🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Liberty

Generation Code:

KJ

Model Year:

2002

Platform Code:

KJ

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle

Jeep Brand Positioning:

The Liberty (KJ) positioned Jeep's compact offering, emphasizing rugged capability and iconic Jeep styling within the growing SUV market.

Key Competitors:

Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra, Chevrolet Tracker/Suzuki Vitara.

Off Road Capability:

Renowned Jeep off-road prowess, available with 4x4 systems (e.g., Command-Trac, Select-Trac), solid rear axle (on some configurations) for improved articulation.

Design Styling:

Distinctive Jeep seven-slot grille, rugged exterior styling, relatively upright stance.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides the same level of detail and accuracy as used by dealership technicians, enabling comprehensive DIY repairs and maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Comprehensive Coverage:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed page count unavailable in provided info, but typical factory service manuals for this era range from 1500-3000+ pages.

Type:

Factory Service/Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely a digital format (PDF) or bound printed manual, mirroring dealer technician resources.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, powertrain control module (PCM).

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 42RLE), manual transmission (e.g., NV1500), transfer case operation, driveline.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (ABS, hydraulic, parking brake), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), power distribution, audio system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors).

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body sealant and protection.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tire rotation and pressure.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit diagrams and testing.

Repair:

Component removal and installation, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension and steering component replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, electrical component repair.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, dimensional data.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, including diagnostic procedures, component testing, specifications, and repair instructions suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, allowing for searching, printing, and digital access. Quality often includes high-resolution diagrams and clear text.

Diagram Clarity:

Expected to have clear, detailed diagrams, schematics, and illustrations crucial for accurate repairs.

Physical Binding:

If printed, would typically be a durable bound format, suitable for shop use. Digital format ensures easy access and searchability.

Physical Paper:

If printed, likely on durable, high-quality paper designed to withstand workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Gasoline 1:

2.4L PowerTech (ED1) I4

Engine Displacement Gasoline 1:

2429 cc (148.2 cubic inches)

Engine Configuration Gasoline 1:

Inline 4-cylinder

Horsepower Gasoline 1:

Approx. 150 HP @ 5200 RPM

Torque Gasoline 1:

Approx. 165 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM

Engine Code Gasoline 2:

3.7L PowerTech V6 (EHB)

Engine Displacement Gasoline 2:

3701 cc (225.8 cubic inches)

Engine Configuration Gasoline 2:

V6

Horsepower Gasoline 2:

Approx. 205 HP @ 5200 RPM

Torque Gasoline 2:

Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM

Engine Code Diesel:

2.5L VM Motori (425) CRD Diesel (RPO Code: ENF)

Engine Displacement Diesel:

2499 cc (152.5 cubic inches)

Engine Configuration Diesel:

Inline 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel

Horsepower Diesel:

Approx. 140 HP @ 4000 RPM

Torque Diesel:

Approx. 255 lb-ft @ 1800 RPM

Gasoline Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Diesel Fuel Delivery:

Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Option:

NV1500 5-speed manual transmission (often paired with the 2.4L I4)

Automatic Transmission Option:

42RLE 4-speed automatic transmission (often paired with the 3.7L V6)

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac NV131 (part-time 2-speed transfer case) or Select-Trac NV242 (full-time 2-speed transfer case with 2WD, 4WD Full-Time, 4WD Part-Time, Neutral, Low range options).

Gear Ratios Nv1500:

Specific gear ratios available in the manual, crucial for performance and fuel economy calculations.

Gear Ratios 42Rle:

Specific gear ratios and lock-up clutch engagement speeds available in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.2 inches (2647 mm)

Length:

Approx. 173.5 inches (4407 mm)

Width:

Approx. 71.3 inches (1811 mm)

Height:

Approx. 67.0 inches (1702 mm) (without roof rails)

Curb Weight Start:

Approx. 3,600 lbs (1633 kg) for 2.4L 2WD models.

Curb Weight End:

Up to approx. 4,100 lbs (1860 kg) for 3.7L V6 4WD models.

Towing Capacity:

Typically rated up to 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) with the optional towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4-star rating for the 2002 model year.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.

Traction Control:

Optional traction control system (TCS) available on some models.

Airbags:

Front airbags for driver and passenger; optional side airbags were available.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts in all seating positions; pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory radio with AM/FM, CD player. Upgraded Infinity sound systems were available.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system was available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control system.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were common features, especially on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 to 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for exact recommendations).

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Often recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for diesel engines, with specific attention to filter replacement.

Tire Rotation:

Recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement Gasoline:

Intervals vary by spark plug type, often between 30,000 and 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Generally recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on usage and fluid type.

Engine Oil Type Gasoline:

Typically SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline engines (refer to owner's manual or manual for precise API/ILSAC specifications).

Engine Oil Type Diesel:

Specific diesel engine oil grades (e.g., API CJ-4 or equivalent) recommended for the 2.5L CRD engine.

Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) is specified for the 42RLE transmission.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Manual transmission fluid specifications will be detailed in the manual, often a GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issues Powertrain:

Oil cooler leaks (especially on V6), potential for valve cover gasket leaks, exhaust manifold cracks (on some V6 engines).

Common Issues Transmission:

42RLE transmission can sometimes develop shifting issues or torque converter problems if not properly maintained.

Common Issues Suspension Steering:

Ball joint wear, tie rod end wear, and front control arm bushings can be common wear items on higher mileage vehicles.

Common Issues Electrical:

Window regulator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, and dashboard warning light illumination can occur.

Common Issues Diesel:

CRD models can experience issues with fuel injectors, glow plugs, and the EGR system if not maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Built upon Jeep's reputation for off-road capability and ruggedness, leveraging the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee DNA.

Introduction Year:

The KJ Liberty was introduced for the 2002 model year, replacing the Jeep Cherokee (XJ) in Jeep's North American lineup.

Platform Sharing:

Shared its platform with the Dodge Nitro (second generation) and some Mercedes-Benz platforms of the era, reflecting DaimlerChrysler's corporate structure.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured at the Toledo North Complex in Toledo, Ohio, USA.

Production Years:

2002-2007 (KJ generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Jeep Brand Recognition:

Jeep vehicles generally receive recognition for their off-road capabilities and ruggedness.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Ratings varied for the Liberty KJ, with some models showing average or below-average reliability based on consumer surveys in certain years.