🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Liberty

Series:

KJ

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

KJ

Model Code:

KJ

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Compact SUV positioned as a capable off-roader with practical utility

Competitors:

Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Chevrolet Equinox

Jeep Heritage:

Maintains Jeep's off-road reputation within the compact SUV segment

Powertrain Options:

Offered with both gasoline and diesel engine options, providing versatility

Chassis Design:

Body-on-frame construction for enhanced durability and off-road capability compared to unibody competitors

Philosophy:

Focus on ruggedness, utility, and off-road capability for its class

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete service and repair

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and specifications for all gasoline and diesel engines

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission service, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid capacities and specifications

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, transfer case service and repair

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, brake component inspection, replacement, bleeding procedures

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs, bushings

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, linkages, diagnosis and repair

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), module programming

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnostics

Body:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, exterior trim, structural components

Chassis:

Frame, subframes, body-on-frame construction details

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, diesel injection system specifics

Exhaust:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, diesel particulate filter (DPF) if applicable

Cooling System:

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, coolant specifications

Emissions:

Emission control systems, components, and diagnosis

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module diagnostics

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues

Repair:

Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and repair

Rebuild:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures

Calibration:

Wheel alignment specifications, steering angle sensor calibration

Diagnostics:

Use of diagnostic scan tools, interpretation of sensor data, circuit testing

Timing:

Engine timing belt/chain procedures, ignition timing (if applicable)

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, measurements for all components

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and component-level repair

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Likely to be fully searchable (common for high-quality digital manuals)

Print Quality:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clear reproduction

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Gasoline Engine 1:

2.4L DOHC Inline-4 (PowerTech)

Gasoline Engine 1 Displacement:

2429 cc

Gasoline Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 100 mm

Gasoline Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.1:1

Gasoline Engine 1 Horsepower:

147 hp @ 5800 rpm

Gasoline Engine 1 Torque:

165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Gasoline Engine 2:

3.7L SOHC V6 (PowerTech)

Gasoline Engine 2 Displacement:

3701 cc

Gasoline Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

83 mm x 87 mm

Gasoline Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Gasoline Engine 2 Horsepower:

205 hp @ 5200 rpm

Gasoline Engine 2 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Diesel Engine 1:

2.5L CRD DOHC Turbocharged Inline-4 Diesel (VM Motori)

Diesel Engine 1 Displacement:

2499 cc

Diesel Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

94 mm x 90 mm

Diesel Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

17.0:1

Diesel Engine 1 Horsepower:

140 hp @ 4000 rpm

Diesel Engine 1 Torque:

260 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm

Gasoline Fuel System:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Diesel Fuel System:

Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)

Engine Type:

Internal Combustion

Induction:

Naturally Aspirated (2.4L, 3.7L), Turbocharged (2.5L CRD)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Gasoline:

5-Speed Manual (NSG 370)

Standard Transmission Diesel:

6-Speed Manual (NSG 370)

Optional Transmission Gasoline:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)

Optional Transmission Diesel:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) - availability may vary by region/market

Transfer Case:

Command-Trac NV132 (Part-time, 2-speed 4WD) standard on most models

Transfer Case Optional:

Selec-Trac NV242 (Full-time 4WD, 2-speed) available on some trims

Transfer Case Diesel:

NV132 or NV242 depending on configuration

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin)

Transfer Case Fluid:

NV132/NV242: Mopar NV242 Transfer Case Lubricant or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.2 inches (2647 mm)

Length:

174.0 inches (4420 mm)

Width:

72.3 inches (1836 mm)

Height:

66.7 inches (1694 mm) (with roof rails)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) (varies with suspension/tires)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 96 cu ft (2717 L)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 38.7 cu ft (1096 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 66.4 cu ft (1879 L)

Curb Weight:

3700 - 4200 lbs (1678 - 1905 kg) (varies significantly by engine, drivetrain, and trim)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5200 - 5500 lbs (2359 - 2495 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) (with proper equipment and configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3-star rating (2005 model)

IIHS Crash Test Results:

Good rating in frontal offset (driver), Acceptable in side impact (varies by side airbag availability)

Traction Control:

Standard on many models, often integrated with ABS and 4WD system

Electronic Stability Control:

Optional/Available on some trims

Antilock Braking System ABS:

Standard

Airbags:

Front airbags standard; optional side curtain airbags available

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM/CD player, optional Sirius satellite radio, optional Infinity audio system.

Navigation:

Not typically available from the factory in 2005 models.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Rarely found in 2005 models; typically requires aftermarket installation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions); 3,000 miles (4,800 km) for severe conditions.

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months (under normal driving conditions); 3,000 miles (4,800 km) for severe conditions. Refer to manual for specific diesel oil type.

Air Filter Replacement:

15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.

Fuel Filter Replacement Diesel:

15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or annually for diesel.

Spark Plug Replacement Gasoline:

100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs.

Coolant Flush Interval:

100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years for HOAT coolant. Check manual for exact specification.

Engine Oil Gasoline 2.4L:

SAE 5W-30 (API SN or later)

Engine Oil Gasoline 3.7L:

SAE 5W-30 (API SN or later)

Engine Oil Diesel 2.5L Crd:

SAE 5W-40 (API CJ-4 or newer diesel-specific)

Coolant:

Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid OAT) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific type.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify in manual)

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+4 (verify in manual)

Diesel Crankshaft Seizure:

Some earlier 2.8L CRD engines (though the 2005 is likely the 2.5L CRD from VM Motori, it's worth noting potential CRD issues) experienced crankshaft bearing issues. Specific to the 2.5L CRD, potential issues can include injector pump failures or turbocharger problems if not maintained.

Gasoline Engine Issues:

The 3.7L V6 can experience intake manifold leaks and oil filter housing leaks. The 2.4L 4-cylinder may have occasional issues with head gaskets or piston ring wear.

Suspension Components:

Front lower ball joints and sway bar links are common wear items due to the vehicle's off-road oriented design and body-on-frame construction.

Electrical Gremlins:

Some owners report minor electrical issues, such as sensor failures or intermittent power to accessories, often related to wiring harness connections or grounding points.

Transmission Issues:

The 42RLE automatic transmission is considered somewhat basic; proper fluid maintenance is crucial. Some instances of solenoid pack failure have been reported.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long history of producing rugged, go-anywhere vehicles, dating back to WWII.

Kj Generation Introduction:

The KJ Liberty was introduced for the 2002 model year, replacing the Cherokee (XJ) in North America as Jeep's compact SUV offering.

Kj Facelift:

A significant refresh (facelift) occurred for the 2005 model year, with updated styling, interior improvements, and revised powertrains (including the introduction of the 3.7L V6 and the more powerful 2.8L CRD diesel).

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Production Years Kj:

2002-2007

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Capability:

Consistently praised for its off-road capability relative to its compact SUV class competitors, leveraging Jeep's brand heritage.

Diesel Engine Option:

The availability of a torquey turbodiesel engine was a significant differentiator, attracting buyers seeking better fuel economy and towing capability compared to gasoline engines of the era.