🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Liberty

Generation Codes:

KJ

Model Year:

2003

Drive Configuration:

LHD (Left-Hand Drive)

Powertrain Configuration:

4X4 (Four-Wheel Drive)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle

Jeep Heritage:

The Liberty KJ represents Jeep's continuation of offering rugged, capable, and versatile SUVs, building on the brand's off-road legacy.

Key Competitors 2003:

Ford Escape, Chevrolet Tracker, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra

Jeep Liberty Kj Appeal:

Off-road capability (especially with 4x4), distinctive Jeep styling, available with robust powertrains, utility-focused design.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body & Chassis, Interior, Exterior Trim, Emissions, Diagnostics & Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, and reassembly procedures for all major engine components (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain). Includes torque specifications and clearances.

Engine Electrical:

Component testing, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for ignition system, fuel injection system, sensors, actuators, and engine control module (ECM).

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair procedures for the manual gearbox, including clutch service, gearbox disassembly/reassembly, and fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair procedures for the automatic transmission, including fluid checks, filter replacement, valve body diagnostics, and transmission control module (TCM) related information.

Drivetrain 4Wd:

Detailed procedures for servicing and repairing the 4WD system, including transfer case operation, front and rear axle assemblies, CV joints, and drive shafts.

Suspension Front:

Component replacement and adjustment for front suspension system, including struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, and sway bar links.

Suspension Rear:

Component replacement and adjustment for rear suspension system, including shocks, springs, trailing arms, and track control arms.

Steering:

Service procedures for steering column, steering rack, power steering pump, hoses, and fluid, including alignment specifications.

Brakes Front:

Detailed procedures for front brake system service, including disc pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhauls, and hydraulic component checks.

Brakes Rear:

Detailed procedures for rear brake system service, including drum or disc component replacement, brake shoe/pad adjustment, and parking brake service.

Anti Lock Brakes ABS:

Diagnostic procedures, component testing, and troubleshooting for the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), including wheel speed sensors and ABS control module.

Electrical Charging:

Testing and repair of the charging system, including alternator, voltage regulator, and battery.

Electrical Starting:

Testing and repair of the starting system, including starter motor, starter solenoid, and ignition switch.

Lighting Exterior:

Troubleshooting and repair of headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights, and other exterior lighting components. Includes wiring diagrams.

Lighting Interior:

Troubleshooting and repair of interior lighting, dashboard illumination, and related electrical circuits.

HVAC System:

Service and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant charging, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), and blower motor diagnostics.

Body Exterior:

Procedures for body panel alignment, door mechanisms, hood and tailgate service, and exterior trim replacement.

Body Interior:

Procedures for interior trim removal and installation, seat service, dashboard components, and sound insulation.

Fuel System:

Service and repair of the fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, and fuel injectors. Includes diagnostic procedures for fuel delivery issues.

Exhaust System:

Component replacement and troubleshooting for exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, and exhaust pipes.

Emissions Control:

Explanation of emission control systems (e.g., EGR, EVAP), diagnostic procedures, and component testing related to emissions compliance.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Extensive diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code interpretations.

Preventative Maintenance:

Detailed instructions for routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes, and tire rotations.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step guides for replacing virtually all major and minor components of the vehicle.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Systematic approaches to identify and resolve mechanical and electrical faults, often referencing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Overhaul Rebuild:

Comprehensive instructions for complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major sub-assemblies like engines and transmissions.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical schematic diagrams for all vehicle systems, crucial for electrical troubleshooting and repair.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners to ensure proper assembly and prevent damage.

Specifications Tolerances:

Detailed mechanical specifications and acceptable wear tolerances for various components.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, allowing for clear printing of text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF document for quick access to specific topics.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 1:

2.4L DOHC Inline-4 (Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Code 1:

ED1 (for some markets)

Engine Displacement 1:

2429 cc (148 cu. in.)

Engine Horsepower 1:

150 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine Torque 1:

165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Block Material 1:

Aluminum Alloy

Engine Cylinder Head Material 1:

Aluminum Alloy

Engine Fuel Delivery 1:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Engine Type 2:

3.7L SOHC V6 (Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Code 2:

P

Engine Displacement 2:

3701 cc (225.9 cu. in.)

Engine Horsepower 2:

205 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine Torque 2:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Block Material 2:

Iron

Engine Cylinder Head Material 2:

Aluminum Alloy

Engine Fuel Delivery 2:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Recommended Fuel Type:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (for both engines)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (42RLE)

Transfer Case:

Command-Trac NV134 (2WD/4WD Part-Time, 2-Speed Transfer Case)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent GL-3/GL-4)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.7 inches (2659 mm)

Overall Length:

171.5 inches (4356 mm)

Overall Width:

72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Overall Height:

67.4 inches (1712 mm) (without roof rails)

Front Track:

61.5 inches (1562 mm)

Rear Track:

61.5 inches (1562 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm) (varies slightly by configuration)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3700 - 4100 lbs (1678 - 1860 kg) (depending on engine and configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5100 - 5300 lbs (2313 - 2404 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) (when properly equipped)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 26.1 cubic feet (0.74 m³)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 65.7 cubic feet (1.86 m³)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

4-star driver, 5-star passenger (for 2003 model)

IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:

Good (for 2003 model)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (4-wheel disc brakes on most models)

Traction Control:

Optional (often linked to 4WD system or specific packages)

Airbags Front:

Standard driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, 3-point seatbelts for rear outboard occupants.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced roof structure and body pillars designed to help manage rollover events.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player; optional premium audio systems with more speakers and a 6-disc CD changer were available.

Display Screen:

Basic climate controls and radio display; no advanced touchscreen infotainment systems typical of modern vehicles.

Cruise Control:

Available

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were common options.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specifics).

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

At every oil change.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:

Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life plugs)

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life plugs)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (highly recommended, especially for severe service).

Coolant Flush Replacement:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles or 2-5 years (depending on coolant type).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (for most conditions, check manual for specific temperature ranges)

Engine Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+4

Common Issues Minor:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (especially on V6), water pump leaks, occasional ABS sensor failures, interior trim rattles, power window regulator issues.

Common Issues Major:

Transmission cooler line leaks (leading to transmission fluid loss and potential damage), front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends), differential seal leaks, transfer case issues in high-mileage vehicles.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Brand Essence:

Founded in 1941, Jeep is synonymous with go-anywhere, do-anything capability, adventure, and ruggedness, originating from its military roots.

Kj Generation Introduction:

The Jeep Liberty (KJ) was introduced for the 2002 model year, replacing the Cherokee (XJ) in North America. It was designed to be more contemporary and comfortable than its predecessor while retaining off-road prowess.

Kj Production Years:

2002-2007

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Safety Award 2003:

Recognized as a 'Good' performer in the IIHS frontal offset crash test.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Mixed to average, with some models and engine options receiving better reliability ratings than others. Specific year's reliability often depended on early adoption of technologies and specific component suppliers. This manual would be vital for addressing common issues.