🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Liberty

Generation Code:

KJ

Product Name:

Jeep Liberty KJ Service Repair Manual 2002-2006

Chassis Code:

KJ

Platform:

Chrysler KJ platform (shared with Dodge Nitro)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-Road Focused SUV

Jeep Identity:

Designed to offer Jeep's renowned off-road capability in a more compact and urban-friendly package compared to larger Jeep models.

Competitors:

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

Differentiation:

Emphasized traditional Jeep styling, more robust chassis options (e.g., Command-Trac NV140 or Selec-Trac NV231 transfer cases), and greater off-road bias than many competitors.

Body Styles:

Five-door wagon body style.

Powertrain Options:

Available with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or part-time 4WD.

Off Road Systems:

Optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system with a true locking differential.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

All Models Included:

Yes (all trims and configurations)

All Engines Included:

Yes

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically over 1500 pages for complete factory manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (typically PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, drive shafts, differentials, axles.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front and rear brakes, ABS), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Power distribution, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and gauges, wipers and washers, horns, infotainment system, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), air conditioning, supplemental restraint system (SRS).

Body:

Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, mirrors, roof systems.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication.

Repair:

Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension and steering repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II system, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Text-searchable (allows for quick navigation by keywords)

Print Readability:

High-resolution scans for clear text and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Gas:

2.4L PowerTech (ED1) Inline-4

Engine Displacement Gas:

2.4 Liters (2429 cc)

Engine Type Gas:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-4, SOHC

Horsepower Gas:

150 hp @ 5,800 RPM

Torque Gas:

165 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM

Engine Code V6:

3.7L PowerTech V6 (EKD)

Engine Displacement V6:

3.7 Liters (3701 cc)

Engine Type V6:

Naturally Aspirated V6, SOHC

Horsepower V6:

205 hp @ 5,200 RPM (2002-2003), 210 hp @ 5,200 RPM (2004-2006)

Torque V6:

235 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM (2002-2003), 235 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM (2004-2006)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) for V6, Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs for I4.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type I4:

5-speed Manual Transmission (NV1500)

Transmission Type V6:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (42RLE)

Transmission Type I4 Auto:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (42RLE) - less common with 2.4L

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac NV140 (part-time 4WD), Selec-Trac NV231 (full-time 4WD with locking differential).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 75W-90 synthetic)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.1 inches (2644 mm)

Length:

171.5 inches (4356 mm)

Width:

72.5 inches (1841 mm)

Height:

69.7 inches (1770 mm) (with roof rails)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.3 inches (211 mm)

Curb Weight I4:

Approx. 3,600 - 3,800 lbs (1633 - 1724 kg)

Curb Weight V6:

Approx. 3,800 - 4,100 lbs (1724 - 1860 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:

Approx. 38.5 cubic feet (1090 liters)

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 65.7 cubic feet (1860 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3-star rating (later models may vary, RWD typically better than 4WD in static tests due to weight distribution)

ABS:

Standard on all models

Traction Control:

Available, often integrated with ABS (e.g., Brake Traction Control)

Electronic Stability Control:

Not typically available on 2002-2006 KJ models.

Airbags:

Front airbags, optional side curtain airbags.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners in the front.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system, optional Sirius Satellite Radio (from 2005).

Navigation:

Not typically factory-equipped on this generation.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Parking Assist:

Rear parking assist sensors were an optional feature on later models.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard; aftermarket solutions often required for MP3 players.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

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

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement I4:

Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped spark plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped spark plugs.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended for both engines.

Engine Oil Capacity I4:

Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters)

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

Approx. 6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze (color may be orange or pink depending on manufacturer).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problem 1:

Front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings) wear prematurely.

Common Problem 2:

Rear differential pinion seal leaks.

Common Problem 3:

Water pump leaks, especially on the V6 engine.

Common Problem 4:

Actuator failures in the transfer case (especially Selec-Trac) can cause 4WD issues.

Common Problem 5:

Check Engine Light illumination due to various sensor issues (e.g., camshaft/crankshaft position sensors, O2 sensors).

Common Problem 6:

Rust and corrosion, particularly on the frame rails and rocker panels, especially in salt-belt regions.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Carries the Jeep brand's reputation for off-road prowess and ruggedness, extending it into the compact SUV market.

Introduction Year:

2002

Design Inspiration:

Based on the Jeepster concept, it aimed to bridge the gap between traditional body-on-frame SUVs and car-based crossovers.

Facelift:

Minor updates for 2005 model year, including revised front and rear fascias, updated interior materials, and optional Sirius satellite radio.

Production Start Year:

2002

Production End Year:

2006

Manufacturing Plant:

Toledo Complex, Toledo, Ohio, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Capability Recognition:

While not a trophy winner in mainstream automotive awards, it was recognized for its Jeep heritage and off-road capabilities within its segment.

Konsumen Reports Reliability:

Consumer Reports generally rated the Jeep Liberty KJ's reliability as average to below average during its production run.