Jeep 2008 Liberty User manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
1
INTRODUCTION .............................................................3
2
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE ...............................9
3
UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE ...............................83
4
INSTRUMENT PANEL AND CONTROLS ......................................... 185
5
STARTING AND OPERATING .................................................273
6
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES ...............................................383
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE ...............................................395
8
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES ..................................................451
9
IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE ..........................................459
10
INDEX ....................................................................469
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

INTRODUCTION
CONTENTS
mIntroduction ...........................4
mRollover Warning ........................4
mHow To Use This Manual ..................5
mWarnings And Cautions ...................7
mVehicle Identification Number ...............7
mVehicle Modifications / Alterations ...........8
1

INTRODUCTION
This manual has been prepared with the assistance of
service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with
the operation and maintenance of your new vehicle. It is
supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and
various customer oriented documents. You are urged to
read these publications carefully. Following the instruc-
tions and recommendations in this manual will help
assure safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle.
NOTE: After you read the manual, it should be stored
in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with
the vehicle when sold, so that the new owner will be
aware of all safety warnings.
When it comes to service, remember that your dealer
knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained techni-
cians and genuine Mopartparts, and is interested in
your satisfaction.
ROLLOVER WARNING
Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate
than other types of vehicles. This vehicle has a higher
ground clearance, and a higher center of gravity than
many passenger cars. It is capable of performing better in
a wide variety of off-road applications. Driven in an
unsafe manner, all vehicles can be caused to go out of
control. Because of the higher center of gravity, if this
vehicle is out of control it may rollover when some other
vehicles may not.
Do not attempt sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers or other
unsafe driving actions that can cause loss of vehicle
control. Failure to operate this vehicle safely may result
in an accident, rollover of the vehicle, and severe or fatal
injury. Drive carefully.
4 INTRODUCTION

Failure to use driver and passenger seat belts provided
is a major cause of severe or fatal injury. In fact, the U.S.
government notes that the universal use of existing seat
belts could cut the highway death toll by 10,000 or more
each year, and could reduce disabling injuries by 2
million annually. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person
is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing
a seat belt. Always buckle up.
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
Consult the table of contents to determine which section
contains the information you desire.
The detailed index, at the rear of this manual, contains a
complete listing of all subjects.
Consult the following table for a description of the
symbols that may be used on your vehicle or throughout
this owner manual:
Rollover Warning Label
INTRODUCTION 5
1

6 INTRODUCTION

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
This manual contains WARNINGS against operating
procedures, which could result in an accident or bodily
injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against procedures,
which could result in damage to your vehicle. If you do
not read this entire manual, you may miss important
information. Observe all Warnings and Cautions.
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is found on the
left front corner of the instrument panel. The VIN is
visible from outside of the vehicle through the wind-
shield. This number also appears on the Automobile
Information Disclosure Label affixed to a window on
your vehicle, the vehicle registration, and the title. NOTE: It is illegal to remove the VIN.
Vehicle Identification Number
INTRODUCTION 7
1

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS
WARNING!
Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle could
seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety and
may lead to an accident resulting in serious injury or
death.
8 INTRODUCTION

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
CONTENTS
mA Word About Your Keys ..................12
▫Ignition Key Removal ...................12
▫Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................14
mSentry Key ............................14
▫Replacement Keys ......................16
▫Customer Key Programming ..............16
▫General Information ....................17
mSteering Wheel Lock — If Equipped ..........18
▫To Manually Lock The Steering Wheel .......18
▫To Release The Steering Wheel Lock .........18
mSecurity Alarm System — If Equipped .........18
▫Rearming Of The System .................19
▫To Arm The System .....................19
▫To Disarm The System ...................19
mIlluminated Entry System ..................20
mRemote Keyless Entry .....................20
▫To Unlock The Doors And Liftgate ..........21
▫To Lock The Doors And Liftgate ............22
2

▫To Unlatch The Liftgate Flip-Up Window .....24
▫Using The Panic Alarm ..................24
▫Programming Additional Transmitters ........25
▫Battery Replacement ....................25
▫General Information ....................26
mRemote Starting System — If Equipped ........27
▫How To Use Remote Start ................28
mDoor Locks ............................29
▫Manual Door Locks .....................29
▫Power Door Locks .....................31
▫Child-Protection Door Lock System (Rear
Doors) ..............................33
mWindows .............................36
▫Power Windows .......................36
▫Wind Buffeting ........................39
mLiftgate ...............................40
mOccupant Restraints ......................41
▫Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................42
▫Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure .....47
▫Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................47
▫Enhanced Seat Belt Use Reminder System
(BeltAlert) ...........................48
▫Automatic Locking Mode — If Equipped .....49
▫Energy Management Feature ..............50
▫Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............50
▫Seat Belt Extender ......................51
10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

▫Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) - Airbag ............52
▫Child Restraint ........................69
mEngine Break-In Recommendations ...........79
mSafety Tips ............................79
▫Transporting Passengers .................79
▫Lock Your Vehicle ......................80
▫Exhaust Gas ..........................80
▫Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle ..............................81
▫Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make
Outside The Vehicle ....................82
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11
2

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS
You can insert the double-sided keys into the locks with
either side up.
The dealer that sold you your new vehicle has the key
code numbers for your vehicle locks. These numbers can
be used to order duplicate keys from your dealer. Ask
your dealer for these numbers and keep them in a safe
place.
Ignition Key Removal
Automatic Transmission
Place the selector lever in “P” (Park). Turn the key to the
ACC position and then push the key and cylinder inward
slightly and rotate the key to the LOCK position. Then
remove the key.
Vehicle Key
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Manual Transmission — If Equipped
Turn the key to the ACC position and then push the key
and cylinder inward slightly and rotate the key to the
LOCK position. Then remove the key.
NOTE:
• For vehicles not equipped with the Electronic Vehicle
Information Center (EVIC), features such as the power
window switches, radio, power sunroof or Sky Slidert
(if equipped), and power outlets will remain active for
45 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the
LOCK position. Opening either front door will cancel
this feature.
• For vehicles equipped with the EVIC, features such as
the power window switches, radio, power sunroof or
Sky Slidert(if equipped), and power outlets will
remain active for up to 10 minutes after the ignition
switch is turned to the LOCK position. Opening either
front door will cancel this feature. The time for this
feature is programmable. For details, refer to “Delay
Power Off to Accessories Until Exit,” under “Personal
Settings (Customer Programmable Features),” under
“Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)” in
Section 4 of this manual.
Ignition Key Positions
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13
2

WARNING!
Never leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving
children in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a
number of reasons. A child or others could be seri-
ously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the key in the
ignition. A child could operate power windows,
other controls, or move the vehicle.
CAUTION!
An unlocked vehicle is an invitation to thieves.
Always remove the key from the ignition, and lock
all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
Key-In-Ignition Reminder
If you open the driver’s door and the key is in the
ignition, a chime will sound to remind you to remove the
key.
NOTE: The Key-In-Ignition reminder only sounds
when the ignition key is placed in the LOCK or ACC
position.
SENTRY KEY
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unautho-
rized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The
system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation
is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked
or unlocked.
The system uses ignition keys, which have an embedded
electronic chip (transponder), to prevent unauthorized
vehicle operation. Therefore, only keys that are pro-
grammed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate
14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in two (2)
seconds if someone uses an invalid key to start the
engine.
NOTE: A key, which has not been programmed, is also
considered an invalid key even if it is cut to fit the
ignition switch lock cylinder for that vehicle.
During normal operation, after turning on the ignition
switch, the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will
turn on for three (3) seconds for a bulb check. If the light
remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is
a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the light
begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that
someone used an invalid key to start the engine. Either of
these conditions will result in the engine being shut off
after two (2) seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light turns on
during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for
longer than 10 seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in
the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle ser-
viced as soon as possible.
NOTE:
• The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not compatible
with some after-market remote starting systems. Use
of these systems may result in vehicle starting prob-
lems and loss of security protection.
• Exxon/Mobil Speed Pass,™ additional Sentry Keys, or
any other transponder-equipped components on the
same key chain will not cause a key-related (transpon-
der) fault unless the additional part is physically held
against the ignition key being used when starting the
vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other RF electronics
will not cause interference with this system.
All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have
been programmed to the vehicle electronics.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15
2

Replacement Keys
NOTE: Only keys that are programmed to the vehicle
electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle.
Once a Sentry Key is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot
be programmed to any other vehicle.
CAUTION!
Always remove Sentry Keys from the vehicle and
lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four-digit PIN number. Keep the PIN in a secure
location. This number is required for dealer replacement
of keys. Duplication of keys may be performed at an
authorized dealer or by using the Customer Key Pro-
gramming procedure. This procedure consists of pro-
gramming a blank key to the vehicle electronics. A blank
key is one, which has never been programmed.
NOTE: When having the Sentry Key Immobilizer
System serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to the
dealer.
Customer Key Programming
If you have two valid sentry keys, you can program new
sentry keys to the system by performing the following
procedure:
1. Cut the additional Sentry Key Transponder blank(s) to
match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code.
2. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch. Turn
the ignition switch to the “ON” position for at least 3
seconds, but no longer than 15-seconds. Then, turn the
ignition switch to the “LOCK” position and remove the
first key.
3. Insert the second valid key into the ignition switch.
Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position within 15
seconds. After ten seconds, a chime will sound. In
16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

addition, the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will
begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK”
position and remove the second key.
4. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition switch. Turn
the ignition switch to the “ON” position within 60
seconds. After 10 seconds, a single chime will sound. In
addition, the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will
stop flashing. To indicate that programming is complete,
the indicator light will turn on again for 3 seconds and
then turn off.
The new Sentry Key is programmed. The Keyless Entry
Transmitter will also be programmed during this pro-
cedure.
Repeat this procedure to program up to 8 keys. If you do
not have a programmed sentry key, contact your dealer
for details.
NOTE: If a programmed key is lost, see your dealer to
have all remaining keys erased from the systems
memory. This will prevent the lost key from starting your
vehicle. The remaining keys must then be repro-
grammed. All vehicle keys must be taken to the dealer at
the time of service to be reprogrammed.
General Information
The Sentry Key system complies with FCC rules part 15
and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is
subject to the following conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This device must accept any interference that may be
received, including interference that may cause undes-
ired operation.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17
2

STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering
wheel lock (manual transmission only). This lock pre-
vents steering the vehicle without the ignition key. If the
steering wheel is moved a half turn in either direction
and the key is not in the ignition, the steering wheel will
lock.
To Manually Lock the Steering Wheel
With the engine running, rotate the steering wheel 1/2
revolution from straight ahead position, turn off the
engine, and remove the key. Rotate the steering wheel
slightly in both directions until the lock engages.
To Release the Steering Wheel Lock
Insert the key in the ignition and turn the wheel slightly
to the right or left to disengage the lock.
NOTE: If you turned the wheel to the right to engage
the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to
disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage
the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it.
SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
The Vehicle Security Alarm (VSA) system monitors the
vehicle doors, liftgate, and liftgate flip-up window for
unauthorized entry and ignition for unauthorized opera-
tion.
If something triggers the alarm, the system will sound
the horn intermittently, flash the headlights and tail-
lights, and flash the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator
Light in the cluster.
NOTE: The “Panic” and “Security” alarms are quite
different. Please take a moment to activate the “Panic”
and the “Security” modes to hear the differences in the
horn. In case one should go off in the future, you will
need to know which mode has been activated in order to
deactivate it.
18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Rearming of the System:
If something triggers the alarm, and no action is taken to
disarm it, the system will turn off the horn after 3
minutes, turn off all of the visual signals after 15 minutes,
and then the system will rearm itself.
To Arm the System:
1. Remove the key from the ignition switch and exit the
vehicle.
2. Lock the doors and liftgate by pressing the power door
lock switch or the Lock button on the Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE) transmitter.
NOTE: The system will not arm if you lock the doors
with the manual door lock plungers or the driver’s door
lock cylinder.
3. Close all doors. The Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator
Light in the instrument cluster will flash rapidly for
about 16 seconds to signal that the system is arming.
During this period, opening any door or the liftgate will
cancel the arming process. If the system arms success-
fully, the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will flash
at a slower rate to indicate the alarm is set.
NOTE: For added security, whenever the Security
Alarm is armed, the HomeLinkt/Garage Door Opener
(if equipped) is disabled as well.
To Disarm the System:
Either press the Unlock button on the RKE transmitter or
insert a valid sentry key into the ignition lock cylinder
and turn the key to the ON position.
NOTE:
• Unlocking the doors with the manual door lock plung-
ers or the driver’s door lock cylinder will not disarm
the system.
• When the system is armed, the interior power door
lock switches will not unlock the doors.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19
2

The Security Alarm System is designed to protect your
vehicle; however, you can create conditions where the
system will give you a false alarm. If the previously
described arming sequence has occurred, the system will
arm regardless of whether you are inside or outside the
vehicle. If you remain inside the vehicle and open a door,
the alarm will sound. If this occurs, disarm the system.
Tamper Alert
If something has triggered the alarm in your absence, the
horn will sound three times when you unlock the doors.
Check the vehicle for tampering.
ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM
The interior lights will turn on when you use the Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or open a door.
This feature also turns on the approach lighting (if so
equipped). For details, refer to “Illumination Approach,”
under “Personal Settings (Customer Programmable Fea-
tures),” under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC)” in Section 4 of this manual.
The interior lights will fade to off after about 30 seconds
or they will immediately fade to off once the ignition
switch is turned on.
NOTE:
• The illuminated entry system will not operate the
interior lights if the dimmer control is in the “defeat”
position (extreme downward position).
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY
This system allows you to lock or unlock the doors and
liftgate, open the liftgate flip-up window, or activate the
panic alarm from distances up to 23 feet (7 meters) using
a hand held radio transmitter. The transmitter need not
be pointed at the vehicle to activate the system. However,
the line of transmission must not be blocked with metal
objects when using the transmitter.
20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE