🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Jeep Model: Liberty Year: 2003 Codes Chassis Code: KJ 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact SUV / Crossover Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Independent Repair Shops Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra Key Features Unique Selling Points: Jeep's off-road capability in a compact package, distinct styling, availability of V6 power. Manual Purpose Purpose: To provide detailed repair and maintenance procedures identical to those used by dealership technicians. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 2003 Jeep Liberty KJ Engine Coverage: 2.4L PowerTech I4, 3.7L PowerTech V6 Transmission Coverage: 42RLE Automatic, NV150/NV241 Transfer Case Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine Mechanical (2.4L I4, 3.7L V6), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System Drivetrain: Automatic Transmission (42RLE), Transfer Case (NV150/NV241), Front Axle, Rear Axle, Drivelines, Driveshafts Chassis: Suspension System (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires Electrical: Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting Systems, Instrumentation, Audio Systems, Power Accessories, Chassis Control Modules, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Body: Body & Chassis Construction, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System, Restraint Systems (Airbags) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Top-offs, Lubrication Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Drivetrain Component Replacement, Suspension & Steering Repair, Brake Service & Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement, Body Panel Repair Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing Technical Information: Specifications, Torque Values, Special Tool Requirements, Component Identification Troubleshooting Methodology: Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and uncommon faults. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance through complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics. Wiring Diagrams Coverage: Extensive, detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including power distribution, grounds, and component connections. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable Text Content Page Organization: Chapter-based, with clear indexing for quick access to specific repair sections. Print Quality Printability: Fully Printable Illustration Quality: High-Resolution Illustrations & Diagrams Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1 Name: 2.4L PowerTech I4 Engine 1 Displacement: 2429 cc (148.2 cu in) Engine 1 Horsepower: 150 hp @ 5200 rpm Engine 1 Torque: 169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Optional Engine Engine 2 Name: 3.7L PowerTech V6 Engine 2 Displacement: 3701 cc (225.8 cu in) Engine 2 Horsepower: 210 hp @ 5200 rpm Engine 2 Torque: 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Engine Management ECU: Commonly uses Chrysler's NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar PCM. Emission Controls: Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR (if applicable), evaporative emission control system. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) Optional Transmission Type 2: 5-Speed Manual (NV150 - less common for 2003, often paired with 2.4L) Features Drivetrain Options: Part-Time 4WD (Command-Trac), Optional Full-Time 4WD (Selec-Trac - sometimes available, check specific models) Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) Fluid Capacities Automatic Transmission Capacity: Approx. 7.7 quarts (7.3 liters) for a dry fill of the 42RLE Drivetrain Transfer Case Models: NV150 (part-time 2-speed), NV241 (full-time 2-speed, often found in Selec-Trac). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 174.4 inches (4430 mm) Width: Approx. 72.4 inches (1839 mm) Height: Approx. 70.9 inches (1801 mm) Wheelbase: Approx. 104.2 inches (2647 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3700-4100 lbs (1680-1860 kg), varies by configuration 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Rollover Resistance: 3 stars (for 2WD models) IIHS Crash Test Results: Good in frontal offset, Marginal in side impact (depending on specific equipment/year nuances). Active Features Traction Control: Available Electronic Traction Control (ETC) Stability Control: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - often standard or optional depending on package Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags, Available Side Curtain Airbags Seatbelts: 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Infinity premium audio system, Sirius Satellite Radio availability. Navigation: Rarely factory-equipped for this model year. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional depending on trim level. Connectivity Power Outlets: 12V auxiliary power outlets. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-7,500 miles (4,800-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations). Engine Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Cabin Air Filter: Inspect/Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually. Spark Plugs: I4: Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium plugs. V6: Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium plugs. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 (API certified, meets Chrysler MS-6395 specification) Coolant Type: Chrysler OAT (Organic...
Automatic Transmission (42RLE), Transfer Case (NV150/NV241), Front Axle, Rear Axle, Drivelines, Driveshafts
Chassis:
Suspension System (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting Systems, Instrumentation, Audio Systems, Power Accessories, Chassis Control Modules, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Body:
Body & Chassis Construction, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System, Restraint Systems (Airbags)
Specifications, Torque Values, Special Tool Requirements, Component Identification
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and uncommon faults.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance through complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.
Wiring Diagrams Coverage:
Extensive, detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including power distribution, grounds, and component connections.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable Text Content
Page Organization:
Chapter-based, with clear indexing for quick access to specific repair sections.
Print Quality
Printability:
Fully Printable
Illustration Quality:
High-Resolution Illustrations & Diagrams
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1 Name:
2.4L PowerTech I4
Engine 1 Displacement:
2429 cc (148.2 cu in)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Optional Engine
Engine 2 Name:
3.7L PowerTech V6
Engine 2 Displacement:
3701 cc (225.8 cu in)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
210 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Management
ECU:
Commonly uses Chrysler's NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar PCM.
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (4,800-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect/Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plugs:
I4: Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium plugs. V6: Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium plugs.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified, meets Chrysler MS-6395 specification)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, extended life, orange color (MS-9769)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901)
Transfer Case Fluid:
Mopar NV241 transfer case fluid (MS-1021) or equivalent. NV150 may use ATF+4, check manual specifics.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Oil filter housing leaks, radiator leaks (plastic tanks), exhaust manifold cracks (V6), PCV valve issues, front sway bar links/bushings wear, minor electrical gremlins.
Jeep is renowned for its off-road prowess and rugged utility dating back to WWII.
Model Evolution
Liberty Introduction:
The Liberty (KJ) replaced the Cherokee (XJ) in North America and was positioned as a more modern, slightly smaller alternative to the Grand Cherokee.
Kj Generation:
First generation Liberty (KJ) produced from 2002 to 2007. The 2003 model year represents the early production phase of this generation.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards:
While specific awards for the 2003 model are not prominent, the Liberty KJ generally received praise for its styling and off-road capability within its segment.
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