Used 2004 Jeep Liberty Consumer Reviews

This Jeep sums up why I love cars

This car has been a fantastic machine for the 14 years that my mother and I owned it. It was handed down to me during senior year of HS in 2014 and has taken me from California to my current home in Chicago. Its been there through the good and bad of my life. The lack of traction control, ABS and 4WD means that it's fun to drive, especially in rain and snow. We were pretty consistent with the maintenance and as a result, it has been as reliable, if not more than Japanese cars. The only things I can remember going bad were the A/C condenser (in the desert on the way to Vegas, ugh) the radiator, the rear window regulators (which are notoriously prone to failure in Libertys), and worn valve cover gaskets. Other than that, the engine and transmission is still running strong. The suspension is also holding up okay. A few interior bits are broken, worn or torn but thats expected in an American car of this vintage. If you can find a sub-200,000 or even a sub-150,000 mile example with a pretty decent maintenance history, then buy one. This car can last well above 200,000 or even 300,000 if taken care of. Maybe even more. Its just that good.

Perfect SUV

perfect off road vehicle! Our Wisconsin winters are harsh, but the liberty plows through it like nothing. great room for tall people, amazingly fun to drive, great handling, decent gas mileage, great power/torque, 5,000 ft/lbs, its a tank. buy one now

Fun, Fun, Fun

I bought my Liberty in 05 with 6,000 miles on the odometer. I now have 190,000 miles and she is running strong. I have had to do some minor maintenance, but I have driven her all over the country and frankly done so at high speeds. My friends call the car the silver bullet because I have a lead foot. The car has never left me stranded and is very fun to drive. Dropping the back seats is a breeze and I can fit tons of luggage or furniture it it. I am now looking for a newer model and hoping I love it like I love this little Liberty. If I didn't have to travel, I would keep it to drive around town because I love it so much!

LOVED IT

I had a 2004 Liberty 2wd I purchased in 2007 with 20k miles. Other than the window motors on the drivers side going out all I ever had to do was change a couple headlight bulbs, change the oil, and 2 sets of tires. Never even put a set of brakes on the thing! It handled everything I threw at it and I never once thought twice about driving it across the country. I sold it with 180k miles on it in 2014 and I absolutely miss it. I will be in the market for a 4 door Wrangler soon!

Great Overall - Mileage Could Improve

Purchased in September 2008 with 50000 miles(80000 km). Towing is rated for 5000lb which is impressive for it's class. I pulled about 3000 lbs with no issues with no trailer brakes. The 60/40 Full Time 4x4 mode is truly excellent in deep snow. It has good traction with Rear Drive Mode with snow tires as well. I've only put 12000 miles on it and the only things gone wrong are air bag control module and broken fan belt. Got a module on Ebay for $75.00. One recent tank I averaged 14 mpg(US) (17 imp) with mostly hwy miles. Best hwy mileage ever was 17 mpg(US) (21 imp) hwy on a full tank highway drive. Worst mileage was 10 mpg(US) (12imp) with all city driving in winter months.

Wonderful with flaws

Wonderful car, fabulous on the highway or in the city, good engine noise down low, and a great throaty roar up top. Short wheelbase makes parking a breeze but sacrifices ride comfort and interior space. 5 people is a squeeze unless one or more is a small child. fun to drive in the city, corners well when not driving extremely aggressively, perfect for whipping around backstreets. However, when you really push it it does feel like it will roll, which is a sacrifice made to provide ground clearance for off roading. Speaking of off roading, this thing can handle anything a sensible person can throw at it. Indiana snow is no match for the 4-wheel drive, weather in low or high settings.

Love my go cart!

Very reliable! I am the 2nd owner now have over 336,000 miles! Body is starting to go & will be sad to let it go. Hugs the road & feel safe driving in snow. I actually love driving in winter with good tires. Great reliable long lasting safe vehicle! Love my Jeep! Not best on mpg but worth it.

Nice Truck but Terrible Mileage

I have to wonder what vehicles other reviewers drove before their liberty to consider the abysmal mileage in the Jeep to be good. I average under 18 mpg highway, driving 65 or under. That's TERRIBLE mileage. It's MUCH worse in the city especially in winter, expect 10 mpg. I've heard many other Liberty owners complain of the same lousy mileage. Using 4x4 mode is even worse. Full size V8 pick ups get better mileage. The four speed auto is reliable but needs more gears. It does ride well, and can tow 5000lbs which is great if you tow a lot. It feels peppy until 40 mph but sorta dies off due to a very tall second gear. It's a very loud motor when pressed hard for passing.

Saved me in a rollover

I loved loved loved my Jeep Liberty. I bought it at 108k and drove it for 2 years. I also drove it home, 500+ miles away at least once a month. The pickup and acceleration is slower than other cars, and the gas mileage was usually 20 mpg (highway). Weird noise in the rear breaks when he was running at ~30mph but it stopped over 40mph. Always had it since I changed the breaks.

Loretta the Liberty!

I adore my 2004 Jeep Liberty. She has been nothing but a great vehicle. The jeep has helped me move out of college (filled to the top with stuff) and the winters in Kutztown, Pennsylvania! This thing has driven through over a foot of heavy snow with NO issue. I have also taken it off roading on some pretty aggresive trails and for this being stock (newer aggressive tires only) it powered through! It has decent pick-up for merging onto highways and the turning radius is FANTASTIC. This car is reliable, safe and ready for whatever you throw at it!

Rocky Mountain Trail Edition 4WD

This was my wife's car. First things first; We loved it, it's very safe and reliable, lots of room, never had any major problems with it. Only minor things or expected things like changing the tires and light bulbs. It had 78k miles on it but we lost it due to a t-bone accident. My wife was hit on the driver's side by a pickup truck and the jeep was totaled and my wife walked away with only a couple scratches and bruises. So i found that the Jeep is SAFE!

where do we start?

electrical problems, rear passenger window fell down inside door by itself, a.c. system replaced, valve cover gaskets replaced, head lamp flashes on and off by itself, battery died (twice),radiator failed, lower coolant hose failed, hydraulic lift supports for both hood and rear window failed , radio volume control does not work, recall for front suspension bushings replaced, recall (now) for dangerous gas tank must take to dealer to install tow hitch to protect gas tank, 92,000 miles young. most of this has taken place in the four years we have owned the vehicle. bought it with 38,000 miles. the larger problems have been address in th elast 6 months.gas mileage ridiculous.

Danger, Will Robinson! DANGER!

Bought the 2004 Liberty used in 2007 "ASIS" from our local Jeep dealer after my certified master mechanic did a full inspection and told us it seemed OK. Found out a year later that a "silent recall" was in effect at time of purchase, but I was not informed of this. A year after purchase, I was stranded 60 miles from home when the known-defective part failed. Towing and replacement of the $5 part cost me $1,200. Dealer denied any responsibility "If I had brought it in for any service, the repair (replacing the springs, including lifting the engine) would have been done for free. 2 years after that, while driving the interstate under 100% perfect driving conditions, with 3 retirement-age passengers, I suddenly found myself with no steering (wheel had no effect). The car rolled 3 times then flipped end-over-end, skidded to a halt on its roof. The police wrote it up as a no-fault unknown cause accident, verified by multiple witnesses. We got a recall notice 2 years later that explained that a suspension problem could cause sudden loss of steering. When we contacted Jeep, they said unless we still had the wreck we were S.O.L. The standard Jeep dealer and factory response was always "We don't care!" Comfort? How comfortable is hanging from your seatbelt unable to breathe while the car is resting upside down? Bottom line: The vehicle was great to drive, and its' safety features (rollbar, etc.) kept all 4 of us safe from serious injury during out roll/flip accident. But during my ownership the service division and corporate Jeep were so bad, and my cost for service was so high (thousands), for things that should have been covered, that 12 years later I am still warning everybody, "Do NOT buy a Jeep, and if you do, do NOT have it serviced at Faricy Boys dealership." P.S. - I'm STILL getting offers to extend my warranty on the vehicle.

Really great car

Our 2004 Jeep Liberty has 135,000 miles and runs great. It has been through 37 out of 50 states in these USA. It has been driven in the mountains of Oregon, Colorado, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, Arizona... it is a 3.7 L 6 cylinder with a 5 speed manual-it is my daily driver because it is dependable; however I stay away from Jeep dealerships because they are high priced and not dependable. It gets 18 mpg around town and 20+ on the road. I would like to see a Jeep Liberty remake with body on frame, diesel, and 6 speed manual... imho.

awesome vehicle!!!

i love my liberty!!!! i got this vehicle with 62000 miles on it and it has 137000 now. i have never had any mechanical issues with it but it is very well maintained. 4x4 works awesome and snow is not even an issue.

BEST CAR EVER!!!

I love, love, love my Jeep! I have traveled across the country in it several times. I have gone skiing in the mountains, camped in some rugged terrain in the desert and I live at the beach. Speaking of which, parked outside by the ocean for 7 years and she is rust free!! She still looks new inside and out. Paint and interior have held up, as the mechanics. I am meticulous about regular maintenance, changing the tires, etc. and she hums! This car has simply been terrific. 117,500 miles and going strong!! :)

2 Jeep Family

This is the 2nd Jeep we've purchased used. The Liberty is quite an upgrade from our 97 Wrangler - It's a Jeep. You know it when you see it. It drives like a Jeep, not a Cadillac! From the test drive, I knew I wanted it, as it drove just like our older Jeep except with leather seats. It's fun, dependable and built like a tank. Yes, you do sit up high which gives you a commanding vision of the road. My 6 foot tall husband has no problems getting in, out, or driving it for business. He loves it! 2 years left in another lease car and soon our family will be a "3 Jeep Family" - If you're looking for a luxury suv, go pay 3 times more, if you want good looks and dependability, pick a Jeep Liberty!

2004 Liberty Columbia Edition V6 4WD

Got it new. After almost 6 years and 80000 miles I still love this thing. It's a "trucklet", not a flimsy crossover and it's the best Jeep I've had out of 2 CJ's and a Grand Cherokee. I've replaced the crank position sensor, the crappy Goodyear tires, air filter, brakes and heater fan switch. I change the oil at 5000 miles and have never touched the front end. I wash it by hand regularly and wax it twice a year. It still looks, works and feels like new. It has part time 4WD, 3.73 axle with Trac Loc and since I put mud/snow tires on it, I hardly ever need 4WD, although my highway MPG dropped from 22 to 20. It's a cute, nimble, tough, fun little beast and I intend to drive into the ground.

Bad Transmission

At 5000 miles I needed to have the torque converter and valve body replaced on my transmission. Both are MAJOR components. About 500 miles later the same problem with the transmission came back. it was not upshifting or downshifting properly especially in traffic. This time the dealership replaced the entire transmission. Now, 2 months after the transmission was replaced we are back to square one with even more issues. I like the design and feel of the Liberty but be aware that there are automatic transmission issues with this vehicle. I have talked to other Liberty owners that have experienced a lot of the same problems that I have experienced. My problems are still not over.

Disappointed

Front the day purchased there has been a problem with a vibration in the front end, tires have been rotated, replaced - still vibrates. Brakes had to be replaced in first month. Still have vibration. It gets maybe 16mpg on any type roads, country or highway. I would trade it in in a heart beat but the value dropped so fast even the dealer won't take it back for what we owe. The interior is very limited, less than my PT Cruiser had.

I think I'm just unlucky.

Bought the car with 100k miles, at 103k the Torque Converter had to be replaced with requires a disassembly of the trans. along with cleaning of the system, costs about $3k for the job. In the process of trying to trade-in or get rid of it. I wish I could've driven it longer to get a handle on the offroad capability.

Fuel Mileage?

Just bought with 103,000 on the clock. 15 mpg at first. NGK spark plugs looked like originals, burned to .085"+ gap. Replaced with Bosch Platinums, replaced air filter with K&N, cruise 60MPH or less and use cruise on even slower long straight stretches such as 45 zones that go forever for no obvious reason. Lightfoot starts and stops and I get 21 mpg now. Runs and drives like new. I am happy with it. If I need more mileage I drive the Honda Accord. I don't expect much better mileage from a Jeep. I just expect it to perform when I need it.

Luv My Liberty

I have never owned a Jeep. I love mine. The preformance of this vehicle is fantastic. The best handling and turning radius I have ever experienced in a vehicle. The 4x4 is great. I had never used a 4x4 until this winter and my Liberty put the BIG BOYS to shame. I could go through anything, and the others could not get the traction that the liberty gave me. I work at UPS and several of the Drivers wanted to test drive mine. Now 7 (seven) of us are happy Jeep Liberty Owners. All of us agree it has great preformance, style and is very unique. I will never turn back to the other brands. Great Product Colleen Ewald

Kem's review

I bought my Jeep in January 2004. I have never owned a Jeep and was surprised at myself for falling in love with it on the first test drive. It is very comfortable and after being used to driving a car, I felt I could see everything. The Liberty has personality with it's round features like the headlights, instrument panel, and door handles. It rides more like a car than the old Jeep Wrangler I used to ride in. It is also stylish inside and out. It has plenty of cargo space. The kids love to ride in it because they can see out over everything. The only problem I had with the Liberty was the back hatch came open when it rained, but the dealership fixed it. I love my JEEP!!!

We Love our Libby

We bought our Libby new and have never had any trouble with it. She has always gotten us to where we want to go and back home. We will never part with our Libby.

survivor

My daughter survived a head-on collision with a Ford F150 truck with both vehicles going 55 mph. The Jeep Liberty saved her life-she and a passenger escaped with minor injuries- the car was totalled.

Terrific Vehicle

Bought this vehicle brand new. I drove every other SUV out there. I didn't want to try a Jeep but my husband insisted. We bought it right on the spot after the test drive. I have never had a problem. It is like a little tank in the winter.

Live to tell the story

I received my 2004 Jeep Liberty Renegade for my birthday.We had been looking at several different makes and models but finally decided on this Jeep Liberty. It looked awsome and I really loved the way it drove. Ten days after our purchase, I was stopped at a red traffic light and looked in my rear view mirror and saw a large SUV coming up behind me and not stopping. I braced my feet on the break and my hands on the wheel, then closed my eyes. CRASH!! I was rear- ended. When I got out of my Jeep to check out the damage, I was amazed. The Ford Expedition was totaled and undriveable. My Liberty took the hit on the door mounted spare tire, and cam

Jeep Rocks!!!!

After owning several other jeeps I thought on giving the liberty a try and have not been disappointed at all this is a true Jeep at heart. If you’re looking for a True SUV that doesn’t require truck driving skills look no further.

Limited liberty

I love my liberty. It's just the right size SUV. It is easy to manuever. It's stylish and fun to drive. It has a six cd stereo system built in the dash. It has great safety features. It has side air bags. It also automatically turns the front passenger air bag off if the passenger weighs less than 100lbs. IT has radio controls built into the stering wheel. I love my liberty!

Jeep Liberty vs Jeep Cherokee

I had previously owned a Jeep Cherokee and the sales person talked me into the Liberty. I do not like it compared to the Cherokee and the gas mileage in the the Liberty is poor. I wish I had purchased the Cherokee like I desired.

Jeep Liberty Columbia Edition

This vehicle is a nice combination of jeep ruggedness and stylish every day drivability. The 3.7L V6 adequately powers this rugged little SUV. Handling is a little rough around the edges, like any SUV. What it lacks in car like handling, the liberty makes up in all weather, off road capability. The part time 4WD easily handled a recent snowstorm, no doubt off roading would be a joy. The sun roof, custom wheels, speed control, chrome interior accents, two tone seats, and Columbia badging add a unique touch to my Liberty. Outside, the graphite bumpers combined with body colored wheel wells make my Columbia Edition different from Sports, and Limiteds.

Luv My Liberty

I love this car. It just makes me feel good whenever I approach it. I haven't felt this good about a new vehicle, ever. I like the engine size, no delays when pulling into traffic. The response is great, and the mileage better than most. I would recommend everyone drive a Jeep, but lately, I am noticing more and more already are.

Awesome Auto

I have the Columbia edition which looks as rugged as a renegade (without the cheese) but is equipped more like a limited, & I have to say I think it's an exceptional value. Ride, performance, handling & styling are all first class & the build quality is markedly superior to some previous Jeep offerings. The only real flaw is the gas mileage - but hey, keeps me inside my lease mileage right? Overall, I tried out the main competitors and for me this is by far the finest combination of price and capability in the price range.

I love my 2004 Jeep Liberty!!!

I just want to say before I got my Jeep Liberty, I was afraid of SUV's. But now, when I drive it, I feel so safe. It's really fun to drive, and was affordable compared to other SUV's I had in mind, but maybe that was because they were in the mid-size to large range of SUV's and my beautiful little Liberty is in the compact category. It comes with a lot of features, and is also rated five-stars in safety rating.

my jeep liberty

I recently got my new jeep and i love it. had a honda for 10 years and decided to go with an american made vehicle. I feel so far it lives up to my honda!

2004 Liberty Renegade

My wife and I decided upon retirement that we didn't need the big, thirsty V-8 or space of our Grand Cherokee. But we like Jeeps so we reluctantly sold the GC to our son and leased the Liberty Renegade. We have never regretted that decision. It is spunky, fun to drive, and everyone asks about the lights on the roof. It stands out in a crowd. It is almost time to turn it in so we are going to start looking at colors and features early. My daughter liked it so much she traded her Grand Cherokee for a 2006 Liberty Limited. That has all the bells and whistles and is really very nice.

JEEPY

I LOVE MY LIBERTY... BUT THE THING THAT LACKS IS THE GAS IT GUZZLES... OTHER THAN THAT... IT'S GREAT FOR ME

jeep liberty sport for towing

A great vehicle. Comfortable, fast, extremely reliable. Towing capacity of 5000 lbs. -- far above all other small SUVs except the Nissan Xterra, which is $5000 more and less reliable.

My Jeep Liberty

I owned a mini van prior to leasing the Liberty. I got the mini van due to younger kids etc but after that phase was over the Liberty was perfect for me. What a fun suv to drive! I have not had one problem with it and in fact when everyone else is stalled, stuck either by snow or rain as in flooding my liberty got me through it. I feel it is the perfect balance between comfort while driving and reliability in all conditions. The only wish I would have would to have it be just a tad larger (Longer) but I give it a 9.9 on a scale of 1-10.

Solid vehicle!

Just bought my 2nd Jeep Liberty (2004).This is the first time I have ever bought the same vehicle back to back. First was a 2002 model. I have been extremly impressed with the reliability and quality. After almost 3 years still no squeeks or rattles. If you live in a snow belt area there is simply nothing better to get you through the snow and ice safely. Great stock stereo and excellent visibility. I find the seats to be very confortable and plenty of versitility in hauling items. My neighbor has a Mercedes-Benz SUV which I have driven and I can honestly say I wouldn't trade him even up. Great SUV at a great price!

Jeep

I love my Jeep Liberty it's just the right size for me and my family to just hop in and go!!!

Built Jeep Tough

The best Jeep yet. I love it, it handles great on the road and in the snow. The Jeep could almost drive it self.

AWESOME

WORDS CAN NOT DESCRIBE THE JEEP LIBERTY... IT IS TOTALLY AWESOME..YOU HAVENT DRIVE A VEHICLE UNTIL YOU HAVE DRIVEN A LIBERTY....

miss my liberty

i bought my liberty used with 140k on it. put 34,000 miles on it in one year (90% highway miles). it always gave me a smooth ride. she was so fun to drive, and so reliable. i had to replace the transfer case, as well as the front differential, but considering i drove in one year what most people do in 3, it was well worth it. sadly, a week after getting it back from the repairs, i flipped her. she did a complete barrel roll, and kept me safe. didnt have a scratch on me, though i wish the same could be said for the jeep. in any event, she kept me safe and was a fun, reliable vehicle, who was capable off-road. i will miss mine dearly, and would HIGHLY recommend one!

Liberty

Practical AND Fun

Bought my Liberty Renegade used - 40k miles on it. There are some minor quirks to it I find annoying, but overall I love my Liberty! I found documentation in my owner's manual from the previous owner- apparently the transmission issue was handled by him (Thank You!). This Jeep is a ball to drive and handles better than any SUV I've ever driven. One note: Lose the Goodyear RS tires. They slip on wet roads; they won't get the opportunity to try snow/ice. No way!

Excellent Vehicle

I have enjoyed this vehicle very much. I would certainly recommend it to anyone. It has a versatile interior and an adorable exterior. Super overall!

Must Buy SUV

If you are in the market for a compact SUV, Jeep Liberty can be the answer to all you need for 4 X 4. This car looks good from the outside, robust engine, roomy interior and can tow up to 5,000 Lbs. The best thing is that it is under $25,000 with all the rebates from Jeep. Forget Kia, Ford, GMC and go for the real thing: JEEP

Once I had a Wrangler.....Now a Liberty!

With a wife and two children, a Wrangler was no longer an option. I love the entire Jeep line. Living in the Northeast, the winters have become colder with more snow than I can remember! The Long Island beaches are tamed by the Liberty's 4x4 suspension, 3.7 V6 engine, and 10.1 inch clearance. The interior is more "grown-up" and functional for family life than my 97 Wrangler. Jeep has another winner!