2003 Jeep Liberty

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 1,352 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the suspension. It has been recalled 13 times.

Not among the Jeep Liberty years to avoid. Which Jeep Liberty years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
70,000 milesMedian miles at failure

838 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2003 Jeep Liberty problems

407 of the 1,352 complaints (30%) are about the suspension.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Air Bags · airbags344
43194
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint261
18012
Suspension81
404
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system69
100
Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls59
010
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system54
010
Electrical System36
020
Suspension › Front28
404
Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Upper Ball Joint27
200
Steering26
704

2003 Jeep Liberty suspension problems

30% of all complaints

407 of the 1,352 complaints are about the suspension. This is what owners describe:

  • knocks, grinds or clunks5% · 19
  • vibrates or shakes4% · 18

Share of the 407 suspension complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
55,000 mi
median of 287 reports
Peak year of filing
2006
135 suspension complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
28 · 0 · 20
in these complaints
Recalls on the suspension
“The contact owns a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated that while turning the steering wheel to the left or the right, the steering wheel was difficult to turn due to a loss of power steering assist. There was a grinding sound while turning the steering wheel. The sound was loud enough to hear outside of the vehicle. There was an unknown orange warning light displayed briefly.”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 11, 2026 at 160,000 miles
“Tl*the contact owns a 2003 jeep liberty. While driving less than 60 MPH, the front driver's side of the vehicle collapsed and knocked the tire off the rim. The vehicle slid 100 yards, tearing the tire and wheel until the vehicle came to a stop on its own. The dealer stated that the ball joints could have been a factor in the failure.”
Owner complaint, filed Jul 20, 2009 at 105,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2002: 2 complaints, 1 about the suspension'022003: 42 complaints, 9 about the suspension2004: 69 complaints, 17 about the suspension2005: 48 complaints, 19 about the suspension2006: 159 complaints, 135 about the suspension'062007: 128 complaints, 105 about the suspension2008: 47 complaints, 23 about the suspension2009: 36 complaints, 8 about the suspension2010: 62 complaints, 16 about the suspension'102011: 58 complaints, 6 about the suspension2012: 57 complaints, 4 about the suspension2013: 103 complaints, 11 about the suspension2014: 175 complaints, 8 about the suspension'142015: 148 complaints, 5 about the suspension2016: 99 complaints, 6 about the suspension2017: 32 complaints, 7 about the suspension2018: 27 complaints, 6 about the suspension'182019: 20 complaints, 5 about the suspension2020: 11 complaints, 5 about the suspension2021: 6 complaints, 4 about the suspension2022: 7 complaints, 2 about the suspension'222023: 9 complaints, 3 about the suspension2024: 2 complaints, 0 about the suspension2025: 1 complaints, 0 about the suspension2026: 4 complaints, 2 about the suspension'26Recall 03V460000 (suspension)Recall 06E026000 (headlights)Recall 06E049000 (headlights)Recall 09E012000 (headlights)Recall 09V119000 (suspension)Recall 12E047000 (suspension)Recall 12V527000 (airbags)Recall 13V252000 (body and frame)Recall 15V046000 (airbags)Recall 15V673000 (airbags)NHTSA investigation RQ14001NHTSA investigation PE11035NHTSA investigation PE11013NHTSA investigation EA08008NHTSA investigation PE07062
All complaintsAbout the suspensionRecall (red: the suspension)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2003 Liberty peaked in 2014, with 175 filed that year. Owners had filed 5 complaints about the suspension before the first recall that covers it, 03V460000 in November 2003; 402 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 4 so far.

13 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Side/Window15V673000
Filed Oct 19, 2015284,611 vehiclesChrysler (FCA US LLC)

Defect. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured March 29, 2003, to July 3, 2003, and 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured May 27, 2003, to May 20, 2004. Due to electrical noise beyond the tolerance of the air bag electronic control module (ECM), a component in the ECM may fail, causing the front air bags, side air bags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.

Risk. Inadvertent deployment of the air bags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.

Remedy. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag electronic control module and the side impact sensors, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 5, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R60.

Air Bags › Frontal15V046000
Filed Jan 28, 2015752,644 vehiclesChrysler (FCA US LLC)

Defect. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured January 9, 2001, to March 28, 2003, 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 13, 2001, to May 23 2003, and 2003-2004 Dodge Viper vehicles manufactured November 1, 2001, to June 30, 2004. Due to electrical noise beyond the tolerance of the air bag electronic control module (ECM), a component in the ECM may fail, causing the front air bags, side air bags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.

Risk. Inadvertent deployment of the air bags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.

Remedy. Chrysler dealers will replace the air bag control module and side impact sensors as required, free of charge. This recall remedy was applied during earlier recall campaigns of these vehicles under safety recalls 12V527 and 13V040. All owners that have not had the recall repair performed under safety recalls 12V527 or 13V040 are strongly encouraged to have it performed and not wait for the final remedy to be deployed to the field. The recall began on December 29, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R06.

Structure13V252000
Filed Jun 19, 20131,560,000 vehiclesChrysler Group LLC

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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).

Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module-inactive12V527000
Filed Nov 8, 2012744,822 vehiclesChrysler Group LLC

Defect. Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2002 and 2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured January 9, 2001, through March 28, 2003, and 2002 through 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 13, 2001, through May 23, 2003. A component in the air bag control module may fail causing the front airbags, side curtain airbags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.

Risk. Inadvertent deployment of the airbags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.

Remedy. Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a supplemental jumper harness to the airbag control module, free of charge. Owners were notified of the recall by interim letter in January 2013. The remedy for affected Liberty vehicles is expected to be available in April 2013. The remedy for affected Grand Cherokee vehicles is expected to be available later in the year. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753.

Suspension › Front › Hub12E047000
Filed Oct 22, 2012892 vehiclesTimken Corporation

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Suspension09E039000
Filed Jun 19, 200944 vehiclesRock Krawler/Pure Performance Group, Inc

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Suspension › Front › Control Arm09V119000
Filed Apr 9, 200943,489 vehiclesChrysler LLC

Defect. CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 42,469 MY 2002-2003 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN SALT BELT STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, KENTUCKY, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA , WISCONSIN AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT MAY EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION WHICH COULD LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR, AND POSSIBLE SEPARATION WHILE DRIVING.

Risk. FAILURE OF THE BALL JOINT COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF STEERING CAPABILITY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT UPPER CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT APRIL 24, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Exterior Lighting09E012000
Filed Apr 7, 200916,270 vehiclesSabersport

Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint06V288000
Filed Aug 3, 2006826,687 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Exterior Lighting06E065000
Filed Jul 17, 20063,593 vehiclesAj Motorsport

Defect. CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Risk. LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.

Exterior Lighting06E049000
Filed May 24, 200627,176 vehiclesCk Motorsport, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE 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.

Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.

Exterior Lighting06E026000
Filed Mar 23, 200661,944 vehiclesPro-A Motors, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint03V460000
Filed Nov 10, 2003336,000 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation

Defect. ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS CAN EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION THAT CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR, AND POSSIBLE SEPARATION FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE.

Risk. A BALL JOINT THATHAS SEPARATED FROM THE KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS WITH MODIFIED ASSEMBLIES AND HEAT SHIELDS ON VEHICLES BUILT BETWEEN JANUARY 2, 2001 AND OCTOBER 4, 2002. ON VEHICLES BUILT BETWEEN OCTOBER 5, 2002 AND MARCH 26, 2003, DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES (AND REPLACE THEM AS NECESSARY) AND INSTALL HEAT SHIELDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 15, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.

All 13 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 8 name the 2003 Liberty.

Jeep inadvertent air bag deploymentRecall query RQ14001Closed
Opened May 29, 2014Closed Nov 13, 2015Led to recall 15V043000airbags

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an investigation based on consumer allegations of inadvertent air bag deployments (IABD) occurring after the recall remedy for NHTSA recall 12V-527 had been installed on recalled model year (MY ) 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty and MY 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).The recall was in response to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) investigation EA12-001 during which data provided by FCA indicate that the air bag circuitry inside the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module can degrade. ORC …

Crash Related Fuel Tank FiresEngineering analysis EA12005Closed
Opened Jun 12, 2012Closed Nov 14, 2014Led to recall 13V252000fuel system

ODI has completed an extensive analysis of rear crash fuel tank system integrity data for the subject Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles (SVs).As of June 2013, ODI knew of 56 post-collision fatal fires, 28 non-fatal fires, and 6 fuel leak incidents (totaling 90 incidents, 75 fatalities and 58 injuries) involving the SVs.Based on this analysis, ODI issued a Recall Request Letter (RRL) on June 3, 2013 requesting that Chrysler recall the Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles due to the rate of fatal, non-fatal fire, and fuel leak incidents when compared to peer vehicles (compact …

Inadvertent Air Bag DeploymentEngineering analysis EA12001Closed
Opened Jan 23, 2012Closed Feb 21, 2013Led to recall 12V527000airbags

The investigation was opened based on reports of frontal air bag inadvertent deployments (ABIDs) on model year (MY) 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles.Data provided by Chrysler indicate that the air bag squib filter circuitry inside the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module can degrade and result in an inadvertent air bag deployment, without a crash or impact, while the vehicle is being operated on the roadway.As of Oct. 04, 2012, ODI is aware of 131 frontal ABIDs on the Jeep Liberty vehicles resulting in 62 injuries consisting of burns, cuts and bruises to the upper body region.There were no …

Inadvertent Air Bag DeploymentPreliminary evaluation PE11035Closed
Opened Sep 23, 2011Closed Jan 30, 2012airbags

Based on analysis of Chrysler's response, and including ODI's consumer complaints, ODI has identified 87 reports of air bag inadvertent deployment incidents resulting in 50 alleged injuries.The injuries consists of burn/cuts and bruises to the upper body region.Forty-two (42) of the 87 incidents involved the driver frontal air bag, and the remaining 45 incidents involved both the driver and passenger frontal air bags inadvertently deploying without a crash.These incidents occurred both at vehicle startup or while the vehicle is being operated on the roadway.Some owners noted that the air bag …

Rear Suspension Control Arm FailurePreliminary evaluation PE11013Closed
Opened Apr 18, 2011Closed Sep 15, 2011suspension

During Preliminary Evaluation (PE11-013), the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) conducted an analysis of consumer field data from its Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database and from complaint data submitted to ODI by Chrysler. ODI's analysis of VOQ data identified 13 complaints alleging failure of either the right or left rear lower control arm due to excessive corrosion.All of these complaints were associated with vehicles originally sold or registered in a salt belt state (for the purposes of this investigation, 'salt belt' includes Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, …

UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATIONEngineering analysis EA08008Closed
Opened Apr 15, 2008Closed Apr 16, 2009Led to recall 09V119000suspension

On april 7, 2009, chrysler llc submitted to odi a defect information report indicating that it would recall approximately 42,469 model year 2002 through 2003 jeep liberty vehicles to remedy a defect that can result in upper ball joint separation while driving (09v-119).the affected vehicles were built from may 2002 through september 2002 and originally sold or currently registered in connecticut, delaware, district of columbia, kentucky, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode …

UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATIONPreliminary evaluation PE07062Closed
Opened Dec 17, 2007Closed Apr 18, 2008suspension

Odi has received 22 complaints of upper ball joint separation on model year 2002 and 2003 jeep liberty 4x4 vehicles.the separation of an upper ball joint on either of the front wheels can result in the affected front wheel collapsing, possibly resulting in vehicle disablement and causing a loss of vehicle control.there is one complaint of a failure at 75 MPH, 1 failure at 60 MPH, 3 failures at 40 MPH, 2 failures at 25 MPH, 7 failures occurring while the driver was pulling into the flow of traffic and 2 failures that occurred when the driver was attempting to make a left turn across the flow …

FRONT SUSPENSION BALL JOINT SEPARATIONEngineering analysis EA06008Closed
Opened May 31, 2006Closed Aug 24, 2006Led to recall 06V288000suspension

On january 6, 2006, the office of defects investigation (odi) opened a preliminary evaluation to investigate alleged front suspension lower ball joint separationin certain model year (my) 2004 jeep liberty vehicles.odi sent a letter to the manufacturer on february 7, 2006 requesting information about these and other jeep liberty vehicles.consequently, the investigation was upgraded to an engineering analysis on may 31, 2006 and the range of subject vehicles under investigation was expanded to include all my 2002-2006 jeep liberty vehicles.odi is aware of 566 non-duplicative complaints …

Technical service bulletins

64 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2003 Liberty. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 12transmission 10electrical system 7engine 7trailer hitch 6body and frame 4wheels 3brakes 3

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2003 Jeep Liberty 4-DR.———★★★★★—

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Air Bags1 injured
Filed Oct 9, 2026TX

On XXX, my [XXX] son was actively operating my 2003 Jeep Liberty. While driving at approximately 15 MPH, the vehicle’s airbags spontaneously and violently deployed without warning. There was absolutely no collision, impact, or external force that triggered this event. The vehicle did not hit another car, a guardrail, a curb, or any significant road debris. This was a completely unprovoked, spontaneous, and inadvertent component failure while the vehicle was in motion. INJURIES AND DAMAGES Sustained: As a direct result of this spontaneous deployment while driving, I have sustained physical injuries, including: • Trauma and injury to my wrist and thumb from the physical force of the deployment. • Severe acoustic trauma resulting in persistent ringing in my ears (tinnitus). Due to the severe safety risk, property damage, and physical injuries caused by this documented manufacturing defect, I am demanding that FCA/Jeep Corporate immediately: 1. Open an urgent safety investigation file regarding this VIN. 2. Provide instructions on where to have the vehicle towed and inspected by an authorized corporate representative to preserve the computer and physical evidence. 3. Establish a direct point of contact within your corporate claims/legal department to discuss compensation for my medical expenses, towing fees, and property damage. Please contact me immediately at the phone number or email address listed below to confirm receipt of this notice and provide my corporate case file numb

Suspension
Filed Sep 16, 2026FL

I was backing up in a yard and the front passenger wheel folded up underneath the vehicle. I went to look and noticed that the ball joint had completely separated from the joint. This caused damage to my front passenger panel and fender.

Air Bags
Filed Aug 21, 2026UT

My vehicle was driven to an authorized dealership, Young Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Riverdale, with zero pre-existing electrical faults for a federally mandated safety recall (ORC module). During the service, the dealership's service department sent a written text message explicitly stating: 'During programming, the module fried the harness for the module... but is covered under the recall.'The dealership's service advisor informed me the replacement harness is discontinued and there are no used ones to use, and is now refusing to complete the safety recall remedy, retroactively claiming 'prior corrosion' over the phone, and dodging all communication. Said I can pick it up and drive it just fine without airbags that they are not responsible for fixing. I requested a manager three times, and not one has called me back yet. The vehicle's primary airbag safety restraint system has been completely disabled and fried by the manufacturer's authorized repair technician, and the manufacturer is refusing to provide a safe remedy, vehicle buyback, or temporary safe transportation."

Suspension
Filed Mar 11, 2026160,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated that while turning the steering wheel to the left or the right, the steering wheel was difficult to turn due to a loss of power steering assist. There was a grinding sound while turning the steering wheel. The sound was loud enough to hear outside of the vehicle. There was an unknown orange warning light displayed briefly. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact found information online related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V119000 (Suspension); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.

Tires
Filed Feb 4, 2025IN

Tire blow out

Air Bags
Filed Apr 29, 202458,000 milesVI

The contact owns a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V046000 (Air Bags). The contact stated that while parked in a structure, the air bags inadvertently deployed. The vehicle was not occupied at the time. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 8, 2024SC

I PURCHASED THIS JEEP 2 YRS AGO. DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT ISSUES WITH THE EMERGENCY BRAKES. I USED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE THE OTHER DAY AND THE JEEP KEPT ROLLING AND I WAS PARKED ON A LOW INCLINE HILL AND IT WOULD NOT STOP. I WENT ONLINE AND SAW THIS WAS A MAJOR ISSUE. CONTACTED CHRYLSER THEY SAID THEY ONLY WORK ON 2010 MODELS. THIS IS A MAJOR PROBLEM AND I'M SURE THEY ARE OTHER OLDER MODELS WITH SAME ISSUE. HOW CAN A SO CALLED REPUTABLE COMPANY NOT TAKE CARE OF THEIR ISSUE NO MATTER HOW OLD MODEL IS. THEY CLAIM BRAKES ARE SELF-ADJUSTING NO SO.

Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint
Filed Sep 28, 2023189,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated that moments after exiting the freeway, the front end of the vehicle began to shake and vibrate. While driving approximately 5 MPH, there was an abnormal banging sound coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that suddenly the wheels would not turn, and the vehicle became undrivable. The vehicle was towed to the residence and later examined by an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the driver's side ball joint arm had fractured. The independent mechanic replaced the driver's side ball joint assembly and the lower control arm, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 189,000.

Air BagsCrash
Filed Sep 22, 2023SC

9/18/2023 I had an incident I thought something got behind brake pedal and kept me from pushing the brakes. When I drove it home. Going down the interstate I hit the gas get to speed limit. 3 times the vehicle kept speeding up hitting 80 and still wanting to climb.when I hit breaks hit was hard to press worse then hitting non power breaks and then I forced on the brakes and the vehicle started shaking. And took lot of effort to slow down. This vehicle doesn't have cruise control. Have had cliche with lights radio tac speed air while driving. Non of the air bags went off I checked recall was January to March this jeep was manufactured 12 2

Air Bags
Filed Jul 19, 202371,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated that while driving 30–35 MPH, the driver's and passenger's side air bags inadvertently deployed but then immediately deflated. No warning light was illuminated. There was no impact to the vehicle that could have caused the air bags to deploy. The air bags deployment caused damage to the dashboard. There was dust coming from the air bags which got into the contact and his passenger's eyes; however, no medical attention was received. The contact restarted the vehicle and drove to his residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance due to the age of the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 27, 2023AZ

Fuel pump seems to be leaking. But I’m insure

Suspension
Filed May 16, 2023300,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated while her boyfriend was driving approximately 35 MPH, the front passenger’s side wheel stopped while the front driver’s, the rear driver’s and passenger wheels continued turning. As a result, the vehicle stalled; however, the engine remained revving. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence and then towed to the dealer where the vehicle remained. The vehicle had not yet been diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed of the NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 03V460000 (Suspension), 09V119000 (Suspension) and 06V288000 (Suspension). The contact was then informed that the vehicle was not covered under recall or warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 300,000.

Suspension
Filed Mar 22, 2023124,000 milesOR

The contact owns a owns 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 MPH there was an abnormal noise like squeaking or chirping coming from both front wheel wells. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the front lower ball joints needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The contact had stated that he related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 06V288000 (Suspension) completed in November 2006 on his vehicle. The contact felt that the repair parts for the recall were the same sourced OEM parts and that was why the ball joints failed. The failure mileage was approximately 124,000.

Engine
Filed Feb 25, 2023CA

MISFIRERS REPLACED ENGINE ONE YEAR LATER SAME PROBLEM MISFIRES TOOK TO MECHANIC REPLACED SPARK PLUGS AND COILS . DROVE 30 MILE. S CHECK ENGINE LIGHT FLASHING, PULLED OVER TURNED ENGINE OFF.CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WENT SOLID FOR ANOTHER 10 MILES CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STARTED FLASHING AGAIN. I HAD TO PULL OVER 30 TIMES TO MAKE IT HOME. TOOK BACK TO MECHANIC REPLACED FUEL PUMP. STILL MISFIRE. THERE IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM WITH JEEPS . PLEASE RECALL .I HAVE PAIDED SO MUCH MONEY IN REPAIRS. STILL NOT FIXED.

Air BagsCrash1 injured1 killed
Filed Feb 8, 2023TX

The contact owned a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated that his mother-in-law was exiting the highway when she struck a curb causing the front passenger side tire to blow out. The contact lost control, the vehicle was spinning, struck two utility poles where the vehicle came to a stop. The driver was declared deceased on the scene. The front passenger sustained minor injuries and was transported to the hospital for medical attention. The air bags did not deploy. A police report was filed. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

WheelsCrash1 injured
Filed Jan 26, 2023NC

The ball joint and cv axle broke making me wreck. I had no control of the steering.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 8, 2022FL

Air Bag Warning Light comes on from time to time. I wonder if the Air Bag System is working properly. Almost every other Jeep Liberty before and after my VIN number was recalled, just not a very small group of vehicles my Jeep is in.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Oct 25, 2022MT

The air bags didn't deploy at all. I slide on an icy bridge at 35 mph and slammed into the concrete bridge barrier. None of the airbags deployed. The Jeep was put on a scope 2 1/2 weeks before the accident with no codes read. I have severe whip lash and muscle strains in my back, neck, shoulders, and arms from the impact. I could have died. No, the problem wasn't reproduced or confirmed. The police have looked at and insurance company will be looking at the vehicle. There were no warnings at any kind prior to the failure.

Suspension
Filed Oct 19, 202275,000 milesSC

The contact's husband owns a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the front driver's side suspension of the vehicle inadvertently lowered, and the tire became flat. The contact veered to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the front driver's side lower ball joint had fractured and needed to be replaced. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 06V288000 (Suspension). The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Oct 18, 2022KY

The airbag deployed while driving down the road. Was unaware of the recall. Dealer said they can not fix because the airbag already deployed. Had minor physical injury to the left arm but definitely mental distress. Air bag light came on which it had before then 30-60 seconds later airbag deployed without warning.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Oct 13, 2022190,000 milesKY

The contact owns a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated that while his girlfriend was driving at approximately 40 MPH, the driver's side air bag was deployed inadvertently without incident. The contact stated that the air bag warning light had been illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact's girlfriend was able to drive to her residence. The contact's girlfriend sustained pain in her left forearm and was transported to the hospital with the assistance of a friend. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. Upon investigation, the contact became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V046000(Air Bags), which he associated with the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired and remained in the contact's possession. The failure mileage was approximately 190,000.

Suspension › Front › Control Arm › Lower Ball Joint
Filed Aug 5, 202255,000 milesAR

The contact owns a 2003 Jeep Liberty. The contact stated that on multiple occasions while driving at various speeds, an abnormal sound was heard coming from the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the lower ball joints failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was notified of the issue and the contact was informed that there was no recall associated with the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 55,000.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed May 18, 2022TX

The airbag deployed on my wife that was in her third trimester pregnancy while driving on the highway, which left the baby and my wife at risk. She was sent to the emergency for abdominal trauma. Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or RAM dealer were unable to locate a recall number for the Jeep Airbag System Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module. It was a very long process and Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or Ram dealership located on I-10 kept giving us different responses about our airbag being at the dealership and then later finding out that they did not have the airbag in stock. The dealership offered $500 to keep the vehicle, but I refused and just wanted them to repair the airbag. The dealership kept calling us to pick up the vehicle and in order to do that, we would have to get it towed to where we lived. Luckily, a staff member at the dealership informed us that if we were to pick up the Jeep at that time then we would be fully responsible for it and could not hold the dealership accountable if something worse happened. Instead of following through with towing it, we did our own research and discovered that there were several similar testimonies about this issue for the same year make and model, (2003 Jeep Liberty). We called corporate several times and they were unable to locate the recall number nor give us a solution. After several months had passed, we finally received a recall number via text and email from Mopar.com. ( FCA Recall # R06). We then contacted the dealership with th

Suspension
Filed Dec 11, 2021IA

Lower passenger front ball joint corroded and broke in half. Luckily this happened backing out of a parking space . Somehow this vin does not show on the F23 RECALL???

Suspension
Filed Oct 3, 2021NJ

Front lower control arm ball joints are worn on both sides an it's only the bottom ones. No Safety hazard yet but I'm sure if it fails it will be scary. Multiple other vehicles made prior to the moth this one was manufactured had a recall on the lower ball joints. I believe this vehicle is also affected by faulty front lower control arm ball joints. No warnings an I've had excessive play in the ball joints for about about as long as I have had the vehicle but as I said it's only the lower front all other joints remain intact an in working order

Suspension
Filed Oct 2, 2021OR

On 7/10 I'm driving down the road towards the freeway. I hear a very loud pop that startles me. I pull over & discover lower ball joint has separated causing the lower control arm to slip out of socket into the wheel & than separate from wheel. I mean its still attached to the vehicle but vehicle is completely disabled. It caused significant damage to the right front wheel and somewhat minor damage to the right front fender. Theres literally metal shaving all over the road from it carving the metal out of my wheel. Get home and my boyfriend tells me that he's discovered 3 safety recalls. So we call FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) they said they would have it towed to the dealership no problem but they needed a $103 for the tow that they would reimburse later. They told us to pick any dealership. So FCA has it towed from my driveway on 7/13 at 8:45pm to Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Portland Dealership. Safety recall F23 was replaced by the dealership but the manufacturer (FCA) has not fixed the damage and is denying responsibility. FCA calls on 9/16 to finally tell us that a certified inspector has determined the damage to the wheel and fender is not from the recall. Which is a lie and I can take it to a mechanic and have that verified. They also go on to state they are not going to reimburse the $103 for the tow. So we go to the dealership to pick up the car the next day. I speak with Will in the service department and ask to see a copy of the inspection that the FCA is

Air Bags
Filed Mar 19, 2021180,000 milesTN

I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE WITH MY DAD, WHEN SUDDENLY THE AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON. WE CHECKED THE SEATBELTS AND OTHER FACTORS, BUT IT DIDN'T TURN OFF

Suspension
Filed Feb 23, 2021200,000 milesAZ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BALL JOINT AND CONTROL ARM DETACHED WHILE DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MARTIN SWANTY CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM (2640 E. ANDY DEVINE AVE, KINGMAN, AZ 86401) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE OF THE RESULTS FROM THE DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE TIE ROD, BALL JOINT, UPPER CONTROL ARMS AND CV AXLES WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED A THIRD TIME. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BACK TO THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AGAIN. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE BALL JOINT WAS REPLACED FOUR TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 200,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Feb 6, 2021153,000 milesKY

I WAS PUSHED OFF THE HWY AND ROLLED OVER MULTIPLE TIMES. I RECEIVED INJURIES AS WELL AS MY SON. MY AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 3, 2020184,000 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V046000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE AT AN INTERSECTION, THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE TO JEEP OF FT. WALTON (541 MARY ESTHER CUT OFF NW, FORT WALTON BEACH, FL 32548, (888) 717-7554) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AND IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE ORC MODULE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS UNDRIVABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE FAILURE WAS NOT DUE TO THE RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 184,000. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. *LN*JB

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Nov 6, 2020173,000 milesFL

WHILE TURNING FROM A GREEN LIGHT I WAS PROBABLY GOING MAYBE 5-10 MPH BOTH MY DRIVER AND PASSENGER AIRBAGS BOTH WENT OFF AND MAN THOSE THINGS HURT BADLY BUT THERE WAS NO CAR COLLISION OR ANYTHING THEY JUST WENT OFF OUT OF THE BLUE AND THERE WAS A LOT OF SMOKE AND LEFT MY EARS RINGING AND PARTS OF THE DASH CAME APART

Suspension
Filed Nov 4, 2020200,000 milesOK

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE REVERSING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE, A LOUD BOOMING SOUND WAS HEARD. UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE SUSPENSION HAD FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS HAD FAILED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT YET DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER BOB MOORE JEEP LOCATED AT 4627 S MEMORIAL DR, TULSA, OK 74145, AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY SERVICED UNDER THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 06V288000 (SUSPENSION). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200,000. *BF*JB

Suspension
Filed Sep 28, 2020NC

THE FRONT LOWER BALL JOINTS ON THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN RECALLED AND REPLACED BEFORE. BOTH FRONT LOWER BALL JOINTS ARE BAD AGAIN. WILL THEY BE COVERED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN DUE TO RECALL ISSUES BEFORE AND STILL ARE BAD

Air Bags
Filed Sep 20, 2020160,000 milesSC

DRIVING 25 MPH ON MY WAY HOME AIRBAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT COLLISION JUT DEPLOYED WITH NO REASON!!

Suspension
Filed Aug 31, 2020220,000 milesVA

SON WAS DRIVING HOME WHEN THE DRIVER SIDE WHEEL CAME OFF, IN MID TURN-. ON A PUBLIC ROAD, ABOUT TO TURN ONTO THE INTERSTATE. LUCKILY, WASN'T GOING 65. THE CAR HAD TO BE TOWED. OUR MECHANIC SAID THE BALL JOINT BROKE LOOSE, BENDING THE AXLE AS WELL, DAMAGING THE WHEEL AND TIRE. THERE HAS BEEN A RECALL OF THIS NATURE, BUT SAID IT DIDN'T APPLY TO THIS VIN. I AM TOTALLY CONVINCED IT MUST BE DEFECTIVE AS WELL. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A DEADLY ACCIDENT. I AM BEGGING FOR THIS TO BE INVESTIGATED.

Air Bags
Filed Jul 16, 2020123,000 milesNJ

MY AIRBAG LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATING INTERMITTENTLY. IT THEN REMAINED ON. I AM AN ENGINEER AND CHECK THE CODES. A CODE 0066 WAS PRESENTED. I CHANGED THE LEFT FRONT IMPACT MODULE, BUT SAME CODE AND WARNING LIGHT WERE PRESENT. I DID OBSERVE A STRANGE THINGS WHILE DIAGNOSING. STARTING THE ENGINE WILL ALLOW THE AIRBAG LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE, SYSTEM CHECK, THEN EXTINGUISH BUT A FEW SECONDS LATER, LIGHT RETURNS. THE CODE CANNOT BE ERASED. IF I STOP ENGINE AND IMMEDIATELY RESTART, THE AIRBAG LIGHT WILL CYCLE AS NORMAL BUT THEN REMAIN OFF. WHEN THIS HAPPENS, THE CODE CAN BE CLEARED, BUT IF I STOP THE ENGINE, REMOVE THE KEY THEN REINSERT THE KEY AND START THE ENGINE THE AIRBAG LIGHT CYCLES THEN REMAINS ON WITH THE CODE PRESENT. IF I DO THE RESTART PROCEDURE, IT WILL AGAIN CYCLE AND REMAIN OFF. THE OCM WAS SUBJECT TO A RECALL, I DID BRING TO DEALER INITIALLY IN 2015, BUT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. I WAS CALLED MANY MONTHS LATER AND A REPAIR WAS MADE, BUT I WAS NOT GIVEN ANY PAPERWORK TO PROVE THIS. THE CAR IS PERFECT WITH ONLY 124,000 MILES ON IT. IT IS WELL MAINTAINED.

Suspension
Filed Jun 16, 2020NY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE JERKED WITH THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V119000 (SUSPENSION) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

SuspensionCrash
Filed Apr 6, 2020182,000 milesMA

I AM THE SECOND OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE, WHEN I ACQUIRED IT, I HAD IT SERVICED AT THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY PREFORMED ALL RECALL WORK. IT HAS BEEN KEPT SERVICED AND UP TO DATE ON ANY RECALL WORK SINCE. DURING THE DAY ON CHRISTMAS EVE 2019 I WAS RETURNING HOME FROM A VISIT AT MY MOTHER'S HOME AND SUDDENLY LOST CONTROL OF THE JEEP. THERE WAS LOUD NOISE AND THINGS BREAKING OFF THE VEHICLE AS I FOUGHT TO CONTROL IT AND PULL OVER. UPON INSPECTION, SAW THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT WHEEL HAD COME LOOSE FROM THE SUSPENSION, TORE OFF THE FENDER WHEEL WELL AND BROKE A PIECE OFF THE RIGHT-SIDE RUNNING BOARD. UNDRIVEABLE, I HAD IT TOWED TO MY MECHANIC. UNFORTUNATELY, THEY WERE CLOSED UNTIL AFTER NEW YEARS. IN EARLY JANUARY I FOUND OUT THE DIAGNOSIS WAS A SHEARED LOWER BALL JOINT FAILURE. I LOOKED IN MY FILES AND FOUND THAT THIS WAS ONE OF THE RECALLS THAT HAD BEEN PREFORMED TO THE VEHICLE. SAFETY RECALL F23- LOWER BALL JOINTS WAS DONE ON 8/1/2006. OBVIOUSLY, YOU ASSUME THIS PROBLEM IS RESOLVED AND THE VEHICLE IS SAFE AFTER THE WORK IS DONE. I LUCKILY WAS TRAVELING AT 30MPH, AND NOT AT HIGHWAY SPEED, SO I HAVE ONLY ENCOUNTERED A FINANCIAL BURDEN. (ABOUT $4K FOR RENTAL, REPAIR & BODYWORK) I AM SURE IF I WAS GOING FASTER OR IN TRAFFIC, I WOULD HAVE BEEN INJURED OR KILLED. HOW DO THE THOUSANDS OF JEEP LIBERTY OWNERS STILL ON THE ROAD WHO ARE UP TO DATE ON RECALLS CONFIDENTLY DRIVE THEIR VEHICLES IF THE RECALL WORK FAILS IN THE EXACT MANNER DESCRIBED AS THE PROBLEM MEANT TO BE FIXED BY THE RECALL? I'

Electrical System
Filed Feb 19, 2020CA

THE VEHICLE NEEDS TO BE REWIRED, WHICH IS VERY COMMON!

Air Bags
Filed Jan 28, 2020AZ

ON 12/05/15 I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR THE AIRBAGS. I HAVE CALLED BACK SEVERAL TIMES AND GOT NO RESPONSE. I BELIEVE THIS IS A WIDE SPRED CRISIS AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED RIGHT AWAY.MY NEIGHBOR RECENTLY HAD A CRASH AND LOST SEVERAL FRONT TEETH BECAUSE THE AIRBAG DIDN'T DEPLOY.

Suspension
Filed Dec 27, 2019170,000 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE MADE A POPPING NOISE WHENEVER IT WAS TURNED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE UPPER AND LOWER CONTROL ARMS AND BALL JOINTS FAILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.

Suspension
Filed Dec 9, 2019200,000 milesMI

WHEN DRIVING THIS VEHICLE IT SWAYS ALL OVER THE ROAD AND SEEMS VERY UNSTABLE AND DANGEROUS. FIRST THOUGHT WAS STABILIZER BAR LINKS BUT THOSE SEEM FINE AND WE CANNOT FIND A CAUSE FOR THIS ISSUE BUT I'M SCARED TO DRIVE IT.

Service BrakesCrash2 injured
Filed Dec 4, 2019115,000 milesCT

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH IN RAIN, SLEET, AND SNOW, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED TO APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT THE VEHICLE DID NOT STOP. THE VEHICLE SLID ACROSS THE INTERSTATE AND CRASHED INTO THE DIVIDER IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND DEEMED TOTALED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE MOUTH AREA, BACK, AND LEGS. THE PASSENGER OF THE VEHICLE RECEIVED SHOULDER INJURIES. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS RECEIVED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.*DT*JB

Air Bags
Filed Nov 24, 2019138,757 milesVA

THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED BUT WE HAVE NEVER HAD AN ACCIDENT

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Nov 21, 2019MO

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. WHILE THE CONTACT'S SON WAS DRIVING 45 MPH OVER A POTHOLE, HE LOST CONTROL AND CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE WALL. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES AND CUTS TO THE LIP AND NOSE. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT RECEIVED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WAS CONTACTED AND CAME TO THE RESIDENCE TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE MECHANIC DEEMED THE VEHICLE A TOTAL LOSS. AFFORDABLE AUTO CREDIT INC (4568 GRAVOIS AVE, ST. LOUIS, MO 63116, (314) 353-6000) WAS CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.*DT*JB*DT*DT*TP

Air Bags
Filed Sep 25, 2019GA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V673000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR AS THE RECALL NOTICE WAS RECEIVED OVER A YEAR AGO. JIMMY BRITT CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM (2054 US-441, DUBLIN, GA 31021, (478) 200-3780) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Sep 12, 2019100,000 milesLA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. WHEN THE CONTACT PARKED THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF HIS DRIVEWAY, THE STEERING WHEEL AIR BAG EXPLODED WITH A LOUD NOISE AND FILLED THE VEHICLE WITH SMOKE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING OR AN IMPACT OCCURRING. THE CONTACT'S HUSBAND SUSTAINED SOME BURNS ON HIS LEFT ARM AND LEFT HAND. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT RECEIVED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO RAY BRANDT CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP RAM FIAT (504-363-1999, LOCATED AT 1660 WESTBANK EXPY, HARVEY, LA 70058) WHERE A NHTSA INSPECTOR CAME TO THE FACILITY TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS ASKED IF THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION AND THE CONTACT REPLIED WITH 'NO'. THE CONTACT WAS NOT PROVIDED A REPORT OF THE INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BACK TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AFTER THE INSPECTION. THE CONTACT DID NOT KNOW WHETHER THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.

Structure › Frame and Members
Filed Aug 29, 2019130,000 milesMO

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL VIBRATED VIOLENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CAR-MART OF CAPE GIRARDEAU (1455 N KINGSHIGHWAY, CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO 63701, (573) 332-0747) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FRAME WAS BENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 130,000.

Suspension
Filed Aug 22, 2019247,000 milesSC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE VEERED TO THE LEFT. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO EFIRD CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE (1227 W LUCAS ST, FLORENCE, SC 29501) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE CONTROL ARM, WHICH WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED BY THE FORMER OWNER WITH AN AFTERMARKET PART, FAILED AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND REMAINED AT THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 247,000.

SteeringCrash1 injured
Filed Aug 5, 2019170,000 milesWV

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BEGAN MANEUVERING ON ITS OWN AND THE VEHICLE ULTIMATELY CRASHED INTO A MEDIAN. THE VEHICLE'S AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY UPON IMPACT. THE CONTACT SUFFERED SEVERE INJURIES INCLUDING A CONCUSSION AND BRUISING TO HIS RIB CAGE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED MEDICAL ATTENTION ON THE SCENE AND WAS TAKEN TO A HOSPITAL. A POLICE WAS FILED AT THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT TOW YARD. THE DEALER WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, HOWEVER, THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE FAILURE WAS RELATED TO A RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 03V460000 (SUSPENSION). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000. VIN-(XXXX) REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Complaints 1-50 of 1,352, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2002
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20123852140Above average
2011181320Routine
2010197240Routine
2009108120Routine
2008541540Above average
20077037120Above average
20061,37210191Fatalities reported
20051,1188275Fatalities reported
20041,10113392Fatalities reported
2003 — this page1,35213113Fatalities reported
20021,80814214Fatalities reported
200110001Fatalities reported
20006000Routine

Compare every Liberty year →

2003 Jeep Liberty: questions buyers ask

Is the 2003 Jeep Liberty a good car?

It is not among the Liberty years to avoid. Owners filed 1,352 complaints, against about 703 for a typical Liberty year. The most common complaint is about the suspension (30%).

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Jeep Liberty?

The suspension: 407 of the 1,352 complaints (30%) are about it. Owners most often say it knocks, grinds or clunks (5%) and vibrates or shakes (4%). The typical report comes at 55,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2003 Jeep Liberty have?

13 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Oct 19, 2015. The largest, 13V252000, covered 1,560,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2003 Jeep Liberty problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 70,000 miles. For the suspension the midpoint is 55,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2003 Jeep Liberty?

Yes, 8 times. The latest, RQ14001 ("Jeep inadvertent air bag deployment"), was opened May 29, 2014 and closed Nov 13, 2015.

Are there service bulletins for the 2003 Jeep Liberty?

The manufacturer filed 64 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the transmission (10), the electrical system (7) and the engine (7). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

3 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Oct 19, 2015. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.