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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  My Liberty Rocked! - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By Racheal - November 26 - 6:43 am

  I bought my 2003 Jeep Liberty, because it was cute, inexpensive, and had plenty of power. I disliked the gas mileage, I expected better mileage out of such a small SUV. I never had any mechanical problems out of it. Easter Sunday 2008 my 9 year old and I were hit on the driver side, we flipped and slid upside down for 75 yards. I fell in love with my Liberty when we both walked away without a scratch! The adjuster came out to see my Jeep and was amazed with how well the Jeeps top stood up to the wreck!

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  Poor Window Design - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By Brandon - November 25 - 5:53 pm

  I have a 2006 Jeep Liberty with 47000 miles on it. Same problems as other owners with the windows. Rear drivers side window fell into the door. Dealer said that it would cost 1000 to fix. I called Chrysler and complained. They told me that I would pay only 100 to fix it. Well, dealer now says 200. This is a leased vehicle, needless to say, I will be returning it and will not buy another Chrysler. This company needs to stand behind their products!

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  Dont Buy Jeep - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By George Metaxas - November 23 - 6:56 am

  I bought this vehicle new in Nov 2006. It has been in and out of the shop so many times I have lost count. All repairs have been covered under warranty, but when the warranty expires Ill be on my own. One major problem with this vehicle is the power windows in all four doors. I have taken the Liberty to the shop three times to get the "regulators" changed. This is very frustrating. Im told by dealer service manager that the manufacturer is doing nothing to correct the problem. Im using the Lemon Law to resolve this issue. I would think twice about buying this product.

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  Power Windows - 2007 Jeep Liberty
  By 2nd Liberty - November 21 - 10:10 pm

  This is my second Jeep Liberty. In the 3 years that I have had this Liberty, I have had the window regulators replaced 6 times. I asked to have all replaced at the same time and was told NO this cannot be done. Its a known flaw with the 2006 and 2007 Liberty and supposed to be recalled soon. In the mean time, if you are experiencing my pain call Chrysler. They are listening to the consumer. The dealers are mere puppets that have no power to do anything other than fix whats broken. Chrysler is honoring their commitment to do right by their customers.

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  Upholstery and Windows! - 2007 Jeep Liberty
  By Ragin Cajun - November 16 - 10:00 am

  I love my Liberty Sport. Two issues: 1) The upholstery stains with just water. Turns out some IDIOT in materials took delivery of something that shouldnt have been used. Solution: periodically (yearly) steam clean your seats. 2) Window plastic support bracket (Piece O $H!#) keeps breaking EVEN WITHOUT USE! Seems the regulators are OK, but the "plastic" bracket needs to be replaced with a metal one for $9.00. Google "steiger performance" for metal bracket and instructions. First one will take patience and time, but the others get easier.

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  Mixed Feelings - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By chestersmom - November 14 - 11:30 pm

  I love my liberty, but Im not so sure I love it. It steers well, easy to maneuver, love the height, but I have to say if I had been aware of the problems I could have fallen in love with another vehicle. The paint job sucks, I have what should be just a small ding (Im guessing from a rock) above the window on the door and the thing goes all the way to the metal! Also, as with most of you, the window thing is driving me crazy! The driver window has gone out 4 times, the rear Windows both replaced, and today the passenger window broke. It also runs really loud & the seats stain way to easily. Something is definitely wrong.

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  2007 Jeep Liberty Lover - 2007 Jeep Liberty
  By Theresa Brown - November 10 - 12:56 am

  I have had my jeep Liberty for almost a year. Its very quick on the highway. I drive from Burlington to Asheville twice a week and I love the way it handles on the drive up to the mountains. I get about 19-20 mph and its ok since gas is $4.00 per gallon. I do have a problem with the electric windows and had to fix the drivers side window twice. It needed to be replaced. My back passenger window has also broke. They seem to not close properly and are not easily fixed. I checked for a recall but none yet. Overall I love my suv.

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  bigger maybe better - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Robert Nolan - November 9 - 7:00 pm

  I needed a 4wd for snowy winters in Wi. Well, I purchased my 2005 jJeep Renegade last Dec of 2004, not much snow or severe conditions to really test my Jeep. I enjoy the ride and the comfort of the drivers seat, but my passengers in the back will complain of hard bouncing and not much padding. The back cargo area is way too small. Just can get my golf clubs in sideways, the glove box is a laugh and a half; it holds a pencil. The gas mileage is poor, but a lot of suvs are; gets 18 city. I feel safe in it; the ride is tight, and it has more than adequate acceleration with the 3.7 engine. Great little vehicle to park and scoot around in, but not enough He-Man room. My wife loves it. Great buy now on 2005 models.

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  Go Jeep Go - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Jeeper - November 9 - 6:06 pm

  Purchased the Jeep for my wife about a month ago. Shes put on about 1K miles; well actually, Ive probably put on a few of those miles myself. We both enjoy the Jeep greatly. We actually fight over who will drive it at times. Ive owned a Wrangler in the past, so I knew the off-road ability would definitely be there. The interior fit and finish is very nice (owning a Honda myself) and there are no rattles. Wish the gas mileage was better, but its an SUV so you learn to live with it.

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  First Jeep - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Paul - November 6 - 11:26 pm

  Overall I am very happy with this vehicle. Its a great drive. The Liberty catches up with traffic with no problem. I get the whole spare tire thing, but I would rather have a lift gate than the swinging door (especially in the rain). And I have to open the garage door to get large items in and out (e.g. golf clubs). Gas mileage ranges from a low of 14MPG around town to 20MPG on highway trips - pretty disappointing. I noticed the brake pedal is set a little higher than the accelerator which means a lot of leg lifts around town. But the 4-wheel disk brakes bring the car to a stop easily. You get a very good sense of control until you approach 70MPH. So dont. This car will stay in the family.