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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  Bought new, no problems for 6 yrs - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By Sheylal - January 12 - 11:53 pm

  Purchased new in 2003, replaced a snapped hood latch cable in 2008. Replaced original tires at 60,000 miles with Cooper and much quieter ride. Brakes changed twice. Battery died last month after 6 yrs. Right fog light burned out this week. Very reliable. Live in Northern lower Michigan lots of rain, snow and ice. Never any driving issues summer or winter. Trail ride weekly on two tracks and quad trails, drive to work Mon - Fri. Great ride, great handling. Front seats are not comfortable for long rides is my only complaint. I also own 2000 Jeep Wrangler which is fun but rougher riding. Liberty ride is carlike in 4 Wheel drive. Very Reliable.

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  Very Poor Defrost capability - 2008 Jeep Liberty
  By SC - January 12 - 9:00 am

  Because I have 250,000 on my 1999 Jeep Cherokee Sport I bought another Jeep. I am disappointed about the defrost capabilities of this. The dashboard defrost only goes to the middle of the windshield leaving both the ends of the windshield hard to get and keep clear. When the semis pass you on snowing roads, keeping the windshield clear is essential. I drive 45,000+ each year and in the sub-zero temps in December, I was on the interstate with semis passing, because of the inferior defrost system, it was impossible to see. I actually had to pull over and scrape ice off the windshield. I am not an expert but I think the dashboard should be recalled. I had someone else drive it and he agreed.

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  Okay but wouldnt buy it again - 2007 Jeep Liberty
  By pbrowan - January 10 - 1:00 pm

  Windows stick. Required dealership repair. Glass on from windshield broke. Cause of break is not apparent/obvious. the cabin gives no protection from road noise, wind noises, etc Makes for a very noisy ride. Stereo system is mediocre (at best).

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  2005 Jeep Liberty Diesel Review - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By FrankW - January 6 - 10:06 pm

  Todays diesels are nothing like yesteryear. They are fast, clean, quiet and efficient. I average 27 mpg with my mostly highway driving. Acceleration can give you *whiplash* About half of the local service stations sell diesel fuel and there is never a line to get at the pump. Im extremely happy about switching to diesel. Hybrids are good if you live in the city with stop and go traffic. For suburbanites, diesel is the smart thing to do. Hey -- if worse ever came to worse, I could burn old french fry oil. :-)

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  Review of Jeep Liberty - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Jeep owner - January 4 - 2:00 am

  The Jeep Liberty is just the vehicle I needed for my life style. Lots of outdoor activities, such as hunting, fishing, and four-wheeling require a vehicle that is capable off road. While it is very capable, it is also quite comfortable. It was relativly inexpensive to purcahse compared to other off road vehicles. It also rates high in crash tests. I have owned the Liberty for one year now and am very pleased with it.

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  My toy - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By susan19531 - January 4 - 2:00 am

  I have only owned my Liberty for 2 weeks. I love it. I find places to drive to. Gas mileage could be better.

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  I love the Jeep - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Paul Leon - January 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought the jeep with the idear of a well made form of transportation with a long history starting with world war 2. I am very happy with my choice of transportation the four wheel drive is grate. I have the qureda track four wheel drive with six cylender eigen and automatic transmission. I traded in a Toyota Rav 4 which was all wheel drive. The four wheel drive on the Jeep is a lot better than I had on the toyota. I am happy with my choice of a car.