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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  Watch out for your engine! - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By hollinsiam - January 5 - 5:12 pm

  I have a 2005 Jeep Liberty Sport. It has given me minor problems since I purchased in 2005. I only have 87000 miles on it and I need to have a cylinder replaced. I was told not to put another penny into it unless I wanted to replace the engine. My mechanic says he has seen this on several Libertys. I have kept up with its maintenance and given it the TLC that it needs - well I thought I did. What a rip off! No more Jeeps for me!

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  Not Great, but Not Horrible - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By jeepsburgh - January 2 - 2:36 pm

  This car has turned out to be what I expected, an inexpensive SUV. The mileage is exactly what was on the sticker. The car performs very well in snow/ice. Some people like the look and some dont. I can transport 3 kids. I can fold the seats down and haul large items (even got a packaged treadmill in there). The interior is OK; however it is populated with cheap plastic. The seats arent the greatest, but they arent the worst. If you did your homework, there shouldnt have been any surprises. Would I get another? No. Am I eager to get rid of mine? No.

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  Great milage - 2008 Jeep Liberty
  By Dan Jurewicz - December 29 - 9:06 am

  I get approx 15 mph in Chicago, But I get 23 to 24 (best I got was 24.6) on highway

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  Great but needs a bigger engine - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Ricky - December 27 - 6:30 am

  I really like my Jeep Renegade; its light bar, special roof top carrier, fender flares, and large wheels make it stand out from other SUVs. Its an excellent off-road vehicle and had been able to handle mud, snow, rain, high winds, and scorching heat with no complaints. The paint has not chippied or faded, the body is still tight with no rattles, fit and finish are really good and the interior has no visible signs of wear.

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  Jeep On Top - Daimler Underneath - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By Drew - December 18 - 7:20 am

  I own a black Liberty Sport 3.7l 4x4 version of the Jeep . Its got real decent power, but isnt going to keep up with,. say a Northstar v-8 Caddy. High range power; needs about 3.5 feet of snow to stop it. Heavy suv - 5600 lbs. Very capable off roading experiences in the mountains. **Perfect little suv if gas goes down.**

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  The SUV that sucks gas but keeps on goin - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By Jeep Liberty LE - December 18 - 5:30 am

  My 2002 Jeep Liberty is a great family vehicle - we can pull our camper or boat - a pig on gas but at 2200000 km it has given NO PROBLEMS - except a few recalls we never received because of resales - balljoint.... I know hear a loud "ping" sound when the Jeep idles after driving... anyone heard this before....

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  Great ride - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By lady_reyna619 - December 13 - 9:00 pm

  I enjoy being higher off the ground. Very fun & comfortable to drive. I live in an area with poor road conditions. so its less bumpy. Costs a lot in gas. Love the V6 -- great for the highway. Helped a lot when I was moving.

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  Minor cons But the Pros outweigh con - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By Jrochester - December 3 - 8:30 pm

  I purchased a 2006 and it is has turned me a true jeep fan the power is great and you cant complain about gas mileage when you have great power. Smooth ride overall.

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  My Liberty Sport - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By geck066 - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I have had this vehicle for over a year now...I love it..Its a blessing in the snow, but its a very heavy vehicle making stopping a bit scary, but I got used to it. I have the anti-lock brakes and the selec-track system in my Jeep. It was well worth the etra money. I like the feeling of being up high and I feel in control of the road. Its very sporty, and my kayaks look great on top.

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  My Libetry Sport - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Topher4193 - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Its out standing, fun to drive, not a plastic car (in other words it is not a Honda), and pretty gopod priced