Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road focused SUV
Key Competitors 2007:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Chevrolet TrailBlazer
Jeep Brand Heritage:
Renowned for off-road capability and ruggedness.
Liberty Kj Positioning:
Offered a more traditional SUV experience with stronger off-road credentials than many car-based crossovers.
Ideal User:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and Jeep enthusiasts seeking to perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs.
Engine:
2.4L PowerTech I4, 3.7L PowerTech V6, 2.8L CRD Diesel
Transmission:
42RLE Automatic, NV156/NV244 Transfer Case, Manual Transmissions (if applicable)
Drivetrain:
Four-wheel drive systems (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac NV242, Selec-Trac NV244), Front and Rear Axles, Differential
Suspension:
Front Independent Front Suspension (IFS), Rear Solid Axle, Springs, Shock Absorbers, Control Arms
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System, Parking Brake
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Gear, Steering Column
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Filter
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Cooling Fan
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Pipes
Electrical System:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Ignition System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Frame Components
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation System
Safety Systems:
Airbags, Seatbelts, ABS, Traction Control
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, Component testing
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission rebuild, Brake system repair, Suspension component replacement, Electrical system repair, Body panel repair
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Specifications:
Torque values, Clearances, Fluid capacities, Electrical diagrams
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and body repairs.
Documentation Source:
Vehicle specific, identical to that used by dealership technicians.
Engine Option 1:
2.4L PowerTech I4 (GEMA)
Engine Option 1 Displacement:
2429 cc
Engine Option 1 Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Engine Option 1 Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Option 2:
3.7L PowerTech V6 (EGB/EGG)
Engine Option 2 Displacement:
3701 cc
Engine Option 2 Horsepower:
210 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Engine Option 2 Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Option 3:
2.8L CRD (Common Rail Diesel) Turbo Diesel (498cc X 4 cylinders = 1996 cc, but typically referred to by displacement class)
Engine Option 3 Displacement:
2.8 Liters (181 cu in)
Engine Option 3 Horsepower:
160 hp @ 3800 rpm (approx.)
Engine Option 3 Torque:
304 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery Gasoline:
Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Delivery Diesel:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic Converter, EGR (Diesel)
Infotainment System Options:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system, optional navigation system on some higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, Traction Control, and optional Electronic Stability Control.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; typically AUX input for audio, optional SiriusXM satellite radio.
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (dependent on oil type and driving conditions, refer to specific manual)
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 7,500 miles (synthetic blend or synthetic)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement I4:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type - copper vs. platinum/iridium)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type - copper vs. platinum/iridium)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-5 years.
Engine Oil Gasoline Recommendation:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or newer (check manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Diesel Recommendation:
SAE 5W-40, API CJ-4 or newer (or specific CRD spec)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Pink Coolant (MS-12106 or equivalent)
Common Problems Kj Liberty:
Cracked cylinder heads (specifically 3.7L V6), radiator leaks, automatic transmission issues (especially early 42RLE), power steering pump leaks, front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rods), differential seal leaks, potential EGR valve issues (CRD).