A decent off-road machine requires a solid front axle. When a tire mounts an obstacle, the solid axle lifts the vehicle, allowing for ground clearance. The Jeep Liberty
, on the other hand, sports an independent front suspension (IFS) instead, so does this make it unsuitable for off-roading?
A Jeep Liberty is a credible off-road vehicle. It boasts the throttle and momentum to drive through gulleys, streams, and hillocks, making it ideal for adventuring off the beaten path. Besides, it also steers well on the road, unlike jeeps bearing solid axles. On or off-road? It’s a win for both.
Read on for more about the Jeep Liberty, what is different about it, and what makes it an excellent choice for off-roading.
Jeep Liberty: A Brief Background
The Jeep name commands a lot of respect in the four-wheeler community. Jeeps rule the trail. They are very suitable for traversing through rugged terrain, going on camping trips, and rock crawling.
While the Jeep Liberty (also known as the KJ) exhibits note-worthy off-road capabilities, many Jeep lovers feel that the model does not conform to Jeep Heritage. How so?
In 2002, Chrysler introduced the first Jeep Liberty model. But, it looked different. Unlike all the other Jeep models, the Liberty featured an independent front suspension (IFS), rather than a solid front axle design.
A solid front axle handles off-road situations much better than an IFS because it allows for more vertical travel. However, Liberty’s IFS System simply made a slight change in the Jeep’s overall ability, and the Liberty still holds up to the traditional Jeep Heritage – outstanding off-road capability.
Though the Liberty is not in production anymore – it was discontinued in 2012 – you might be lucky to get a pre-owned one through your local dealership. Besides, you can still access genuine Jeep parts, accessories, and service here as well.
During its lifetime, Jeep Liberty was among the best selling Jeep SUVs. You could also purchase it with the Trail-Rated emblem. This meant that it met the severe Jeep conditions set for off-road capabilities such as:
- Traction
- Maneuverability
- Ground clearance
- Water fording
It also meant that you didn’t have to add any upgrades to your Liberty because it contained all the gear and equipment needed to handle various off-roading routes.
Jeep Liberty: The Main Features
The Jeep Liberty features a boxy, off-road-focused design that many off-roaders might not consider refined. Yet, if what you seek is a true-off roader and not just a standard-issue four-wheel drive, Liberty is the real deal.
Unlike standard Jeeps, Liberty is built on a uniframe chassis ( vehicle body, floor plan, and chassis form one structure), much similar to a car’s unibody construction. Also, it has a rugged feel that makes you long to tackle rocks and streams.
Newer versions have a longer wheelbase, which helps smooth out the choppy ride suffered by earlier versions. They also offer more rear legroom.
Also, five components secure the redesigned rear axle. This helps to reduce stutter, for example, when you are stepping over railroad tracks.
Jeep Liberty critics maintain that its main weakness is in the IFS. A solid axle is durable, easy to replace, and has a functional capacity for ground clearance. The IFS, on the other hand, offers superior handling abilities, comfort, and stability. Front solid-axle jeeps are thought to out-perform IFS Jeeps in general, but this is still a matter of contention.
Challenges Experienced With Jeep Liberty
The most common problems experienced by Liberty Jeep owners relate to the windows, engine, and fuel system. Some drivers reported that the fuel pump nozzle wouldn’t shut off automatically when the fuel tank got full, leading to an overflow. Others claimed their vehicle would refuse to start or operate.
For the 2007 model, changing from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive presents a challenge, particularly for women drivers. This is because they find it challenging to shift the transfer-case and would have preferred to use an electronic push-button instead.
Other challenges mentioned were:
- Ground clearance
- Little cargo space
- Too much weight – about 4000 pounds (1814.3 kgs)
- Doesn’t handle gravel terrain well
Despite these challenges, reviewers of Jeep Liberty 2007 model, for example, deemed it to possess “exceptional off-road capabilities.” Jeep Liberty also came out shining in a Malibu off-roading action that featured other jeep models.
Tips for Off-Roading With Your Jeep Liberty
Here are tips to guide you on how to make the most out of your Jeep Liberty.
Understand Your Vehicle’s Capabilities
While the Liberty is equipped for rough terrain, you need to know how to leverage its superior abilities. These include its ground clearance capacity or its four-wheel-drive capabilities.
It’s advisable to first test the Liberty on reasonably easy paths such as dirt and gravel roads, before heading out for serious off-roading.
Next, try driving on narrow roads, inclines, and creeks to have a feel of what your Liberty can do and how much it can take. This is helpful since it will give you an indication of what to expect when you finally go off-roading.
Understand the Road Conditions
It’s a good idea to have basic off-roading knowledge that focuses on specific road types and conditions. Below are some general guidelines.
Hills
Always drive straight up or down. Avoid driving at an angle. If a hill is too steep, don’t try to be ambitious by driving up. But, if you do it anyway and get stuck midway, back down straight in reverse.
Rock Crawling
1-3 miles (1.6-4.8 km) per hour is the recommended speed here. Therefore, ease up on the throttle and allow your Jeep Liberty to crawl. Work with a low gear and low-range four-wheel drive. Depending on your ground clearance, decide to either drive over big rocks or around them.
Snow or Mud
This is when your Liberty’s four-wheel drive capabilities come into play. If driving through deep wet sludge, use a low gear and low-range four-wheel drive. This allows you to have consistent momentum.
Sand
Where possible, use a high-range four-wheel drive. This will allow you to maintain forward momentum. Take wide turns as well. Tight turns might cause you to get stuck.
Finally, rotate your steering wheel back and forth If you find yourself losing traction. If it gets worse, stop the vehicle. A continued wheel tends to make things worse.
Be Prepared for Any Eventuality
Ensure that your Liberty is ready. Check oil and fuel, the tires, battery, and equip yourself with the right tools. These include a shovel – yeah, you might need to dig your vehicle out -, a tow strap, wrenches, and a first aid kit.
Stock up well in case of any emergency, but note that overdoing it adds extra weight to your Liberty. This could lead to stress and poor balance. Strap in everything with a heavy-duty strap to ensure nothing falls off when you hit bumps.
If possible, have a friend or two drive along with you. They might just come in handy in case you get stuck.
Final Thoughts
Jeep Liberty has everything you need for your off-roading escapades. Despite its space limitations and unrefined on-road manners, there is no dispute regarding its superior off-road capabilities. This sturdy, no-frills four-wheel-drive vehicle will take you where few others can.
Off-roading in your Liberty is both exciting and thrilling, so do remember to have fun. Besides, your vehicle’s design allows it to handle this kind of rough riding. So, you will be alright if you follow the tips outlined above.