Jeep Liberty/Transmissions
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Contents |
Automatics [edit]
The 42RLE is a 4-speed overdrive automatic transmission. The 42RLE comes in 2003.5+ Jeep Libertys. The 45RFE is a 4-speed overdrive automatic transmission, with an alternative 2nd gear ratio for downshifting. The 45RFE was replaced by the 42RLE in 2003.5+ Libertys. The 545RFE is a 5-speed overdrive automatic transmission. The 545RFE was the only transmission available in Liberty CRD models. The Liberty's maximum tow rating with an automatic transmission is Class III 5,000#. Mechanically, the 42RLE has 13 bolts and a straight crossmember, while the 45RFE and 545RFE have 15 bolts and a backwards angled crossmember. Electronically, vehicles equipped with the 42RLE have a 4 connector NGC PCM (Powertrain Control Module) with an integrated TCM (Transmission Control Module), while those equipped with the 45RFE have a 3 connector JTEC PCM and a separate TCM.
Gear Ratio Table
| 42RLE | 45RFE | 545RFE | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 2.84 | 3.00 | 3.00 |
| 2nd Up | 1.57 | 1.67 | 1.67 |
| 2nd Down | 1.57 | 1.50 | 1.50 |
| 3rd | 1.00 | 1.00 | 1.00 |
| 4th | 0.69 | 0.75 | 0.75 |
| 5th | N/A | N/A | 0.67 |
| Rev | 2.21 | 3.00 | 3.00 |
Manuals [edit]
The NSG370 is a 6-speed overdrive manual transmission. The NSG370 comes in 2005+ Jeep Libertys. The NV3500 is a 5-speed overdrive manual transmission. The NV3500 was replaced by the NSG370 in 2005+ Libertys. The NV1500 is 5-speed overdrive manual transmission with an unsynchronized first gear. The Liberty's maximum tow rating with a manual transmission is Class II 3,500#. The clutch design of the manuals results in a lower tow rating than that of the automatics. A driver skilled in towing with manuals may be able to safely tow more than Class II.
Gear Ratio Table
| NSG370 | NV1500 | NV3500 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | 4.46 | 3.96 | 4.01 |
| 2nd | 2.61 | 2.37 | 2.32 |
| 3rd | 1.72 | 1.49 | 1.40 |
| 4th | 1.25 | 1.00 | 1.00 |
| 5th | 1.00 | 0.83 | 0.73 |
| 6th | 0.84 | N/A | N/A |
| Rev | 4.06 | 3.54 | 3.55 |
Cooling [edit]
Jeep Libertys with the 42RLE transmission have an auxiliary transmission cooler in front of the engine radiator. Libertys with the 45RFE transmission have a cooler built into the engine radiator. Liberty CRDs with the 545RFE have a combination transmission cooler & A/C condenser in front of the intercooler and engine radiator. Libertys with the NSG370, NV1500, and NV3500 manual transmissions don't have a cooler because manual transmissions lack a fluid pump.
Standard Coolers (3.7L Auto):
| 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auxiliary Transmission | No | Yes | ||||||
| Integrated Transmission | Yes | |||||||
| Power Steering | Yes | No | Yes (Manual) |
Off-Roading [edit]
An automatic transmission is more popular than a manual for off-roading. It removes the distraction, water leakage, and clutch wear associated with off-road manual shifting. These benefits come at a price, as an automatic is always heavier than an equivalent manual.
