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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  Rust Bucket - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Don - August 26 - 7:43 pm

  Owned the vehicle for 4 years and with only 19,500 miles had to replace the brake rotors (and pads) twice. The last straw was the rusted-out transmission coolant line. Body bolts (under the top of the hood in the engine compartment) also rusted. Nostalgia aside, this car is the epitemy of the US car industry of the 50-60s. Poor fuel economy, handling, performance, body integrity, etc. When we purchased the car four years ago, we had to search hard to find one with the "optional" ABS package and side air bags. Doesnt everyone who wants four wheel drive also want four wheel (controlled) stopping too? Our 2005 Liberty was finally replaced with a 2010 MB GLK 350 4-matic...GOODBYE JEEP!!!

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  Pilot Review - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By KAP - August 24 - 10:00 am

  This is a great little SUV! The only downside to this vehicle is the gas mileage. The gas mileage is not any better than a large SUV. But it is a comfortable vehicle with good quality workmanship.

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  Driving Excitement - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By platinumgal - August 24 - 10:00 am

  The Liberty is fun to drive and easy to maneuver in and out of traffic. Very sharp, responsive steering and brakes! A great buy. This car made driving fun again.

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  love that Liberty - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By karen - August 21 - 3:43 am

  I am enjoying driving my Liberty for errands and long trips. All passengers are very comfortable. Its a real pleasure to go shopping. There is plenty of room for packages.

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  Extremely Capable - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By Troy209 - August 12 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is solid from inside to out. I have had no problems with my Jeep during the 37,000 Ive driven it. It performs very well on road, a smoother ride than a Jeep Wrangler but not as smooth as the Jeep Cherokee. Off road, it is a Jeep and obviously gets the job done. The Liberty has a tow rating of 5,000 pounds and in the few times Ive towed a packed 8 ft. U- Haul trailer it has performed well. The inside of the Liberty is roomy and the contols are very well layed out. The seats are not as cushioned as I would like, but the overall look and feel of the interior makes up for it.

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  Awesome - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Robert LaBrance - August 12 - 2:00 am

  This is the best vehicle I have ever bought. It has great pickup and off- road capability. I highly recommend it to anyone. I traded in my Xterra for it and it was the best auto purchase I have ever done.

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  Love my Jeep! - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Barb Topaz - August 12 - 2:00 am

  My last Jeep was a 1994 Wrangler... loved that Jeep! However, Im in sales and wanted a nicer looking vehicle to arrive at clients in. Last March we checked out the Liberty for my husband but he had his heart set on an Xterra. This Jan I decided that I had to have a Renegade!

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  BUYER Beware! - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By gberger1 - August 11 - 9:03 am

  I have had nothing but problems with my 2005 Jeep Liberty Diesel. I have been a gentlemen with people who really DO NOT CARE about my poor experience. I have had so many problems that I cannot get into it. I would be very careful about buying one as I would NOT want another person to go through what I have had to endure.

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  satisfied - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By mjarch - August 10 - 10:00 pm

  Reliable tow vehicle (+/- 2000lbs construction trailer) and a lot of fun in the mud.

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  Good vehicle - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By cindynpete - August 7 - 10:00 am

  I have been very happy with my purchase!