Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle
Brand Heritage:
Jeep, a brand with deep roots in off-road capability and ruggedness, known for its iconic Wrangler and Grand Cherokee models.
Competitors:
Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Ford Explorer (smaller variants).
Vehicle Philosophy:
Combines Jeep's traditional off-road prowess with a more compact and urban-friendly package, offering a balance of capability and everyday usability.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, professional-level repair and maintenance information for DIY mechanics and professional workshops, enabling cost-effective upkeep and repair.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and specifications for all available engine variants.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for both automatic and manual transmissions, including diagnosis, overhaul, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Coverage of 2WD and 4WD systems, including transfer case, differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including diagnosis, repair, component replacement, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkage, and wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), ABS, EBD, and parking brake system.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage of the entire electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis of modules, lighting, power accessories, and battery/charging system.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, and frame specifications.
HVAC:
Air conditioning and heating systems, including diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement, and performance testing.
Comfort And Convenience:
Power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, sunroofs, and associated control modules.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, and inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), module identification, sensor data analysis, and diagnostic tool usage.
Rebuilding:
Detailed procedures for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding, including torque specifications and clearances.
Specifications:
Extensive listing of all technical specifications, torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical data.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to complete drivetrain overhaul and advanced electrical system diagnostics.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Includes tons of detailed pictures and diagrams to aid in understanding and execution of procedures.
Transmission Standard I4:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Standard V6:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (42RLE)
Transmission Optional I4:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (42RLE)
Transmission Optional V6:
None (42RLE was standard)
Transfer Case 4Wd:
Command-Trac NV131 (Part-time, 2-speed transfer case)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Chrysler ATF+4 (Mopar Part # 05013457AA)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant (check manual for specific Mopar part numbers)
Wheelbase:
104.7 inches (2,659 mm)
Length:
174.4 inches (4,430 mm)
Width:
72.4 inches (1,839 mm)
Height:
67.7 inches (1,720 mm) (4WD models)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm) (4WD models)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 30.0 cubic feet (850 liters)
Cargo Volume Max:
Approx. 65.7 cubic feet (1,860 liters)
Curb Weight 2Wd:
Approx. 3,800 - 3,900 lbs (1,724 - 1,769 kg)
Curb Weight 4Wd:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,100 lbs (1,814 - 1,860 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) (with optional towing package)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x4.5 (5x114.3 mm)
Wheel Size:
16-inch or 17-inch alloy or steel wheels
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Good
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
Good
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (4x2 and 4x4)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard (on most models)
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional (ESP)
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Infotainment System Base:
Factory installed AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio system with subwoofer.
Infotainment System Upgrades:
Available SiriusXM satellite radio, optional Uconnect hands-free communication system (late 2005 models and up).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist system
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack
Oil Change Interval Synthetic:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months with synthetic oil, whichever comes first. (Consult manual for confirmation based on driving conditions).
Oil Change Interval Conventional:
Every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 3 months with conventional oil, whichever comes first. (Recommended for severe service).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Platinum: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (e.g., Champion Copper Plus or equivalent spec).
Spark Plug Replacement I4:
Iridium: 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN/SM/SL or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity V6:
5.0 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Capacity I4:
5.0 Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant (Mopar Part # 05103532AA or equivalent OAT/HOAT)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Issue 2 4L I4:
Oil consumption, valve cover gasket leaks, exhaust manifold cracks.
Common Issue 3 7L V6:
Valve stem seal issues leading to blue smoke on startup, intake manifold leaks, cracked exhaust manifolds.
Common Issue Transmission:
42RLE transmission can be prone to torque converter shudder and internal wear if not properly maintained.
Common Issue Suspension:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and sway bar links due to its SUV nature and potential off-road use.
Common Issue Electrical:
Window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, intermittent electrical gremlins.
Jeep Legacy:
Founded in 1941, Jeep is synonymous with ruggedness, capability, and freedom, originally developing military vehicles.
Liberty Kj Introduction:
Introduced for the 2002 model year as a replacement for the Cherokee (XJ) in North America, slotting between the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee.
Liberty Kj Design:
Featured a boxy, upright styling with Jeep's signature seven-slot grille and round headlights, emphasizing a classic Jeep aesthetic while incorporating modern SUV features.
Liberty Kj Facelift:
Received a minor facelift for the 2005 model year, with updated exterior styling (grille, headlights, bumpers) and interior enhancements.
Production Period:
2002-2007
Manufacturing Plant:
Toledo, Ohio, USA