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2016 Jeep Cherokee

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most Cherokee years

Owner complaints for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee are substantially higher than the model-year median of 113.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

872 reports with mileage · 534 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Power Train. Review the 629 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Engine. Review the 314 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Electrical System. Review the 297 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

37 crash reports14 fire reports19 injury reports

Engine complaints

314 reports
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43,000 miles · Dec 7, 2019
EngineService BrakesVehicle Speed Control

ENGINE SHUT OFF WHILE VEHICLE IN MOTION WITH FOOT ON ACCELERATOR (TRAVELING ~10MPH). . LOST POWER STEERING AND BRAKES. NOTICE APPEARED ON DASHBOARD ABOUT SHIFTER. TRIED TO POWER ENGINE BACK ON TO NO AVAIL. WAITED A COUPLE OF MINUTES AND VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO START AGAIN.

NHTSA ODI #11287651

38,000 miles · Dec 4, 2019
Engine

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. TOOK THE VEHICLE TO LOCAL JEEP DEALERSHIP. VEHICLE HAS APPROX. 38,000 MILES AND THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING ASSEMBLY IS MALFUNCTIONING AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. TOLD BY DEALERSHIP THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH 2015/2016 CHEROKEES BETWEEN 30,000 AND 40,000 MILES. VEHICLE IS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. IF THIS I…

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CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. TOOK THE VEHICLE TO LOCAL JEEP DEALERSHIP. VEHICLE HAS APPROX. 38,000 MILES AND THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING ASSEMBLY IS MALFUNCTIONING AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. TOLD BY DEALERSHIP THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH 2015/2016 CHEROKEES BETWEEN 30,000 AND 40,000 MILES. VEHICLE IS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. IF THIS IS SUCH A COMMON OCCURRENCE, SHOULDN'T THIS BE A RECALL? IF IGNORED, THIS COULD LEAD TO SEVERE ENGINE DAMAGE.

NHTSA ODI #11286956

56,800 miles · Nov 29, 2019
EngineFuel/propulsion System

DROVE CAR FOR ONLY 2-3 BLOCKS AFTER SITTING 8 HOURS WHILE AT WORK (FIRST TIME 11/12/19 - OUTSIDE TEMP IN THE 30'S) AND THE SECOND TIME OVERNIGHT IN UNHEATED GARAGE (11/23/19 - OUTSIDE TEMPS IN THE 30'S), WHILE TURNING RIGHT AT A STOPLIGHT TO ENTER ON TO A MAJOR ARTERY (FIRST TIME) AND A STOP-SIGN TO ENTER ONTO A RESIDENTIAL STRE…

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DROVE CAR FOR ONLY 2-3 BLOCKS AFTER SITTING 8 HOURS WHILE AT WORK (FIRST TIME 11/12/19 - OUTSIDE TEMP IN THE 30'S) AND THE SECOND TIME OVERNIGHT IN UNHEATED GARAGE (11/23/19 - OUTSIDE TEMPS IN THE 30'S), WHILE TURNING RIGHT AT A STOPLIGHT TO ENTER ON TO A MAJOR ARTERY (FIRST TIME) AND A STOP-SIGN TO ENTER ONTO A RESIDENTIAL STREET (SECOND TIME) THE CAR SHUT ITSELF OFF COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP. BOTH TIMES CAR WAS NOT "WARMED-UP" BEFORE DRIVING. CONTACTED A LOCAL CHRYSLER/JEEP DEALER WHO GOT US IN FOR CHECK-UP 11/27/19 AND EVENTUALLY SAID THE ENGINE OIL WAS BELOW THE DIPSTICK AND IF THE OIL GETS TOO LOW THE ENGINE WILL GET HOT AND TO PREVENT ENGINE DAMAGE THE CAR WILL SHUT DOWN AUTOMATICALLY. THIS HAS NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE DESPITE US TRAVELING FOR THE PAST 4 SUMMERS APPROXIMATELY 4000 MILES FROM KANSAS CITY TO YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK AND BACK, AND THE SUMMER OF 2018 TO YELLOWSTONE, SEATTLE AND BACK (TOTAL OF OVER 5000 MILES AND EACH TIME NOT GETTING ANOTHER OIL CHANGE FOR OVER ANOTHER MONTH TO 5 MONTHS OF CITY DRIVING ONCE WE GOT BACK HOME. THE LAST OIL CHANGE WE HAD BEFORE THESE TWO INCIDENTS REFERENCED ABOVE WAS ON JULY 19, 2019 AND THE MILEAGE WAS 53191. THE MILEAGE ON THE CAR NOW IS 56916. TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT THAT WE'VE PROBABLY DRIVEN ABOUT 150 MILES SINCE THE FIRST INCIDENT UNTIL RIGHT NOW, THAT MEANS WE'RE "DOWN" 1 QUART/1800 MILES. RESEARCHING "GOOGLE", THERE ARE MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS FROM OTHER CHEROKEE OWNERS OF 2016 OR OTHER YEAR MODELS OF THE SAME ISSUE. THEY SAY JEEP FEELS 1 QUART OF OIL USED/1000MILES OF DRIVING IS ACCEPTABLE. EVEN SO, MY CONCERN IS WHY MY VEHICLE IS SUDDENLY EXPERIENCING THIS POWER LOSS AND OIL USAGE WHEN FOR THE PAST 5 YEARS (PURCHASED CAR 10/31/2015) IT HAS NEVER BEEN AN ISSUE. ONE OIL CHANGE MILEAGE WAS OVER 7500 MILES AND YET WE NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM. THE OIL LIGHT HAS NEVER COME ON TO WARN OF LOW OIL PRESSURE.

NHTSA ODI #11282886

67,650 miles · Nov 22, 2019
Engine

CEI P0128 COOLANT TEMPERATURE TOO COLD. NO OVERHEATING ISSUES, TEMPS HAVE REMAINED CONSISTENTLY. CAME ON WHILE DRIVING. THERMOSTAT NEEDS REPLACING IN ONLY 4 YEARS FROM PURCHASE. TEMPS HAVE ONLY BEEN HOVERING AROUND FREEZING.

NHTSA ODI #11281768

54,000 miles · Nov 22, 2019
Electrical SystemEngineUnknown Or Other

FAULTY ENGINE WITH EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. ENGINE PISTON BLOWN AT 54K, ON BRAND NEW 2016 JEEP CHEROKEE, AND CONSEQUENTLY REPAIRED UNDER MANUFACTURER WARRANTY. FCA AND DEALERSHIP DIFFICULT TO WORK WITH AND ATTEMPTED EVERYTHING TO AVOID THE REPAIR UNTIL I OBTAINED LEGAL COUNSEL. THE VEHICLE STILL RANDOMLY SHUTS OFF WHILE BEING …

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FAULTY ENGINE WITH EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION. ENGINE PISTON BLOWN AT 54K, ON BRAND NEW 2016 JEEP CHEROKEE, AND CONSEQUENTLY REPAIRED UNDER MANUFACTURER WARRANTY. FCA AND DEALERSHIP DIFFICULT TO WORK WITH AND ATTEMPTED EVERYTHING TO AVOID THE REPAIR UNTIL I OBTAINED LEGAL COUNSEL. THE VEHICLE STILL RANDOMLY SHUTS OFF WHILE BEING OPERATED WHICH MAKES IT A DANGER TO ALL. I HAVE ALSO EXPERIENCED ISSUES WITH THE TRANSMISSION, WHICH THE DEALERSHIP SAID STEMMED FROM THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THE VEHICLE WOULD GET "STUCK" IN A PARTICULAR AND CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO "JUMP" WHILE ATTEMPTING TO IDLE DOWN. LASTLY, THE SERVICE SHIFTER LIGHT HAS COME ON. THE LIGHT COMES ON WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION AND DOES NOT APPEAR TO EFFECT THE OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE. NEVERTHELESS, THIS IS ANOTHER PROBLEM ADDED TO THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION ISSUES. THIS VEHICLE IS TRASH AND NEEDS TO BE COMPLETELY RECALLED. SHAME ON FCA FOR SELLING THIS VEHICLE WITH A TON OF DEFECTS. SHAME ON ANY AUTHORITY THAT DOES NOT INVESTIGATE THE CLAIMS REGARDING THIS VEHICLE, OR DOES IT TAKE A CATASTROPHIC EVENT TO GATHER YOUR ATTENTION.

NHTSA ODI #11281724

57,000 miles · Nov 21, 2019
Engine

2016 JEEP CHEROKEE APPROX. 58,000 MILES BEGAN SHUTTING DOWN WHILE EXITING THE PARKING GARAGE, STALLED OUT SEVERAL TIMES AND STEERING AND ALL CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WAS LOST. TOOK IT TO THE SHOP AND AFTER RUNNING DIAGNOSTIC WAS TOLD THAT NOTHING COULD BE FOUND TO BE WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. DID NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE FOR A WEEK A…

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2016 JEEP CHEROKEE APPROX. 58,000 MILES BEGAN SHUTTING DOWN WHILE EXITING THE PARKING GARAGE, STALLED OUT SEVERAL TIMES AND STEERING AND ALL CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WAS LOST. TOOK IT TO THE SHOP AND AFTER RUNNING DIAGNOSTIC WAS TOLD THAT NOTHING COULD BE FOUND TO BE WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. DID NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE FOR A WEEK AND WHEN IT WAS DRIVEN AGAIN BEGAN DISPLAYING THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH COMPLETE SHUT DOWN. AFTER SOME INVESTIGATION ON THIS WEB SITE AND OTHERS, I FOUND THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE 2016 JEEP CHEROKEE DUE TO THE BUILT IN KILL SWITCH TO PROTECT THE ENGINE WHEN THE OIL IS LOW. I CHECKED THE OIL AND IT WAS INDEED LOW. PRIOR TO THIS FAILURE, THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN WELL MAINTAINED WITH ALL RECOMMENDED OIL CHANGES AND PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE. JEEP/CHRYSLERS SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM-CHECK YOUR OIL MORE OFTEN! THIS VEHICLE IS DANGEROUS-NOT ONLY TO THE DRIVER AND PASSENGERS BUT TO OTHER VEHICLES ON THE ROADS AS THE VEHICLE STOPS WITH NO WARNING AND COULD CAUSE MAJOR ACCIDENTS AND DEATHS. THEY NEED TO BE TAKEN OFF OF THE ROADWAYS

NHTSA ODI #11281527

Mileage unknown · Nov 19, 2019
Engine

CEI P0128 COOLANT TEMPERATURE TOO COLD. HAVING TO REPLACE THERMOSTAT ON A CAR ONLY 3 YEARS OLD. TEMPS HAVE NOT BEEN BELOW FREEZING & DIDN'T HAVE THIS ISSUE LAST WINTER. THERMOSTAT IS STUCK OPEN SO GAS CONSUMPTION HAS INCREASED & HEAT HAS DECREASED.

NHTSA ODI #11281087

3,600 miles · Nov 14, 2019
EngineUnknown Or OtherVehicle Speed Control

THIS ISSUE HAS HAPPENED SEVEN TIMES NOW IN THE LAST MONTH. MOST RECENT WAS ON 11/14/2019. WHILE DRIVING (IN MOTION) ABOUT 25 MPH IN RESIDENTIAL AREA, JEEP TURNS OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. ERROR MESSAGE POPS UP ON DASHBOARD TO "SHIFT TO P THEN DESIRED GEAR" (SEE PHOTO). I AM ABLE TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD BUT CA…

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THIS ISSUE HAS HAPPENED SEVEN TIMES NOW IN THE LAST MONTH. MOST RECENT WAS ON 11/14/2019. WHILE DRIVING (IN MOTION) ABOUT 25 MPH IN RESIDENTIAL AREA, JEEP TURNS OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. ERROR MESSAGE POPS UP ON DASHBOARD TO "SHIFT TO P THEN DESIRED GEAR" (SEE PHOTO). I AM ABLE TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD BUT CAR HAS TO BE TURNED COMPLETELY OFF. IT TAKES A COUPLE OF TIRES TO RESTART THE ENGINE. UNKNOWN AS TO WHY THIS IS HAPPENING. TOOK TO DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID THEY COULD NOT FIND ANY CODES AND TO LET THEM KNOW IF PROBLEMS CONTINUES. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS AS I COULD HAVE BEEN ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY AND CAUSED AN ACCIDENT.

NHTSA ODI #11280026

88,000 miles · Nov 13, 2019
Engine

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 JEEP CHEROKEE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, IT STALLED AND AN ABNORMAL CLICKING NOISE WAS HEARD. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE WAS MISFIRING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 JEEP CHEROKEE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, IT STALLED AND AN ABNORMAL CLICKING NOISE WAS HEARD. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE WAS MISFIRING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO ANOTHER INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT HE COULD NOT REPAIR THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE FAILURE WAS A MANUFACTURER ISSUE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND RECOMMENDED THE VEHICLE BE TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 88,000.

NHTSA ODI #11279879

54,656 miles · Nov 11, 2019
EngineService BrakesSteering

ENGINE FAILURE WHILE GOING AROUND A BEND. STEERING COMPLETELY LOCKED UP AND BREAKS WERE NONE FUNCTIONAL. THANK GOD I WAS ONLY TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 15MHP IN TOWN AND WAS ABLE TO SAFELY COST OUT OF THE WAY OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC. MY DASHBOARD SAID SHIFT TO P (PARK) AND THEN DESIRED GEAR AND THE BATTERY LIGHT ILLUMINATED. I TRIE…

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ENGINE FAILURE WHILE GOING AROUND A BEND. STEERING COMPLETELY LOCKED UP AND BREAKS WERE NONE FUNCTIONAL. THANK GOD I WAS ONLY TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 15MHP IN TOWN AND WAS ABLE TO SAFELY COST OUT OF THE WAY OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC. MY DASHBOARD SAID SHIFT TO P (PARK) AND THEN DESIRED GEAR AND THE BATTERY LIGHT ILLUMINATED. I TRIED TO RESTART IN PARK BUT JEEP WOULD NOT START. AFTER ABOUT 15 MINUTES MY JEEP STARTED BACK UP AND RAN NORMAL. MY CONCERN IS IF I WAS DRIVING 70MPH ON THE HIGHWAY WITH MY CHILDREN IN THE TRUCK (WHICH I HAVE TO DO EVERYDAY AS I WORK OUT OF TOWN) WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED??? WOULD I EVEN BE WRITING THIS RIGHT NOW? THERE WAS NO WARNINGS, NO LIGHTS ON, NO INDICATION MY ENGINE WOULD FAIL WHILE ENGAGED WHAT SO EVER. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY CONCERN!

NHTSA ODI #11279346

Official recalls

9

23V338000 · Electrical System:wiring: Rear Compartment/trunk; Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate

May 11, 2023

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a power liftgate. An electrical short in the power liftgate module may lead to a vehicle fire with the ignition on or off.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will relocate the power liftgate module and add a water shield. In addition, dealers will inspect for corrosion and replace the module and electrical connectors, if necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 1, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 49A. This recall supersedes recalls 15V-393 and 15V-826. Vehicles repaired under the prior recalls will still need to have the new remedy performed.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a power liftgate. An electrical short in the power liftgate module may lead to a vehicle fire with the ignition on or off.

Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will relocate the power liftgate module and add a water shield. In addition, dealers will inspect for corrosion and replace the module and electrical connectors, if necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 1, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 49A. This recall supersedes recalls 15V-393 and 15V-826. Vehicles repaired under the prior recalls will still need to have the new remedy performed.

Electrical System:wiring: Rear Compartment/trunk

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a power liftgate. An electrical short in the power liftgate module may lead to a vehicle fire with the ignition on or off.

Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will relocate the power liftgate module and add a water shield. In addition, dealers will inspect for corrosion and replace the module and electrical connectors, if necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner letters were mailed March 1, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 49A. This recall supersedes recalls 15V-393 and 15V-826. Vehicles repaired under the prior recalls will still need to have the new remedy performed.

23V302000 · Power Train:automatic Transmission

Apr 27, 2023

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. The power transfer unit (PTU) may become damaged and disengage the transmission and differential, resulting in a loss of drive power or loss of park function.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash. A loss of park function can cause an unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 11, 2023. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 45A. This recall expands previous recall number 20V-343.

20V343000 · Power Train:automatic Transmission; Power Train:driveline:differential Unit

Jun 11, 2020

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a two-speed Power Transfer Unit (PTU). Relative movement in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft may cause some input spline teeth to wear off, which may eventually cause a loss of engagement between the transmission and the differential inside the PTU. If this occurs, power cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission which results in a loss of drive while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the Park function while stationary.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A loss of drive can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning. A loss of the Park function can cause unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update that will maintain vehicle propulsion by engaging rear wheel drive and prevent rolling in Park by activating the electronic parking brake if a failed input spline occurs. This recall began July 14, 2020. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is W47.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Power Train:driveline:differential Unit

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a two-speed Power Transfer Unit (PTU). Relative movement in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft may cause some input spline teeth to wear off, which may eventually cause a loss of engagement between the transmission and the differential inside the PTU. If this occurs, power cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission which results in a loss of drive while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the Park function while stationary.

Consequence: A loss of drive can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning. A loss of the Park function can cause unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update that will maintain vehicle propulsion by engaging rear wheel drive and prevent rolling in Park by activating the electronic parking brake if a failed input spline occurs. This recall began July 14, 2020. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is W47.

Power Train:automatic Transmission

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Jeep Cherokee vehicles equipped with a two-speed Power Transfer Unit (PTU). Relative movement in the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) between the differential input splines and the transmission output shaft may cause some input spline teeth to wear off, which may eventually cause a loss of engagement between the transmission and the differential inside the PTU. If this occurs, power cannot be transferred between the front wheels and the transmission which results in a loss of drive while the vehicle is in motion and a loss of the Park function while stationary.

Consequence: A loss of drive can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning. A loss of the Park function can cause unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will perform a software update that will maintain vehicle propulsion by engaging rear wheel drive and prevent rolling in Park by activating the electronic parking brake if a failed input spline occurs. This recall began July 14, 2020. Owners may contact FCA USA LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is W47.

18V332000 · Electrical System:software; Electrical System:wiring; Vehicle Speed Control:cruise Control

May 17, 2018

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.

Additional source detail variants (3)

Electrical System:software

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.

Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.

Vehicle Speed Control:cruise Control

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.

Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.

Electrical System:wiring

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.

Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.

17V824000 · Equipment

Dec 21, 2017

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall is T82.

16V590000 · Seats; Seats:mid/rear Assembly

Aug 10, 2016

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured July 29, 2013, to February 5, 2016. The seat fasteners on the first or second row seats may not have been tightened to the proper torque specification.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Loose fasteners may allow the seats to move, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupants in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seats or seat sets, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during September 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall S63.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Seats:mid/rear Assembly

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured July 29, 2013, to February 5, 2016. The seat fasteners on the first or second row seats may not have been tightened to the proper torque specification.

Consequence: Loose fasteners may allow the seats to move, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupants in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seats or seat sets, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during September 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall S63.

Seats

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured July 29, 2013, to February 5, 2016. The seat fasteners on the first or second row seats may not have been tightened to the proper torque specification.

Consequence: Loose fasteners may allow the seats to move, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupants in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seats or seat sets, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during September 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall S63.

16V284000 · Power Train:axle Assembly:axle Shaft

May 11, 2016

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured October 3, 2015, to March 22, 2016. The right halfshaft may have been incorrectly manufactured causing it to fracture without warning.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A fractured halfshaft may disconnect from the drive axle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the right halfshaft, free of charge. The recall began on June 30, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler's customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall number is S39.

16V287000 · Power Train:axle Assembly:axle Shaft

May 11, 2016

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured September 30, 2015, to October 2, 2015. The left halfshaft may have been incorrectly manufactured causing it to fracture without warning.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A fractured halfshaft may disconnect from the drive axle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the left halfshaft, free of charge. The recall began on June 30, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler's customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's recall number is S38.

15V826000 · Electrical System:wiring: Rear Compartment/trunk; Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate

Dec 9, 2015

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 18, 2015, to September 10, 2015 and equipped with the power liftgate option. In the affected vehicles, water may leak into the Power Liftgate Control Module and result in a high resistance short circuit.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A short circuit in the module increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the module and connectors for corrosion, replacing the damaged components as necessary. The mastic shield will be removed and the module will be covered with a water shield. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on February 1, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R67. This recall is superseded by NHTSA recall 23V-338.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 18, 2015, to September 10, 2015 and equipped with the power liftgate option. In the affected vehicles, water may leak into the Power Liftgate Control Module and result in a high resistance short circuit.

Consequence: A short circuit in the module increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the module and connectors for corrosion, replacing the damaged components as necessary. The mastic shield will be removed and the module will be covered with a water shield. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on February 1, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R67. This recall is superseded by NHTSA recall 23V-338.

Electrical System:wiring: Rear Compartment/trunk

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Jeep Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 18, 2015, to September 10, 2015 and equipped with the power liftgate option. In the affected vehicles, water may leak into the Power Liftgate Control Module and result in a high resistance short circuit.

Consequence: A short circuit in the module increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the module and connectors for corrosion, replacing the damaged components as necessary. The mastic shield will be removed and the module will be covered with a water shield. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on February 1, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R67. This recall is superseded by NHTSA recall 23V-338.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

2

PE22009 · Electronic Parking Brake Water Ingress

Opened Jul 22, 2022 · Closed Oct 29, 2023

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Parking Brake:electrical; Parking Brake:electrical:control Module

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened investigation PE22-009 after having received 80 complaints on model years 2014-2020 Jeep Cherokees alleging the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) inadvertently activated while the vehicle was in motion.During this investigation, the subject vehicles were updated to include only Model Years (MY) 2014-2016, while MY 2017-2020 were considered peers.Based on related repair invoices, ODI believed the EPB module was damaged by water leaking into the vehicle. When the EPB inadvertently activates, it can cause a stalling condition bringing the vehicle to a stop. ODI was aware of recall 15V-393 that addresses water ingress affecting the power liftgate module on nearly the same population of vehicles subject of this investigation. The liftgate module can potentially catch fire as a result of the water damage. Both the liftgate and EPB modules are located in a similar area of the vehicle.  On May 11, 2016, the manufacturer released a Technical Service Bulleting (ODI #10191415, FCA #08-060-16) that instructs dealers on replacing the EPB module and inspecting the electrical connector for corrosion if a customer describes having the EPB not releasing.  This Preliminary Evaluation was opened to assess the scope, frequency, and safety-related consequences of the alleged defect. On September 8th, 2022, ODI sent an information request letter to Fiat Chrysler US LLC (FCA) requesting pertinent information on the subject 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee and Peer 2017-2020 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. FCA Provided its full response on October 27th, 2022 after ODI granted a one-week extension.  ODI has reviewed the information FCA provided as well as new reports submitted to NHTSA’s Vehicle Owner Questionnaire database.  Based on a review of all available information, ODI has identified evidence supporting a total of 1,655 subject vehicles that likely experienced a failure of the subject EPB.  Within the subject vehicle complaints, ODI identified the 2014 Model Year (MY) Jeep Cherokee as having the highest rate of failure, while also being the oldest group of vehicles in this investigation.  The 2014 Jeep Cherokees that likely experienced a failure of the subject EPB represent an incident rate of approximately 0.58%.  The average Time In Service (TIS) at failure was 2.6 years and the oldest failure occurred at 8.5 years in service.  The 2014 population of vehicles is at 9 years in service.  All other MY Jeep Cherokee vehicles (both subject and peer) within this investigation had significantly lower failure rates than the 2014 MY Jeep Cherokee. ODI has reviewed all the information available at this time, and identified four allegations of a crash, three allegations of injuries, and one allegation of a fire.Two of the crash allegations alleged injuries, and the alleged injuries were minor severity.All of the alleged injuries appeared to be consistent with hard braking and did not need medical attention.  There was no supporting information that demonstrated a fire had occurred on the vehicle. In its response to ODI, FCA provided its assessment of the alleged defect in the subject vehicles, stating that it does not believe the alleged defect poses an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.  FCA states the majority of incidents involving the EPB inadvertently activating occurred while the vehicle was stationary and that a small number of incidents occurred while the vehicle was backing up or at low speeds. This is consistent with ODI’s observations. Based on the analysis conducted by ODI, this investigation will be closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. NHTSA reserves the right take additional actions if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Parking Brake:electrical

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened investigation PE22-009 after having received 80 complaints on model years 2014-2020 Jeep Cherokees alleging the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) inadvertently activated while the vehicle was in motion.During this investigation, the subject vehicles were updated to include only Model Years (MY) 2014-2016, while MY 2017-2020 were considered peers.Based on related repair invoices, ODI believed the EPB module was damaged by water leaking into the vehicle. When the EPB inadvertently activates, it can cause a stalling condition bringing the vehicle to a stop. ODI was aware of recall 15V-393 that addresses water ingress affecting the power liftgate module on nearly the same population of vehicles subject of this investigation. The liftgate module can potentially catch fire as a result of the water damage. Both the liftgate and EPB modules are located in a similar area of the vehicle.  On May 11, 2016, the manufacturer released a Technical Service Bulleting (ODI #10191415, FCA #08-060-16) that instructs dealers on replacing the EPB module and inspecting the electrical connector for corrosion if a customer describes having the EPB not releasing.  This Preliminary Evaluation was opened to assess the scope, frequency, and safety-related consequences of the alleged defect. On September 8th, 2022, ODI sent an information request letter to Fiat Chrysler US LLC (FCA) requesting pertinent information on the subject 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee and Peer 2017-2020 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. FCA Provided its full response on October 27th, 2022 after ODI granted a one-week extension.  ODI has reviewed the information FCA provided as well as new reports submitted to NHTSA’s Vehicle Owner Questionnaire database.  Based on a review of all available information, ODI has identified evidence supporting a total of 1,655 subject vehicles that likely experienced a failure of the subject EPB.  Within the subject vehicle complaints, ODI identified the 2014 Model Year (MY) Jeep Cherokee as having the highest rate of failure, while also being the oldest group of vehicles in this investigation.  The 2014 Jeep Cherokees that likely experienced a failure of the subject EPB represent an incident rate of approximately 0.58%.  The average Time In Service (TIS) at failure was 2.6 years and the oldest failure occurred at 8.5 years in service.  The 2014 population of vehicles is at 9 years in service.  All other MY Jeep Cherokee vehicles (both subject and peer) within this investigation had significantly lower failure rates than the 2014 MY Jeep Cherokee. ODI has reviewed all the information available at this time, and identified four allegations of a crash, three allegations of injuries, and one allegation of a fire.Two of the crash allegations alleged injuries, and the alleged injuries were minor severity.All of the alleged injuries appeared to be consistent with hard braking and did not need medical attention.  There was no supporting information that demonstrated a fire had occurred on the vehicle. In its response to ODI, FCA provided its assessment of the alleged defect in the subject vehicles, stating that it does not believe the alleged defect poses an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.  FCA states the majority of incidents involving the EPB inadvertently activating occurred while the vehicle was stationary and that a small number of incidents occurred while the vehicle was backing up or at low speeds. This is consistent with ODI’s observations. Based on the analysis conducted by ODI, this investigation will be closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. NHTSA reserves the right take additional actions if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Parking Brake:electrical:control Module

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened investigation PE22-009 after having received 80 complaints on model years 2014-2020 Jeep Cherokees alleging the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) inadvertently activated while the vehicle was in motion.During this investigation, the subject vehicles were updated to include only Model Years (MY) 2014-2016, while MY 2017-2020 were considered peers.Based on related repair invoices, ODI believed the EPB module was damaged by water leaking into the vehicle. When the EPB inadvertently activates, it can cause a stalling condition bringing the vehicle to a stop. ODI was aware of recall 15V-393 that addresses water ingress affecting the power liftgate module on nearly the same population of vehicles subject of this investigation. The liftgate module can potentially catch fire as a result of the water damage. Both the liftgate and EPB modules are located in a similar area of the vehicle.  On May 11, 2016, the manufacturer released a Technical Service Bulleting (ODI #10191415, FCA #08-060-16) that instructs dealers on replacing the EPB module and inspecting the electrical connector for corrosion if a customer describes having the EPB not releasing.  This Preliminary Evaluation was opened to assess the scope, frequency, and safety-related consequences of the alleged defect. On September 8th, 2022, ODI sent an information request letter to Fiat Chrysler US LLC (FCA) requesting pertinent information on the subject 2014-2016 Jeep Cherokee and Peer 2017-2020 Jeep Cherokee vehicles. FCA Provided its full response on October 27th, 2022 after ODI granted a one-week extension.  ODI has reviewed the information FCA provided as well as new reports submitted to NHTSA’s Vehicle Owner Questionnaire database.  Based on a review of all available information, ODI has identified evidence supporting a total of 1,655 subject vehicles that likely experienced a failure of the subject EPB.  Within the subject vehicle complaints, ODI identified the 2014 Model Year (MY) Jeep Cherokee as having the highest rate of failure, while also being the oldest group of vehicles in this investigation.  The 2014 Jeep Cherokees that likely experienced a failure of the subject EPB represent an incident rate of approximately 0.58%.  The average Time In Service (TIS) at failure was 2.6 years and the oldest failure occurred at 8.5 years in service.  The 2014 population of vehicles is at 9 years in service.  All other MY Jeep Cherokee vehicles (both subject and peer) within this investigation had significantly lower failure rates than the 2014 MY Jeep Cherokee. ODI has reviewed all the information available at this time, and identified four allegations of a crash, three allegations of injuries, and one allegation of a fire.Two of the crash allegations alleged injuries, and the alleged injuries were minor severity.All of the alleged injuries appeared to be consistent with hard braking and did not need medical attention.  There was no supporting information that demonstrated a fire had occurred on the vehicle. In its response to ODI, FCA provided its assessment of the alleged defect in the subject vehicles, stating that it does not believe the alleged defect poses an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.  FCA states the majority of incidents involving the EPB inadvertently activating occurred while the vehicle was stationary and that a small number of incidents occurred while the vehicle was backing up or at low speeds. This is consistent with ODI’s observations. Based on the analysis conducted by ODI, this investigation will be closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. NHTSA reserves the right take additional actions if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

EA21002 · Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture

Opened Sep 17, 2021 · No close date supplied

Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module; Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.