In almost a decade of its existence, the Jeep Liberty SUV has never gained popularity as some of its direct rivals. In its current iteration, it fails to be a front-runner. Apart from its cogent off-roading capabilities, the compact SUV does not have much value to offer. Its handling is lackluster, and so is its V6 engine, which delivers underwhelming efficiency. However, the reliability of the vehicle continues to be its strength. The 2011 Liberty records 169 complaints and 3 recalls, most of which deal with its safety system. Even the investigations have similar underlying concerns, yet the ownership experience remains akin to most American offerings. A 2011 Jeep Liberty for sale is available at $23,250 and in its segment, it competes with the likes of the Toyota RAV4, the Kia Sportage, and the Honda CR-V.
2011 Jeep Liberty User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
- Issues with the airbag system: For buyers of the 2011 Jeep Liberty, the inadvertent illumination of the warning light has become a recurring concern. Without any known reason, the airbag light illuminates on the screen, which can either signify the disabling of the airbags or interfere with their proper operation. In some other cases, complainants have reported the failure of the airbags to deploy in case of a crash, which has resulted in injuries to the occupants.
- Non-deployment of the head restraints: In the Jeep Liberty problems list, the non-deployment of the head restraints is another recurring concern. The safety component fails to operate as intended, which has resulted in injuries to the passengers. Since the problem qualifies as a safety concern, Jeep has introduced two recalls to deal with the issue, referenced by NHTSA IDs 17V640000 and 13V282000.
Electric System Complaints
- Faltering TIPM: The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) has caused ample problems for the buyers of the current generation. Like some other models, the TIPM fails, which causes a catastrophic loss of power that renders the vehicle inoperable and illuminates the warning lights on the dashboard including the ABS, traction, and even the speedometer stops functioning. Currently, the replacement of the TIPM is the only available solution.
- Substandard headlights: As listed on unofficial forums, buyers of the 2011 Liberty have also been irked by the dim headlights. The units installed by the brand lack illumination, which can restrict the driver’s visibility and increase the risk of a crash.
Mechanical Complaints
- Failure of the engine: The 2011 Jeep Liberty engine problems are also a known issue. In the current iteration, users have recorded the engine losing power and stalling inadvertently. Where a diagnosis has been conducted, buyers have noticed severe damage to the engine, which warrants its replacement. While a particular reason is not known, leaking coolant, broken valve, or a blown rod have all been contributing factors.
- Issues with the fuel/propulsion system: Buyers of the compact SUV have also reported problems with the fuel system. Once filled to the hilt, the fuel tank sputters a considerable amount of fuel back, which creates a hazardous situation. Whether a reason or solution for the problem is available is not yet known.
- Problem with the transmission system: The 2011 Jeep Liberty transmission problems are not highly recurring. Nonetheless, buyers of the SUV have reported the transmission hesitating while shifting or engaging in a gear, which causes the vehicle to shudder excessively.
- Locked brakes: In a handful of cases, Jeep Liberty’s brakes have been reported locking up, which causes the vehicle to get stranded. The ABS light becomes illuminated on the dashboard and requires a replacement.
Structural Complaints
- Malfunctioning slider roof: The Jeep Liberty is equipped with a sky slider roof, which opens like a convertible. However, in the current iteration, buyers have reported the failure of the unit, as it fails to open or close properly due to a damaged retractor. Currently, no replacement parts are available, which has delayed remedy.
2011 Jeep Liberty Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
10th Oct 2017 |
17V640000 |
Non- deployment of head restraints |
Due to the failure of a component in the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) unit, the head restraints may not deploy in case of a rear-end collision. |
Dealers will replace the ORC, free of charge. |
|
2. |
2nd July 2013 |
13V282000 |
Non- deployment of head restraints |
Due to the electric overstress of the resistor in the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) unit, the head restraints may not deploy in case of a rear-end collision. |
Dealers will flash the Totally Integrated Power Module or replace the ORC, free of charge. |
|
3. |
8th June 2011 |
11V315000 |
Improper steering build |
Due to a missing or incorrectly installed steering column pivot rivet, drivers might suffer a loss of control over the vehicle. |
Upon inspection for rivet presence and alignment and repair the steering pivot as required, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2011 Jeep Liberty?
The 2011 Jeep Liberty is a cogent choice if you tend to traverse uneven terrains. In true Jeep fashion, it is a true off-roader that upholds reliability and is a trustworthy option with its limited complaints. Most problems are easily dealt with through recalls and even if there are no issue-specific recalls available, the American brand is amply proactive when it comes to helping the buyers. So, from a standpoint of dependability, Liberty makes for a simple choice. However, the SUV’s substandard performance, inferior build quality, and slightly aging design cause it to fall behind its siblings, the Jeep Compass and the Jeep Cherokee, in the compact SUV class. As a result, for more excitement and a better overall experience, it is best if buyers forego the 2011 Liberty.
