2007 Jeep Liberty Safety Review [ 2008 ]
Jeep Liberty Safety Review
Safety - 7.6 (Good)
The Liberty has available front and rear side curtain air bags, a safety feature praised by most reviewers, but they don't come standard. In government crash tests, the Liberty did well, but buyers should expect "to pay extra for some of the Liberty's safety equipment," says the Detroit News.
In government crash tests, the liberty earned five out five stars for driver protection in frontal crashes and four out of five stars for front passenger protection. In side impact crashes, the Liberty earned five out of five stars for front and rear seat passenger protection.
Accident Avoidance
Since 2006, the Jeep Liberty has come standard with the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which combines anti-lock brakes, All-Speed Traction Control and a stability system. The system detects when the vehicle is losing traction and control and responds by selectively applying the brakes to specific wheels and also reducing the engine power to the wheels until control is regained. The brake system also features Brake Assist, described as an active power booster to optimize braking abilities in critical driving situations and the ABS has electronic sensors to reduce wheel locking. Optional SmartBeam headlights turn on at dark and switch from low to high beams independent of the driver.
Crash Protection
Multi-stage front and passenger air bags are standard on this vehicle. The Liberty is also the first Jeep to offer front and rear side curtain air bags (available as an upgrade). Auto Mall USA reports that "multi-stage front air bags deploy with less force during low speed collisions, or if the occupant is unbuckled, to reduce the risk of air bag-related injuries."
Reviewers appreciate the three-point seatbelt in the center rear seat, an unusual feature for most SUVs but a standard feature on the Liberty. Reviewers praise the Enhanced Accident Response System, which unlocks doors and illuminates interior lights five seconds after the deployment of the front or side air bag. The system also shuts down the fuel pump immediately after air bag deployment. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) put the vehicle's chance of rollover at 24 percent in rear-wheel drive, 21 percent in four-wheel drive and the passenger cabin has been reinforced with ultra high-strength steel for added protection in case of a rollover.
