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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  Nice Truck but Terrible Mileage - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By 2004JL - April 17 - 6:50 pm

  I have to wonder what vehicles other reviewers drove before their liberty to consider the abysmal mileage in the Jeep to be good. I average under 18 mpg highway, driving 65 or under. Thats TERRIBLE mileage. Its MUCH worse in the city especially in winter, expect 10 mpg. Ive heard many other Liberty owners complain of the same lousy mileage. Using 4x4 mode is even worse. Full size V8 pick ups get better mileage. The four speed auto is reliable but needs more gears. It does ride well, and can tow 5000lbs which is great if you tow a lot. It feels peppy until 40 mph but sorta dies off due to a very tall second gear. Its a very loud motor when pressed hard for passing.

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  Fun Ride - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By NFM - April 17 - 5:00 pm

  I loved the look of the Liberty Renegade vs the Sport and Limited. Stick with the V6, I find it to have better pick-up. Best way to go on this vehicle is when its fully loaded. Only mistake I made was getting it in black since it looks like its always dirty (but hey its a Jeep right? Thats what gives it its character!) Very comfortable ride on pavement.

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  Just Fun - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By Dallaswag - April 17 - 10:00 am

  This is a good looking car with power for an suv, it has a smooth car like ride and can maneuver in an out on any terrain. I have had many vehicals and must say that this feels at home on a night out on the town, and river running. So if you are tired of sitting behind your desk go for a spin, a boardway show or the snake river you will be right at home. We Love it. I have had all types of vehicals from Mercedes to vetts and the like, drive this one and I believe that you will agree it is a wonderful performer.

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  Very off-road in the dealership - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By Tamara - April 17 - 10:00 am

  My jeep has had nothing but problems. It has been in the shop more then on the road. I bought the car because I liked the looks of the car. I never thought my new car would have so many problems such as electrical problems, radio problems, coolant and so on……. The car needs a bigger gas tank. The gas mileage is very low so you are filling up all time. Why not put a bigger gas tank in it? However, after all my complaints about the car my mother has a Jeep Sport and her car is fine. She has had no problems what so ever. I got a LEMON!!!

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  the car Ive always wanted - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By Logan - April 15 - 11:00 pm

  Well, its finally mine. My 2006 Jeep Liberty. Its not the most comfortable car, nor the most powerful, but it defines me. Its definitely, a "mans car" or, at least mine feels like it. And I love it! Though, my friends are mad because they all have stupid economical imports. But in all seriousness, the Liberty is my top pick. Its the best small SUV out there. The looks, inside and out, are just great, and my girlfriend says it matches my eyes? Hah, "Jeep green" and a lot of my tall friends can fit in perfectly. Who cares about gas when you make everyone who carpools with you pay for it? :) Haha, I love my Jeep, and its worth every penny!

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  my jeeps review - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By lostone1313 - April 13 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed my Libety from day 1, it performs excellent and I love the boudy style. I beliveve that I will be trading up in a couple of years, for a newer liberty. They are just too cool.

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  Liberty - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Tonster - April 13 - 10:00 am

  I think that your guys are harder on this truck than the others. It has the rear outlet, nice bucket seats, all the options (a standard CD player - beat that!) and the AC kicks. I should know - I live in Louisiana. It is about 100 degrees every day here during the Summer. Tinted Glass, alloy rims and cruise control were only $800 to add on. Try about $3000 with the Ford Escape. Best value for the money. With tax included (at 9% too) I paid under $21,000. It blows the doors off an Xterra, Element, Sorrento and Isuzu for value. Rugged design with a knack for knowing we all drive on the road not the dirt. Xterra could learn something here!

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  Very disappointed..... - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Jess - April 10 - 10:33 pm

  I have to say I love the way the Liberty looks on the inside and outside. I was so excited to find an SUV that was so classy. Unfortunately, I have experienced some problems with the transmission/4WD. The car gets stuck in reverse. I then I have to turn it off and on. Its been in to get fixed and no one can find anything wrong with it. Although Chrysler does a fantastic job of making their vehicles look good, but the reliability is just not there. Its a shame! Mine only has 12,000 miles and Im going to get rid of it. I just cant trust it.

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  Please research! Dangerous vehicle. - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By christy dawn lambdin - April 10 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle hydroplanes in the rain. This vehicle is too light. Doors jam. CD oplayer works at random. Hazard lights work at random. Very poor gas mileage. Too small for a man to drive. Trunk has to be pulled twice to open. While my vehicle was built prior to change of specs in March of 2002, I dont feel the vehicle is safe and am doing my best to get out of it. Unfortunately Chryslers Customer Care Department couldnt care less if I die in a rain storm.

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  Go for it!!! - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By goneloco - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive had mine for almost 3 weeks now with around 500 miles in it. This vehicle is great!!! I enjoy driving it so much that when I go on a 10 min. errand I would instead take the longer routes just so that I can drive this thing longer. I liked the handling and the driving experience. Was seriously thinking of getting a Rav4 before I stopped by the Jeep dealer. Everytime I park my Lib next to a Rav4 I I know that I made the right decision. The only thing that the Rav4 had that would sway me a little was the gas mileage thats about it.