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:

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  Love my Jeep - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By edman - July 17 - 10:26 am

  First time owner of a Jeep, test drove the Wrangler but the ride is too much for daily driving. The Liberty gave me a great alternative. I have a Honda CR-V w/ AWD but I missed the control of a manual true 4WD. Bought the car used as a second family car but loved it so much it became my primary form of transportation. I love this SUV, my wife drives the Honda now.

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  Windows - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By Kathy Roberts - July 16 - 12:26 pm

  I have a a little over 44,000 miles on my 2006 Jeep Liberty Sport and I have had to have the regulators in the windows replaced five times. Three times for back passenger windows and twice for the left drivers side window. The motor crunches and then the window just disappears into the door. I picked up my vehicle from being repaired for the fifth time yesterday and am afraid of letting the windows down for fear they wont go back up. I wouldnt recommend this vehicle to anyone.

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  Total waste of money if you want a Jeep - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By nicole - July 14 - 6:46 pm

  I bought my jeep in November of 06 and it had its first recall in January, I have had nothing but problems since i bought this car. The engine has been rebuilt (recall issue). The only positive thing about this car is it is pretty fast on the take off. Gas mileage is not to bad for an "SUV". The room in the back is sorry. Dont suggest this car for any one with a new born baby, or with tall friends.

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  Like it! - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By rjc - July 14 - 2:00 am

  Traded in 2002 Escape cuz of electronic problems.So far so good. I think that it handles well, turning radius great, decent sounding stereo. Interior is very cozy, seats are short,seem flimsy and flat tho. The Escape was way more comfy inside but Liberty seems solid. I liked the Escape but got rid of it before warranty expired because dash lights, brake lights...would go out at any time. At dealer multiple times...Like my Liberty and if it stays out of the shop I will be happy!

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  Liberty - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By shalista - July 14 - 1:00 am

  it is awsome offroad.

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  05 Liberty - Love It! - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Jordy - July 12 - 2:06 am

  Just traded in my 6th Wrangler for a Liberty. Glad I made the switch.

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  Downsized from a GC to JLL, so thrilled! - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Lorinda McCann - July 11 - 3:03 pm

  Really comfortable and roomy for a smaller sized SUV. Feel sporty and trendy zipping around. Great overall buy for the price.

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  CRD - Lemon? - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By wiglud60 - July 11 - 4:50 am

  I was so excited about this vehicle when I read about it. Got one and it has not run right yet. It misses, surges, and gets poor mileage. Dealer service people are baffled about why. Am still working on the problem by checking fuel quality while limping the vehicle around. Had to be towed once, and it is so much fun driving not knowing when your vehicle will quit again.

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  6-week review - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Liberty_05 - July 9 - 7:26 am

  I purchased a Jeep Liberty about six weeks ago for daily commuting, hauling stuff, and off-road vacations. It drives heavy for a vehicle of its size, which makes it feel really substantial and safe. It is small and nimble. On-road the engine has adequate power and the suspension has good sway control for a vehicle of its mass, so you can still confidently throw it into some corners and tear around as long as you donÂ’t over do it. The Liberty is a total blast to drive off-road. Its four-wheel- drive system is vastly superior to that of the car- based crossover SUVs like the Rav4, CRV, Pilot, Highlander, Escape, Tribute, etc. This vehicle is perfect for my lifestyle.

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  2005 Diesel CRD Limmited 4x4 - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By cc1999 - July 3 - 1:13 am

  Great power, good fuel economy, quiet for a diesel, best ergonomics of any small to mid-size SUV Ive found (really easy to get in and out of for a large man like myself at 61" 265#s. Comfortable ride even for a short wheel base 4x4. Very maneuverable in traffic and parking areas. Great little 4x4 SUV.