Blended Jeep's off-road DNA with a more urban-friendly crossover design, differentiating it from traditional Jeep SUVs.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Xterra
Competitive Advantage:
More robust off-road capability and a distinct Jeep brand image compared to most car-based crossovers.
Key Features
Distinctive Design:
Iconic Jeep styling cues with a boxy yet rounded profile.
Powertrain Options:
Available V6 engine provided strong performance for its class.
4X4 Capability:
True Jeep 4x4 systems, including available Selec-Trac full-time 4WD and Command-Trac part-time 4WD options.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service Manual
Secondary Coverage:
Repair Manual
Scope:
Comprehensive repair and maintenance procedures
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, typically 1500-2500+ pages for a complete factory service manual
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) compilation
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF Download
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine performance and diagnosis, ignition system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic Transmission (42RLE), Manual Transmission (NV150, NV3500), Transfer Case (NV242, NV244/NV245), Driveshafts, Differentials (Front and Rear), Axles, Wheel Hubs
Chassis Suspension:
Front Suspension (Independent Short-Long Arm), Rear Suspension (Solid Axle with Multiple Links), Steering System (Hydraulic Power Steering), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Disc/Drum depending on model), ABS/Traction Control System
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Audio System, Wiper/Washer System, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM) wiring diagrams
Body Exterior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Bumpers, Glass, Mirrors, Exterior Trim, Frame and Unibody Construction
Body Interior:
Seats, Interior Trim Panels, Dashboard Assembly, Center Console, Airbags, Seatbelts, Interior Lighting
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements (Coolant, Brake Fluid, Power Steering Fluid, Transmission Fluid, Differential Fluid), Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement, Tire Rotation, Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement
Repair:
Engine component replacement (alternator, starter, water pump, thermostat, fuel pump, injectors), Transmission overhaul/replacement, Suspension component repair (ball joints, tie rods, control arms, shocks/struts), Brake system repair (calipers, rotors, lines), Steering system repair, Electrical component diagnostics and replacement, Body panel repair and replacement, HVAC system repair
Approx. 3700-4000 lbs (1680-1815 kg), depending on engine and drivetrain
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) with V6 and proper towing package
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (2002-2003 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (2002-2003 models)
IIHS Front Offset Score:
Acceptable (2002-2003 models)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels
Traction Control:
Optional (often integrated with 4WD system, referred to as Traction Control System - TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front seat-mounted side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, three-point belts for rear outboard occupants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD stereo with optional Infinity speaker system. Available satellite radio.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Optional Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) on later models.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
No standard auxiliary input jack on most models; aftermarket solutions common.
Bluetooth:
No factory Bluetooth connectivity available on this generation.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for synthetic oil recommendations allowing longer intervals.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace annually or every 12,000-15,000 miles (19,000-24,000 km) if equipped.
Spark Plugs V6:
Platinum: Replace every 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Change every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years for ATF+4, more frequently under severe usage (towing, off-roading). Manual transmission fluid inspection every 30,000 miles, replacement based on wear/service history.
Coolant Flush:
Replace coolant every 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified by later TSBs)
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5918) or equivalent Dexron III ATF
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant, API GL-5. Friction Modifier may be required for some limited-slip differentials (consult manual/dealer).
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Radiator leaks/overheating (especially V6 engine due to plastic end tanks, plastic intake manifold issues also noted).
Common Issue 2:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends) due to vehicle weight and usage.
Common Issue 3:
Transfer case actuator/motor issues (on Selec-Trac models).
Common Issue 4:
Rear main seal leaks on V6 engines.
Common Issue 5:
Interior trim creaks and rattles.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Legacy:
Part of the iconic Jeep brand, known for its off-road prowess and ruggedness.
Model Evolution
Introduction To Lineup:
Introduced for the 2002 model year as Jeep's first compact SUV, built on the DaimlerChrysler KJ platform.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Dodge Nitro (introduced later).
Design Philosophy:
Aimed to offer Jeep's traditional capabilities in a more maneuverable and fuel-efficient package than the Grand Cherokee.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Toledo South Assembly Plant, Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Period:
2001-2006 (for the KJ generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Consumer Reports Rating:
Generally rated average to below average for reliability by organizations like Consumer Reports during its production run.
Off Road Accolades:
Praised for its off-road capability within the compact SUV segment, often outperforming competitors in mud, snow, and rocky terrain.
Ratings
Fuel Economy:
EPA estimated MPG figures typically ranged from 15-18 city / 20-23 highway, depending on engine and drivetrain configuration.