🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Liberty

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

KJ

Product Code Example:

This manual likely corresponds to OEM service manual part numbers such as 81-370-02107 or similar, though specific part numbers are not provided.

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV, positioned as a capable and rugged off-road-oriented option in its class.

Key Competitors 2002:

Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Nissan Xterra.

Vehicle Defining Characteristics:

Body-on-frame construction (unlike most unibody competitors), available four-wheel drive systems (Command-Trac), distinctive Jeep styling, and strong off-road capability for its class.

Why This Manual:

Provides authoritative, dealership-level repair information, essential for accurate diagnostics and repairs, ensuring proper maintenance and longevity of the vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 2002 Jeep Liberty KJ.

Estimated Page Count:

Typically between 2000-3000 pages for a complete factory service manual covering this era and vehicle complexity.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely digital format (PDF) given the description. Physical printed manuals are also possible.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel and emission controls, lubrication, cooling, ignition, starting and charging systems, engine diagnostics and performance tuning.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (NV1500, NV3550) and automatic transmission (42RLE) repair, overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications, and operation.

Drivetrain Systems:

Four-wheel drive system (Command-Trac NV231J), transfer case, front and rear axle assembly, driveshafts, differentials, and U-joints.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications, and related service procedures.

Brakes System:

Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum configurations), ABS, parking brake, hydraulic components, and brake fluid specifications.

Electrical Systems:

Vehicle electrical system, battery, charging system, starter, lighting, ignition system, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, and all related wiring diagrams.

Body Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, body control module (BCM) functions, and body sealing.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:

HVAC system operation, diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor), and cabin air filter service.

Restraint Systems:

Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis, component replacement, and safety precautions. Seat belt mechanisms.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems, including fault code interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting, and wiring diagram analysis.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, axle, suspension, steering, brake, and electrical system component removal, overhaul, and installation.

Component Replacement:

Instructions for replacing commonly worn or failed parts such as water pump, alternator, starter motor, sensors, fuel pump, brake pads/rotors, and more.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic data, and alignment data.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Characteristics:

Likely PDF with searchable text, hyperlinks for navigation, and printable pages. High-resolution diagrams and illustrations.

Print Quality Description:

If printed, expect high-quality paper with clear, legible text and sharp, detailed diagrams. Professional binding for durability.

Binding Type Description:

For physical manuals, typically bound with a durable spiral or stitched binding to lay flat during use in a workshop environment.

Paper Type Description:

For physical manuals, usually printed on heavy-duty, glossy paper to withstand grease and frequent handling in a garage setting.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

2.4L DOHC Inline-4 (PowerTech)

Engine Displacement 1:

2429 cc

Engine Horsepower 1:

150 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine Torque 1:

165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Bore Stroke 1:

87.5 mm x 100.0 mm

Engine Compression Ratio 1:

9.1:1

Engine Option 2:

3.7L SOHC V6 (PowerTech)

Engine Displacement 2:

3701 cc

Engine Horsepower 2:

205 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine Torque 2:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Bore Stroke 2:

93.0 mm x 90.8 mm

Engine Compression Ratio 2:

9.0:1

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 3.7L, 87 or higher for 2.4L)

ECU Type:

Chrysler's NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar electronic control unit.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Option 1:

5-Speed Manual (NV3550)

Transmission Option 2:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

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

Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic:

Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.7 inches (2659 mm)

Length:

173.4 inches (4404 mm)

Width:

72.3 inches (1836 mm)

Height:

72.4 inches (1839 mm) (approximate, depending on options)

Curb Weight Est:

3,700 - 4,100 lbs (1678 - 1860 kg) depending on configuration

Towing Capacity Est:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) when properly equipped with the V6 engine and towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

5-star (for 2002 model year based on available data)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

5-star (for 2002 model year based on available data)

ABS:

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

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control system available, especially with 4WD models.

Airbags:

Standard front driver and passenger airbags. Side-impact airbags were optional on some trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts for all occupants, with pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Factory radio with AM/FM, CD player. Optional Infinity sound system with amplifier and subwoofer. Cassette player was also available on base models.

Navigation:

Navigation systems were not commonly offered or were very rare in the 2002 model year for the Liberty.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Parking Assist:

Rear parking assist sensors were an optional feature.

Power Outlets:

Typically one or two 12V accessory power outlets.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

2.4L I4: Platinum plugs, typically 100,000 miles. 3.7L V6: Platinum plugs, typically 100,000 miles.

Coolant Replacement:

Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years. (Consult specific manual for exact Mopar coolant type).

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-30 for both 2.4L and 3.7L engines. Meets Chrysler MS-6395 specification.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

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

Transfer Case Fluid Spec:

Mopar NV231 Transfer Case Lubricant or equivalent (API GL-4, SAE 75W-90).

Common Wear Items:

Front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings), tie rod ends, exhaust system corrosion, wheel bearings.

Powertrain Concerns:

The 3.7L V6 can experience issues with valve stem seals and oil consumption. The 42RLE automatic transmission can sometimes have internal wear or solenoid issues if not properly maintained. The 2.4L can have issues with oil leaks and head gasket reliability if overheated.

Electrical Quirks:

Window regulators, power lock actuators, and instrument cluster illumination can be problematic.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long-standing heritage in producing rugged, capable off-road vehicles, originating from military utility vehicles.

Liberty Introduction:

The Liberty (KJ) was introduced for the 2002 model year as a replacement for the Jeep Cherokee (XJ) in North America. It marked a departure with a more modern, albeit still rugged, design and platform.

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Production Years Kj Generation:

2002-2007

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Offroad Magazine Award:

Jeep Liberty models, particularly those equipped with the Selec-Trac or Command-Trac 4WD systems, have historically been recognized for their off-road prowess in their segment.

Consumer Reports Rankings:

Consumer Reports rankings for the 2002 Liberty generally indicated average to below-average predicted reliability, particularly for the V6 engine and automatic transmission models.

Emission Standards:

Complies with EPA and CARB emissions standards for the 2002 model year. The manual would contain specific diagnostic procedures related to these systems.