🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Liberty

Model Generation:

KJ

Model Year:

2005

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Market Segment:

Compact SUV, known for its off-road capability and rugged styling, often appealing to a more utilitarian and adventurous customer base compared to its more car-like competitors.

Key Competitors 2005:

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

Vehicle Key Features:

Body-on-frame construction, available four-wheel drive with low-range gearing, distinctive Jeep styling, comfortable ride for its class, capable off-road.

📋 Manual Details

Major Topics Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body and Frame, Interior, Emissions Control, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Specifications

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control system, engine diagnostics and repair

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (42RLE) service and repair, manual transmission (NV1500/NV3500) service and repair, clutch system

Drivetrain Systems:

Four-wheel drive system (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), transfer case, front and rear axles, propeller shafts, CV joints

Suspension Steering Brakes:

Front and rear suspension, steering system, power steering, brake system (disc/drum), ABS, parking brake

Electrical Body HVAC:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, wiring diagrams, body electrical components, HVAC system, climate control

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, tune-ups, belt and hose replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, starter/alternator replacement, radiator/water pump replacement, fuel injector replacement

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnosis, engine performance issues, transmission shifting problems

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications for professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Digital PDF, searchable text, high-resolution scans for clarity, printable pages

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 2 4L I4:

2.4L DOHC 16-valve GEMA I4 (PowerTech), Engine Code: ED1

Engine 2 4L Power:

147 hp @ 5800 rpm

Engine 2 4L Torque:

165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 3 7L V6:

3.7L SOHC 12-valve V6 (PowerTech), Engine Code: EKG

Engine 3 7L Power:

210 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 3 7L Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual ignition coils

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transmission (NV1500/NV3500)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic transmission (42RLE)

42Rle Features:

Electronically controlled, overdrive, lock-up torque converter

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic, single dry plate

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.7 inches (2659 mm)

Overall Length:

175.4 inches (4455 mm)

Overall Width:

72.6 inches (1844 mm)

Overall Height:

68.5 inches (1739 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm) with 4WD

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 38.5 cubic feet (1089 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 67.4 cubic feet (1909 L)

Curb Weight Approx 2 4L:

3,614 lbs (1639 kg)

Curb Weight Approx 3 7L 4Wd:

3,889 lbs (1764 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with V6 and optional towing package

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact Rating:

Good (as per IIHS for earlier models)

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact Rating:

Good (as per IIHS for earlier models)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Acceptable (for models tested)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability:

Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Airbags Front:

Standard multi-stage driver and front-passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional front-seat mounted side airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners for front seats

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Overview:

Base models featured a standard AM/FM/CD player. Higher trims could have an optional premium audio system, and some later models offered Sirius satellite radio integration.

Available Audio Options:

CD player, AM/FM radio, optional Infinity speaker system

Available Driver Assistance:

ABS, Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) were available, enhancing active safety.

Available Connectivity:

Optional Sirius Satellite Radio, auxiliary input jack (less common on earlier models)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil)

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions

Spark Plug Replacement 2 4L:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs

Spark Plug Replacement 3 7L V6:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs

Engine Oil Type 2 4L:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified

Engine Oil Type 3 7L V6:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified

Engine Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent HOAT coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Transmission Fluid Type 42Rle:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

Mopar NV241 Transfer Case Lubricant or equivalent

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent

Common Kj Issues Overview:

While generally robust, common issues can include minor electrical gremlins, occasional leaks (especially around the windshield seal), and wear items like ball joints and tie rod ends due to off-road use or high mileage.

Cooling System Issues:

Can experience radiator leaks or fan clutch issues.

Powertrain Issues:

The 3.7L V6 can sometimes develop noisy valve lifters if oil changes are neglected. The 42RLE transmission is generally reliable but can benefit from regular fluid changes.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Brand Legacy:

Founded on military utility (Willys MB), Jeep has a long-standing reputation for robust, go-anywhere capability and iconic SUV design.

Liberty Kj Generation:

The KJ Liberty (2002-2007) replaced the Cherokee (XJ) in North America. It was designed to bridge the gap between the compact Patriot/Compass and the larger Grand Cherokee, offering a more modern platform than the XJ while retaining some of its ruggedness.

Kj Facelift 2005:

The 2005 model year received a mid-cycle refresh, including revised front and rear styling, updated interior trim, and improved powertrain options, aiming to enhance its market appeal.

Kj Production Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Kj Production Years:

2002-2007

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Guide Best Buy:

Jeep Liberty was recognized as a Best Buy by Consumer Guide in certain model years for its value and capability.

Kbb Car Value:

Often cited for good residual value among its peers, reflecting its popularity and durability.

Emissions Compliance:

Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year.