Suspension. Review the 437 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
Air Bags. Review the 391 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
Structure. Review the 111 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

134 crash reports11 fire reports136 injury reports

Wheels complaints

16 reports

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Mileage unknown · Jan 26, 2023

SteeringSuspensionWheelsCrashInjury

The ball joint and cv axle broke making me wreck. I had no control of the steering.

NHTSA ODI #11503737

Mileage unknown · Oct 2, 2021

StructureSuspensionWheels

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On 7/10 I'm driving down the road towards the freeway. I hear a very loud pop that startles me. I pull over & discover lower ball joint has separated causing the lower control arm to slip out of socket into the wheel & than separate from wheel. I mean its still attached to the vehicle but vehicle is completely disabled. It caused significant damage to the right front wheel and somewhat minor damage to the right front fender. Theres literally metal shaving all over the road from it carving the metal out of my wheel. Get home and my boyfriend tells me that he's discovered 3 safety recalls. So we call FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) they said they would have it towed to the dealership no problem but they needed a $103 for the tow that they would reimburse later. They told us to pick any dealership. So FCA has it towed from my driveway on 7/13 at 8:45pm to Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Portland Dealership. Safety recall F23 was replaced by the dealership but the manufacturer (FCA) has not fixed the damage and is denying responsibility. FCA calls on 9/16 to finally tell us that a certified inspector has determined the damage to the wheel and fender is not from the recall. Which is a lie and I can take it to a mechanic and have that verified. They also go on to state they are not going to reimburse the $103 for the tow. So we go to the dealership to pick up the car the next day. I speak with Will in the service department and ask to see a copy of the inspection that the FCA is talking about. Will tells me that FCA never sent an inspector out and there is no inspection report stating that the damage is not from the recall. I have lots of photos of everything. Please contact me

NHTSA ODI #11435190

220,000 miles · Aug 31, 2020

SuspensionWheels

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SON WAS DRIVING HOME WHEN THE DRIVER SIDE WHEEL CAME OFF, IN MID TURN-. ON A PUBLIC ROAD, ABOUT TO TURN ONTO THE INTERSTATE. LUCKILY, WASN'T GOING 65. THE CAR HAD TO BE TOWED. OUR MECHANIC SAID THE BALL JOINT BROKE LOOSE, BENDING THE AXLE AS WELL, DAMAGING THE WHEEL AND TIRE. THERE HAS BEEN A RECALL OF THIS NATURE, BUT SAID IT DIDN'T APPLY TO THIS VIN. I AM TOTALLY CONVINCED IT MUST BE DEFECTIVE AS WELL. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A DEADLY ACCIDENT. I AM BEGGING FOR THIS TO BE INVESTIGATED.

NHTSA ODI #11352366

128,565 miles · Jan 30, 2019

SuspensionWheels

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I WAS BACKING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE IN THE QUICK CHEK PARKING LOT AFTER I CAME OUT OF THE STORE TO GO TO WORK AND I HEARD A BIG BANG THUMP. I IMMEDIATELY PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK AND LOOKED AROUND THINKING MAYBE SOMEONE WAS BEHIND MEBUT THERE WAS NOT. I HAD A FEW GUYS PUSH THE VEHICLE SLOWLY TO ANOTHER PARKING SPACE ABOUT 200 FT AWAY TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND PUT INTO PARK AGAIN. I IMMEDIALTELY CALLED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE TO COME TO HELP ME AFTER I LOOKED UNDERNEATH THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE TO SEE THAT THE WHEEL WAS NOT ATTACHED TO THE FRONT SUSPENSION UNDER THE VEHICLE. A FLATBED CAME AND TOLD ME THAT I NEEDED A WRECKER TO LIFT AND ALSO DOLLIES TO GET THIS VEHICLE TO THE CLOSEST AUTOMOTIVE FACILITY NEARBY. ONCE THERE THE NEXT DAY THEY INSPECTED IT AND TOLD THAT I NEEDED A LOWER AND UPPER BALL JOINTS AND ALSO CONTROL ARM FOR THIS VEHICLE. I CALLED FCA CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE ABOUT THIS MATTER AND WAS TOLD THAT IF I WAS TO TOW IT TO ONE OF THERE FACILITIES THAT IF THE RECALL ON IT THAT WAS DONE IN 2007 WAS THE SAME PROBLEM THAT THEY WOULD ADDRESS THIS MATTER AND FIX IT FREE OF CHARGE AND IT WOULD BE COVERED FOR THE RECALL FOR THE MOST PART.

NHTSA ODI #11173151

110,000 miles · May 17, 2018

SteeringSuspensionWheels

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TOOK MY LIBERTY TO MY MECHANIC BECAUSE IT STARTED MAKING A HORRIBLE SOUND UP FRONT WHEN EVER I MADE A TURN. UPON INSPECTION MY LOWER BALL JOINTS HAD DISINTEGRATED, CRUMBLED INTO THEIR HANDS. THEY COULD NOT BELIEVE HOW LUCKY I WAS THAT IT DID NOT BREAK WHILE DRIVEN. NOTHING WAS HOLDING IT IN OR TOGETHER. COME TO FIND OUT THERE ARE RECALLS ON BOTH THE UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED. I HAVE HAD THE LOWERS FIXED AND PAID FOR WITH LIFETIME WARRANTED PARTS. I NEED REIMBURSED FOR THE LOWER $488.27. THE UPPER BALL JOINTS ALSO MUST BE FIXED ON A SEPARATE RECALL THAT I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF. DO THESE PEOPLE HAVE ANY IDEA HOW BLOODY AND DEVASTATED AN ACCIDENT WOULD BE WHEN YOUR WHEEL SHEARS OFF AND THERE IS NO STEERING? IT'S CALLED FLIPPING THE FRINGING JEEP OVER!!! NOT ONLY IS IT UNACCEPTABLE THAT I WASN'T NOTIFIED BUT I COULD HAVE KILLED MY FATHER AND OTHERS IN AN ACCIDENT. MY MECHANIC TOLD ME STRAIGHT UP IF I HAD GONE OVER A BUMP OR TURNED I WOULD HAVE WREAKED! I CAN NOT BELIEVE THAT THERE ARE OTHER PEOPLE THAT HAVE HAD ACCIDENTS WITH MORE DAMAGE OR A FULL TOTAL OF THEIRS AND OTHERS ARE NOT BEING REIMBURSED FOR THE ENTIRE DAMAGES. THI FIXED WRONG THE FIRST TIME BY THE DEALER, BEFORE THEIR WREAK. HOW IS THAT NOT THEIR RESPONSIBILITY? THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR ANY OF THOSE JEEPS OR MINE NOT BEING FIXED. THESE ARE STRAIGHT UP RECALLS SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH THIS, REALLY WRONG.

NHTSA ODI #11096444

131,000 miles · Apr 19, 2017

Air BagsSuspensionWheelsCrashInjury

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE BLEW OUT WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS THE FRONT PASSENGER IN THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FELT AS IF THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE STRUCK THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE FISHTAILED AND COLLIDED WITH THE MEDIAN, ROLLED SEVERAL TIMES, SPUN OUT, AND LANDED ON ITS ROOF. THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED, BUT THE PASSENGER SIDE AND OTHER AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED TWO BROKEN FINGERS ON THE LEFT HAND, CONTUSIONS, LEFT BODY SIDE MUSCLE SORENESS, AND A CONCUSSION. THE REAR PASSENGER OCCUPANT SUSTAINED A CUT TO THE RIGHT ARM AND LEFT LEG AND BRUISING. THE MIDDLE REAR PASSENGER SUSTAINED MINOR BRUISING, AND THE DRIVER SIDE REAR PASSENGER SUSTAINED BACK INJURIES. ALL OCCUPANTS REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. SEVERAL MONTHS AGO, THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER A BALL JOINT RECALL AND A POSSIBLE CONTROL ARM RECALL. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 131,000. ..UPDATED 05/09/17 *BF *AS

NHTSA ODI #10979219

154,000 miles · Apr 7, 2015

Air BagsStructureWheelsCrashInjury

MY BOYFRIENDS DAUGHTER WAS DRIVER AND MY DAUGHTER (BOTH MINORS) HEAD BUSTED ON THE FRONT PASSENGER WINDSHIELD. CARS IN FRONT OF THEM STOPPED ABRUPTLY AND THEY WERE GOING 55 MPH AND COULD NOT GET STOPPED, HITTING THE CAR STOPPED IN FRONT OF THEM. NEITHER DRIVER NOR PASSENGER AIRBAG DEPLOYED. MY DAUGHTER IS LUCKY! *TR

NHTSA ODI #10704259

125,417 miles · Nov 18, 2014

Wheels

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WHEN THIS VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED MY HUSBAND AND I TOOK IT TO OUR LOCAL MAGUIRE CHRYSLER OF 502 N FRANKLIN ST.WATKINS GLEN NY 14891 DEALER , @ THAT TIME WE HAD RESEARCHED AND HEARD THAT OUR MAKE AND MODEL JEEP LIBERTY HAD A RECALL ON FRT BALL JOINTS, BUT WE WERE ASSURED BY OUR DEALER THAT OUR MAKE AND MODEL WAS NOT INCLUDED. HOWEVER ON 10/21/2014 MY SON DRIVING HOME FROM COLLEGE HAD EXPERIENCED THE TIRE JUST BREAKING OFF. AFTER BEING TOWED TO THE DEALER IT WAS STATED THAT BOTH FRONT UPPER CONTROL ARMS AND BOTH LOWER BALL JOINTS NEEDED REPLACING.AS WELL AS REPLACING FRONT BRAKE HOSES THAT WERE DAMAGED FROM THE INCIDENT.ON NOVEMBER 13,2014 I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM DAIMLER CHRYSLER STATING SAFETY RECALL F23-LOWER BALL JOINTS.THIS WAS AFTER WE HAVE HAD PROBLEM FIXED AND PAID FOR.MY MAIN COMPLAINT IS BRINGING THE PROBLEM TO THE DEALERS ATTENTION, AND THEM SWEEPING IT UNDER THE CARPET , THEN THE INCIDENT HAPPENS ENDANGERING OUR CHILD, THANKFULLY ON THE FLAT NOT WHILE COMING DOWN THE STEEP HILL ON HIS ROUTINE TRIP.I FIND IT EXTREMELY HARD TO BELIEVE THAT THE DEALER DID NOT KNOW OF THE RECALL BEFORE THE CUSTOMER. I FEEL THEY COULD HAVE AND SHOULD HAVE RESEARCHED THIS RECALL ON TWO OCCASIONS, 1ST WHEN WE FIRST BROUGHT IT TO THERE ATTENTION AND SECOND WHEN THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED,THIS IS SHADY BUSINESS NOT THE SAFETY OF THEIR CUSTOMERS. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10658990

90,627 miles · Nov 3, 2012

SteeringSuspensionWheels

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LEFT DRIVER SIDE, UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATED FROM CONTROL ARM. WHEEL COLLAPSED OUTWARD. FORTUNATELY, IT HAPPENED AFTER LEAVING THE INTERSTATE DRIVING 70 MILES PER HOUR. ENTERING SERVICE STATION WHEEL COLLAPSED. HAPPENED TO TALK TO AN INDIVIDUAL WHO WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. INDIVIDUAL SAID THAT THIS IS A CURRENT AND ON GOING PROBLEM WITH TODAY'S VEHICLES. THE FRONT COMPONENTS ARE BEING DESIGNED SO THEY CANNOT BE MAINTAINED PROPERLY. LACK OF GREASE FITTINGS, PRESSED IN JOINT DESIGN ON BALL JOINTS TO CONTROL ARM , INSTEAD OF RE ENFORCED WITH BOLTS OR OTHER SAFE MEASURES. INDIVIDUAL STATED THAT IT IS OCCURRING ON MOST ALL MAKES AND MODELS. INSTEAD OF JUST REPLACING THE DEFECTED BALL JOINT, THE CONTROL ARM, WITH NO OTHER DEFECT, BUT THIS, HAS TO BE REPLACED, COSTING EVEN MORE MONEY. HAS BEEN REPORTED, THAT DEATHS HAVE OCCURRED. THE MENTAL IMPACT AND FEELING INSECURE AFTER A FIX IS ONGOING. I SEE MORE DEATHS AND ACCIDENTS OCCURRING BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM. THANK YOU. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10483240

100,000 miles · Oct 5, 2012

Wheels

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN ABNORMALLY STEERING TO THE RIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHO CONFIRMED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER WHEEL WAS DAMAGED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE …

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NHTSA ODI #10478722

Official recalls

15V673000 · Air Bags:side/window

Oct 19, 2015

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured March 29, 2003, to July 3, 2003, and 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured May 27, 2003, to May 20, 2004. Due to electrical noise beyond the tolerance of the air bag electronic control module (ECM), a component in the ECM may fail, causing the front air bags, side air bags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Inadvertent deployment of the air bags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag electronic control module and the side impact sensors, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 5, 2016. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R60.

15V046000 · Air Bags:frontal

Jan 28, 2015

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured January 9, 2001, to March 28, 2003, 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 13, 2001, to May 23 2003, and 2003-2004 Dodge Viper vehicles manufactured November 1, 2001, to June 30, 2004. Due to electrical noise beyond the tolerance of the air bag electronic control module (ECM), a component in the ECM may fail, causing the front air bags, side air bags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Inadvertent deployment of the air bags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.

Remedy: Chrysler dealers will replace the air bag control module and side impact sensors as required, free of charge. This recall remedy was applied during earlier recall campaigns of these vehicles under safety recalls 12V527 and 13V040. All owners that have not had the recall repair performed under safety recalls 12V527 or 13V040 are strongly encouraged to have it performed and not wait for the final remedy to be deployed to the field. The recall began on December 29, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R06.

13V252000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly; Structure

Jun 19, 2013

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty vehicles. The fuel tanks in these vehicles are at risk of failure and leakage in certain rear impacts.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy: Owners may take their vehicles to dealers and the dealers will perform a free inspection of the rear structure. On vehicles in the recall that are not equipped with a tow hitch, Chrysler will install a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles in the recall that are equipped with an aftermarket tow hitch, Chrysler will assess whether the hitch and surrounding areas show evidence of sharp edges or other puncture risks. If so, Chrysler will replace the tow hitch with a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles already equipped with a Chrysler designed tow hitch, Chrysler will inspect the area around the tow hitch installation, and if any installation issues are identified, they will be repaired free of charge. The recall began on August 1, 2014. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign numbers are N45 (for the Grand Cherokee vehicles) and N46 (for the Liberty vehicles).

Additional source detail variants (2)

Structure

Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy: Owners may take their vehicles to dealers and the dealers will perform a free inspection of the rear structure. On vehicles in the recall that are not equipped with a tow hitch, Chrysler will install a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles in the recall that are equipped with an aftermarket tow hitch, Chrysler will assess whether the hitch and surrounding areas show evidence of sharp edges or other puncture risks. If so, Chrysler will replace the tow hitch with a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles already equipped with a Chrysler designed tow hitch, Chrysler will inspect the area around the tow hitch installation, and if any installation issues are identified, they will be repaired free of charge. The recall began on August 1, 2014. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign numbers are N45 (for the Grand Cherokee vehicles) and N46 (for the Liberty vehicles).

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly

Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

12V527000 · Air Bags; Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE

Nov 8, 2012

Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2002 and 2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured January 9, 2001, through March 28, 2003, and 2002 through 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 13, 2001, through May 23, 2003. A component in the air bag control module may fail causing the front airbags, side curtain airbags, and/or seatbelt pretensioners to deploy inadvertently while the vehicle is being operated.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Inadvertent deployment of the airbags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a supplemental jumper harness to the airbag control module, free of charge. Owners were notified of the recall by interim letter in January 2013. The remedy for affected Liberty vehicles is expected to be available in April 2013. The remedy for affected Grand Cherokee vehicles is expected to be available later in the year. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE

Consequence: Inadvertent deployment of the airbags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a supplemental jumper harness to the airbag control module, free of charge. Owners were notified of the recall by interim letter in January 2013. The remedy for affected Liberty vehicles is expected to be available in April 2013. The remedy for affected Grand Cherokee vehicles is expected to be available later in the year. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753.

Air Bags

Consequence: Inadvertent deployment of the airbags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.

09V119000 · Suspension:front:control Arm

Apr 9, 2009

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 42,469 MY 2002-2003 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN SALT BELT STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, KENTUCKY, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA , WISCONSIN AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT MAY EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION WHICH COULD LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR, AND POSSIBLE SEPARATION WHILE DRIVING.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: FAILURE OF THE BALL JOINT COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF STEERING CAPABILITY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT UPPER CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT APRIL 24, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

06V288000 · Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint

Aug 3, 2006

ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, THE CONSTANT TENSION FRONT LOWER BALL JOINTS MAY EXPERIENCE CONTAMINATION. IF THE VEHICLE IS OPERATED FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD WITH THIS CONDITION, THE BALL JOINT MAY EVENTUALLY EXPERIENCE WEAR AND LOOSENESS.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: WHEN THE DRIVER CONTINUES TO OPERATE THE VEHICLE WITH THIS CONDITION, THE CONTAMINATION CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR AND POSSIBLY SEPARATION FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE CAUSING A LOSS OF VEHICLE STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT LOWER BALL JOINTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2006. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

03V460000 · Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint

Nov 10, 2003

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS CAN EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION THAT CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR, AND POSSIBLE SEPARATION FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A BALL JOINT THATHAS SEPARATED FROM THE KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS WITH MODIFIED ASSEMBLIES AND HEAT SHIELDS ON VEHICLES BUILT BETWEEN JANUARY 2, 2001 AND OCTOBER 4, 2002. ON VEHICLES BUILT BETWEEN OCTOBER 5, 2002 AND MARCH 26, 2003, DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES (AND REPLACE THEM AS NECESSARY) AND INSTALL HEAT SHIELDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 15, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.

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

RQ14001 · Jeep Inadvertent Air Bag Deployment

Opened May 29, 2014 · Closed Nov 13, 2015

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags; Air Bags:frontal; Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module; Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE ; Air Bags:side/window; Air Bags:side/window:curtain

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an investigation based on consumer allegations of inadvertent air bag deployments (IABD) occurring after the recall remedy for NHTSA recall 12V-527 had been installed on recalled model year (MY ) 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty and MY 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).The recall was in response to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) investigation EA12-001 during which data provided by FCA indicate that the air bag circuitry inside the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module can degrade. ORC degradation can result in an inadvertent air bag deployment, without a crash or impact, while the vehicle is being operated.An IABD may involve frontal, side and belt pretensioner devices, and may result in injuries consisting of burns, cuts and bruises to the upper body region, and or the potential for a loss of control and or crash.The remedy FCA developed for 12V-527 consisted of installing an in-line jumper harness with an integrated electrical filter for the circuits that connect to the air bag modules (squib circuits).This filter is intended to eliminate transient electrical spikes to the ORC which FCA asserted are responsible for the IABDs.ODI has identified a total of 9 NHTSA complaints across all affected vehicles indicating an IABD event occurring after the vehicle had previously been remedied under 12V-527.In addition, FCA reported 12 additional complaints of post-remedy IABD events. The IABD events took place both while driving and while the vehicle was stationary. Six customers incurred injuries consistent with air bag deployments however no crashes were reported.As a response to this investigation, FCA has issued 2 new recalls involving the IABD.On January 27, 2015 FCA notified ODI that it would conduct a safety recall (15V-046) to remedy potential IABD events occurring in 753,176 MY02-03 Jeep Liberty vehicles built through 03/28/03 and MY 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles built through 5/23/03.Note that this recall, which was scoped based on field IABD events does not include all MY 2003 Liberty or MY 2004 Grand Cherokee manufactured with the same level ORC module.According to FCA, the ORC degradation and subsequent electrical overstress condition that causes the air bags to deploy inadvertently is not fully remedied with the filter installed during the 12V-527 campaign.To remedy IABDs under 15V-046, FCA will install a new design ORC module using a next generation electrical architecture.The next generation architecture has been used in other non-subject vehicles for many years without evidence of IABD events occurring.In addition to this recall, on October 15, 2015 FCA advised NHTSA that it would conduct safety recall 15V-673 to remedy potential IABD events in the remaining 284,089 MY 2003 Jeep Liberty and MY 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured with the earlier generation ORC module that were not previously recalled.FCA initially did not recall these populations due to the lack of known IABD events.However, FCA is now aware of 7 IABD events occurring in this population. After consultation with ODI regarding the long term durability and noise toughness of the earlier ORC architecture, FCA decided to recall this population also.The recall actions initiated by the manufacturer address the safety risks identified by the investigation.Accordingly, the investigation is closed.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchSafetyIssues under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10622092, 10629705, 10619008, 10618842, 10626762, 106404

Additional source detail variants (24)

Air Bags

Air Bags:frontal

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE

Air Bags:side/window

Air Bags:side/window:curtain

EA12005 · Crash Related Fuel Tank Fires

Opened Jun 12, 2012 · Closed Nov 14, 2014

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings; Fuel System, Gasoline:storage; Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly; Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe And Cap

ODI has completed an extensive analysis of rear crash fuel tank system integrity data for the subject Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles (SVs).As of June 2013, ODI knew of 56 post-collision fatal fires, 28 non-fatal fires, and 6 fuel leak incidents (totaling 90 incidents, 75 fatalities and 58 injuries) involving the SVs.Based on this analysis, ODI issued a Recall Request Letter (RRL) on June 3, 2013 requesting that Chrysler recall the Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles due to the rate of fatal, non-fatal fire, and fuel leak incidents when compared to peer vehicles (compact and medium SUVs) built during the same time period.In the RRL, ODI described how the location of the aft-mounted fuel tank made the SVs vulnerable to rear impact crash fuel tank failures.During the analysis, besides the high speed/high severity crashes present in both the SV and peer vehicles, ODI observed a significant number of low and moderate speed rear impact crash related fires and leaks, particularly in the Liberty.The data also demonstrated that SVs originally equipped with towing hitch receivers (trailer hitches) appeared to be under-represented in rear-impact related fuel tank failures.In the RRL, ODI requested that Chrysler provide its response by June 18, 2013, otherwise NHTSA might proceed to an Initial Decision that the SVs contain a safety-related defect.Chrysler responded to the RRL on June 4, 2013 and vigorously disputed the tentative findings of the RRL.Among other things, Chrysler argued that the SVs had an overall safety record superior to their peers, met or exceeded all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) and only experienced fires in severe high energy rear impacts.Nonetheless, while continuing to maintain that the SVs did not contain a safety-related defect, Chrysler proposed a recall (13V-252) of approximately 2.5M (1.6M currently registered) model year (MY) 1993 - 1998 Grand Cherokee (ZJ) and MY 2002-2007 Liberty (KJ) vehicles on June 18, 2013.The recall remedy submitted by Chrysler would employ a hitch receiver assembly consisting of a steel cross-member behind the fuel tank with forward-projecting arms bolted to the frame rails on either side of the fuel tank.For the MY 1999 - 2004 Grand Cherokee, Chrysler indicated it would conduct a customer satisfaction campaign and inspect vehicles equipped with aftermarket tow hitch receivers, and if necessary, replace any such hitch receivers whose conditionmay increase the risk of fuel system failure in rear crashes.Examination of the available data established that the MY 1999 - 2004 Grand Cherokee did not pose the same magnitude of safety risk as the MY 1993 - 1998 Grand Cherokee and MY 2002-2007 Liberty, particularly in low and moderate speed rear impacts.Because the agency has concluded that the vehicles do not present an unreasonable risk to safety, ODI is closing its investigation of the MY 1999 - 2004 Grand Cherokee.Although it was not within the scope of the Petition initiating this investigation or the Preliminary Evaluation preceding this EA, ODI also examined the performance of the MY 1993 - 2001 Cherokee as part of this investigation.NHTSA's assessment of the available data for the Cherokee did not establish an unreasonable risk in comparison to peer vehicles.ODI does not approve proposed defect remedies.While offering to install hitch receiver assemblies on the MY 1993-1998 Grand Cherokees and 2002-2007 Liberty, Chrysler did not, in ODI's view, provide enough evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed remedy in rear impacts.The Complete Summary for this Closing Resume (EA12-005) can be seen by

Additional source detail variants (4)

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe And Cap

EA12001 · Inadvertent Air Bag Deployment

Opened Jan 23, 2012 · Closed Feb 21, 2013

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags; Air Bags:frontal; Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module; Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE

The investigation was opened based on reports of frontal air bag inadvertent deployments (ABIDs) on model year (MY) 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles.Data provided by Chrysler indicate that the air bag squib filter circuitry inside the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module can degrade and result in an inadvertent air bag deployment, without a crash or impact, while the vehicle is being operated on the roadway.As of Oct. 04, 2012, ODI is aware of 131 frontal ABIDs on the Jeep Liberty vehicles resulting in 62 injuries consisting of burns, cuts and bruises to the upper body region.There were no reports of loss of vehicle control or vehicle crashes.Some owners noted that the air bag warning light (ABL) and/or chime had activated just seconds prior to the air bag deployment, while others stated that they did not observe any prior ABL illumination.Chrysler's analysis found there were no reports of ABID on Liberty vehicles build after March 28, 2003, a date which coincides with a filter circuit design change in the ORC module.The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Viper were identified as having the same basic circuit.ODI is aware of 61 frontal ABIDs with 31 injuries on the Grand Cherokee and none on the Dodge Viper.In its Nov. 07, 2012 letter (12V-527), Chrysler announced plans to recall 744,822 Jeep Vehicles (MY02-03 Liberty through 03/28/03 and MY02-04 Grand Cherokee through 5/23/03).The remedy consists of installing an in-line jumper harness with an integrated squib circuit electrical filter.In addition, in Feb 05, 2013 letter (13V-040), Chrysler added the MY03-04 Dodge Viper (through 6/30/04) with a similar remedy, bringing the total number of recalled vehicles to 748,482.During the investigation ODI contacted the ORC module supplier (TRW) to determine the usage of this circuitry in other manufacturers? vehicles.As a result, ODI sent peer Information Request (IR) letters to five other manufactures.Toyota's response identified 72 frontal ABIDs resulting in 31 injuries.The rate and failure mode/trend were consistent with the subject defective issue as reported by Chrysler.In a Jan. 30, 2013 letter (13V-029), Toyota announced plans to recall 897,709 MY2003-2004 Corolla/Matrix and Pontiac Vibe vehicles and will utilize a similar remedy to that of Chrysler consisting of adding an in-line noise filter to its air bag wire harness.Honda's IR response reported 126 unique ABIDs for both frontal, side impact and/or side curtain air bag deployments across 4 models and 800k vehicles.However upon further review, no more than 25 of the reports appeared to be frontal ABIDs.The remaining involved less aggressive non-frontal ABIDs mainly stemming from side sensors that trigger side and/or side curtain air bags upon undercarriage debris strike or heavy door slams.The Honda rates are lower than those from the recalled Liberty and Toyota models, and with the exception of the MY 2002-2003 Odyssey, the other Honda models' failure mode/trend was also less severe.ODI will continueto monitor the affected Honda models.There were no reports of ABIDs from the other three peer manufacturers.It should be noted that since the October 2012 data collection date, ODI has received 4 additional Jeep Liberty and 2 Jeep Grand Cherokee reports for frontal ABIDs with two reports alleging loss of vehicle control and crashes. To date, the ORC modules from the two crash vehicles have not been available for detailed analysis by Chrysler or ODI, so the cause of the ABIDs cannot be confirmed at this time.Accordingly the investigation is closed.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAI

Additional source detail variants (12)

Air Bags

Air Bags:frontal

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE

PE11035 · Inadvertent Air Bag Deployment

Opened Sep 23, 2011 · Closed Jan 30, 2012

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags; Air Bags:frontal; Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module; Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE

Based on analysis of Chrysler's response, and including ODI's consumer complaints, ODI has identified 87 reports of air bag inadvertent deployment incidents resulting in 50 alleged injuries.The injuries consists of burn/cuts and bruises to the upper body region.Forty-two (42) of the 87 incidents involved the driver frontal air bag, and the remaining 45 incidents involved both the driver and passenger frontal air bags inadvertently deploying without a crash.These incidents occurred both at vehicle startup or while the vehicle is being operated on the roadway.Some owners noted that the air bag warning light had illuminated, or had intermittently illuminated, and that this occurred just prior to the air bag deployment, while others stated they did not observe any illumination of the air bag light. Inspection of the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module conducted by Chrysler indicates that an internal electronic circuit (an ASIC chip) which controls air bag deployment fails due to an electrical over stress (EOS) condition possibly caused by a transient voltage spike.Chrysler is in the process of identifying potential root causes of the component failure and/or a source for the electrical over stress.In addition, Chrysler noted that there have been no reports of inadvertent air bag deployment in vehicles manufactured after a March 19, 2003 production date.However, Chrysler had not identified a component or other change that would explain why the inadvertent deployments ceased. Accordingly, this investigation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA12-001) to further study the alleged defect and its consequences.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10435710 10429579 10429306 10428411 10407276 10399551 10335637 10283484 10249231 10166706 10055405

Additional source detail variants (4)

Air Bags

Air Bags:frontal

Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

Air Bags:frontal:sensor/control MODULE-INACTIVE

PE11013 · Rear Suspension Control Arm Failure

Opened Apr 18, 2011 · Closed Sep 15, 2011

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension:rear

During Preliminary Evaluation (PE11-013), the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) conducted an analysis of consumer field data from its Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database and from complaint data submitted to ODI by Chrysler. ODI's analysis of VOQ data identified 13 complaints alleging failure of either the right or left rear lower control arm due to excessive corrosion.All of these complaints were associated with vehicles originally sold or registered in a salt belt state (for the purposes of this investigation, 'salt belt' includes Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia).All of the complaints were associated with vehicles manufactured in model years (MY) 2004 or 2005. Three of these complaints also allege a loss of vehicle control due to the rear lower control arm failure. No complaints related to the alleged defect were identified on vehicles manufactured during MYs 2002 or 2003. Similarly an analysis of Chrysler complaint data identified 11 complaints (2 of which are duplicative of VOQs) alleging failure of a rear lower control arm due to excessive corrosion.All 11 of these complaints were from consumers operating vehicles in a salt belt state and vehicles manufactured in either MY 2004 or 2005. Three of these complaints (not duplicative of VOQs) also allege a loss of vehicle control due to the rear lower control arm failure.The original scope of PE11-013 included MY 2002 through 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles as they were in the same generation.In response to an Information Request (IR) letter sent by ODI, Chrysler provided information and sample components identifying a substantial design change of the rear lower control arms after MY 2003 and beginning with MY 2004.Analysis of complaint data from both data sources (ODI and Chrysler) did not identify any applicable complaints (lower control arm failures due to excessive corrosion) from vehicles manufactured during MY 2002 or 2003.Similarly no complaints from either data source were found in states outside of those identified as salt belt states.Chrysler stated in its IR letter response that its investigation and analysis is ongoing to determine the scope, possible root causes of the unusual lower control arm corrosion, and define possible consequences to motor vehicle safety. Based on ODI's data analysis from both sources (ODI and Chrysler data), this investigation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA11-013) focused on vehicles originally sold or registered in a salt belt state and produced during MY 2004 and 2005, to further assess the scope and potential safety consequences of the alleged defect.

EA08008 · Upper Ball Joint Separation

Opened Apr 15, 2008 · Closed Apr 16, 2009

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension; Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint

ON APRIL 7, 2009, CHRYSLER LLC SUBMITTED TO ODI A DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT INDICATING THAT IT WOULD RECALL APPROXIMATELY 42,469 MODEL YEAR 2002 THROUGH 2003 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES TO REMEDY A DEFECT THAT CAN RESULT IN UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION WHILE DRIVING (09V-119).THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE BUILT FROM MAY 2002 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2002 AND ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, KENTUCKY, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN.ACCORDING TO CHRYSLER, THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT MAY EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION WHICH CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR, AND POSSIBLE SEPARATION WHILE DRIVING. CHRYSLER'S RECALL PROCEDURE INSTRUCTS DEALERS TO REPLACE THE FRONT UPPER CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLIES ON ALL AFFECTED VEHICLES. ALTHOUGH THE SPECIFIC CAUSE FOR THE DEFECT IN THE RECALLED PRODUCTION RANGE HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED, ODI'S ANALYSIS OF UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATIONS BY VEHICLE BUILD DATE SHOWS A CLEARLY DEFINED AND SIGNIFICANT SPIKE IN THE RATE OF SEPARATION DURING THE FIVE MONTH PRODUCTION RANGE COVERED BY 09V-119, WHICH ACCOUNTS FOR ONLY 11 PERCENT OF SUBJECT VEHICLE PRODUCTION BUT APPROXIMATELY 70 PERCENT OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS.SEVENTY-FOUR (74) OF THE UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION INCIDENTS IDENTIFIED BY ODI OCCURRED IN VEHICLES PRODUCED IN THE RECALL MONTHS, RESULTING IN A SEPARATION RATE OF 174 PER 100,000 VEHICLES.THE SEPARATION RATE IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLE POPULATION IS SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER, AT 9 INCIDENTS PER 100,000 VEHICLES.AT THIS TIME, THE DATA DO NOT SHOW A DEFECT TREND IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES BUILT OUTSIDE THE RECALL RANGE AFTER APPROXIMATELY 6-8 YEARS IN SERVICE. THIS ENGINEERING ANALYSIS IS CLOSED.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Suspension

Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint

PE07062 · Upper Ball Joint Separation

Opened Dec 17, 2007 · Closed Apr 18, 2008

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension; Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint

ODI HAS RECEIVED 22 COMPLAINTS OF UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATION ON MODEL YEAR 2002 AND 2003 JEEP LIBERTY 4X4 VEHICLES.THE SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT ON EITHER OF THE FRONT WHEELS CAN RESULT IN THE AFFECTED FRONT WHEEL COLLAPSING, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN VEHICLE DISABLEMENT AND CAUSING A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.THERE IS ONE COMPLAINT OF A FAILURE AT 75 MPH, 1 FAILURE AT 60 MPH, 3 FAILURES AT 40 MPH, 2 FAILURES AT 25 MPH, 7 FAILURES OCCURRING WHILE THE DRIVER WAS PULLING INTO THE FLOW OF TRAFFIC AND 2 FAILURES THAT OCCURRED WHEN THE DRIVER WAS ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A LEFT TURN ACROSS THE FLOW OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC.ONE COMPLAINANT ALLEGED ALMOST BEING HIT BY AN ONCOMING TRUCK AS A RESULT OF THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY BEING DISABLED IN THE FLOW OF CROSSING TRAFFIC.ANOTHER REPORTED THE COLLAPSE OF THE FRONT RIGHT WHEEL WHEN MAKING A LEFT TURN CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO SWERVE TO THE RIGHT, AS A RESULT OF WHICH THE VEHICLE ENDED UP IN A DITCH JUST MISSING A COLLISION WITH A TELEPHONE POLE.CHRYSLER LLC., IS CONTINUING TO INVESTIGATE THE CAUSE OF UPPER BALL JOINT SEPARATIONS IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ODI HAS UPGRADED THE INVESTIGATION TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS (EA08-008) TO CONTINUE TO ASSES THE SCOPE, FREQUENCY AND SAFETY CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALLEGED DEFECT.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Suspension

Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint

EA06008 · Front Suspension Ball Joint Separation

Opened May 31, 2006 · Closed Aug 24, 2006

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint

ON JANUARY 6, 2006, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATIONIN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2004 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ODI SENT A LETTER TO THE MANUFACTURER ON FEBRUARY 7, 2006 REQUESTING INFORMATION ABOUT THESE AND OTHER JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.CONSEQUENTLY, THE INVESTIGATION WAS UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS ON MAY 31, 2006 AND THE RANGE OF SUBJECT VEHICLES UNDER INVESTIGATION WAS EXPANDED TO INCLUDE ALL MY 2002-2006 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ODI IS AWARE OF 566 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS ALLEGING INVOLUNTARY FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATION IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ODI IS ALSO AWARE OF ONE NON-INJURY CRASH AND THREE ALLEGED INJURY INCIDENTS (TWO CRASH INCIDENTS AND ONE NON-CRASH INCIDENT) RELATED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT RESULTING IN MINOR INJURIES.THE COMPLAINT COUNTS REPORTED ABOVE ONLY INCLUDE THOSE MY 2002-03 LIBERTY VEHICLES WHERE THE ALLEGED BALL JOINT SEPARATION OCCURRED AFTER PRIOR RECALL REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED (SEE BELOW) OR IF THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRIOR RECALL.THE MANUFACTURER CONDUCTED A PRIOR SAFETY RECALL (03V-460) TO ADDRESS THE SUBJECT ISSUE IN CERTAIN MY 2002-03 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ACCORDING TO DAIMLERCHRYSLER?S NOVEMBER 4, 2003, DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT (SUBMITTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH 49 CFR PART 573), ?THE CONSTANT TENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS MAY EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION WHICH CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR AND POSSIBLY SEPARATION FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE.A CONSTANT TENSION BALL JOINT WHICH HAS SEPARATED FROM THE KNUCKLE MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WITH MINIMAL ADVANCED WARNING.?HOWEVER, EVIDENCE INDICATES THAT SOME VEHICLES SERVICED UNDER RECALL 03V-460 CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE INVOLUNTARY BALL JOINT SEPARATIONS.THE MANUFACTURER HAS MADE NUMEROUS CHANGES IN THE DESIGN, MATERIAL COMPOSITION, MANUFACTURE, QUALITY CONTROL, SUPPLY, AND INSTALLATION OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS SINCE THE PRIOR SAFETY RECALL WAS INITIATED IN AN EFFORT TO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE WITH RESPECT TO SEALING, LUBRICATION, AND JOINT RETENTION CAPABILITY.BY LETTER DATED AUGUST 1, 2006, DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION HAS NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL TO ADDRESS POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS IN APPROXIMATELY 826,687 MODEL YEAR 2002-2006 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 2, 2001 AND MARCH 15, 2006, INCLUDINGALL VEHICLES SUBJECT TO THE PRIOR RECALL.THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER ASSIGNED TO THIS RECALL IS 06V-288 (DAIMLERCHRYSLER RECALL CAMPAIGN F23).DAIMLERCHRYSLER WILL REPLACE BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS WITH IMPROVED COMPONENTS FREE OF CHARGE.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.