Segment:
Compact SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle
Brand Identity:
Jeep is renowned for its off-road capability and ruggedness.
Key Competitors 2003-2004:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
Kj Platform Appeal:
Blended Jeep's off-road heritage with more urban-friendly styling and handling compared to traditional Wranglers.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical information essential for maintaining and repairing the specific KJ Liberty models.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel system (injection, fuel pump, injectors), ignition system, emissions control, engine diagnostics
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (e.g., NV3550, 42RLE), transfer case (e.g., NV242, Command-Trac), differentials, drive shafts, axles
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components, parking brake, ABS system
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, springs), power steering system, steering column
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting systems, body control modules, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, audio system, HVAC controls
Body Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, glass
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system components, operation, and repair
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, error code interpretation
Repair Overhaul:
Component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major vehicle systems
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing common wear items and major components
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting electrical faults
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Mechanics
Engine Type Gasoline:
2.4L 4-Cylinder (PowerTech)
Engine Code Gasoline 2 4L:
ED1
Horsepower Gasoline 2 4L:
150 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Gasoline 2 4L:
170 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Optional Engine 2003-2004
Engine Type Gasoline:
3.7L V6 (PowerTech)
Engine Code Gasoline 3 7L:
EWG
Horsepower Gasoline 3 7L:
210 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Gasoline 3 7L:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Type Diesel:
2.5L CRD (Common Rail Diesel) - Primarily for export markets
Fuel Delivery Gasoline:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Gasoline:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
ECU Type:
Various NGC (Next Generation Controller) variants depending on engine and market
Standard Transmission 2003-2004
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (NV3550)
Optional Transmission 2003-2004
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)
Transfer Case Type:
Part-time 2-speed (NV242 'Select-Trac' - standard on most models) or Full-time 4WD (NV242 HD 'Full-time 4WD' optional)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled with overdrive
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent GL-3/GL-4, SAE 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for 2003 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for 2003 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
Good (for 2003 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
Good (for 2003 model year)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3 (approx. 20% chance of rollover)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, refer to manual)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles)
Spark Plugs 2 4L:
Replace every 100,000 miles (Long-life Platinum)
Spark Plugs 3 7L:
Replace every 100,000 miles (Long-life Platinum)
Coolant Change:
Initial 100,000 miles or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years thereafter
Engine Oil 2 4L:
5W-30 (API certified - consult manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil 3 7L:
5W-30 (API certified - consult manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Capacity 2 4L:
4.5 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 3 7L:
5.0 quarts (with filter)
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) may be compatible; consult manual.
Common Problems Kj:
Radiator leaks, AC system issues, front suspension wear (ball joints, control arms), potential for oil filter housing leaks, power steering pump noise.
Interior Wear:
Dashboard material can degrade or crack in hot climates.
Common Electrical:
Body control module (BCM) issues, power window regulator failures.