Overview & Reviews

Sold from 2002-'12, the Jeep Liberty was the successor to one of America's original compact SUVs, the Cherokee (which returned in 2014). True to its tough, capable Jeep lineage, the Liberty has considerable off-road capability, thanks to steep approach and departure angles and exceptional suspension travel and articulation. The Liberty was also rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds, a robust figure for its class. These are qualities not found in most other small utility vehicles from this time period, which saw the rise of crossover SUVs optimized for the suburban lifestyle.

Demerits for the Jeep Liberty include a weak engine lineup, with sluggish acceleration and dismal fuel economy from both the four-cylinder and V6 engines offered over the years (the first generation's briefly optional diesel engine is impressively fuel-efficient, however). Interior quality and comfort are also lacking, and by today's standards, the Liberty's general lack of refinement leaves much to be desired.

User Reviews:

• 

  Might just be a Lemon - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By Wheeljack - November 23 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this Jeep barely 8 months after it was originally purchased and I have had something break on it pretty much every 6 months. I have had to replace the spring tensioner on the fan belt, 2 rear window regulators, the linkage and park mechanism on the steering column, pressure valves etc. Its only 4 years old! It has been fun to drive but I am seriously disappointed with all of the repairs that I have had to make. I owned a Japanese car for 10 years and never ever had any trouble like this. All these repairs have cost me at least another year in car payments and I am absolutely disgusted with Chryslers manufacturing and customer service regarding this product.

• 

  Fun to drive - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By broncman - November 22 - 5:30 pm

  Like several of the reviewers I had some problem with the slickness during the rain. The answer is different tires. I got a set of Goodyear Fortera Triple Tred. Made all the diference in the world. Otherwise I am happy with this vehicle.

• 

  2 weeks behind the wheel - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By Rent-o-Jeep - November 20 - 9:36 pm

  Im at the end of my second week behind the wheel of this small SUV and I must admit I love it! Ive never had an attraction to any SUV until I drove this one. The handling and ease of parking are better than my Jetta. If MPGs are important though, you may be disappointed with 16 mpg.

• 

  First and Last - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By gordonwinsall - November 20 - 6:03 pm

  This is my first Jeep and probably last. Terrible gas mileage and a maintenance nightmare if you have to work on it. Even changing the oil is a hassle. Check engine light is always coming on and going off.

• 

  A Great SUV - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By cozz - November 14 - 10:00 am

  This is our first SUV and has proven to be a fun and reliable vehicle. As far as gas mileage, I cant understand all the negative comments, no SUV will not do any better than the Liberty, in fact usually less. We are running Mobil 1 synthetic oil and get 21 1/2 miles per gallon on the road, not bad.

• 

  great truck - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By fdcboys22 - November 13 - 2:00 am

  love it , lacks a little engine power everything else is solid

• 

  When will I learn - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By nickels55 - November 9 - 7:50 pm

  Last 3 Jeeps I purchased brand new all had transmission/4 wheel drive problems resulting in $4K fixs under 100K. NOW this 2005 LIBERTY DIESEL NEEDS A NEW MOTOR This doesnt include the new turbo, paint peeling on bumpers, cracked speaker and the vehicle has never run good since the turbo was installed.

• 

  Love my Liberty! - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By jts14 - November 8 - 10:54 pm

  Even though I have only had my Jeep Liberty for about 2 months, I already love it. I have a red 4x4 Sport with a 6 speed auto and the FAST, yes, i mean fast, 3.7L V6. You can easily pass 90 if you arent careful! Interior is a bit bland but overall is comfortable and functional. Front seats are almost couch like but still offer enough support for long trips. Love the split trunk door. As for gas mileage, its no prius, but I still get about 18 combined, more than you can say for most SUVs. Almost forgot- you cant have the full jeep experience with out having some fun in the snow, and this sporty and rugged SUV doesnt disappoint. The AWD works effortlessly to plow through any pile of snow.

• 

  Window problems - 2007 Jeep Liberty
  By Dianne - November 7 - 2:16 pm

  I Bought my 2007 jeep liberty with 16,000 miles on it. I just reached 44,000 miles and guess what both rear window regulators are gone. This is really pathetic. Its a damn shame that this has not been resolved yet! How many more complaints do they have to receive before they resolve this issue. I will definitely let my friends and family know not to buy a Chrysler product.

• 

  Almost bought something else - 2008 Jeep Liberty
  By Douglas - November 4 - 3:36 pm

  Having had the 2004 Liberty and hating it since 2 days after delivery, I was a bit skeptical about the 2008 model. However, a test drive changed my mind. I was quite surprised at the additional room as the specs dont really convey real world use. Who thinks in cubic feet? My 63" partner is comfortable in the driver and passenger seats. The ride is definitely improved and the styling is great. The vehicle feels a lot more solid. My only regret is not getting the Limited model as I really miss the electronic seats and the EVIC. Also, ignore professional reviewers who insist on comparing it to crossovers. Thats not the same category!