Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhaul, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Text-searchable (typically for PDF manuals)
Print Quality
Print Readability:
High (designed for clear reproduction of diagrams and text)
Binding Type
Binding Type Digital:
N/A (Digital format)
Paper Type
Paper Type Digital:
N/A (Digital format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder
Engine Code:
2.4L PowerTech (G4CS)
Displacement:
2429 cc (148.2 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
91.0 mm x 94.8 mm (3.58 in x 3.73 in)
Compression Ratio:
9.1:1
Horsepower Hp:
150 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Torque Lb-Ft:
167 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (approx.)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Engine Cooling
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized Liquid Cooling System
Engine Lubrication
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend (API Service SG or higher)
Oil Capacity Quarts:
5.0 quarts (with filter)
Ignition System
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP)
Engine Variations
Available Engine:
3.7L PowerTech V6 (Optional, higher trims/later production of KJ)
Available Engine
V6 Displacement:
3701 cc (225.9 cubic inches)
V6 Horsepower Hp:
205 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
V6 Torque Lb-Ft:
235 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (approx.)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type 4Cyl:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE)
Optional
Transmission Type V6:
4-Speed Automatic (42RLE) or 5-Speed Manual (NV3500)
Features
Drive System:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Part-Time 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) with Command-Trac or Selec-Trac options.
8.1 (206 mm) (approx., varies with tire/suspension)
Interior
Passenger Volume Cu Ft:
94.5 (2676 L) (approx.)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Cu Ft Behind Rear Seat:
27.2 (769 L) (approx.)
Cargo Volume Cu Ft Total:
66.9 (1895 L) (approx.)
Weights
Curb Weight Lbs:
3600 - 4000 lbs (approx., varies by configuration)
Max Gvw Lbs:
5000 - 5500 lbs (approx.)
Towing Capacity Lbs:
2000 - 3500 lbs (depending on engine and configuration)
Wheels Tires
Standard Wheel Size:
16 inches
Standard Tire Size:
P225/75R16 (approx.)
Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.5 inches (5 x 114.3 mm)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating:
4 of 5 stars (for 4x4 models)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most trims, typically 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional/Available on certain trims (TCS).
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional premium audio systems available.
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 4-6 speakers depending on trim level.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Not typically standard on 2003 models, availability varies by trim.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Inputs:
Not standard on 2003 models. Aftermarket solutions may exist.
Keyless Entry
Keyless Entry:
Optional on higher trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement Miles:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change Miles:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or as per severe duty schedule.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT or IAT if specified in manual (typically pink or orange).
Coolant Capacity Quarts:
8.5 quarts (approx.)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602) or specified power steering fluid.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Known Issues
Common Issues Kj:
Actuator failures in HVAC blend doors, potential for rust/corrosion on body and frame, occasional issues with wheel bearings, power steering pump leaks, and differential seals.
Engine Specific Issues 2.4L:
Can be prone to oil consumption if not maintained properly; listen for timing chain noise.
Engine Specific Issues 3.7L V6:
Valve guide wear leading to oil consumption and blue smoke on startup, head gasket issues on earlier models.
Transmission Specific Issues 42Rle:
Can develop issues with torque converter clutch lock-up or solenoid pack failures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Legacy:
Established in 1941, Jeep is synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness.
Model Evolution
Kj Generation:
First Generation Jeep Liberty (KJ) introduced for the 2002 model year.
Kj Platform:
Built on Chrysler's KJ platform, shared with some Dodge and Mitsubishi models.
Design Influence:
Followed the successful but more utilitarian Jeep Cherokee (XJ) in many markets, offering a more modern and comfortable alternative while retaining some off-road prowess.
Production
Production Years Kj:
2002 - 2007
Manufacturing Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Off Road Acclaim:
Jeep Liberty models, especially those with 4WD systems, are generally recognized for above-average off-road capability within the compact SUV segment.
Ratings
User Reviews General:
Owners often praise its ruggedness, comfortable ride for its class, and off-road performance, while some note on potential powertrain or electrical reliability concerns compared to some Japanese competitors.