Jeep Liberty: Problems & Solutions

chwooly

I have a Liberty Sport 2002 with 20K miles on it. It sat for about 1.5 years with a dead battery while I worked in Iraq, I replaced the battery but am without a working speedometer, rear window defroster, wipers, electronic doorlocks and can't open the rear hatch. After driving it approximately 15 miles to get the oil changed, my engine light came on. I checked the codes and the only code I get is P0500. Probably since I drove it with the module not working. So now the question is can I reset the module and if so how?

Thanks

rreidt

I have an '03 Liberty Limited automatic with 34k miles. On cold wintry mornings when I start it up ( it is not garaged ) I hear a "whiring" noise when I turn the key,but only on the initial start-if I shut it off and restart it there is no noise. I took it to the dealer they said it was a clutch in my starter and not to worry. Any one else had this issue and if you had it checked out what were you told?

libertygrrrr

I just bought a 03' V6 4x4 5 speed liberty for my girlfriend.(33,000 miles from a Monroe NY dealer)I wish I had checked some of these reviews previous. Vibrations and squeaks did not show up when she took it for a test drive because of snow. The only complaint was the vehicle pulled to the right, which the dealer said would correct for free with an alignment. First, strangely the alignment and tire pressure check did nothing. Then, had the vehicle been brought up to highway speed there was a vibration that would have been discovered. Especially if going down a large hill. Finally there was a groan that sounded like a bang unless you really listened to it. This was strange because it would only happen when dry conditions and when driving at speed (4th gear when revs were around 3000 and into 5th gear, but getting less with speeds over 65 for both the noise and the vibration). Surprisingly turns and bumps would not get it to happen. To make a long story short, it went back, they rotated the axles and changed the control arms up front which stopped the noise and greatly helped the vibration. Then on the way home the left rear brake started smoking. After the tow back to the dealer, it was found the e-brake had gotten stuck on, both cables had and the brake's components were replaced. we have had a bad 2 weeks with the jeep, hopefully this will resolve it, although I am convinced that the vibration that still exists is an out of balence shaft in the rear. All I can say is put your liberty through its paces when you test it because there are alot of hidden problems that can pop up. I have friends who have libertys and love them. All I can say is if the luck of the draw gives you a jeep that starts to exhibit these symptoms either get it looked at quickly before the warantee is up so it is documented, quickly extend your warantee. If her experience is any indication of whats to come, it will be expensive, consider a replacement vehicle if you are not doing the repairs yourself.

slg123

this is my first post too...

I have a 2003 Liberty Sport with almost this same issue. They have replaced the following
neutral safety switch
the starter has been replaced twice within the last 6 weeks
the ignition switch

The service manager says that I am getting too much power during start up... Any ideas????

evelyn1971

I had a 2003 that made this noise, dealership said it was a warped rotor and they fixed it 3 times. My 2005 is doing the same thing and now it is "normal" according to the dealership. I have started asking other jeep owners I see if theirs makes this noise. Some say no, some say yes.

Just wondering how many of you that own a Jeep Liberty Sport have this noise.

dsullivan

Ok here is my problem. I have this 1995 JGC it is truly or should say had been in great shape 55,000 actual miles on it. Recently it would be running for a short time the it would start to lose power upon exceleration or just moving along. It started late last year. We have checked the computer, fuel filter, fuel pump. Have had it to 3 different mechanics but no one can fix the problem. It is the one that grand ma drove to church only. Anybody got any ideas.
Denny

arreame

My Liberty 2002 had the same problem and the final solution was changing the PCM for about $400, now is running OK.

adminsmk

I have a 2002 Jeep Liberty and when it is cold outside if you don't warm the Jeep up you can't get the key out. So if you drive a block to the store you have to wait until the heat kicks on and warms the Jeep to get the key out. I have taken it to the dealer and they have tried to repair it but it still gets stuck.

glhperformance

05 Liberty, great vehicle 15k on it, takes good to off roads, drives straight no noise, have a jet chip stage 1 installed, kandN air filter installed 3.7 l with 6 speed great vehicle, with over 225k being sold a year Jeep has a winner Its a Jeep thing ask me anything about the Liberty, my last Jeep had 250k on it before a deer met its end and this one will go more miles.

tedf

This same thing happened to my 2002 Jeep Liberty just yesterday! Dead battery replaced, then instantly same problems that you are describing. I was wondering since you posted your problem last January, if by chance you have figured out the problem and solution since nobody has posted help for you on this website yet. I certainly would appreciate any feedback. Thanks! Ted

jeeptrix

I am trying to find used power seats for a 2004 Liberty. My wife is too short to see out the window without them. Any suggestions? Will the Limited seats swap into a Sport?

elyem

The very same situation happen this morning to my girlfriend and I. The Liberty was running great the night before but when I went to leave for work it would start but the Idle wouldn't take. It would simply die after I let off the throttle. Then my rear door latch started clicking and the whole car went dead. If anyone has delt with this before I would appreciate your insight, I love jeeps but the dealer's mechanics in town here have a try-as-you-go approach to fixing things which can cost thousands when it should only cost $150.00. Thanks.

yjeep

I just found out yesterday that my new 2006 Jeep Liberty Sport - has a problem w/ clutch -apparently there's a clip on pin /clutch rod - that has no clearance and has broken - so now the pin on the clutch rod has twisted the wiring harness behind it 90 degrees- (Service found it when installing alarm) - service said not drivable - either electric or clutch bound to fail - also told me that can't just replace - because of the clearance problem - it will just "break again" - waiting on Chrysler engineering to come up w/ a solution for problem. Just happy it didn't fail while i was driving w/ my two small children in back - scary .. Anyone else have this issue - or if you're driving a manual 2006 Liberty - I would highly suggest that the check out the clutch rod/pin /clip - and wiring harness...

:mad:

john81

I know the pin you're talking about, but haven't done any visual inspection yet. So, taken this discovery, were there any indications of a clutch failure or did it seem everything was fine?
Did it seem that the clutch was not fully engaging upon positioning of the gear shift?
Any associated noises, clunks, gears only partially engaging or clutch petal binding?
Apparently the situation was so obvious that the Alarm technician who wasn't even concentrating on the linkage noticed it. So, it shouldn't be a problem for the Jeep techs to come up with a solution (one they notice the problem.)
Most people who drive manuals have a deeper understanding of mechanical fundamentals than drivers of automatic transmissions. So all drivers of manual transmissions, take your vehicle to your dealership service dept for a one time inspection of the shift linkage which is situated on the transmission.
Good job on a valuable "heads up"!

yjeep

No symptoms what-so-ever -- My jeep has less than 400 miles on it ... mechanic said the word "recall" very quietly. :surprise: - because of the -0 clearance for the clip - replacing clutch wouldn't do anything - possible fix is replacement of wire transfer to give more clearance.
I'll update when i hear back - in the meantime i'm stuck driving loaner MINI-VAN !! BLAHHHHHH :mad:

yjeep

forgot to mention that the only reason mechanic saw it - was he was putting in wiring for alarm in front and his forearm pushed in the clutch pedal - and he physically saw the wire transfer case rotate 90 degrees... he inspected more thoroughly - and the pieces of the broken "clip" fell out ... he was on phone w/ Jeep Engineering for over an hour yesterday - "they're working on a solution"
nothing as of yet ....10am CST 3/15/2006

john81

I'm having my 3000 mile inspection tomorrow. I will include, as part of the clutch inspection, the following items:
Interior - clutch pedal linkage and associated wiring for proper orientation, clearance. Check for wire chaffing or assemblies rotated 90 degrees. Check for proper security of any linkage clips and or fasteners throughout the linkage assembly.
Exterior - clutch pedal linkage for proper orientation and proper clearance to prevent obstruction. Check clutch linkage from pedal to the mounting assembly to the transmission. Check for security of any linkage clips and or fasteners throughout the linkage assembly.

When I purchased the Liberty, I changed the oil after I drove it off the lot and put in synthetic oil. Just because you use synthetic oil, don't miss the 3000 mile inspection for proper lube, brake adjustments and general check up.
We all know what's up with the brakes.
John

glhperformance

Sounds like you all are having problems, i got 16k on my 05 liberty no problems smooth sailing, i drive a little more aggressive than most of you, and well with liberty as the best selling small suv i guess over 250k thousand a year a few might have problems,lmfao i love jeep

doodledan

anyone i need some help i own a 2003 jeep libert my part time lite stays on when im out of four wheel drive then when i put it in 4 hi the lite goes out and at this time the lite should be on. then when i select n on the transfer case the lite goes to 4 lo when i put it in 4 low the lite then goes out it seems like the sensor is reading wrong or something i have no clue if anyone has a solution i would apperiate it thanks

dmoney69

did you ever find what the problem with your vibration was? i have a 03 liberty with the same problem brought to tire shop replaced tires 2 times in three days ,8 tires later still a vibration brought to dealer they said drive shaft out of balance ,i said no but warranty replaced and got back and same vibration at same speeds as yours, sure could use some feedback?????

mcg3514

I have a 2002 Jeep Liberty Limited Edition and the ball joint went as I was traveling 35-40mph! Blew the tire and broke the rim. The noise was so loud and elderly gentleman came out of his house as I finally got the vehicle stopped to see if I was alrigh. I had the vehicle towed ($100) and found it was a recall call. They fixed the vehicle 8 days later, and when I picked it up the low washer ligth was on-and before I could get home the oil light came on. I called the dealer and told him this and he said I possibly needed an oil change-I told him I did not and that would not make the light come on!!! duh-he said to bring the car back in and they would look at it. Before I could get the car in-5 days later, the oil light came on again, and the car starting puttering!!! This is so crazy-niether one of these lights ever came on before!! Ever-now they want me to pay $99 for a diagnostic test-and he still can't tell me what is wrong?? I am so angry I can't even tell you-I have never had a problem with the car=except it is too bouncy for me. They had even left a receipt in the car ( I picked it up on a Sunday after hours) saying they performed a 27 point diagnostic-but missed this problem with the engine...I'm hoping to get this fixed for as little as I can and trade it in for Honda CRV!!! They want to charge another few hundred to pull the engine apart to "see what it is?? Is this crazy or what?? :mad:

mindic1782

I have a question - I was driving on a parkway at about 65-70 mph when I had to brake. The conditions were clear and the road was dry. Instead of stopping, my vehicle swerved which resulted in accident. The back left tire flew off in the process, completely in tact, it seems like it had just fallen off the axle. Anyhow, ever since i had the E14 recall completed, I have had strange cranking noises in my brakes every so often. Took it back to the dealer and they said nothing wrong. I don't believe that my car should have had this problem - other cars I have been in never swerved when you hit the brakes - it was swerving as if I was on black ice.

Also, the way that my tires fell off it seems like that balljoint problem that people were having as well. My insurance is debating on getting an engineer out there to take a look but if they decide not to - does anyone know the next step? Or have any ideas on why my car may have swerved!?!
:mad:

johnholk

I have this issue on a 2005 Liberty. I can get the CD to play some of the time but it definitely won't eject. Anyone found a way to reset the CD/Radio unit?

John

rhino6

I can only wonder that out of the 225k libertys per year sold "you" ended up with the only one without problems. As I read the forums on jeep liberty I see 99% negative issues. By the way I am an unfortunate owner of a jeep liberty as well. However, that will change by july 06.

u136646

I have noticed every board concerning any vehicle I have read no matter what brand is 90/10 negative. I think it is because negative experiences get people mad enough to post. Satisfied customers of any make vehicle tend not to even read the discussion forums. Many people where I work own Jeep Liberty as well as I. All are very pleased with the vehicle. of course we are mostly old line Jeep owners to start with. Just my opinion.

rhino6

I agree. You opinion is noted.

asmile

I just purchased a 2005 Jeep Liberty with 14,000 miles. When making a turn of any kind, as I begin to straighten the wheel my back wheels feel as if they want to come up along side the front ones. It doesn't matter how slow or fast and has caused me to spin, swerve, and once to go completely in a circle. I nearly hadf a terrible accident three times. Does anyone else have this problem?

asmile

has anyone out there had this type of problem? Comeing out of a turn causes rear wheels to swerve in opposite direction Sounds like some type of problem with tire/steering tracking?

bvcrd

Now there are two. I don't have any probs either.

bvcrd

I haven't heard of any. Check the tire air pressure to see if it is OK. Low pressure can make it feel squirley.

satopa

I had the exact same problem 2 days ago. Running great just out of the shop from a underhood check up. Went to start and DEAD- clicking from back. Jumped started right away but let your foot off the gas it died. Check battery water was low. Filled-cleaned corrosion-nothing. Ended up replacing battery. Runs great but from what I hear it temp. fix. Any others with problem? Fix?
Bought the jeep 9/2001 Really didn't have any problems until this current year. Only 47,000 Back window latch rattles. Normal maint. Did replace tires with same 16" factory but really don't like them-they slide ALOT. You have to be very aware of driving conditions. Went off the road-tipped on 2 wheels-But no injuries and very slight damage. I was actually kind of impressed it took the hit.
Still would like a different tire though. Anyone found a GOOD 16" tire that's not considered passenger-more truck like?

sueb2

Advice Needed on Engine Replacement.

My 2002 Liberty Limited 4wd engine just blew up. I have faithly had maintenace done on this vehicle every 3000 miles. the dealer is charging me $6,400.00 to replace the engine. This vehicle has 85,000 miles but has been maintained since purchased.

What options did you take last year when you liberty engine went?

bvcrd

If you have no warranty, you have but one option. Actually two. Plop down the money, or not.

glhperformance

I have an 05 Liberty V-6 6 speed, no problems and anyone with there rearend spinning around needs to let up on accelerator

xkmail

I have the V6 and auto, 2wd. I have had my liberty for about 13 months. I am glad to find out I am not the only one complaining about the funky seat material that stains for dripping water on it.
I also find I am getting 22mpg hwy, and about 20mpg combined city/hwy. Do yourself a favor invest in Mobil1 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (5 quarts with a filter). Buy a Purolator Pure 1 oil filter(Pep Boys), not fram. I change my oil at 6000 miles and recently had a oil analysis done and could have left it in another 4000 miles If I had changed my filter. Alot of people don't realize oil filters have bypass valves so once it gets cloggged you have oil bypassing your filter, alhtough this should never happen on a car with less than 100K miles.
Have had zero problems except dash light fuse went out, delaer replaced fuse N/C.
Also don't accelerate so hard, and cruise under 75mph on the highway. keep windows up and AC on low for best Hwy mpg. Keep tires aired up. Kep a clean air filter,again not fram, use Purolator, I have changed mine 4 times in 24K miles. Do not use K&n Air Filters they do not filter as good and will dirty your oil and scar your engine.

xkmail

Probably because your CD's are homemade or scratched.

xkmail

Ahh, another 3000 mile sucker. First, pull 4 ounces of your engine oil and send it to a lab for analysis. They will tell you usually what went wrong. You should do an analysis every 24K miles regardless.
Check ebay for wrecked Liberties, sometimes find a used engine.
Oil Myths
Remember that Chrysler does not refine its own oil. It sends out a contract every few years and whomever meets their specs gets the contract. Oil has a base numebr, commonly referred to as a TBN, Total Base Number. It is the ability of the oil to absorb acids, dirt, etc. Amsoil is around 13, Mobil1 around 11, Castrol around 8, standard oil around 4 or 5. Change your oil once it goes below 2. I just put 5600 miles on my Mobil1 and it was still at 4.8 I also use Purolator Pure 1 oil filter, if you run 6000 mile oil changes change the filter at 3000 and top off with about 1 quart of oil, if you run synthetics you can go 10K miles between changes easy.
A Synthetic Oil is not made from non-oil, it has the ability to Synthesize dirt, acids adn stuff better than ceap oils like Pennzoil, Castrol, QUaker, etc. Dodge and Jiffy Lube have you change oil at 3000 miles because:
1. They use cheap oil, and a cheap filter.
2. They fail to do an oil anlaysis at oil change, thus preventing them from knowing how much wear, tear, and dirt, and acids enter your oil every 3000 miles.
3. They don't use a quality Synthetic Oil.

jkpike

Our Jeep has been having the same stalling problem and we dont know what to do. It will go weeks and sometimes only days between episodes. My husband is in the military and this is a huge problem when he cant get to work. Did you find the problem yet? If yes, we would love to know, and if we find it I will be sure to post the results.

hobandrolly

doodledan were you ever able to resolve this problem. I am experiencing the same with my 2003. I know this was a common problem with the old cherokees. I hope they figured it out with the liberty. Thanx.

bull6195

I have a 2006 Liberty, and lately have had a leak of fluid around the left rear wheel. The rear portion of the wheel is slightly wet, and the ground under the vehicle next to that wheel is also. It's a lubricant of some sort...haven't yet collected a sample to inspect. But, the dealer said it's just condensate off of the muffler, which is 'picking up' lubricant.

Doesn't sound right. Anybody else have this problem? Fewer than 3000 miles.

bvcrd

I don't know about that. What does it smell like? Any color? Is it slick, or water-like? The muffler would condensate at first, but once it gets up to operating temps, any condensation would evaporate.

xkmail

Most likeley one of the two.
Put down a plastic tuba dn collect the fluid. IF its clear its brake, if its heavy and grey its axle.

ethom4321

ttandjj:
hey did you get this problem fixed or diagnosed? my jeep did the same thing. took it in. nothing found.
thanks

bvcrd

...............or if it's clear and NOT slick, it could be condensation from the exhaust system.

karenthomps

I have a 2002 jeep liberty that has been consuming coolant for 5 months now and the service manager does not know what to do next. There are no leaks, pressure testing has been done that showed nothing, new anti-freeze container installed, new radiator cap installed, and new head gaskets and manifold installed. There are no lights showing up on the dash board. Can anybody out there help me resolve this issue? Yours truly, sleepless in Massachusetts.

bvcrd

I thought I was seeing double. Can't help you unless there is a hairline crack in the block somewhere.

karenthomps

Sorry, I'm new at this and believe you me, I'm seeing more than double - I'm seeing $$$$$$$. Are you referring to the cyclinder block, cyclinder wall, or are they the same?

xkmail

What hardware/software tool can I get to reprogram my liverty V6 for better mpg?
I would like it to shift gears earlier under light load and slow acceleration.

dianad2

I've been having a coolant problem since I bought by 2002 Liberty in Nov 2001. My dealer/mechanic continues to tell me that its problems are coincidence but I have been plagued by overheating (due to continued loss of coolant) and have had parts (ie: thermostat, rad cap) replaced about every 4-6 months since I bought it. Its currently in the shop to have its 3rd (!!) head gasket replaced. I'm currently throwing a hissy fit insisting that they do something about my "lemon" but unfortunately I'm in Canada and we don't have lemon laws. And the dealer continues to repair and replace parts under warranty.

xkmail

If you are doing head gaskets often, then your problem is you have either warped heads, or a warped engine block. Heads can be reground to a certain degree, a block has to be pulled, remachined, and usually replaced.
If you are losing coolant then it is either going into the oil, or leaking somewhere through a hose, water pump seal, etc.
If you change your oil and filter and add in 5 quarts of fresh oil, then 3 weeks later drain it and get 6 quarts out, well then its a cracked block.
If you have high pressure escaping through the overflow radiator cap, it is a bad head, which is cracked or warped and allowing exhaust gases to escape through the cooling system.