I'm looking to pick up a Liberty as a daily driver. Originally I thought I wanted a CRD but I think gas will suit me better. I'll occasionally go off road, tow, and haul with it. Are there any notable differences through the years which would lead me to pick one year over another? I know they went to four wheel disc in '03, the front end changed in '05, and traction control became standard in '06. Does the TC work well as a limited slip or am I better off getting one without and adding an aftermarket unit later? For towing, is it worth it to find one with the factory package or would I be ok with just an aftermarket hitch? Any issues I should look out for when test driving? Thanks for any input!

I'm looking to pick up a Liberty as a daily driver. Originally I thought I wanted a CRD but I think gas will suit me better. I'll occasionally go off road, tow, and haul with it. Are there any notable differences through the years which would lead me to pick one year over another? I know they went to four wheel disc in '03, the front end changed in '05, and traction control became standard in '06. Does the TC work well as a limited slip or am I better off getting one without and adding an aftermarket unit later? For towing, is it worth it to find one with the factory package or would I be ok with just an aftermarket hitch? Any issues I should look out for when test driving? Thanks for any input!

I'm sure you will get many mixed reply's to your questions based on peoples age and their driving experience.

I for one have no need to contend with of all the added electronics, extra sensors and ABS brakes that became standard after 2005. Nor the prices involved to repair them when they go bad.
I prefer to control my driving habits my way, not the way the electronics think I should drive.
Some people have reported near fatal experiences with the new traction control systems that decide to brake the vehicle when you need to go.

I would, and did add an after market traction device.

You'll have to search the boards for history on what limited slip and locker units will fit the later years. I am pretty sure that any KJ with a factory trac-loc rear end will not accept a replacement carrier.

The early models have more reliable window regulators.

If I have TC can I also add a locker or will the two fight each other? BTW I work in Valley City, just down the street from you.

I dont like the ESP (electronic stability program) at all on the 06's. if you lose traction at any wheel it applies the breaks, which causes you to basically stop. its especially bad when your pulling out into traffic. there is a button to turn it off, but it only works partially, no going to the empty parking lots and doing donuts anymore. also i drove my sisters 05 liberty with the LSD, and i felt it was 100x better

If you get a full carrier replacement like an arb locker or DTT it does not matter if you have Trac-lok or not. Also, PowerTrax makes a lunchbox locker for the Trac-lok. My dilemma is do i buy a cheap powertrax and use that to tide me over until i can afford a real locker or do i just put the money towards the $3000 or so that i will need to swap the front and rear gears/lockers.