2005 Jeep Liberty Review
Price Estimate: $1,869 - $3,143
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Extremely capable off-road, creative interior design, economical diesel engine option, still a Jeep at heart.
Cons
- Gas engines are rather thirsty at the pump, not as "carlike" on the street as most of its competitors, less cargo space than some of its competitors.
What’s new
An all-new diesel engine option makes its debut for the 2005 Jeep Liberty. Exterior appearance changes this year include a new front fascia, grille, foglamps, fender flares and body side moldings. Interior upgrades include relocated power window switches, new instrument panel cluster graphics and trim bezels and improved seat comfort. The Renegade model gets a flatter hood, taller grille, off-road foglamps and taillamp guards, as well as functional rock rails and four skid plates. A new six-speed manual transmission replaces last year's five-speed unit.
Edmunds says
A thoroughly capable and comfortable compact SUV if you like to bash boulders, but if you're like most people and spend 99 percent of your time on the pavement, the 2005 Jeep Liberty lags behind its more carlike competitors.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
75 listings
- $4,995fair price$338 below market
- 141,811 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 15 City / 20 Hwy MPG
- Mazari Motors (54 mi away)
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Alarm
- Rear Bench Seats
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Fredericksburg, VA
**ONE OWNER**CLEAN CARFAX**NO ACCIDENTS HISTORY** 34 SERVICE HISTORY RECORDS**SUNROOF**LEATHER**HEATED SEATS**POWER MIRRORS**POWER SEATS** TOW PKG** L...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
17 Combined MPG (15 City/20 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1J4GK58K15W664382
Stock: 64382
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 11-18-2025 - Photos not available
- 42,700 miles
- No accidents, 3 owners, government vehicle
- 5 Seats, 18 City / 22 Hwy MPG, Manual
- Aero Motors (57 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Rear Bench Seats
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in Essex, MD
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
20 Combined MPG (18 City/22 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1J4GL48K85W582060
Stock: A7521
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 01-22-2026
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
The 2005 Jeep Liberty garners strong appreciation for its robust off-road capabilities and reliable four-wheel-drive system. Owners highlight its prowess in handling challenging terrains such as deep snow, mud, and rocky paths, often noting how well it performs in these conditions. Many commend the vehicle's solid build and sturdy feel, with several drivers valuing its maneuverability and tight turning radius, which make it easy to park and navigate in tight spots. The Liberty also receives praise for its potent towing capacity and impressive torque, which adds to its practicality for hauling and other demanding uses. Another aspect that owners find appealing is its distinct rugged styling, which retains a classic Jeep aesthetic they find desirable. Additionally, many appreciate its simple interior controls and good visibility, which contribute to an overall straightforward driving experience. Lastly, while opinions on fuel economy vary, several owners see the off-road prowess and rugged reliability as worthwhile trade-offs for the vehicle’s thirstier engine.
Common Issues
The 2005 Jeep Liberty is notably troubled by a range of mechanical and design issues that frustrate many owners. A recurrent problem is with the vehicle's transmission, where some report failures or rebuilds needed around the 75,000-mile mark, contributing to costly repairs. Electrical problems, including faulty window regulators, seem to be a persistent headache, with owners frequently mentioning multiple failures over time. Rust is another significant concern, particularly on the rockers and doors, leading to concerns about long-term durability. Additionally, the seats' fabric quality is often criticized for easily staining, even with water, perpetually giving the interior a less clean appearance. Drivers also mention the vehicle's subpar gas mileage as a downside, especially given its size, contributing to higher fuel costs. Lastly, some owners encounter persistent brake issues, including frequent replacements and squealing sounds, which undermine the vehicle's reliability.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2005 Jeep Liberty delivers a dependable performance for everyday driving in a variety of conditions, yet demands ongoing attention and maintenance. Many drivers find comfort in the robust engine and solid handling, enjoying the confidence it lends on unpredictable terrains throughout their daily routines. However, the Liberty’s thirst for fuel is a frequently mentioned drawback, causing added expenses that could become cumbersome over time, particularly for those with long commutes. While its four-wheel-drive capabilities offer peace of mind and ample functionality, the vehicle's aging components, such as the window regulators and transmission, pose potential for unexpected inconveniences. For those who prioritize practicality and rugged capability over creature comforts, the Liberty meets specific needs with its compact size and utility. That said, the interior complaints about uncomfortable seating and a tendency for the fabric to stain easily can detract from overall satisfaction during long drives. As owners maintain their careful attention to maintenance, the Liberty continues to be a sturdy and reliable companion on…
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$172/mo for Liberty Sport
Liberty Sport
vs
$154/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Reliability
The 2005 Jeep Liberty has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 8 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
8 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 18V278000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- U38
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-04-29 to 2007-06-29
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 239904
- Defect Description:
- 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.
- Defect Consequence:
- A fractured control arm can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- 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.
- Recall Number:
- 13V252000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- N45, N46
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1560000
- Defect Description:
- 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.
- Defect Consequence:
- A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
- Corrective Action:
- Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect 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 is expected to begin in July 2013. 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).
- Recall Number:
- 12V085000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- L27
- Manufactured from:
- 2003-07-03 to 2005-07-14
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 209724
- Defect Description:
- 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.
- Defect Consequence:
- A FRACTURE OF THE REAR LOWER CONTROL ARM MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND MAY LEAD TO A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- 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.
- Recall Number:
- 12E047000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 892
- Defect Description:
- 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.
- Defect 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.
- Corrective Action:
- 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.
- Recall Number:
- 09E039000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 44
- Defect Description:
- 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.
- Defect 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.
- Corrective Action:
- 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.
- Recall Number:
- 06V288000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- F23
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-01-02 to 2006-03-15
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 826687
- Defect Description:
- 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.
- Defect 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.
- Corrective Action:
- 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.
- Recall Number:
- 06E026000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 61944
- Defect Description:
- 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.
- Defect Consequence:
- WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- 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.
- Recall Number:
- 05V460000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- E14
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-09-01 to 2005-06-01
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 256409
- Defect Description:
- 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.
- Defect Consequence:
- IF THIS OCCURS AND THE PARKING BRAKE IS NOT APPLIED, THE VEHICLE MAY ROLL AWAY AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- 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.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 7 years / 70,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
Jeep Liberty Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(60%)
4(25%)
3(9%)
2(5%)
1(1%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Had to review this fun inexpensive little truck
3.88 out of 5 starsbeepjeep1, 08/14/2014
2005 Jeep Liberty Limited Rwd 4dr SUV (3.7L 6cyl 4A)
This is my 5th jeep went from a cj to a yj to 2 TJ's but since I got 2 kids had to get a friendlier vehicle and low and behold the liberty.
I always thought of these as chick vehicles but they are at the LOWEST end of the used SUV's and I bought a 2005 with 64Km's mint mint mint for 6500$ with 2 sets of tires from an old lady. Now 2 years later i'll review it.
This jelly bean can motor, … good acceleration, decent offroad handling, moderate pulling power, and absoloutly DISGUSTING GAS MILEAGE! But meh who cares.
My unit has been reliable and maintenance free for the past 2 years, easy to park and you can load it up pretty good with gear and 2 kids.
A great surprise
5 out of 5 starsChris, 12/19/2017
2005 Jeep Liberty Renegade 4WD 4dr SUV (3.7L 6cyl 6M)
This Jeep reminds me every day why I love it. Researched it and hunted one down w/ 37000 miles. Great pickup and braking. Real 4wd capibilities. Parks so easily/great visibility. The poor window regulators are a money maker for the dealer at $350 each ( all replaced, drivers twice)but not much else. Noisy struts in cold weather. I wish the seats were more adjustable for tall people. … However, I’d say this Jeep gives me faith again in American built on reliability alone. It a keeper.
Update 6-2019
64000 miles, usual maintenance done, new radiator. This is a 14 year old Jeep. Not 1 day of grief. So reliable. The best relationship of my life.
Update 12-20
Time for struts and shocks. Another window motor fail. Still amazingly reliable. I’ve replaced the Jeep as my primary vehicle but I’m keeping it forever at this rate. Still a Jeep through and through unlike the new renegades made in Italy by fiat.
Go anywhere do anything SMALL SUV
4 out of 5 starsKal, 11/15/2016
2005 Jeep Liberty Renegade 4WD 4dr SUV (3.7L 6cyl 6M)
Absolutely loved this vehicle except that we out-grew it after having twins... For 10+ years and 150,000 miles my wife, 120lb dog and I used this rig to travel all over North America. Handles 18" of snow, 12" of mud, sand, rocks and river crossings with ease yet pulls 90+mph on the freeway with ease. Tows 4,500lbs comfortably and has enough power / torque for all our needs. Only two … repairs in 150K miles of ownership - cracked radiator at 120K mi and fan blower motor, both of which were an easy driveway repair. Very easy and inexpensive to maintain, high quality interior finishes held up well to our abuse, and the exterior looked great for a heavily off-roaded suv. Just wish it was a little larger and more fuel efficient, averaged 17mpg before lifting and 15 mpg after 2.5" lift and larger tires. Overall, this vehicle was driven like it was stolen on a daily basis and never missed a beat.
How many people have Trans Problems?
3.75 out of 5 starsjeeplbrtyrngd5, 06/19/2012
2005 Jeep Liberty Renegade 4WD 4dr SUV (3.7L 6cyl 6M)
I have an '05 Liberty Renegade. I have been having many problems and googling out of curiosity led me to this site. I had no idea my issues were so common. I so far have fixed both upper and lower arm joints(rear), ball joints, new brakes front and back (twice), rebuilt transmission, new AC cooling system, new trans hoses, new starter, new alternator, and have had continued lights going … out esp. rear lights, my cds also get stuck and refuse to come out, and my belt makes a squeaking sound which is a constant annoyance..
2005 Liberty Highlights
Sport
| Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $19,480 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 20 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $172/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 29.0 cu.ft. |
rear wheel drive | |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Liberty include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalMarginal
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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