Who makes the Jeep Liberty?
The Jeep Liberty is a compact SUV that was manufactured by Stellantis, formerly known as Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). The Jeep Liberty was produced from 2002 to 2012 and was designed to replace the Jeep Cherokee in the Jeep lineup.
Jeep Liberty Manufacturer
The Jeep Liberty was manufactured by Stellantis, a multinational automotive manufacturing company formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and the Peugeot S.A. (PSA) Group. Prior to the merger, the Jeep Liberty was produced by FCA, which was the parent company of the Jeep brand. Stellantis is the current manufacturer of the Jeep Liberty and other Jeep models.
Jeep Liberty History and Design
The Jeep Liberty was introduced in 2002 as a replacement for the Jeep Cherokee. It was designed to be a more modern and stylish SUV that would appeal to a wider range of consumers. The Liberty featured a unibody construction, which was a departure from the traditional body-on-frame design of previous Jeep models. This allowed for a more comfortable and refined ride, while still maintaining the off-road capabilities that Jeep is known for.
The Jeep Liberty was available in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, and was powered by a range of engines, including a 2.4-liter inline-four and a 3.7-liter V6. The Liberty was also available with a variety of trim levels and optional features, allowing customers to customize their vehicle to their specific needs.
Jeep Liberty Production and Sales
The Jeep Liberty was produced at Stellantis' Toledo North Assembly Plant in Toledo, Ohio. The Liberty was a popular model for Jeep, with over 1 million units sold during its 10-year production run from 2002 to 2012.
However, the Liberty was eventually discontinued in 2012 as Jeep shifted its focus to other models, such as the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Liberty was replaced by the Jeep Cherokee, which was a larger and more modern SUV that better fit the changing preferences of consumers.
Can you still get parts for a Jeep Liberty?
WHERE CAN I FIND PARTS OR GET SERVICE FOR MY JEEP® LIBERTY? Your local Jeep® Brand dealer can help you get available authentic Jeep Performance Parts(Open in a new window) and genuine Jeep Brand Accessories for your Liberty and can service your vehicle.
Is a Jeep Liberty the same as a Cherokee?
The Jeep Liberty (KJ), or Jeep Cherokee (KJ) outside North America, is a compact SUV that was produced by Jeep from 2002 to 2007.
Why did Jeep discontinue the Liberty?
The Jeep Liberty was discontinued primarily because of declining sales and to make way for the reintroduced Jeep Cherokee. The second-generation Liberty, starting in 2008, saw a significant drop in sales partly due to a lack of improvements and poor fuel economy. The last model rolled off the assembly line in August 2012.
This video explains the history of the Jeep Liberty and why it was discontinued: 37sMarspeedYouTube · Jan 11, 2020
- Low and declining sales: After strong initial sales, the Liberty's popularity waned, especially with the second generation (2008-2012).
- Lack of major improvements: The second generation of the Liberty was criticized for not making enough improvements, leading to a drop in consumer interest.
- Poor fuel economy: Some reviewers noted that the vehicle had poor fuel economy for an SUV of its size.
- Strategic decision: Jeep decided to discontinue the Liberty to retool the manufacturing plant and bring back the Cherokee, which had been replaced by the Liberty in the first place.
- Safety and other issues: The Liberty also faced criticism for its small interior, handling, and noisy engine, and it was subject to numerous recalls and complaints.
What is the common problem with Jeep Liberty?
Common problems with the Jeep Liberty include engine issues like misfires from intake valve problems, electrical system failures such as a defective TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), window regulator and sunroof malfunctions, and fluid leaks from the transfer case or engine. Other reported issues include transmission problems, exhaust manifold leaks, and rear suspension issues on specific model years.
This video discusses common problems with the first generation Jeep Liberty (2002-2007): 56sHOWSTUFFINMYCARWORKSYouTube · Apr 7, 2024
Engine and powertrain
- Intake valve problems: Faulty intake valves can cause misfires and trigger the check engine light, particularly in the 2002-2007 models.
- Fluid leaks: Transfer case, differential, and engine oil leaks are common.
- 42RLE transmission: Issues like gear slipping and delayed shifting have been reported.
- Exhaust manifold leaks: These can cause noise and other performance issues.
- Head gasket failure: Some owners have reported head gasket failures, leading to a loss of power.
Electrical and interior
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module): This is a major issue, especially in 2007-2015 models, causing a wide range of symptoms including starting problems, window failures, and horn/lock issues.
- Power window failures: The power window motors and regulators frequently fail.
- Sky Slider sunroof: The optional power sunroof is known for leaking and failing to open or close.
- Wireless Control Module: A defective wireless control module can prevent the engine from starting.
Safety and other issues
- Rear suspension recall: Some 2004-2007 models were recalled due to the risk of rear suspension lower control arms fracturing from corrosion.
- Airbag failures: There have been investigations into instances where airbags deployed without a crash.
- Gas tank fire risk: Investigations were conducted for a potential gas tank defect that posed a fire risk in some Jeep models, including the Liberty.
This video discusses common problems with the second generation Jeep Liberty (2008-2012): 1mHOWSTUFFINMYCARWORKSYouTube · Aug 5, 2021
