Jeep Liberty

winbro

I believe my rail ship area is selkirk, NY just south of albany. from there its only about 1.5 hours by truck to the dealer. however, depending on where twin oaks is mine may go there too. I am only 1.5 hours drive from NE PA (scranton/wilkes barre area as well).

do you think some get on rail cars because they are "preferenced" over others?

winbro

being a father of college aged girls I can really appreciate your position. $8000 is a very good down payment and if you have any kind of job you will get financing. dont get taken on a high interest rate though. If your father is willing to assume the loan to get a better rate (with you actually paying it) let him.

as far as deals go, here in the greater NYC area, dealers are not exactly giving hugh discounts. $300 to $500 off sticker at best. maybe better where you live. I would go to a dealer that already has a lot of sport models on the lot and see what you can do.

good luck

tonysracing

Yes you are right , speed control = cruise.

As far as the Jet Skis, you should not have a problem. I have rented the big Yamaha 760, which weighs in at 470lbs. I know a single trailer weighs about 300lbs, so a double would be in the 375-450lb range im guessing? You're looking at total trailer weight of about 1350-1400lbs. The Liberty has a 5000lb towing capacity so you're well within it's limits.

Some dealers are dealing and some aren't, you just have to look around. I got mine for about $750 above invoice here in NE PA (between Scranton & Wilkes Barre), although im still waiting for mine to arrive.

If your Dad will co-sign for you should be able to get around 6.5-8% for 5 years, assuming your Dad's credit is ok. Even better like winbro mentioned is if your Dad will assume the loan completely. Good Luck and report back with your buying and ownership experience!

Tony

basepro09

If you want to get a good deal, go to www.jeepwarehouse.com You can get a real quote right away and might be able to use this as a bargaining tool. Their quotes are a couple hundred over invoice. Are you going to order or purchase off of a lot? If you want ABS you might have to order.

Matt

rsholland

take their new vehicle off road yet? And if so, how did it do?

Bob

hotcoffee

I believe she was referring to a Water Ski boat- not a personal watercraft.

I think a smaller ski-boat and trailer would weigh in under 5,000#- but the experts should confirm.

Cheers.

Also don't rule out the Xterra's 3.9% financing on the '01s.

basepro09

I was reading a review of the Liberty in either four wheeler or Motor Trend, and they stated that the V6 uses mid-grade gas. has anyone else heard this? I read it on the Jeep website for the Liberty under Freedom.

Matt

growltiger

The owner's manual of my Sport V6 2WD says to use 87 octane, which pleasantly surprised me. It actually says that higher octanes may cause performance problems. Cheap gas is a good thing.

David

Tobyjug

I gather that ABS equipped Liberty's are not shipping yet does anyone know why & when they can be expected to hit the lots?
Thanks for any input
David b

winbro

my liberty with abs was released by the factory on 7/21 and is in route. I think ABS models are just staring to show up on dealer lots. did you try to order one with ABS and was rejected because of the abs?

tonysracing

Got my railcar # this afternoon from DC Customer Service. It was just loaded this afternoon, 7/26, around 5PM. Im glad i won't have to wait on hold anymore, I can track it all the way to Philly now on the internet.

Tony

mad0865

I too received 500.00 over invoice. Shop around, and you should be able to get the price you want.

sugarstar1782

Thank you so much to everyone who replied to me! It's probably going to be a couple of months before I can actually go out and buy my Liberty, but I thought I would check out all of the available information. Why is it so hard to get ABS on the Liberty right now? I wouldn't get a vehicle without it! ABS has saved my butt a coule of times. Anyhow, I'm so glad that I will be able to actually pull stuff behind my Liberty! Yay! There's only one Jeep dealer where I am, with a teeny-tiny selection. How does the ordering thing work? Do you have to go through the dealer, or can you just contact Jeep and work with them? How does the pricing work on orders? Thanx again for all of the info!
~Kim

tonysracing

The ABS was on restriction due to the parts not being ready, but they are being built now and if you're still months away it won't be a problem. You can only order through a dealer, you can't order directly from Jeep. The pricing works the same on an order as if you were buying off the lot. Start at invoice price and work up from there. You should be able to get a better price on an order than if you bought off the lot. The difference is the dealer doesnt have to assume the cost of storing and advertising the vehicle. It's entirely possible to get $500 over dealer invoice on an order. Good Luck and make sure to come back and relate your buying and ownership experience!

Tony

winbro

also just go updated by DC and mine got on railcar yesterday as well - late in the day. I already called CSX to track the railcar. It is in wolbridge ohio and will leave there 8:30am sat jul 28th bound for cleveland. from there to selkirk ny (via buffalo and syracuse). my guess that it will hit the dealer next fri.

burnt_toast

I'm surprised to see posts quoting this price. I'm just about to order a Liberty here in MA, and I've had one dealer quote me $100 over invoice, and another quoted invoice price, no more. Is the difference a regional thing?

tonysracing

Some areas of the country are getting $2500 over MSRP. Make sure to check with the dealer to see which "invoice price" they are using. I had one dealer tell me over the phone I could order any Liberty I wanted for $500 over invoice. When I got there I doscovered their invoice price included over $400 in advertising fees. Good Luck and report back when you make a deal.

Tony

winbro

at the jeepunpaved.com website. screensavers, wallpaper, video clips etc..

from the base website, click on "its here"
then next screen click on "explore liberty - go to enhanced website....."
under the "freedom" tab click on downloads

basepro09

How and where do they measure from to get the dimensions of the interior? i.e. rear leg room, fron leg room, head room, etc.

Anyone's help would be greatly appreciated.

Matt

rogernj1

I noticed that most of the Libertys that have the SelecTrak 4wd package ($390) also have the off- road package, which costs $765. I do not need the off-road package, but I wanted the full-time 4wd, and I have not seen SelecTrak without off-road. Simailar experiences?

kheintzelman

I test drove a Liberty Limited today, and for my tastes, its front seats are simply not acceptable, and this one critical factor leads me to reject any further consideration of this vehicle. I'm 5' 10", 200lbs, and I found the Liberty's front seats (including the seat backs) to be hard, poorly cushioned, poorly contoured, poorly adjustable, and perhaps most significantly, with woefully insufficient THIGH support. Indeed, I felt distinctly uncomfortable from the moment I settled into the passenger seat, as well the driver's seat, and no matter how I tried to adjust or TILT the seats and seat backs, I simply could not get comfortable. The insufficient thigh support left me feeling as though my thighs (about 4-6 inches back from my knees) were resting on a hard ledge, impinging on the blood circulation to my lower extremitie, not to mention my serenity... Tilting the seat downward at various angles did not help, but instead made me feel as though I was unbalanced. In addition, before I ever put this SUV in gear, my butt was protesting the hardness of the seats. As I drove off the lot for my test drive, my ability to enjoy and relax during my test drive of this new SUV was largely obscured by my pre-occupation with how awful the seats were. In my opinion, it is a shame that "DC" was so negligent in the design of this vehicle's seats; in fact, I shudder to think of how uncomfortable I would be if I had to drive this vehicle on a long trip, let alone a short drive. What-in-the-world were the designers of this SUV thinking when they designed these seats, the "uncomfortable-ness" of which makes the cockpit seem all-the-more cramped and claustrophobic?

For those who are in love with this vehicle, I'm happy for you! It has a quite handsome and stylish exterior! But those seats are frankly the most miserable things I've ever sat in during the course of my recent test drives.

bj02176

I test drove one today the seats are just fine, I think it's a problem with you. Actually I had a Tribute for a miserable 5000 miles. The interior is like a starship compared to the Tibute's glider plane interior.

djasonw

I have a Liberty on order and have test driven three separate times. I find the seats to be comfortable, but other people I've spoken with have commented negatively about the seats. It appears that people with an inseam greater than 32" that are largely proportioned, seem to have the greatest discomfort. One guy who LOVED the car and hated the seats claimed he had MINIMAL thigh support. He was 6'4" and weighed around 245-250. I happen to be 5'10" and weigh 178 and have NO problems with the seats. I suggest a lengthy test drive to make sure you're comfortable driving. Nothing more annoying than a vehicle that doesn't "suit" you.

uglymoney

To comment on Tribute owner. I never owned an Escape/Liberty, but after some excitement was turned off immediately by my first test drive. Way too much wind noise, and cheap generic interior, 4wd that with marginal effectiveness, and no 5 speed v6.

I like the Outback and I like the Liberty with its firm seats (6'2" 200 with 34 inch inseam), the way it rides, and drives.

The exterior looks excellent. I would be using it off road, and for towing, so the clearance, and short overhangs are a plus, not to mention the 2:72 transfer case and decent tow ratings, which is what really sets the Liberty apart from the Escape, Outback, CRV's, and RAV4's of the world.

The 2000 lb rating on the Liberty I4 matches that of the Outback (but the Outback is missing a transfer case for those steep ramps), with the 5 speed v6 notching 3500.

If I buy one, it will be a five speed. Has anybody seen or know where to get EPA numbers on the 5 speeds? The autos hit 20 mpg on the highway. The final drive for the v6 is very close to the auto (2.91 vs 2.80) so the numbers should be close. The I4 has a 3:40 final drive with the 4:10 rear end - this should bring the numbers down a bit, but I am sure they will still be quite a bit better than the V6.

I am a fuel economy fan that is very disapointed that DC does not offer the 2.5l turbodeisel stateside. Europe gets all the good engines, as always. I'd be at the lot paying full retail for a 2.5l TD 5 speed. Ohhhhh my, they are lucky over the pond

Anyway, the 2.4L probably has the power I need, unfortunately again the powers that be, won't let me option the 2.4 with the limited slip rear end. Stupid. Even the Outback has a limited slip rear differential.

I can probably get by without it. Probably, why should I have to?

Lastly, does anybody have concerns about the 90 degree crankshaft on this v6? Split cranks are generally weak, and prone to breakage. On a 90 degree they usually split the bearing points on the crank so that the engine runs smooth. I have no idea how this engine was put together though. With a balance shaft, they may have let it fire slightly unevenly to retain some strength. Chrysler DOES NOT have a bad rep in this area, unlike GM and Ford with the famous 3.8 rod throwing machines, so the engine is probably strong.

The I4 is a proven engine that has been durable in the Caravan even when abused.

For some great off roading shots in beautiful colorado, check out my personal web page. You will see why I am in the market for a different, more suitable vehicle.

http://www.geocities.com/uglymoney/colorado.html

-Nate

uglymoney

First sentence should have read "Escape/Tribute"

And on final drives should have read "The final drive for 5 speed v6 is very close to auto (2.91 vs. 2.80)

Sorry for the confusion.

-Nate

lovethosesuvs

I can only imagine the looks you got on that road with that car! Looks like fun, anyway. I have never been on that kind of road, and never in Colorado (always wanted to go, and your pictures are gorgeous!). You've got a great dog too, aren't they great companions? I've got an 80-lb mutt who is the best dog I've ever had.

Looks like it's time for a Lib!

winbro

maybe I missed it but were the seats cloth or leather you did not like? I test drove a sport model with cloth and it was ok. (5'11, 185lbs and 31" inseam). my limited will have the leather seats though - we'll see. I do know that when my daughter uses my intrigue and moves the seat, it sometimes takes me a long time to get it back to that "sweet" spot.

as far as the tribute is concerned, I had one on order for a long time but cancelled for various reasons. The interiors between the 2 are not even close. the liberty wins hands down. that does not make the tribute a bad SUV in and of itself, but IMO the triscape twins do suffer from overall lousy QC (FORD - need I say more) and have "cheaped" out on the materials used. If the tribute was 100% mazda (mazda powertrain instead of ford etc.) built in japan it might vie for top honors.

shavieclaws

My Liberty Limited (bought off the dealer lot) came with SelecTrac without including the off-road package, so I know this combination is available. Don't know if this is rare or not, however.

I wish I did have the full off-road package, though. I will probably be adding the extra skid plates and tow hooks (already have the heavy-duty cooling and optional tires).

lovethosesuvs

What the heck is a skid plate??

shavieclaws

Skid plates are installed underneath the vehicle to protect vital components from damage due to off-road driving. The Liberty comes with a front skid plate standard, I believe. The off-road package includes skid plates for the fuel tank and transfer case.

hotcoffee

Don't rule out the XTerra 5 sp. SE- has limited slip, skid plates, good seats, good build...

Mileage is not as awesome as you'd want...

I went nuts between the LIB and the X and settled on the dependability of a Nissan product... pleased as punch!

Both trucks are great- can't go wrong- I'm sure I would have been happy if I'd chosen the Lib too.

Take a look.

http://www.mouseparty.com/X_1.jpg

winbro

those that have ltd's with g-pkg's, how do the steering wheel mtd radio controls work out? they are behind the wheel? are they awkward to use?

rogernj1

I have a Sport with that option and I like it. The buttons on the left side control the station changes (i.e., up and down and presets)and CD track changes, and the one on the right controls the mode changes (i.e., AM/FM/CD) and volume.
I use it most when I play CDs to bypass songs.

rogernj1

I can't believe that they didn't include a coin tray with this car.

winbro

get E-Z Pass & you wont need coins - LOL

petersburg100

1. Has anyone seen Libertys w ABS? 2. I am pleased to see that the number of messages in "Jeep Liberty Problems" is still VERY LOW. The number and seriousness of the problems reported is insignificant. 3. I noted that a Washington DC dealer (Fitzgerald) is selling Libertys $100 below invoice.

rsholland

We bought two Subarus from their White Flint/Rockville store. Excellent prices, and it was a pleasant buying experience. Their Jeep store is in Gathersburg, about 5-7 miles up the road from the Subie dealer.

Here's their link:

http://www.fitzgeraldautomall.com/

Bob

petersburg100

My Jeep dealer informed me today that "...the latest info on the abs is that it will not go into production until 9/9..."

winbro

for those waiting, I called DC 800# again today and ABS is restricted until 8/20/01. reason I called was that mine is only days away from the dealer now & has ABS. I wanted to verify that with DC. apparently mine got through during the time period that ABS WAS available in may early june.

my problem was I also wanted a moonroof but at the time ABS was avail. moonroofs were NOT. Then when moonroofs WERE avail, ABS was NOT. so If there was ever a window of opportunity to order a liberty with those 2 options together and get it through the system without restriction, that window was VERY small.

winbro

In the yahoo jeep liberty club, was posted a message from someone who bought a black limited for his wife, liked is so much he went and bought a second one (silver sport) for himself.

acromell

I've had my Liberty for two months and the first big rain storm I drove through caused the passenger side floor to get wet. There seems to be a leak somewhere. Has anyone else had this happened?

tonysracing

I know that most 4x4's have drain plugs in the interior. My friend has a Toyota 4-Runner that has them. I guess they're there for heavy off-road use when you get in "over your head" so to speak. The Wrangler has them too. I guess it's possible that one is missing or came loose? The only other hole in the floor should be for the shifter? Where exactly is the water coming from or collecting?

Tony

sasquatch_2000

I can't believe someone named "lovethosesuvs" doesn't know what a skidplate is.

I'd say check for drainplugs also. Try looking from the bottom first before pulling out carpet. These are to drain water when washing interior of car after river crossings, etc.

acromell

The water seem to be collecting right under the passenger's side feet area. The leak appeared right near the door. It is soaked right through the carpeting and the padding is wet too. I am worried about the trap water causing problems. I will see where the drain plugs are if there is any on the Liberty.

tonysracing

I thought that exact same thing about the skidplate question but figured I would keep quiet!!

I'll be picking up my Liberty tomorrow with any luck, I'll post some pics if it happens Tuesday.

Tony

sasquatch_2000

...right near the door...

are you sure nobody left a window open near a sprinkler or in the rain and then quietly closed it later?

Tobyjug

Had a test drive in a Limited 4WD and was very impressed. Dealer will sell at invoice and found inbound 4WD Ltd with Off Road/Tow/Side Air/ABS & Moonroof due to another dealer this week which he hopes to trade so I guess a few got through.

n40

Tony, Once you go to the dealer to get your Liberty, do you have a list of dealer questions in mind. Pass on the extended warranty? What do you check for before you accept it? Any suggestions? I go to the dealer on Tues. - have to check it over before they will "prep" it for me & then go back on Wed. to drive away with it. Any questions I should ask at this point in the game? Liberty Limited-tow-off/road-deep tint.

tonysracing

Here's a link to a pretty extensive delivery checklist to take to the dealer. It's a long list so you may want to skim it and jot down some ideas.

No way i'm going for any extended warranty.

 

Im surprised you have to check it before they prep it! If it's not yet ready for you to take delivery, how can you OK the vehicle? Definitely make sure you at least take it for a quick drive before you take delivery.

Here's the link:

http://www.ewylie.com/jeep/delivery_checklist.htm

The list was designed for a Wrangler, but 95% of it applies to any vehicle.

Tony

mad0865

That was one of the most comprehensive checklists I have ever seen. That guy basically checks for every thing. Great list, thanks!