🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Liberty

Model Generation:

KJ

Production Years:

2002-2006

Market Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

Chassis Code:

KJ

👋 Introduction

Category:

Compact SUV

Jeep Heritage Integration:

Blended Jeep's off-road DNA with a more urban-friendly crossover design, differentiating it from traditional Jeep SUVs.

Key Competitors:

Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra

Competitive Advantage:

More robust off-road capability and a distinct Jeep brand image compared to most car-based crossovers.

Distinctive Design:

Iconic Jeep styling cues with a boxy yet rounded profile.

Powertrain Options:

Available V6 engine provided strong performance for its class.

4X4 Capability:

True Jeep 4x4 systems, including available Selec-Trac full-time 4WD and Command-Trac part-time 4WD options.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service Manual

Secondary Coverage:

Repair Manual

Scope:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, typically 1500-2500+ pages for a complete factory service manual

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) compilation

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine performance and diagnosis, ignition system

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic Transmission (42RLE), Manual Transmission (NV150, NV3500), Transfer Case (NV242, NV244/NV245), Driveshafts, Differentials (Front and Rear), Axles, Wheel Hubs

Chassis Suspension:

Front Suspension (Independent Short-Long Arm), Rear Suspension (Solid Axle with Multiple Links), Steering System (Hydraulic Power Steering), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Disc/Drum depending on model), ABS/Traction Control System

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Audio System, Wiper/Washer System, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM) wiring diagrams

Body Exterior:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Bumpers, Glass, Mirrors, Exterior Trim, Frame and Unibody Construction

Body Interior:

Seats, Interior Trim Panels, Dashboard Assembly, Center Console, Airbags, Seatbelts, Interior Lighting

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements (Coolant, Brake Fluid, Power Steering Fluid, Transmission Fluid, Differential Fluid), Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement, Tire Rotation, Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement

Repair:

Engine component replacement (alternator, starter, water pump, thermostat, fuel pump, injectors), Transmission overhaul/replacement, Suspension component repair (ball joints, tie rods, control arms, shocks/struts), Brake system repair (calipers, rotors, lines), Steering system repair, Electrical component diagnostics and replacement, Body panel repair and replacement, HVAC system repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit testing, scan tool usage

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable for use in a workshop environment

Image Resolution:

High-resolution, clear diagrams and photographs

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

3.7L PowerTech V6 (EWG)

Displacement 1:

3701 cc (226 cubic inches)

Configuration 1:

SOHC 12-valve V6

Bore Stroke 1:

93.0 mm x 90.8 mm

Compression Ratio 1:

8.9:1

Horsepower 1:

205-210 hp @ 5200-5500 rpm (varies slightly by year)

Torque 1:

235-240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by year)

Engine Code 2:

2.4L PowerTech I4 (ED1)

Displacement 2:

2429 cc (148 cubic inches)

Configuration 2:

SOHC 16-valve I4

Horsepower 2:

150 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 2:

169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Coolant Type:

Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 5/150 Formula (or equivalent)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 10.7 Quarts (10.1 Liters) for V6

Oil Type V6:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)

Oil Capacity V6:

5.0 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change

Oil Filter Pnum V6:

Mopar: MO-899, Fram: PH3600, Wix: 51500

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) with part-time 4WD

Transmission Type Optional 1:

5-Speed Manual (NV150 or NV3500)

Transmission Type Optional 2:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) with full-time 4WD (Selec-Trac)

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac NV242 (part-time), Selec-Trac NV244/NV245 (full-time)

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear)

Manual Fluid Spec:

NV150/NV3500: Manual Transmission Fluid, API GL-4, SAE 75W-90

Automatic Fluid Spec:

42RLE: ATF+4 (Mopar Material Standard MS-9602)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 174.4 inches (4429 mm)

Width:

Approx. 72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Height:

Approx. 71.5 inches (1816 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.2 inches (2647 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.4 - 8.1 inches (188 - 206 mm), depending on configuration

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 96.8 cu ft (2741 Liters)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 38.0 cu ft (1076 Liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 67.0 cu ft (1897 Liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3700-4000 lbs (1680-1815 kg), depending on engine and drivetrain

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) with V6 and proper towing package

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (2002-2003 models)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (2002-2003 models)

IIHS Front Offset Score:

Acceptable (2002-2003 models)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels

Traction Control:

Optional (often integrated with 4WD system, referred to as Traction Control System - TCS)

Airbags Front:

Standard front driver and passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional front seat-mounted side airbags

Seatbelts:

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

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD stereo with optional Infinity speaker system. Available satellite radio.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Optional Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) on later models.

Auxiliary Input:

No standard auxiliary input jack on most models; aftermarket solutions common.

Bluetooth:

No factory Bluetooth connectivity available on this generation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for synthetic oil recommendations allowing longer intervals.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace annually or every 12,000-15,000 miles (19,000-24,000 km) if equipped.

Spark Plugs V6:

Platinum: Replace every 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Change every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years for ATF+4, more frequently under severe usage (towing, off-roading). Manual transmission fluid inspection every 30,000 miles, replacement based on wear/service history.

Coolant Flush:

Replace coolant every 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified by later TSBs)

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5918) or equivalent Dexron III ATF

Differential Fluid Front Rear:

SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant, API GL-5. Friction Modifier may be required for some limited-slip differentials (consult manual/dealer).

Common Issue 1:

Radiator leaks/overheating (especially V6 engine due to plastic end tanks, plastic intake manifold issues also noted).

Common Issue 2:

Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends) due to vehicle weight and usage.

Common Issue 3:

Transfer case actuator/motor issues (on Selec-Trac models).

Common Issue 4:

Rear main seal leaks on V6 engines.

Common Issue 5:

Interior trim creaks and rattles.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Part of the iconic Jeep brand, known for its off-road prowess and ruggedness.

Introduction To Lineup:

Introduced for the 2002 model year as Jeep's first compact SUV, built on the DaimlerChrysler KJ platform.

Platform Sharing:

Shared its platform with the Dodge Nitro (introduced later).

Design Philosophy:

Aimed to offer Jeep's traditional capabilities in a more maneuverable and fuel-efficient package than the Grand Cherokee.

Manufacturing Plant:

Toledo South Assembly Plant, Toledo, Ohio, USA

Production Period:

2001-2006 (for the KJ generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Rating:

Generally rated average to below average for reliability by organizations like Consumer Reports during its production run.

Off Road Accolades:

Praised for its off-road capability within the compact SUV segment, often outperforming competitors in mud, snow, and rocky terrain.

Fuel Economy:

EPA estimated MPG figures typically ranged from 15-18 city / 20-23 highway, depending on engine and drivetrain configuration.