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2004 Jeep Liberty

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2004 Jeep Liberty is a compact SUV known for its off-road capability and Jeep styling. Engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 producing 150 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, and a more popular 3.7L V6 making 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 5-speed manual, available only with the 2.4L I4, and a 4-speed automatic (42RLE) available with both engines. Owners often praise the Liberty’s ruggedness and 4x4 performance, but common complaints include fuel economy, ride quality, and some reliability issues.

Engine

2.4L I4

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include oil spots on the ground, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the location.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rough Idling/Stalling
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling can be caused by a variety of reasons, including a faulty IAC (Idle Air Control) valve.
    • Solution: Cleaning the throttle body and IAC valve, or replacing a faulty IAC valve can fix the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.7L V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.4L, the 3.7L can develop oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include oil spots on the ground, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the location.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cooling System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, and a lack of heat can all be symptoms. Thermostat failure and radiator cap failure are also common.
    • Solution: Replacing the thermostat or radiator cap usually solves the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the component.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

42RLE 4-Speed Automatic

  • Slipping/Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: This transmission can experience slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifting, and shuddering. These issues can be caused by valve body issues, worn clutch packs, or low fluid level.
    • Solution: A transmission flush and fluid change might help in minor cases. More severe cases require valve body replacement, clutch pack replacement, or a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when the torque converter is locking up.
    • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Ball Joints/Control Arm Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the components replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sagging Rear Springs
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. Reduced ride quality.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear coil springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down, or working intermittently. Often caused by a faulty window motor or regulator.
    • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Loss of Instrument Cluster Lighting
    • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster lights may flicker or completely fail.
    • Solution: Replacement of the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Faulty Fuel Pump Relay
    • Description/Symptoms: No start condition due to fuel pump not receiving power.
    • Solution: Replacement of the fuel pump relay.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust (Especially in Northern Climates)
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the undercarriage, rocker panels, and around wheel wells.
    • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the severity.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the backing and sags down.
    • Solution: Replacement of the headliner fabric.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cracked Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard surface, especially in hot climates.
    • Solution: Dashboard replacement or dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Jeep Liberty, while capable and stylish, has its share of common issues. Engine oil leaks and cooling system problems are typical concerns, with the 3.7L V6 being slightly more prone to the latter. The 42RLE automatic transmission can suffer from slipping and harsh shifting, potentially leading to costly repairs. Suspension components, electrical systems, and interior elements can also exhibit issues. The severity and cost of these repairs vary, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems before purchasing a 2004 Jeep Liberty.

Jeep, Liberty
Jeep Liberty 2004
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