Three problems related to steering column have been reported for the 2004 Jeep Liberty. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Jeep Liberty based on all problems reported for the 2004 Liberty.
Ignition switch failed without warning while transporting disabled person. Again!!!!! this is the 2nd time this same part has failed on this vehicle - it is a tiny, small "pot metal"/nylon part that is a weak link in this supposedly otherwise sturdy rig, and the only fix after all this time of repeated failures is to replace the entire steering column, rather than only the offending part, again. This year, the part lasted for far less time than the original part - for only 4 years and 48,000 mi. It is a dangerous situation when a careful and conscientious driver is unable to rely on a vehicle used to transport a wheelchair-bound person. This Jeep is a one-owner vehicle and is regularly maintained and cared for by the dealership and other authorized service centers. (in 2009, it took months to get the part) this issue should be considered for recall. The thing is not going to explode and kill someone, but leaving occupants vulnerable (with no warning) is still a serious security issue.
Same as some of the other complaints; vehicle refused to start. Random at first, the wouldn't start at all. Towed to dealer and entire steering column has to be replaced to fix one small part, which is on backorder. Will contact the manufacturer tomorrow to complain, doubt it will help. I have seen multiple complaints with this issue, Jeep should do something about it! $800 in repairs. Last Jeep/Chrysler I will ever own. I don't have the VIN right now, as the vehicle and registration are at the shop.
I attempted to start the car but the starter wouldn't turn over. I checked the fuses and relays for the ignition system, and everything was ok. I had to have the car towed to the dealer. The dealer told me that the entire steering column had to be replaced, because 2 tabs which held the ignition switch were broken. I've searched online sites and find that there seems to be all kinds of problems with the steering column and ignitions switches on the Jeep Liberty. Cost of this "minor" repair $600 plus towing. Mileage 82k.