reputation.

Emissions Standards:

Compliant with EPA emissions standards for its respective model years.