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2005 Jeep Liberty

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most Liberty years

Owner complaints for the 2005 Jeep Liberty are substantially higher than the model-year median of 541.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

768 reports with mileage · 350 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.

  • Suspension. Review the 262 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Fuel/propulsion System. Review the 192 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Fuel System, Gasoline. Review the 184 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

73 crash reports27 fire reports42 injury reports

Fuel/propulsion System complaints

192 reports
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90,000 miles · Mar 31, 2013
Fuel/propulsion System

EVERY TIME I FILL THE GAS TANK, IF I LEAVE THE GAS PUMP AUTO FILL LEVER ON THEN GAS WILL SPEW OUT INSTEAD OF THE GAS LEVER STOPPING. AT FIRST, I THOUGHT IT WAS THE LEVER MALFUNCTIONING, BUT AFTER HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM RECUR AT DIFFERENT GAS STATIONS AND PUMPS, I KNEW IT WAS MY VEHICLE. I HAVE NOT HAD IT INSPECTED BUT HAVE FOUN…

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EVERY TIME I FILL THE GAS TANK, IF I LEAVE THE GAS PUMP AUTO FILL LEVER ON THEN GAS WILL SPEW OUT INSTEAD OF THE GAS LEVER STOPPING. AT FIRST, I THOUGHT IT WAS THE LEVER MALFUNCTIONING, BUT AFTER HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM RECUR AT DIFFERENT GAS STATIONS AND PUMPS, I KNEW IT WAS MY VEHICLE. I HAVE NOT HAD IT INSPECTED BUT HAVE FOUND A SIMILAR PROBLEM EXISTS WITH OTHERS OWNING THE SAME VEHICLE MODEL. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY NOT SAFE WHEN GAS POURS OUT ONTO THE VEHICLE, GROUND, AND OPERATOR, AS WELL AS A MALFUNCTION THAT COSTS EXTRA MONEY. I HAVE LEARNED NOT TO PUMP A FULL TANK OF GAS INTO THE TANK AND THUS AVOID THE PROBLEM, BUT I AM CONCERNED THIS PROBLEM COULD CAUSE DECREASED GAS MILEAGE OR OTHER ISSUES WITHIN THE FUELING SYSTEM. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10505158

70,000 miles · Mar 29, 2013
Fuel/propulsion System

IT STARTED BACKING FUEL OUT OF THE FILLER TUBE ALMOST EVERYTIME AS THE FUEL TANK APPROACHED A FULL LEVEL. AT FIRST IT STARTED INTERMITTENTLY BUT LATELY, IT DOES EVERY TIME WHICH RESULTS IN A FUEL SPILL ON THE GROUND, DOWN THE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE, AND ON ME, IF I'M NOT PAYING ATTENTION. IT SEEMS DANGEROUS. THE SAME THING HAPPE…

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IT STARTED BACKING FUEL OUT OF THE FILLER TUBE ALMOST EVERYTIME AS THE FUEL TANK APPROACHED A FULL LEVEL. AT FIRST IT STARTED INTERMITTENTLY BUT LATELY, IT DOES EVERY TIME WHICH RESULTS IN A FUEL SPILL ON THE GROUND, DOWN THE SIDE OF THE VEHICLE, AND ON ME, IF I'M NOT PAYING ATTENTION. IT SEEMS DANGEROUS. THE SAME THING HAPPENED ON MY 07 CHRYSLER ASPEN AND CHRYSLER ANSWERED THE PROBLEM WITH A RECALL AND EXTENDED WARRANTY ON THAT ITEM. IT HAS WORKED PERFECTLY SINCE THEN. I'VE TALKED TO THE DEALER AND THEY DON'T SEEM TO KNOW THE ANSWER...EVEN THOUGH IT SEEMS LIKELY TO ME THAT IT IS THE SAME PROBLEM AS THE CHRYSLER (MAYBE THE SAME SYSTEM AS THE CHRYSLER). IF THEY SEEMED MORE POSITIVE ABOUT THE REPAIR, I WOULD PAY TO HAVE IT FIXED. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10504908

105,000 miles · Mar 20, 2013
Fuel/propulsion System

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN REFUELING THE VEHICLE, FUEL SPILLED OUT OF THE FILLER NECK VALVE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE FUEL TANK WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIR…

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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN REFUELING THE VEHICLE, FUEL SPILLED OUT OF THE FILLER NECK VALVE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE FUEL TANK WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,000. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10503747

100,000 miles · Mar 11, 2013
Fuel/propulsion System

THE VEHICLE WAS BEING FILLED WITH FUEL FROM A STANDARD FUEL PUMP EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF SENSOR. WHEN THE FUEL TANK BECAME FULL, THE SENSOR WAS NOT TRIGGERED, RESULTING IN FUEL SPRAYING FROM THE FUEL TANK, COVERING THE SIDE PANEL OF THE VEHICLE, THE GROUND, AS WELL AS THE PERSON FUELING THE VEHICLE. THIS ISSUE HAS BEE…

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THE VEHICLE WAS BEING FILLED WITH FUEL FROM A STANDARD FUEL PUMP EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF SENSOR. WHEN THE FUEL TANK BECAME FULL, THE SENSOR WAS NOT TRIGGERED, RESULTING IN FUEL SPRAYING FROM THE FUEL TANK, COVERING THE SIDE PANEL OF THE VEHICLE, THE GROUND, AS WELL AS THE PERSON FUELING THE VEHICLE. THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN RECURRING 100% OF THE TIME WHEN THE VEHICLE IS FILLED USING AN AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF PUMP. DIFFERENT GAS STATIONS HAVE BEEN USED WITH THE SAME RESULTS. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A SAFETY HAZARD CONSIDERING THAT THE PERSON FILLING THE TANK AND THE CAR ARE BECOMING SOAKED IN FUEL, AND AN ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE DUE TO THE AMOUNT OF FUEL BEING SPILLED ONTO THE GROUND. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10502323

53,000 miles · Feb 11, 2013
Fuel/propulsion System

THE VEHICLE WAS BEING FILLED WITH FUEL FROM A STANDARD FUEL PUMP EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF SENSOR. WHEN THE FUEL TANK BECAME FULL, THE SENSOR WAS NOT TRIGGERED, RESULTING IN FUEL SPRAYING FROM THE FUEL TANK, COVERING THE SIDE PANEL OF THE VEHICLE, THE GROUND, AS WELL AS THE PERSON FUELING THE VEHICLE. THIS ISSUE HAS BEE…

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THE VEHICLE WAS BEING FILLED WITH FUEL FROM A STANDARD FUEL PUMP EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF SENSOR. WHEN THE FUEL TANK BECAME FULL, THE SENSOR WAS NOT TRIGGERED, RESULTING IN FUEL SPRAYING FROM THE FUEL TANK, COVERING THE SIDE PANEL OF THE VEHICLE, THE GROUND, AS WELL AS THE PERSON FUELING THE VEHICLE. THIS ISSUE HAS BEEN RECURRING 100% OF THE TIME WHEN THE VEHICLE IS FILLED USING AN AUTOMATIC SHUTOFF PUMP. DIFFERENT GAS STATIONS HAVE BEEN USED WITH THE SAME RESULTS. THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A SAFETY HAZARD CONSIDERING THAT THE PERSON FILLING THE TANK AND THE CAR ARE BECOMING SOAKED IN FUEL, AND AN ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUE DUE TO THE AMOUNT OF FUEL BEING SPILLED ONTO THE GROUND. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10497815

62,805 miles · Feb 10, 2013
Fuel/propulsion System

GAS TANK "BURPS" OUT GAS ALL OVER THE SIDE OF MY CAR AND ONTO THE GROUND AS SOON AS THE GAS PUMP CLICKS OFF. HAS LANDED ON MY FEET A FEW TIMES. IT'S DANGEROUS AND THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL. I'VE SEEN SO MANY PEOPLE WITH THE SAME ISSUES. NOT ACCEPTABLE. IT'S A SAFETY ISSUE AND IT'S HAPPENING TO THOUSANDS OF JEEP DRIVERS. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10497655

35,000 miles · Jan 28, 2013
Fuel/propulsion System

INCREASINGLY, GAS PUMP AUTO SHUT OFFS FAIL. AT THIS POINT, 100% OF THE TIME, THE GAS PUMP AUTO SHUTOFF FAILS, SPILLING SEVERAL OUNCES OF FUEL ON TO THE VEHICLE SIDE AND THE GROUND BENEATH IT. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10495011

77,000 miles · Nov 30, 2012
Fuel/propulsion System

JUST LIKE MANY OTHER JEEP LIBERTIES, FUEL SPEWS OUT, WHEN I AM FILLING THE TANK UP. IT DOES NOT MATTER WHICH STATION, OR BRAND THAT I USE. THE PUMP SHUTS OF, FOLLOWED BY ABOUT 1/4 TO 1/2 GALLON OF FUEL COMING BACK OUT. THIS IS DANGEROUS TO THE ENVIRONMENT, THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE, AND TO ME. I HAD THE PROBLEM DIAGNOSED AT A …

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JUST LIKE MANY OTHER JEEP LIBERTIES, FUEL SPEWS OUT, WHEN I AM FILLING THE TANK UP. IT DOES NOT MATTER WHICH STATION, OR BRAND THAT I USE. THE PUMP SHUTS OF, FOLLOWED BY ABOUT 1/4 TO 1/2 GALLON OF FUEL COMING BACK OUT. THIS IS DANGEROUS TO THE ENVIRONMENT, THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE, AND TO ME. I HAD THE PROBLEM DIAGNOSED AT A LOCAL CHRYSLER DEALERSHIP AS THE VEHICLE NEEDING A NEW FUEL TANK. I CONTACTED CHRYSLER THIS MORNING, AND THEY SAID SINCE THERE ISN'T A RECALL, THEY WOULD NOT DO ANYTHING TO HELP ME OUT. SINCE THIS IS OBVIOUSLY A MANUFACTURING DEFECT, SINCE SO MANY PEOPLE HAVE THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM, CHRYSLER SHOULD BE FIXING THIS PROBLEM, AT THEIR EXPENSE! I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY TO FIX CHRYSLER'S MISTAKES. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10486521

Mileage unknown · Nov 27, 2012
Fuel/propulsion System

EVERY TIME I FILL UP MY GAS TANK, IT OVERFLOWS. I PUT ON THE LOCK AND THEN IT PUMPS UNTIL IT OVERFLOWS. GAS THEN DRIPS DOWN THE SIDE OF MY CAR AND ONTO THE GROUND, CREATING A FIRE HAZARD. ONCE THIS HAPPENS, I THEN CAN SMELL THE GAS FUMES INSIDE MY CAR AS WELL. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10486169

60,000 miles · Nov 24, 2012
Fuel/propulsion System

UPON NORMALLY FUELING VEHICLE, GAS WILL EXPEL FROM FILL TUBE WHEN TANK IS NEAR FULL. THIS CAUSES A SERIOUS AND POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS OUTFLOW OF GASOLINE ONTO PUMP OPERATOR, VEHICLE AND PAVEMENT. GASOLINE HAS ALREADY DAMAGED PAINT FINISH ON VEHICLE. ESTIMATED ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD OF 1 PINT PER FILL-UP OR APPROXIMATELY 100 PINT…

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UPON NORMALLY FUELING VEHICLE, GAS WILL EXPEL FROM FILL TUBE WHEN TANK IS NEAR FULL. THIS CAUSES A SERIOUS AND POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS OUTFLOW OF GASOLINE ONTO PUMP OPERATOR, VEHICLE AND PAVEMENT. GASOLINE HAS ALREADY DAMAGED PAINT FINISH ON VEHICLE. ESTIMATED ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD OF 1 PINT PER FILL-UP OR APPROXIMATELY 100 PINTS PER YEAR. DEALER CHARGED $105 TO TEST FOR CONDITION AND IT WAS DETERMINED THAT FUEL SYSTEM SPILLAGE IS CAUSED BY DEFECTIVE FILLER TUBE AND VAPOR TUBE. REPAIR COST ESTIMATED AT $640 PARTS AND LABOR. VEHICLE MANUFACTURER MUST BE RESPONSIBLE FOR DEFECTIVE VEHICLE SYSTEM AND NOT VEHICLE OWNER. THIS IS NOT A MAINTENANCE ITEM, NOR WAS IT CAUSED BY MIS-USE. THIS VEHICLE DEFECT HAS SERIOUS SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS AND THIS CONDITION HAS BEEN NOTED, CAMPAIGNED AND RECALLED PREVIOUSLY ON MANY OTHER CHRYSLER VEHICLES. REQUEST THAT VEHICLE OEM PAY TO REPLACE DEFECTIVE PARTS TO AVOID ANY FURTHER CONTAMINATION TO THE ENVIRONMENT, AVOID FURTHER VEHICLE DAMAGE AND ELIMINATE ON-GOING RISKS TO PERSONS. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10485903

Official recalls

5

18V278000 · Suspension:rear

May 1, 2018

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2004-2007 Jeep Liberty vehicles. The rear suspension lower control arms can fracture due to excessive corrosion, causing a loss of vehicle control.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A fractured control arm can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear lower control arms, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U38. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 12V-085. Vehicles included in that campaign are not included in this recall.

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

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: 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

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: 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).

12V085000 · Suspension:rear

Mar 5, 2012

IN JUNE 2012, CHRYSLER EXPANDED THIS RECALL TO INCLUDE MODEL YEAR 2006 AND 2007 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES, REPRESENTING AN ADDITIONAL 137,176 VEHICLES. THIS RECALL NOW CONCERNS CERTAIN MY 2004-2007 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES. THE TOTAL NUMBER VEHICLES BEING RECALLED IS NOW 346,900. THESE VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 3, 2003 THROUGH JUNE 29, 2007. THE RECALL ADDRESSES THOSE VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, 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. SOME VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH REAR LOWER CONTROL ARMS THAT CAN EXPERIENCE A REAR SUSPENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM FRACTURE DUE TO EXCESSIVE CORROSION DUE TO APPLICATION OF ROAD SALTS DURING WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A FRACTURE OF THE REAR LOWER CONTROL ARM MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND MAY LEAD TO A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy: CHRYSLER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR LOWER CONTROL ARMS ON ALL AFFECTED VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, 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, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 26, 2012. 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.

05V460000 · Power Train:automatic Transmission

Oct 6, 2005

ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 42RLE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, THE CUP PLUG THAT RETAINS THE PARK PAWL ANCHOR SHAFT MAY BE IMPROPERLY INSTALLED. IF THE SHAFT MOVES OUT OF POSITION, THE VEHICLE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO ACHIEVE 'PARK' POSITION.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS AND THE PARKING BRAKE IS NOT APPLIED, THE VEHICLE MAY ROLL AWAY AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TRANSMISSIONS AND INSTALL A BRACKET TO ENSURE THE PARK PAWL ANCHOR SHAFT IS RETAINED IN THE PROPER POSITION. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 28, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

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

5

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

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

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage

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

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly

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

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

EA11013 · Rear Suspension Control Arm Failure

Opened Sep 15, 2011 · Closed Mar 14, 2012

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

In a letter dated March 2, 2012 Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA recall No. 12V-085) to the NHTSA identifying a safety defect regarding rear suspension lower control arm corrosion in approximately 210,000 model year (MY) 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles, originally sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state (Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia).According to Chrysler, excessive corrosion could result in fracture of a rear suspension lower control arm which may result in a loss vehicle control.In analysis of both Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) data submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) and consumer complaint data submitted to Chrysler, ODI identified 54 non-duplicative reports alleging failure of one or both rear lower control arms due to excessive corrosion.Thirteen of these complaints allege that the failure resulted in some loss of vehicle control.For purposes of this analysis, loss of control events involve alleged complete or partial departure from the intended lane of travel.An additional 11 complaints reported difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle when the rear lower control arm failed.All of the complainant vehicles were either originally sold or registered at the time of the incident in a Salt-belt state.ODI did not identify any reports (complaints or warranty claims) related to rear lower control failure due to excessive corrosion in the approximately 138,000 MY 2004 and 2005 Liberty vehicles that are not included in this recall (i.e., not sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state).In Chrysler?s Defect Information Report, Chrysler stated that during the investigation a field survey of MY 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles was conducted.In total, Chrysler is aware of 83 incidents alleging rear control arm fracture (including complaints and field study results).Based on Chrysler?s decision to conduct a safety recall this investigation is closed. The associated VOQs are: 10449912, 10448981, 10448406, 10448119, 10447069,10446737, 10445029, 10443863, 10443222, 10441248, 10438681, 10437308, 10436416, 10436231, 10436024, 10434927, 10434157, 10433963, 10430852, 10429346, 10428006, 10427087, 10426644, 10426393, 10419094, 10417697, 10416623, 10410148, 10409668, 10402048, 10397413, 10392160, 10388448, 10365118, 10360057, 10360049, 10345985

Additional source detail variants (2)

Suspension

In a letter dated March 2, 2012 Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA recall No. 12V-085) to the NHTSA identifying a safety defect regarding rear suspension lower control arm corrosion in approximately 210,000 model year (MY) 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles, originally sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state (Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia).According to Chrysler, excessive corrosion could result in fracture of a rear suspension lower control arm which may result in a loss vehicle control.In analysis of both Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) data submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) and consumer complaint data submitted to Chrysler, ODI identified 54 non-duplicative reports alleging failure of one or both rear lower control arms due to excessive corrosion.Thirteen of these complaints allege that the failure resulted in some loss of vehicle control.For purposes of this analysis, loss of control events involve alleged complete or partial departure from the intended lane of travel.An additional 11 complaints reported difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle when the rear lower control arm failed.All of the complainant vehicles were either originally sold or registered at the time of the incident in a Salt-belt state.ODI did not identify any reports (complaints or warranty claims) related to rear lower control failure due to excessive corrosion in the approximately 138,000 MY 2004 and 2005 Liberty vehicles that are not included in this recall (i.e., not sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state).In Chrysler?s Defect Information Report, Chrysler stated that during the investigation a field survey of MY 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles was conducted.In total, Chrysler is aware of 83 incidents alleging rear control arm fracture (including complaints and field study results).Based on Chrysler?s decision to conduct a safety recall this investigation is closed. The associated VOQs are: 10449912, 10448981, 10448406, 10448119, 10447069,10446737, 10445029, 10443863, 10443222, 10441248, 10438681, 10437308, 10436416, 10436231, 10436024, 10434927, 10434157, 10433963, 10430852, 10429346, 10428006, 10427087, 10426644, 10426393, 10419094, 10417697, 10416623, 10410148, 10409668, 10402048, 10397413, 10392160, 10388448, 10365118, 10360057, 10360049, 10345985

Suspension:rear

In a letter dated March 2, 2012 Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA recall No. 12V-085) to the NHTSA identifying a safety defect regarding rear suspension lower control arm corrosion in approximately 210,000 model year (MY) 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles, originally sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state (Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia).According to Chrysler, excessive corrosion could result in fracture of a rear suspension lower control arm which may result in a loss vehicle control.In analysis of both Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) data submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) and consumer complaint data submitted to Chrysler, ODI identified 54 non-duplicative reports alleging failure of one or both rear lower control arms due to excessive corrosion.Thirteen of these complaints allege that the failure resulted in some loss of vehicle control.For purposes of this analysis, loss of control events involve alleged complete or partial departure from the intended lane of travel.An additional 11 complaints reported difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle when the rear lower control arm failed.All of the complainant vehicles were either originally sold or registered at the time of the incident in a Salt-belt state.ODI did not identify any reports (complaints or warranty claims) related to rear lower control failure due to excessive corrosion in the approximately 138,000 MY 2004 and 2005 Liberty vehicles that are not included in this recall (i.e., not sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state).In Chrysler?s Defect Information Report, Chrysler stated that during the investigation a field survey of MY 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles was conducted.In total, Chrysler is aware of 83 incidents alleging rear control arm fracture (including complaints and field study results).Based on Chrysler?s decision to conduct a safety recall this investigation is closed. The associated VOQs are: 10449912, 10448981, 10448406, 10448119, 10447069,10446737, 10445029, 10443863, 10443222, 10441248, 10438681, 10437308, 10436416, 10436231, 10436024, 10434927, 10434157, 10433963, 10430852, 10429346, 10428006, 10427087, 10426644, 10426393, 10419094, 10417697, 10416623, 10410148, 10409668, 10402048, 10397413, 10392160, 10388448, 10365118, 10360057, 10360049, 10345985

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.

PE07041 · Diesel Fuel Leak

Opened Aug 8, 2007 · Closed Dec 7, 2007

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Diesel; Fuel System, Diesel: PRE-HEATER

OVERHEATING OF THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR AT THE FUEL HEATER ON THE FUEL FILTER / WATER SEPARATOR ASSEMBLY CAN CAUSE A FUEL LEAK THROUGH THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION.OPERATORS REPORT THE SMELL OF DIESEL FUEL, SMOKE, DIFFICULTY STARTING AND/OR POOR ENGINE OPERATION.THE FUEL LEAKAGE IS REPORTED BY SOME OPERATORS AS SEEPAGE, WETNESS, SEVERAL DROPS, AND AN OZ PER MINUTE.EVIDENCE OF OVERHEATING OF THE CONNECTION WAS OBSERVED BY SOME OPERATORS AND REPORTED AS BURNED OR DISCOLORED ELECTRICAL CONNECTION AT THE FUEL HEATER.SEVEN OPERATORS REPORT SMELLING OR SEEING SMOKE.ONE REPORTED A VEHICLE ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE HOWEVER THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE WAS NOT IDENTIFIED, AND LINKAGE OF THE FIRE CAUSE TO THIS ISSUE IS NOT LIKELY TO BE ESTABLISHED.THE LOCATION OF THE FUEL FILTER / WATER SEPARATOR ASSEMBLY IS NOT NEAR THE LOCATION OF THE TURBO CHARGER WHICH IS LOCATED ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THE ENGINE.THE TURBO CHARGER WOULD PRESENT A POTENTIALLY HOT SURFACE HOWEVER DUE TO THE LAYOUT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND ITS COMPONENTS, DIESEL FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION WOULD NOT LIKELY MIGRATE TO THE TURBO CHARGER.AT THIS TIME, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AND THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Fuel System, Diesel

OVERHEATING OF THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR AT THE FUEL HEATER ON THE FUEL FILTER / WATER SEPARATOR ASSEMBLY CAN CAUSE A FUEL LEAK THROUGH THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION.OPERATORS REPORT THE SMELL OF DIESEL FUEL, SMOKE, DIFFICULTY STARTING AND/OR POOR ENGINE OPERATION.THE FUEL LEAKAGE IS REPORTED BY SOME OPERATORS AS SEEPAGE, WETNESS, SEVERAL DROPS, AND AN OZ PER MINUTE.EVIDENCE OF OVERHEATING OF THE CONNECTION WAS OBSERVED BY SOME OPERATORS AND REPORTED AS BURNED OR DISCOLORED ELECTRICAL CONNECTION AT THE FUEL HEATER.SEVEN OPERATORS REPORT SMELLING OR SEEING SMOKE.ONE REPORTED A VEHICLE ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE HOWEVER THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE WAS NOT IDENTIFIED, AND LINKAGE OF THE FIRE CAUSE TO THIS ISSUE IS NOT LIKELY TO BE ESTABLISHED.THE LOCATION OF THE FUEL FILTER / WATER SEPARATOR ASSEMBLY IS NOT NEAR THE LOCATION OF THE TURBO CHARGER WHICH IS LOCATED ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THE ENGINE.THE TURBO CHARGER WOULD PRESENT A POTENTIALLY HOT SURFACE HOWEVER DUE TO THE LAYOUT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND ITS COMPONENTS, DIESEL FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION WOULD NOT LIKELY MIGRATE TO THE TURBO CHARGER.AT THIS TIME, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AND THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.

Fuel System, Diesel: PRE-HEATER

OVERHEATING OF THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR AT THE FUEL HEATER ON THE FUEL FILTER / WATER SEPARATOR ASSEMBLY CAN CAUSE A FUEL LEAK THROUGH THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION.OPERATORS REPORT THE SMELL OF DIESEL FUEL, SMOKE, DIFFICULTY STARTING AND/OR POOR ENGINE OPERATION.THE FUEL LEAKAGE IS REPORTED BY SOME OPERATORS AS SEEPAGE, WETNESS, SEVERAL DROPS, AND AN OZ PER MINUTE.EVIDENCE OF OVERHEATING OF THE CONNECTION WAS OBSERVED BY SOME OPERATORS AND REPORTED AS BURNED OR DISCOLORED ELECTRICAL CONNECTION AT THE FUEL HEATER.SEVEN OPERATORS REPORT SMELLING OR SEEING SMOKE.ONE REPORTED A VEHICLE ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE HOWEVER THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE WAS NOT IDENTIFIED, AND LINKAGE OF THE FIRE CAUSE TO THIS ISSUE IS NOT LIKELY TO BE ESTABLISHED.THE LOCATION OF THE FUEL FILTER / WATER SEPARATOR ASSEMBLY IS NOT NEAR THE LOCATION OF THE TURBO CHARGER WHICH IS LOCATED ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THE ENGINE.THE TURBO CHARGER WOULD PRESENT A POTENTIALLY HOT SURFACE HOWEVER DUE TO THE LAYOUT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND ITS COMPONENTS, DIESEL FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION WOULD NOT LIKELY MIGRATE TO THE TURBO CHARGER.AT THIS TIME, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AND THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.

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.