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2005 Jeep Liberty Review: A Great Compact Adventure Vehicle, a Terrible Grocery-Getter

Rating: 4.07
Based on 88 Owner Reviews ▶
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2005 Jeep Liberty is a compact SUV, part of the first generation (2002-2007). It offered a more refined on-road experience compared to the Wrangler while retaining Jeep's off-road capabilities. Key trims included the Sport, Renegade, and Limited. Pricing ranged from around $20,000 new. It's popular for its blend of Jeep ruggedness and daily usability, offering a traditional SUV experience in a smaller package.
The Good

The 2005 Jeep Liberty offered decent off-road performance, appealing to adventurous buyers. Its classic Jeep design and available 4x4 provided emotional appeal. Practically, it was a reasonably sized SUV for families, offering a comfortable ride (for its class) and acceptable fuel economy. Value for money on the used market is another strong point.

The Bad

Known weaknesses of the 2005 Jeep Liberty include potential electrical issues, especially with the window regulators and central locking system. The automatic transmission can sometimes exhibit harsh shifting. Rust, especially in northern climates, is also a concern. The 2.8L diesel engine, if equipped, requires meticulous maintenance.

2005 Jeep Liberty: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 3.7L PowerTech V6: Standard engine.
    • 2.8L VM Motori Turbodiesel I4 (Optional): Available on select models.
  • Horsepower:
    • 3.7L V6: 210 hp
    • 2.8L Turbodiesel: 160 hp
  • Fuel Economy (3.7L V6, 4x4):
    • City: 16 MPG (estimated)
    • Highway: 21 MPG (estimated)
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 3.7L V6: Around 9 seconds (estimated)
  • Towing Capacity:
    • Up to 5,000 lbs (with proper equipment)
  • Trim Level Features:
    • Sport: Base model, typically with cloth seats, basic audio system, and steel wheels.
    • Renegade: More off-road focused with features like fog lights, rock rails, and unique styling.
    • Limited: Top-of-the-line with leather seats, premium audio system, and alloy wheels. May include features like sunroof and upgraded interior trim.

2005 Jeep Liberty Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2005
Make Jeep
Model Liberty
Trim -
Style -
Type Wagon
Category Minivan Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City GRAZ
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 4.7L V8
Engine Size 4.7L
Engine Cylinders 8
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

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What Problems Does the 2005 Jeep Liberty Have?

The 2005 Jeep Liberty has several frequently reported problems. One common issue is related to the window regulators, which often fail, requiring replacement. Electrical gremlins, such as issues with the central locking system and dashboard lights, are also frequently reported. The automatic transmission, particularly in the earlier model years (2002-2004), can experience harsh shifting or complete failure. Rust is a significant long-term reliability concern, especially in areas with road salt. The 2.8L turbodiesel engine, while offering good fuel economy, requires very diligent maintenance, and repairs can be expensive.

There have been recalls for the 2005 Jeep Liberty, including recalls related to airbag systems and potential fuel leaks. Check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the most up-to-date recall information. Long-term, the Liberty's reliability is considered average. Consistent maintenance is crucial to prevent major issues, especially with the transmission and electrical systems. The diesel engine, if present, is particularly sensitive to maintenance neglect.

How long will the 2005 Jeep Liberty last?

A well-maintained 2005 Jeep Liberty can realistically reach 200,000 miles or more. Expect 15-20 years of service with consistent maintenance. Owner data suggests that proper oil changes, transmission fluid services, and cooling system flushes are critical for longevity. Weaknesses over time include rust (especially in areas with road salt), failing window regulators, and potential transmission issues. The front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends) and the exhaust system are also prone to wear and tear with age. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential for long-term durability.
Positive Owner Reviews
Mike B
Excellent, meets my needs. I live on side road that is often not plowed till the next day so it is a packed down mess with ruts. And my driveway is long, garage is 400 feet from road. With the factory tires the Jeep struggled a bit in wet slushy snow. I installed General Grabbers at the suggestion of a forest ranger who had them on his Jeep Cherokee. Now, It can push and claw through deep snow and mud with relative ease. With 230,000 miles it only had one problem. An undetected oil leak from the EGR ruined a hose that had to be replaced. That is the only problem in all that time.
Adean
The Jeep meet all of my needs and is very dependable. It has a lift kit, new radio/pandora stereo system. It has new ball bearings, spark plugs, Tire sensors, oil change and inspection. Jeep handles well in the sand or rough terrain and is equipt to handle bigger tires if wanted. The color is Teal so a darker blue green which is very pretty.
mystarlite
We bought the car used, knew it would need the usual, battery , tires, oil. So far it has not been a problem past the usual item to take of. Yes we would buy a new one.
Negative Owner Reviews
Losing liberty
Burnt valve bad cat,bad oil pressure switch I will never buy another one,I spent more money in repairs than I did on the down payment on my house, it seemed fine when I bought it in less then 100 miles it all went bad , worst vehicle ever
JP Davis
Bought new and loaded. Actually really liked it's compact size and handsome style. All was well under warranty and then ... wham. Have followed the recommended maintenance schedule precisely and now have 100k. Since warranty expired have had to replace transmission, power steering pump, A/C blower motor, power mirror motor, and numerous other inexpensive but nevertheless quality related parts and repairs. Please understand that I do not consider replacing brakes pads & rotors, tires, and so on as quality issues but rather consider normal costs of car ownership. My issue with Chrysler Jeep is Quality ... or lack there of. Have been buying Jeeps for 30 years. No more Jeeps or Chrysler products ever again. Done for my lifetime.
brew1
3rd torque converter replaced under the 7/70 warranty at 47,000 miles. Poorly constructed torque converter and transmission pump replaced and transmission control unit reprogrammed (less performance)by DC. Excessive wind noise from front door windows is a problem above 50 mph. EGR clogging with recirculated gunk is typical. Battery is DC spec Optima, lasts about 3-4 years in colder climates, $169 to replace with upgraded Optima. Aftermarket torque converter, transmission cooler, shift kit, fuel lift pump, EGR modifications and ECU modifications are necessary to unlock the power potential and provide problem free performance. Unless you know a good CRD diesel mechanic, or are mechanically inclined, be warned to stay away from the CRD.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2005 Jeep Liberty's built-in tech and entertainment features are relatively basic by modern standards. Standard models typically came with an AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher trims might include features like a premium sound system with a subwoofer and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. There are no advanced driver-assistance systems available. Safety features included standard front airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and optional side curtain airbags.

Optional features varied by trim level but could include a sunroof, power windows and locks, and cruise control. The Liberty's crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are generally decent for its class and time. However, it's important to remember that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2005. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings should also be consulted for a more comprehensive assessment of crashworthiness.

In terms of entertainment, aftermarket upgrades are common for this vehicle. Installing a modern head unit with Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone integration is a popular modification.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Clearcoat
Bright Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Deep Beryl Green Mica
Inferno Red Crystal Pearlcoat
Khaki
Light Khaki Metallic Clearcoat
Stone White Clearcoat
Interior Colors
Dark Slate Gray
Medium Khaki

2005 Jeep Liberty Prices and Market Value

The 2005 Jeep Liberty had a starting price of around $20,000 when new, varying depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Liberty has depreciated significantly over time, which is typical for vehicles of this age.

Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, mileage, maintenance history, and whether it has 4x4. Models with lower mileage, clean titles, and documented maintenance records command higher prices. Rust-free examples are particularly desirable. The presence of desirable options, like leather seats or a sunroof, can also increase resale value slightly.

2005 Jeep Liberty Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for the 2005 Jeep Liberty are generally moderate, comparable to other vehicles in its class and age range. Fuel economy is average, but not exceptional. Maintenance can be relatively affordable if you perform some basic tasks yourself. However, potential repairs, especially related to the transmission or electrical system, can be costly. Long-term ownership costs are moderate, but can increase significantly if major repairs are needed. It's not the most economical vehicle to own, but it's also not excessively expensive compared to other older SUVs.

2005 Jeep Liberty Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2005 Jeep Liberty Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2005 Jeep Liberty Recalls & Defects

Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint
Recall date 2006-08-03
Recall no. 06v288000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Trucks, THE Constant Tension Front Lower Ball Joints MAY Experience Contamination. IF THE Vehicle IS Operated FOR AN Extended Period With This Condition, THE Ball Joint MAY Eventually Experience Wear and Looseness.
Consequence When THE Driver Continues TO Operate THE Vehicle With This Condition, THE Contamination CAN Lead TO Corrosion, Accelerated Wear and Possibly Separation From THE Steering Knuckle Causing A Loss OF Vehicle Steering Control Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Front Lower Ball Joints Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 11, 2006. Owners Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. F23.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date 2005-10-06
Recall no. 05v460000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Pickup Trucks, Sport Utility and Passenger Vehicles Equipped With 42rle Automatic Transmissions, THE CUP Plug That Retains THE Park Pawl Anchor Shaft MAY BE Improperly Installed. IF THE Shaft Moves OUT OF Position, THE Vehicle MAY NOT BE Able TO Achieve 'park' Position.
Consequence IF This Occurs and THE Parking Brake IS NOT Applied, THE Vehicle MAY Roll Away and Cause A Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Transmissions and Install A Bracket TO Ensure THE Park Pawl Anchor Shaft IS Retained IN THE Proper Position. THE Recall Began ON November 28, 2005. Owners MAY Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. E14.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236; (Tty:1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-03-23
Recall no. 06e026000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Pro-A Motors Corner Lamps, Turn Signals, and Headlights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Pro-A Motors Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase THE Lamps. THE Recall Began ON April 3, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Pro-A Motors AT 323-838-2988.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Pro-A Motors Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:front:hub
Recall date 2012-10-22
Recall no. 12e047000
Source NHTSA
Summary Timken IS Recalling Certain Non-Formed, Front Wheel Hubs, Part Number Ha599467, Which Were Sold TO Retail and Automotive Distributors IN THE Automobile Aftermarket AS Front Wheel HUB Replacements Designed Only FOR USE ON Certain 2002 Through 2005, 4x4, Non-Abs, Jeep Liberty Vehicles. These Front Wheel HUB Units CAN BE Mistakenly Sold TO Owners and Installed ON 4X2 Versions OF THE Jeep Vehicles.
Consequence IF THE Non-Formed HUB Unit IS Installed ON A Jeep Liberty 4X2 Model (Which Does NOT USE AN Axle NUT FOR HUB Retention), THE Vehicle Wheel Will NOT BE Secure and A Front Wheel Separation MAY Occur, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Timken HAS Notified Retail Stores That Have Received THE Subject Parts. THE Front Wheel Hubs Will BE Replaced Free OF Charge. Owners WHO MAY Have Purchased THE Affected Units Should Contact Timken AT 1-330-471-3693 FOR More Information. This Recall IS Being Conducted BY Timken, NOT Chrysler/Jeep.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension
Recall date 2009-06-19
Recall no. 09e039000
Source NHTSA
Summary Rock Krawler IS Recalling 44 Performance Suspension Systems Sold AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR USE ON THE Vehicle Listed Above. These Suspension Systems Were Produced With Grade 2 Carriage Bolts Instead OF THE Proper Grade 5 Carriage Bolts. THE Improper Grade 2 Carriage Bolts Could Experience A Loss OF Clamping Force FOR THE Bottom Strut Fork.
Consequence This Condition Could Cause A Loss OF Effective Lift and Lowering OF THE Affected Vehicle, Possibly Creating THE Driver TO Panic Which Could Possibly Lead TO A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Rock Krawler Will Notify Owners and Provide A Free Remedy. THE Safety Recall Began ON October 15. 2008. All THE Affected Untits Have Been Remedied. Owners MAY Contact Rock Krawler AT 1-518-270-9822.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Suspension:rear
Recall date 2012-03-05
Recall no. 12v085000
Source NHTSA
Summary IN June 2012, Chrysler Expanded This Recall TO Include Model Year 2006 and 2007 Jeep Liberty Vehicles, Representing AN Additional 137,176 Vehicles. This Recall NOW Concerns Certain MY 2004-2007 Jeep Liberty Vehicles. THE Total Number Vehicles Being Recalled IS NOW 346,900. These Vehicles Were Manufactured From July 3, 2003 Through June 29, 2007. THE Recall Addresses Those Vehicles Originally Sold, or Currently Registered IN, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and THE District OF Columbia. Some Vehicles MAY BE Equipped With Rear Lower Control Arms That CAN Experience A Rear Suspension Lower Control ARM Fracture DUE TO Excessive Corrosion DUE TO Application OF Road Salts During Winter Weather Conditions.
Consequence A Fracture OF THE Rear Lower Control ARM MAY Result IN A Loss OF Vehicle Control and MAY Lead TO A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Rear Lower Control Arms ON All Affected Vehicles Originally Sold IN, or Currently Registered IN, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and THE District OF Columbia, Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON March 26, 2012. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes This Recall WAS Expanded IN June 2012 TO Include Additional Model Years.chrysler's Safety Recall Number IS L27.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date 2013-06-19
Recall no. 13v252000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty Vehicles. THE Fuel Tanks IN These Vehicles ARE AT Risk OF Failure and Leakage IN Certain Rear Impacts.
Consequence A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy Owners MAY Take Their Vehicles TO Dealers and THE Dealers Will Perform A Free Inspection OF THE Rear Structure. ON Vehicles IN THE Recall That ARE NOT Equipped With A TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Install A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch Free OF Charge, Provided THE Condition OF THE Vehicle CAN Support Proper Installation. ON Vehicles IN THE Recall That ARE Equipped With AN Aftermarket TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Assess Whether THE Hitch and Surrounding Areas Show Evidence OF Sharp Edges or Other Puncture Risks. IF SO, Chrysler Will Replace THE TOW Hitch With A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch Free OF Charge, Provided THE Condition OF THE Vehicle CAN Support Proper Installation. ON Vehicles Already Equipped With A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Inspect THE Area Around THE TOW Hitch Installation, and IF ANY Installation Issues ARE Identified, They Will BE Repaired Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 1, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's Recall Campaign Numbers ARE N45 (For THE Grand Cherokee Vehicles) and N46 (For THE Liberty Vehicles).
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure
Recall date 2013-06-19
Recall no. 13v252000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty Vehicles. THE Fuel Tanks IN These Vehicles ARE AT Risk OF Failure and Leakage IN Certain Rear Impacts.
Consequence A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source MAY Result IN A Fire.
Remedy Owners MAY Take Their Vehicles TO Dealers and THE Dealers Will Perform A Free Inspection OF THE Rear Structure. ON Vehicles IN THE Recall That ARE NOT Equipped With A TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Install A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch Free OF Charge, Provided THE Condition OF THE Vehicle CAN Support Proper Installation. ON Vehicles IN THE Recall That ARE Equipped With AN Aftermarket TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Assess Whether THE Hitch and Surrounding Areas Show Evidence OF Sharp Edges or Other Puncture Risks. IF SO, Chrysler Will Replace THE TOW Hitch With A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch Free OF Charge, Provided THE Condition OF THE Vehicle CAN Support Proper Installation. ON Vehicles Already Equipped With A Chrysler Designed TOW Hitch, Chrysler Will Inspect THE Area Around THE TOW Hitch Installation, and IF ANY Installation Issues ARE Identified, They Will BE Repaired Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 1, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's Recall Campaign Numbers ARE N45 (For THE Grand Cherokee Vehicles) and N46 (For THE Liberty Vehicles).
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Suspension:rear
Recall date 2018-05-01
Recall no. 18v278000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2004-2007 Jeep Liberty Vehicles. THE Rear Suspension Lower Control Arms CAN Fracture DUE TO Excessive Corrosion, Causing A Loss OF Vehicle Control.
Consequence A Fractured Control ARM CAN Cause A Loss OF Vehicle Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Rear Lower Control Arms, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began June 26, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS U38. Note: This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Recall 12v-085. Vehicles Included IN That Campaign ARE NOT Included IN This Recall.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2005 Jeep Liberty Insurance

Insurance for a 2005 Jeep Liberty is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2005 Jeep Liberty Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2005 Jeep Liberty competed with vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Nissan Xterra. In terms of off-road performance, the Liberty and Xterra were generally superior to the RAV4 and CR-V. The RAV4 and CR-V offered better fuel economy and a reputation for greater reliability. The Ford Escape provided a more car-like driving experience.

In terms of features, the Liberty offered a decent array, but often lacked the advanced safety and tech options found in some rivals. Pricing was competitive when new, and the Liberty is now affordable on the used market. However, the potential for costly repairs can offset some of the savings.

Alternatives to the 2005 Jeep Liberty include the Toyota RAV4 (for reliability), Honda CR-V (for overall practicality and fuel economy), and the Nissan Xterra (for comparable off-road capability). If reliability and fuel economy are top priorities, the RAV4 or CR-V are better choices. If off-road prowess is crucial, the Xterra is a solid alternative. A well-maintained Ford Escape might offer a more comfortable ride and lower running costs.

Ranks #442 Truck

1 2023 Toyota Tundra (5.0★)
2 2022 Honda Ridgeline (5.0★)
3 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis (0.0★)
4 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis (0.0★)
5 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD (0.0★)
6 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz (5.0★)
7 2023 Nissan Frontier (5.0★)
8 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD (0.0★)
9 2023 Ram 4500 (0.0★)
10 2022 Jeep Gladiator (5.0★)
11 2012 Suzuki Equator (0.0★)
12 2009 Mitsubishi Raider (5.0★)
442 2005 Jeep Liberty (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Jeep Liberty a Good Wagon?

The 2005 Jeep Liberty is ideal for someone seeking an affordable, capable SUV with a classic Jeep look and feel. It's a decent option for light off-roading and daily driving, but potential buyers should be aware of its reliability concerns. It is definitely worth buying *used*, but only if it has been well-maintained and thoroughly inspected.

Look for examples with complete service records, minimal rust, and no signs of transmission issues. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended. The Limited trim offers more features, but the Sport trim can be a good value if you're on a budget. If reliability is paramount, consider alternatives like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V.

2005 Jeep Liberty Owner Reviews

4.07
Consumer Rating, Based on 88 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Chris on September 25, 2023

she has done her job!

Bought this car used with 89K on the ODO, 1 previous owner in late 2018. The only issue where is cost me real money was the trans crapped out at about 109K, but the radio still worked. It is now having issues at almost 180K. Burns oil like there is no tomorrow, instead of changing the oil, I just add 5 qts every couple of weeks. I had to replace the water pump 2x as the first one was a xxx (my bad, I bought a cheap one) then I replaced the radiator 2x as well, but its looking like

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Jefferson Woolley on September 21, 2023

The Jeep is in excellent condition excellent milea

Seems to be a good deal and the mileage is good looking forward to test driving the Jeep the overall car is excellent by far

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Liz on May 21, 2022

Love mine

I love ❤ mine.. it is great to drive!! Some mechanics issues.. Overall it's Very reliable.. I'm interested in how 🤔 many miles, with good quality upkeep there's are..

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MelissaW on June 6, 2021

Worst vehicle ever owned!

I have had a 2005 Jeep Liberty Sport with the Renegade package for the last five years. I have already had to replace almost everything but the engine itself on this vehicle. Constant problems with the transmission going into limp mode make no sense when they know that the 42RLE transmission had numerous issues and was a piece of junk transmission to start with. Not acknowledging issues with the overheating of these 3.7 V6 junk engines is ridiculous. These engines are the worst then you could ever have in a jeep. I have owned two jeeps in my other Jeep had less problems than this one. First if you want me to review the interior it is absolutely terrible and uncomfortable. The seats are hard and stiff and do not move very much back and forth so if you're a tall person do not buy this car at all. If you're a short person then this car is for you. The fact that the lock button is on the side panel of the door and not the for the windows is absolutely the worst is on I have ever seen in a vehicle. Who puts the freaking when do operators in the middle panel of the car? Oh yeah Chrysler. Had to be some stupid person to think that up. It would only make sense to have everything like the windows and the door locks in one place on the door itself not anywhere else. It seems like it's a backwards system. There's no room for hardly anything in there. So if your mom this is not the car for you. As a single mom with only one child this car still is not big enough for both of us and groceries. That is how small the inside of this car is. The trunk is no better. I have including the trunk when I say the total inside of the car is completely small. Constant issues underneath the hood with the overheating I had to replace almost $2,000 worth of Parts alone this year under the hood of this piece of junk. Chrysler who makes Jeeps refuses to acknowledge the major issues with this vehicle. Including the overheating and the terrible transmission which goes into limp mode because they cannot put a quality product into a vehicle. Not to mention trying to work on your own Jeep to save some money really does nothing but agitate you because every screw bolt nut is a different size socket with no information about diagrams or anyting in the handbook for the Jeep itself. I have every original piece of paper with it. The door handles have had to be replaced due to faulty breaking of the very cheap plastic that they use on the inside to hold the door handles on. At this point I said forget it and just bolted them into the door so they don't come off anymore. If you want a piece of junk that you have to continually put all your money and then this is the vehicle for you. If you want a good vehicle don't buy the Liberty with the transmission that I mentioned as well as the 3.7 V6 piece of junk engine. The overheating problem I certainly fix that myself by removing original parts and left them off. I will not say what parts that I took off but it solved the overheating of the engine after $1,000 of replacing parts to figure out what it was. I replaced the gas cap because the code for the gas evap leak kept coming up and it still comes up despite taking it to the dealership and they said it was nothing wrong with it and so they reset it but it still comes up. So how is that not a problem? Many problems not addressed by Chrysler on these vehicles. Very poor mileage I would say I get probably 15 miles to the gallon is that. And no I do not drive fast and I do not Drive erratically either. As a single mom I have only one car and that's it and I try to take care of what I have. Yet Chrysler screwed me on this one. So no more Jeeps for me.

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MommaP on February 14, 2021

Fun car to drive. By setting up high you can see

This is a easy car to drive. Loved it for getting groceries. Slide sacks in ,. No bending over. Plenty of leg room front and back. Slipt back seats that will fold down for extra cargo space.

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EK on September 18, 2020

very reliable. Great for the Home Depot runs.

Good reliable car for the money. Love how the back window opens to Haul stuff. Wife loved it. Good on gas mileage. Back seats go down for shopping.

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LittleDee on March 14, 2020

Best vehicle I ever owned.

This vehicle meets all my needs. It has served well for commuting and Casual use. Maintenance has been low. To date I have only had preventive maintenance done on it. No major repairs required. I love my Jeep Liberty. Is Carla friend yes yes okay

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Mike B on January 29, 2020

They did repairs on vehicle I owned

Excellent, meets my needs. I live on side road that is often not plowed till the next day so it is a packed down mess with ruts. And my driveway is long, garage is 400 feet from road. With the factory tires the Jeep struggled a bit in wet slushy snow. I installed General Grabbers at the suggestion of a forest ranger who had them on his Jeep Cherokee. Now, It can push and claw through deep snow and mud with relative ease. With 230,000 miles it only had one problem. An undetected oil leak from the EGR ruined a hose that had to be replaced. That is the only problem in all that time.

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Adean on October 27, 2019

Best Jeep I have ever owned.

The Jeep meet all of my needs and is very dependable. It has a lift kit, new radio/pandora stereo system. It has new ball bearings, spark plugs, Tire sensors, oil change and inspection. Jeep handles well in the sand or rough terrain and is equipt to handle bigger tires if wanted. The color is Teal so a darker blue green which is very pretty.

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littlesuzie on September 10, 2019

When putting gas in it it flies out and down over

I love my car but I don't like the fact that every time I put gas in it to fill it up and it hits the end of the nozzle gas flies out all over the car

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Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.