NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Steering complaints
1,115 reportsClear category filter12,500 miles · Sep 29, 2019
Electrical SystemSteeringStructure
STEERING WONDERS AND IS UNRESPONSIVE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS REQUIRING CONSTANT CORRECTION. THIS PROBLEM HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE DAMPER OR TRACK BAR, AS I HAVE HAD THESE REPLACED, YET THE PROBLEM PERSISTS (9/29/2019). I ALSO, HAD THE BCM BODY CONTROL MODULE FAIL (7/11/2019) WHILE IN MOTION WHICH CAUSED THE STEERING TO LOCKUP AND TH…
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STEERING WONDERS AND IS UNRESPONSIVE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS REQUIRING CONSTANT CORRECTION. THIS PROBLEM HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE DAMPER OR TRACK BAR, AS I HAVE HAD THESE REPLACED, YET THE PROBLEM PERSISTS (9/29/2019). I ALSO, HAD THE BCM BODY CONTROL MODULE FAIL (7/11/2019) WHILE IN MOTION WHICH CAUSED THE STEERING TO LOCKUP AND THE JEEP NOT RESPOND (THANKFULLY THIS WAS A LOW SPEED INCIDENT).
NHTSA ODI #11258906
150 miles · Sep 29, 2019
SteeringUnknown Or Other
I PURCHASED MY 'NEW' 2018 JL JEEP WRANGLER/RUBICON LESS THAN ONE MONTH AGO. IT HAS UNDER 1400 MILES ON IT AND I HAVE HAD TO GET OUT AND CHECK MY TIRES NUMEROUS TIMES THINKING ONE WAS FLAT BECAUSE IT WAS PULLING TO ONE SIDE. IT IS VERY HARD TO CONTROL AND IT LOOKS LIKE I AM INTOXICATED WHILE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE. IT LOOKS LIKE ON…
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I PURCHASED MY 'NEW' 2018 JL JEEP WRANGLER/RUBICON LESS THAN ONE MONTH AGO. IT HAS UNDER 1400 MILES ON IT AND I HAVE HAD TO GET OUT AND CHECK MY TIRES NUMEROUS TIMES THINKING ONE WAS FLAT BECAUSE IT WAS PULLING TO ONE SIDE. IT IS VERY HARD TO CONTROL AND IT LOOKS LIKE I AM INTOXICATED WHILE DRIVING THIS VEHICLE. IT LOOKS LIKE ONE RECALL ON THE STEERING DAMPER WAS REPLACED BEFORE THE PURCHASE, BUT NOT EVEN SURE IF IT WAS REALLY REPLACED. THE LEFT REAR SHOCK WAS LEAKING AND SUPPOSABLY REPLACED TOO. UNDER WARRANTY OF COURSE. I WILL BE CONTACTING A CHRYSLER DEALERSHIP TOMORROW AND CALLING JEEP. I WANT THEM TO CHECK THE ALIGNMENT, STEERING AND MAKE SURE THE RECALL WAS COMPLETED PROPERLY. I WILL BE TAKING IT TO A DIFFERENT DEALERSHIP THAN THE ONE THAT I PURCHASED IT FROM. I AM DEVASTATED AND WORRIED ABOUT MY SAFETY, MY FAMILY'S SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF OTHERS ON THE RODE. CHRYSLER NEEDS TO ADDRESS THIS ISSUE. I WILL ALSO BE HAVING A SPECIALIST CHECKING THE WELDS AS WELL AFTER READING THROUGH THESE COMPLAINTS. WITH WINTER ON ITS WAY, I WILL HAVE NO CHOICE BUT TO DRIVE IT. IT WILL BE SCARY ON TREACHEROUS WINTER ROADS. I ALSO WAS DRIVING AN AVG OF 68 ON A TWO LANE HIGHWAY AND WENT OVER A SMALL SMOOTH BUMP IN THE ROAD... THE KIND THAT MAKES YOUR STOMACH TICKLE.... I ABOUT LOST CONTROL. IT IS SO HARD TO KEEP IN YOUR DRIVING LANE. I HAVE DROVE A JEEP SINCE 2010 AND ALWAYS SAID I WOULDN'T BUY ANYTHING ELSE. I REALLY HOPE CHRYSLER WILL TAKE CARE OF THEIR JEEP FAMILY AND FIX THIS PROBLEM. MAKES ME SICK TO THINK I JUST SPENT $43000 ON A VEHICLE I SHOULDN'T DRIVE. THE PREMIUM AUDIO IS ALSO 'NOT PREMIUM'.... AWFUL. VARIOUS SPEEDS, VARIOUS MILEAGE AT TIME OF EVENTS- NOTICE RIGHT AWAY AFTER PURCHASE, HOWEVER THOUGHT I JUST NEEDED TO GET USE TO DRIVING A NEW VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI #11258904
10 miles · Sep 29, 2019
Electronic Stability Control (esc)SteeringVehicle Speed Control
HAVE HAD THE JEEP FOR ONLY 3 WEEKS NOW AND ON THE SECOND WEEK THE "ENGINE LIGHT" TURNED ON, TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD IT WAS DUE TO NOT CLOSING TIGHT THE GAS CAP TIGHT WHEN I PUT GAS BUT THE THING IS THAT "I" HAD NOT EVEN FUELED IT BECAUSE I DID NOT HAVE THE JEEP LONG ENOUGH TO NEED TO FUEL IT UP. THE "SESPENSION",…
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HAVE HAD THE JEEP FOR ONLY 3 WEEKS NOW AND ON THE SECOND WEEK THE "ENGINE LIGHT" TURNED ON, TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD IT WAS DUE TO NOT CLOSING TIGHT THE GAS CAP TIGHT WHEN I PUT GAS BUT THE THING IS THAT "I" HAD NOT EVEN FUELED IT BECAUSE I DID NOT HAVE THE JEEP LONG ENOUGH TO NEED TO FUEL IT UP. THE "SESPENSION", STEERING IS VERY WOBBLY TO AND FROM ANY WHERE I DRIVE IT IN TOWN OR CITY AND MORE SO WHEN I DRIVE IT ON THE FREEWAY, IT IS A TASK AND SRUGGLE; ARMS AND HANDS ARE SORE AFTER I GET HOME FOR ME TO TRY TO KEEP IT STEADY , IF I DO NOT STAY FOCUS AND HOLD TIGHT ONTO THE STEERING WHEEL WHEN DRIVING IT , THE JEEP WILL GO ON EITHER TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT. I HAVE TO BE VERY EXTRA FOCUSED AND CAREFUL WHEN CHANGING LANES AS THE MANOUVER WHEN DOING SO OR STREERING TO DRIVE/CHANGING LANES IS NOT PLEASANT NOR STEADY BUT WOBBLY AND IF I DO NOT HOLD ON TIGHT TO THE STEERING WHEEL, THE JEEP WILL GO OFF THE ROAD. THE "BREAKS", WHEN I BREAK, THE JEEP IS LATE IN STOPING, I HAVE TO CALCULATE TO BREAK WAY AHEAD IN ORDER NOT TO HIT THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME ALSO WHEN STARTING BACK UP FROM MY FOOT ON THE BREAK, IT DOES NOT TAKE OFF AS SOON AS I LET OFF THE BREAK AS I EXPEXT IT TO BUT JERKS INSTEAD TAKING TIME TO DRIVE ON AND MOVE. ALSO WHEN TURNING TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT, THE SUSPENSION FEELS LIKE THE STREET OR ROAD IS REALLY BUMPY WHEN ITS NOT. REGRET BUYING A JEEP.
NHTSA ODI #11258784
14,000 miles · Sep 28, 2019
Steering
I HAVE BROUGHT MY 2018 JL WRANGLER IN FOR SPEED WOBBLES 4X. WHILE I WOULD CONSIDER MY PREVIOUS EXPERIENCES WITH THIS ISSUE MINOR, WHAT I EXPERIENCED ON 9/27/2019 WAS ENTIRELY DIFFERENT. I WAS ALMOST IN AN ACCIDENT ON THE HIGHWAY BECAUSE WHEN I HIT A BUMP AT APPROXIMATELY 80 MPH THE JEEP STARTED SHAKING UNCONTROLLABLY. THE ONLY…
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I HAVE BROUGHT MY 2018 JL WRANGLER IN FOR SPEED WOBBLES 4X. WHILE I WOULD CONSIDER MY PREVIOUS EXPERIENCES WITH THIS ISSUE MINOR, WHAT I EXPERIENCED ON 9/27/2019 WAS ENTIRELY DIFFERENT. I WAS ALMOST IN AN ACCIDENT ON THE HIGHWAY BECAUSE WHEN I HIT A BUMP AT APPROXIMATELY 80 MPH THE JEEP STARTED SHAKING UNCONTROLLABLY. THE ONLY WAY I COULD GET IT TO STOP WAS TO RAPIDLY DECELERATE TO APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH. THERE WAS NO BREAKDOWN LANE IN THE FAST LANE, SO I HAD TO SKIRT ACROSS 3 LANES OF TRAFFIC. A TRUCK SLAMMED ON ITS BREAKS BEHIND ME. I AM VERY LUCKY TO HAVE AVOIDED A MAJOR ACCIDENT. IT IS IRRESPONSIBLE TO CALL THIS A SAFE CAR TOR DRIVE. I CALLED JEEP AND THEY OPTED ME INTO A "RECALL" CAMPAIGN THAT I KNEW NOTHING ABOUT. THIS RECALL SHOULD BE IMMEDIATE AND URGENT. THIS IS NOT A CUSTOMER SATISFACTION ISSUE. THIS PROBLEM HAS GOTTEN WORSE, THIS IS NOW MY 3RD STEERING DAMPENER. I HAVE DRIVEN JEEPS FOR MANY YEARS AND NEVER EXPERIENCED ANYTHING LIKE THIS IN MY LIFE. PLEASE DO SOMETHING BEFORE PEOPLE GET KILLED. I CALLED JEEP AND FILED A COMPLAINT, BUT NOBODY SEEMS TO BE TAKING THIS SERIOUSLY. THE ANSWER WAS THAT I WOULD BE "OPT-ED" IN TO THE RECALL. IF THERE ARE ANY JEEPS OUT THERE WITH THE OLD DAMPENER THEY NEED TO BE REPLACED NOW. MY CAR IS COMPLETELY STOCK HAS NOT BEEN MODIFIED IN ANY WAY.
NHTSA ODI #11258680
1,041 miles · Sep 27, 2019
Steering
VEHICLE WILL NOT STAY IN LANE. CONSTANT DRIFTING TO LEFT OR RIGHT REQUIRING STEERING CORRECTIONS TO BE MADE IN ORDER TO STAY IN LANE. CONSTANT PROBLEM REGARDLESS OF SPEED, ROAD CONDITIONS OR WEATHER HAVE HAD DEALER REVIEW 5 TIMES AND HAVE NUMEROUS VIDEOS DEPICTING THIS ISSUE
NHTSA ODI #11258480
80 miles · Sep 26, 2019
Steering
OVER 50 MPH VERY DIFFICULT TO KEEP IN LANE -- WANDERING ISSUE + DEAD ZONE IN STEERING. HAD TO INSTALL AFTERMARKET PARTS TO HELP CORRECT WANDERING TO BE ABLE TO DRIVE IT ON THE HIGHWAY. BETTER NOW BUT STILL HAD DEAD ZONE "SLOP" IN STEERING WHEEL. THE BUILD QUALITY IS SO POOR THAT THE TORQUE SPECS HAD TO BE CHECKED AND THE ALIGNME…
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OVER 50 MPH VERY DIFFICULT TO KEEP IN LANE -- WANDERING ISSUE + DEAD ZONE IN STEERING. HAD TO INSTALL AFTERMARKET PARTS TO HELP CORRECT WANDERING TO BE ABLE TO DRIVE IT ON THE HIGHWAY. BETTER NOW BUT STILL HAD DEAD ZONE "SLOP" IN STEERING WHEEL. THE BUILD QUALITY IS SO POOR THAT THE TORQUE SPECS HAD TO BE CHECKED AND THE ALIGNMENT WAS WAY OFF FROM FACTORY. I HAVE HAD MANY NEW VEHICLES OVER THE YEARS AND THIS IS THE CHEAPEST MADE AND HAS THE WORST QUALITY OF ALL! THESE NEW JL JEEPS HAVE A REAL PROBLEM WITH BEING ABLE TO KEEP THEM DRIVING STRAIGHT OVER 50 MPH. I HAVE HAD OTHER JEEPS TJ, XJ, JK AND NONE ARE THIS BAD. CHECK THE WRANGLER JL FORUMS AND SEE THE THOUSANDS OF COMPLAINTS ON THE STEERING. ADDITIONALLY JEEP HAD A RECALL ON THE STEERING STABILIZER AND THE DEALER INSTALLED IT UPSIDE DOWN. TOLD THEM IT WAS WRONG AND THEY WERE UNHAPPY WITH ME BECAUSE I POINTED IT OUT. THIS WAS AFTER I TOLD THE SERVICE ADVISOR THAT IT NEEDED TO BE INSTALLED IN THE PROPER DIRECTION AND ALL HE SAID WAS WE KNOW WHAT WE ARE DOING , WE DO THAIS ALL THE TIME. TOTAL INCOMPETENCE FROM THE FACTORY TO THE DEALERS. PICKED THIS 2018 UP EARLY JULY 2019 AND NOTICED THE PROBLEM ON THE WAY HOME.
NHTSA ODI #11258354
11,000 miles · Sep 26, 2019
Steering
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 JEEP WRANGLER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THERE WAS A LOT OF PLAY IN THE STEERING WHEEL. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. CROSS CHRYSLER JEEP FIAT (1501 GARDINER LN, LOUISVILLE, KY 40218) REPAIRED THE VEHICLE PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V343000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRE…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 JEEP WRANGLER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THERE WAS A LOT OF PLAY IN THE STEERING WHEEL. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. CROSS CHRYSLER JEEP FIAT (1501 GARDINER LN, LOUISVILLE, KY 40218) REPAIRED THE VEHICLE PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V343000 (STEERING); HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED ABOUT THE RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 11,000.
NHTSA ODI #11258274
16,000 miles · Sep 26, 2019
Steering
WHEN DRIVING AT A HIGHWAY SPEEDS OF 70-80 MPH AND HITTING A BUMP THE JEEP GOES INTO CONVULSIONS "DEATH WOBBLE" TO THE POINT WE HAVE TO PULL OFF THE SIDE OF THE ROAD BECAUSE WE ARE SO SCARED, THIS HAS HAPPENED TO US SEVERAL TIMES SINCE OWNING IT. WE DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS 2018 JEEP WRANGLER JL. JEEP DOES HAVE A RECALL FOR …
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WHEN DRIVING AT A HIGHWAY SPEEDS OF 70-80 MPH AND HITTING A BUMP THE JEEP GOES INTO CONVULSIONS "DEATH WOBBLE" TO THE POINT WE HAVE TO PULL OFF THE SIDE OF THE ROAD BECAUSE WE ARE SO SCARED, THIS HAS HAPPENED TO US SEVERAL TIMES SINCE OWNING IT. WE DON'T FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS 2018 JEEP WRANGLER JL. JEEP DOES HAVE A RECALL FOR THE STEERING DAMPER BUT I DON'T FEEL THIS WILL FIX THE ISSUE AS WE ALREADY HAD THIS REPLACED ONCE. THE OTHER ISSUE IS THAT THE STEERING WANDERS AT ANY SPEED, ALWAYS HAVING TO RE-CORRECT THE STEERING, MAKING IT VERY DIFFICULT TO DRIVE AND SEEMINGLY UNSAFE.
NHTSA ODI #11258260
1,538 miles · Sep 25, 2019
Steering
REPORTED FRIGHTENING VIBRATION WITH LOSS OF VEHICLE STEERING CONTROL WHILE TRAVELING H AT HIGH SPEEDS ON THE HIGHWAY IF THE CAR DRIVES OVER UNEVEN GROUND OR POT HOLES. REPORTED THE ISSUE TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY REFERRED TO IT AS A KNOWN ISSUE CALLED 'DEATH WOBBLE'. THEY REPAIRED THE DAMPER PER RECALL HOWEVER I AM NOW EXPERIENCI…
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REPORTED FRIGHTENING VIBRATION WITH LOSS OF VEHICLE STEERING CONTROL WHILE TRAVELING H AT HIGH SPEEDS ON THE HIGHWAY IF THE CAR DRIVES OVER UNEVEN GROUND OR POT HOLES. REPORTED THE ISSUE TO THE DEALERSHIP THEY REFERRED TO IT AS A KNOWN ISSUE CALLED 'DEATH WOBBLE'. THEY REPAIRED THE DAMPER PER RECALL HOWEVER I AM NOW EXPERIENCING THE ISSUE AGAIN AND SEEMS TO BE GETTING WORSE. CERTAINLY A SEVERE SAFETY ISSUE.
NHTSA ODI #11258143
12,500 miles · Sep 25, 2019
SteeringSuspension
I NEVER LIKED HOW THIS JEEP DROVE FROM DAY 1, AS ALWAYS FELT SOMETHING IN THE FRONT END WAS LOOSE AND THE RIDE WAS WOBBLY AT VIRTUALLY ALL SPEEDS. AFTER THE FIRST OIL CHANGE AND TIRE ROTATION THE PROBLEM SEEMED WORSE. BROUGHT IT BACK AND 1 FRONT TIRE WAS SLIGHTLY OFF BALANCE, SO WAS REBALANCED AND OFF WE WENT. PROBLEM NATURAL…
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I NEVER LIKED HOW THIS JEEP DROVE FROM DAY 1, AS ALWAYS FELT SOMETHING IN THE FRONT END WAS LOOSE AND THE RIDE WAS WOBBLY AT VIRTUALLY ALL SPEEDS. AFTER THE FIRST OIL CHANGE AND TIRE ROTATION THE PROBLEM SEEMED WORSE. BROUGHT IT BACK AND 1 FRONT TIRE WAS SLIGHTLY OFF BALANCE, SO WAS REBALANCED AND OFF WE WENT. PROBLEM NATURALLY HASN'T GONE AWAY. ANNOYING AND OF CONCERN THAT I FINALLY BROUGHT IT BACK TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE IT LOOKED AT WHEN THE SERVICE ADVISOR SAID "OH THERE IS A RECALL ON YOUR JEEP FOR THE STEERING STABILIZER... I HAVE NOT EVER RECEIVED ANY MAIL FROM JEEP TO THIS REGARD.. HOWEVER THEY WILL BE REPLACING IT THIS WEEKEND. WITH THIS NEW INFORMATION, I NOW SEARCH THIS SITE AND SEE HUNDREDS OF OTHER COMPLAINTS ABOUT STEERING ISSUES I HAVE BEEN EXPERIENCING, AND NEED TO REGISTER A COMPLAINT....AS I TOO HAVE FELT THE VEHICLE FEELS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND COULD POTENTIALLY BE A PROBLEM. SEEMS TO ME THAT THERE SMOKE UNDER THESE JEEPS AND THE BUILD OF THEM, AND JUST A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE PEOPLE WILL SUFFER SIGNIFICANT INJURY TO THEMSELVES OR OTHERS IF THIS ISSUE ISN'T FIXED AND BAD VEHICLES ARE BOUGHT BACK BY FCA. I BEGIN MY JOURNEY WITH JEEP SATURDAY, AND AFTER READING ALL THE ISSUES HERE HAVE LITTLE FAITH THAT THIS FIX IS REALLY THE SOURCE OF MY PROBLEM BUT A BANDAID ON A MUCH LARGER ISSUE FOR OWNERS LIKE MYSELF. 50K FOR A VEHICLE ONE WOULD THINK SHOULD BUY ONE A SENSE OF CONFIDENCE. IN MY CASE, THERE IS ZERO AT THIS POINT, BUT UNLESS IM PARKING THE VEHICLE AND EATING MY $500 MO PAYMENT WHAT CHOICE DO I HAVE BUT TO DRIVE IT AND JUST PRAY NOTHING HAPPENS? I WILL UPDATE THIS POST AS NEED BE AS WE MOVE FORWARD WITH JEEPS "FIX" I WILL MAKE SURE TO HAVE THEM INSPECT THE WELDS ON MY FRAME AS WELL, WITH A BUILD DATE OF JULY 2018 AND FRAME #186, MINE IS JUST A FEW OUTSIDE OF THE RANGE OF ONES WITH KNOW PROBLEMS.
NHTSA ODI #11258056
Official recalls
14Sep 12, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The wiring harness for the rearview camera and the center brake light may short circuit, which can disable the rearview camera image and center brake light. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 111, "Rear Visibility" and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A rearview camera image that does not display decreases the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, a center brake light that fails to illuminate can fail to indicate to other drivers that the vehicle is slowing down, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers replaced the harness for the center brake light and rearview camera and/or the spare tire carrier/harness assembly, as necessary, free of charge. All vehicles were repaired by January 15, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 77B.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The wiring harness for the rearview camera and the center brake light may short circuit, which can disable the rearview camera image and center brake light. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 111, "Rear Visibility" and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: A rearview camera image that does not display decreases the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, a center brake light that fails to illuminate can fail to indicate to other drivers that the vehicle is slowing down, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers replaced the harness for the center brake light and rearview camera and/or the spare tire carrier/harness assembly, as necessary, free of charge. All vehicles were repaired by January 15, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 77B.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The wiring harness for the rearview camera and the center brake light may short circuit, which can disable the rearview camera image and center brake light. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 111, "Rear Visibility" and 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: A rearview camera image that does not display decreases the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, a center brake light that fails to illuminate can fail to indicate to other drivers that the vehicle is slowing down, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers replaced the harness for the center brake light and rearview camera and/or the spare tire carrier/harness assembly, as necessary, free of charge. All vehicles were repaired by January 15, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 26, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's number for this recall is 77B.
Sep 5, 2024
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Jeep Gladiator and 2018-2024 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The instrument panel cluster may experience an internal short circuit and fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An instrument panel that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the instrument panel cluster, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between October 3, 2024, and January 23, 2025. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is 30B.
Feb 23, 2023
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2023 Jeep Wrangler, and 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the clutch assembly and update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed from November 16, 2023 through July 25, 2024. Owners may contact (FCA US, LLC) customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US LLC's number for this recall is 19A. This recall expands and replaces previous recall 21V-028. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 21V-028 will need to have the new remedy completed.
Jan 28, 2021
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Jeep Wrangler and 2020-2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: FCA US LLC will notify owners, and dealers will add software to reduce engine torque capability when clutch assembly temperatures rise to a level that may damage the inner pressure plate, free of charge." FCA has ordered a stop sale for the affected vehicles as of February 25, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 4, 2021.
Mar 3, 2020
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Jeep Wrangler and 2020 Gladiator vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The clutch pressure plate may overheat and fracture.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The overheated clutch components may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, damage to other nearby components can result in debris falling onto the road or a loss of drive, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will reroute a wire harness and inspect the clutch system, and replace components as needed. The recall began April 30, 2020. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W12.
Sep 26, 2019
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2011-2018 Jeep Wrangler right hand drive vehicles. The driver's seat belt buckle mounting strap may fracture and separate from the seat frame.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A separated or severed seat belt buckle strap will result in an inoperable seat belt, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy: FCA US will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's seat belt buckle, free of charge. Interim notices informing owners of the safety risk were mailed November 19, 2019. Owners will received a second letter and the recall began March 26, 2020. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is VA6.
Apr 23, 2019
Erwin Hymer Group USA LP dba American Fastbacks (EHGUSA-AF) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles sold with a roof top tent installed. The top cover of the roof top tent may crack or break, possibly resulting in the cover detaching from the vehicle while moving.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the roof top tent cover detaches from the vehicle while moving, it can create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The remedy for this recall is still under development. The recall began May 9, 2019. Owners may contact American Fastbacks customer service at 1-844-533-7997 extension 301. Note: Vehicles in this recall are also included in recall 19V-190.
Nov 8, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Wrangler four-door vehicles. The right rear passenger door latch may not be in the correct location, possibly preventing the door from latching properly.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the right rear passenger door opens unexpectedly, it can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will repair the right rear door latch reinforcement, free of charge. The recall begin December 6, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is UB6.
Sep 28, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The front track bar brackets may be improperly welded, which can cause the bracket to separate from the frame, reducing steering capability.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An unexpected reduction in steering ability, can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and repair the track bar bracket welds, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 17, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is UA5.
Aug 9, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles and 2018-2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid vehicles. The powertrain control module may be equipped with a voltage regulator chip in the circuit board that may fail, causing a stall or a no start condition.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began October 2, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U87.
May 25, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The intermediate steering shaft may not have been properly welded causing a split where the external spline is formed.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the weld seam splits, the steering wheel may lose center positioning causing a loss of steering responsiveness and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the intermediate steering shaft, free of charge. The recall began June 21, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U48.
May 17, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Additional source detail variants (3)
Electrical System:software
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Vehicle Speed Control:cruise Control
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
Electrical System:wiring
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Dodge Journey, Charger and Durango, RAM 2500, 3500, 3500 Cab Chassis (more than 10,000lb), 4500 Cab Chassis and 5500 Cab Chassis, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300, 2014-2019 RAM 1500, 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger, 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, 2016-2018 RAM 3500 Cab Chassis (less than 10,000 lb), 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica and 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles are being recalled to address a defect that could prevent the cruise control system from disengaging. If, when using cruise control, there is a short circuit within the vehicle's wiring, the driver may not be able to shut off the cruise control either by depressing the brake pedal or manually turning the system off once it has been engaged, resulting in either the vehicle maintaining its current speed or possibly accelerating.
Consequence: If the vehicle maintains its speed or accelerates despite attempts to deactivate the cruise control, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the software, and perform a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Note: Owners are advised to stop using cruise control until the software update has been performed. In the event that cruise control cannot be disengaged while driving, owners should firmly and steadily apply the brakes and shift the transmission to neutral, placing the vehicle in park once it has stopped.
May 1, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Dodge Charger, Durango and Challenger, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, Chrysler 300, and RAM 1500 vehicles. An incorrect transmission park lock rod may have been installed in the transmission.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the incorrect park lock rod is installed, the transmission may not shift into 'PARK' and keep the vehicle from moving, increasing the risk of unintended vehicle movement and the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install the correct park lock rod, free of charge. The recall began June 28, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U43.
Apr 12, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The rear under body ladder rail may corrode, possibly reducing the strength of the rear floor pan and causing the left rear seat mount to become loose.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the floor pan strength is reduced and/or the rear seat mount becomes loose, the rear seat may detach in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, coat the interior and exterior of the driver's side rear underbody ladder rail with three-part rust protection. The recall began September 11, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U27.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Seats:mid/rear Assembly
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The rear under body ladder rail may corrode, possibly reducing the strength of the rear floor pan and causing the left rear seat mount to become loose.
Consequence: If the floor pan strength is reduced and/or the rear seat mount becomes loose, the rear seat may detach in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, coat the interior and exterior of the driver's side rear underbody ladder rail with three-part rust protection. The recall began September 11, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U27.
Structure:frame And Members
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The rear under body ladder rail may corrode, possibly reducing the strength of the rear floor pan and causing the left rear seat mount to become loose.
Consequence: If the floor pan strength is reduced and/or the rear seat mount becomes loose, the rear seat may detach in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, coat the interior and exterior of the driver's side rear underbody ladder rail with three-part rust protection. The recall began September 11, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U27.
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
5EA21002 · Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
Opened Sep 17, 2021 · No close date supplied
Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module; Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.
Air Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.
PE19012 · Frame Weld Deficiencies
Opened Sep 16, 2019 · Closed Oct 29, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering; Structure:frame And Members
On September 16, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) granted Defect Petition DP18-004 and opened Preliminary Evaluation PE19-012 to investigate allegations of deficient frame welds and their potential safety related effects on 2018-2019 Jeep Wranglers. Due to a previous steering related recall that was caused by a misaligned weld on the front track bar (NHTSA Recall No. 18V-675), ODI decided to include reports of steering shimmy or wobble, loose steering, and steering stiction (loss of power steering) as part of this investigation and parent petition (DP18-004). ODI received information from the vehicle manufacturer Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) via information request letters dated March 8, 2019, and February 6, 2020. Supplemental requests for information occurred between July 2020 and July 2023. A review of the responsive manufacturer information showed that vehicles presenting an unexpected reduction in steering ability due to a welding tool misalignment were correctly addressed via recall 18V-675. General complaints concerning the weld appearance were not associated with a realized risk to motor vehicle safety. ODI identified a limited number of reports involving weld separation on vehicles that were out of scope of recall 18V-675. FCA identified various causes of weld quality issues in early production (build dates prior to March 2018) including improper welding techniques on galvanized frames and component part variation leading to off-seam welds. These issues were addressed in production for subject vehicles built after July 2018 and preceded a drop in weld failure reports. ODI reviewed manufacturer and agency reports of weld failures out of scope of recall 18V-675 and did not find any that resulted in a loss of vehicle control. There are no known crashes, injuries, or fatalities as a result of weld failures on vehicles not included in recall 18V-675. Due to the steering related consequence associated with Recall 18V-675, ODI opted to include a request for information regarding various steering issues experienced by vehicles included in this investigation. ODI reviewed manufacturer as well as agency data and determined these various steering issues were not related to any weld defect. Since the opening of this investigation, FCA has addressed the following steering concerns; a. Steering looseness due to material choice in the steering box internal components. FCA released an updated part with an internal component material less sensitive to temperature variances (TSB 08-003-21 REV. A).NHTSA will take further investigative action if justified. b. Steering wobble or shimmy due to a manufacturing and design deficiency in the steering damper. FCA released a part via Customer Satisfaction Notification (CSN) V41 in June 2019 which implemented supplier quality control improvements and design changes due to the presence of air in the base valve which degraded damping performance.NHTSA will take further investigative action if justified. c. Steering stiction, or loss of power steering, due to an underpowered steering pump calibration that occurred at highway speeds during cold weather. In December 2021, FCA released CSN Y95 which corrected this issue via software update. Due to the decreased number of consumer complaints, the service campaign appears to have addressed the issue related to an underpowered steering pump. NHTSA will take further investigative action if justified. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Steering
On September 16, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) granted Defect Petition DP18-004 and opened Preliminary Evaluation PE19-012 to investigate allegations of deficient frame welds and their potential safety related effects on 2018-2019 Jeep Wranglers. Due to a previous steering related recall that was caused by a misaligned weld on the front track bar (NHTSA Recall No. 18V-675), ODI decided to include reports of steering shimmy or wobble, loose steering, and steering stiction (loss of power steering) as part of this investigation and parent petition (DP18-004). ODI received information from the vehicle manufacturer Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) via information request letters dated March 8, 2019, and February 6, 2020. Supplemental requests for information occurred between July 2020 and July 2023. A review of the responsive manufacturer information showed that vehicles presenting an unexpected reduction in steering ability due to a welding tool misalignment were correctly addressed via recall 18V-675. General complaints concerning the weld appearance were not associated with a realized risk to motor vehicle safety. ODI identified a limited number of reports involving weld separation on vehicles that were out of scope of recall 18V-675. FCA identified various causes of weld quality issues in early production (build dates prior to March 2018) including improper welding techniques on galvanized frames and component part variation leading to off-seam welds. These issues were addressed in production for subject vehicles built after July 2018 and preceded a drop in weld failure reports. ODI reviewed manufacturer and agency reports of weld failures out of scope of recall 18V-675 and did not find any that resulted in a loss of vehicle control. There are no known crashes, injuries, or fatalities as a result of weld failures on vehicles not included in recall 18V-675. Due to the steering related consequence associated with Recall 18V-675, ODI opted to include a request for information regarding various steering issues experienced by vehicles included in this investigation. ODI reviewed manufacturer as well as agency data and determined these various steering issues were not related to any weld defect. Since the opening of this investigation, FCA has addressed the following steering concerns; a. Steering looseness due to material choice in the steering box internal components. FCA released an updated part with an internal component material less sensitive to temperature variances (TSB 08-003-21 REV. A).NHTSA will take further investigative action if justified. b. Steering wobble or shimmy due to a manufacturing and design deficiency in the steering damper. FCA released a part via Customer Satisfaction Notification (CSN) V41 in June 2019 which implemented supplier quality control improvements and design changes due to the presence of air in the base valve which degraded damping performance.NHTSA will take further investigative action if justified. c. Steering stiction, or loss of power steering, due to an underpowered steering pump calibration that occurred at highway speeds during cold weather. In December 2021, FCA released CSN Y95 which corrected this issue via software update. Due to the decreased number of consumer complaints, the service campaign appears to have addressed the issue related to an underpowered steering pump. NHTSA will take further investigative action if justified. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Structure:frame And Members
On September 16, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) granted Defect Petition DP18-004 and opened Preliminary Evaluation PE19-012 to investigate allegations of deficient frame welds and their potential safety related effects on 2018-2019 Jeep Wranglers. Due to a previous steering related recall that was caused by a misaligned weld on the front track bar (NHTSA Recall No. 18V-675), ODI decided to include reports of steering shimmy or wobble, loose steering, and steering stiction (loss of power steering) as part of this investigation and parent petition (DP18-004). ODI received information from the vehicle manufacturer Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) via information request letters dated March 8, 2019, and February 6, 2020. Supplemental requests for information occurred between July 2020 and July 2023. A review of the responsive manufacturer information showed that vehicles presenting an unexpected reduction in steering ability due to a welding tool misalignment were correctly addressed via recall 18V-675. General complaints concerning the weld appearance were not associated with a realized risk to motor vehicle safety. ODI identified a limited number of reports involving weld separation on vehicles that were out of scope of recall 18V-675. FCA identified various causes of weld quality issues in early production (build dates prior to March 2018) including improper welding techniques on galvanized frames and component part variation leading to off-seam welds. These issues were addressed in production for subject vehicles built after July 2018 and preceded a drop in weld failure reports. ODI reviewed manufacturer and agency reports of weld failures out of scope of recall 18V-675 and did not find any that resulted in a loss of vehicle control. There are no known crashes, injuries, or fatalities as a result of weld failures on vehicles not included in recall 18V-675. Due to the steering related consequence associated with Recall 18V-675, ODI opted to include a request for information regarding various steering issues experienced by vehicles included in this investigation. ODI reviewed manufacturer as well as agency data and determined these various steering issues were not related to any weld defect. Since the opening of this investigation, FCA has addressed the following steering concerns; a. Steering looseness due to material choice in the steering box internal components. FCA released an updated part with an internal component material less sensitive to temperature variances (TSB 08-003-21 REV. A).NHTSA will take further investigative action if justified. b. Steering wobble or shimmy due to a manufacturing and design deficiency in the steering damper. FCA released a part via Customer Satisfaction Notification (CSN) V41 in June 2019 which implemented supplier quality control improvements and design changes due to the presence of air in the base valve which degraded damping performance.NHTSA will take further investigative action if justified. c. Steering stiction, or loss of power steering, due to an underpowered steering pump calibration that occurred at highway speeds during cold weather. In December 2021, FCA released CSN Y95 which corrected this issue via software update. Due to the decreased number of consumer complaints, the service campaign appears to have addressed the issue related to an underpowered steering pump. NHTSA will take further investigative action if justified. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
PE19008 · Seat Belt Buckle Bracket Failure
Opened Jul 29, 2019 · Closed Dec 12, 2019
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Seat Belts:front:buckle Assembly
On July 17, 2019, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Preliminary Evaluation (PE) 19-008 after receiving three Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports alleging the driver's side seat belt buckle separated from the seat frame, rendering the seat belt non-functional. The VOQs involved model year (MY) 2015 and 2016 Jeep Wrangler (JK platform) that were configured for right-hand drive (RHD) use. On August 8, 2019, ODI issued an information request (IR) letter to FCA.The scope of the IR included all JK Wrangler produced for sale in the U.S. (both left- and right-hand drive), and amongst other things, requested any reports or allegations of driver's seat belt bracket failures on these vehicles. In its review of FCA's response, ODI determined that approximately 1.7 million JK Wrangler were produced from MY 2007 to 2018, about 16,000 of which were configured for RHD. ODI notes that the RHD Wrangler are typically used for rural postal delivery which often experience a more severe duty cycle. Also RHD JK was was not produced in MY 2007.As explained in the IR response, FCA identified three distinct populations of JK Wrangler concerning the driver's seat belt bucket bracket; specifically the MY 2007-2018 LHD (~1.7M units), the MY 2008-2010 RHD (4,563 units), and the MY 2011-2018 RHD (11,463 units) populations.FCA provided details on the designs used in each of these populations, identifying specific differences deemed pertinent to the strength and durability of each unique bracket design. FCA further reviewed its analysis of the complaint and warranty data identified under the IR, and noting that it had not identified any allegations of bracket failures on the LHD population, and only one allegation on the MY 2008-2010 RHD vehicles. By comparison, FCA identified 24 allegations of bracket failure for the MY 2011-2018 RHD JK, including two reports duplicative of the VOQs. Neither the FCA nor the VOQ reports allege an injury or fatality due to bracket failure. Based on this analysis, FCA decided to conduct a safety recall for the MY 2011-2018 RHD JK population. On September 30, 2019, FCA submitted a Defect Information Report initiating NHTSA Safety Recall 19V-680 (FCA No. VA6). Under the recall action, FCA will replace the driver's seat belt bracket on MY 2011-2018 RHD Jeep JK Wrangler. The repair will be conducted free of charge.In view of FCA's recall action, and its explanations of the scope of that action, ODI is closing PE19-008. ODI will continue to monitor the non-recalled RHD, and the LHD JK Wrangler for evidence of seat belt bracket failure and will take further action if warranted.The three VOQ reports cited above can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under the following reference numbers:11190251, 11218472, 11231639.
EA19001 · Electrical Overstress
Opened Apr 19, 2019 · Closed Sep 19, 2024
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags: Air Bag/restraint Control Module
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation to determine if the failure of airbags to deploy during severe crashes, in certain vehicles, was the result of a safety related defect. During the investigation a complex failure was studied that can result in non-deployment of subject vehicle air bags and other restraint system devices in severe crash events. The subject vehicles may be equipped with an airbag control unit (ACU) for the supplemental restraint system (SRS) Electronic Control Unit (ECU) manufactured by ZF-TRW. The ECU receives signals from crash sensors mounted in the vehicle and deploys the vehicle air bags and seat belt pretensioners in accordance with manufacturer design specifications. The ECU in the subject vehicles contains a model DS84 application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) which controls the communication of the crash sensor signal, firing commands (i.e., when to deploy the airbag(s) and/or pretensioners), and fault information (e.g., diagnostic trouble codes). In September 2016, FCA announced recall 16V-668 for certain model year (MY) 2010 to 2014 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep products manufactured with the subject ZF-TRW ACU. In this recall, FCA discussed an EOS condition that resulted in a failure of the subject DS84 ASIC, which caused air bag non-deployment. FCA noted that the defect condition had only been observed in vehicles equipped with sensor harnessing routed across the front of the vehicle. Other FCA vehicles that also used the subject ACU, but were not equipped with cross-car harnessing, had not experienced EOS failures, despite similar time in service. During the course of this investigation, ODI sent two separate Information Request (IR) letters to six vehicle manufactures (including FCA, Hyundai, Honda, Kia, Mitsubishi, and Toyota) and one IR letter to ZF-TRW. These IR letters resulted in ODI receiving comprehensive data from these manufacturers and suppliers. Studies of this data found that the DS84 ASIC does not have sufficient protection against negative electrical transients or electrical overstress (“EOS”) that can be generated in certain severe crashes. An electrical transient occurs when the electrical power supplied to a circuit changes momentarily over a short duration of time. In these severe crash cases, the crash sensors and other powered wiring can be damaged and short circuited so as to create a negative electrical transient of sufficient intensity and duration (that are outside the vehicle manufacturer's specification) to damage the ASIC before the restraint device deployment signal is received by the SRS ECU. This damaged signal can lead to incomplete or nondeployment of the air bags and/or pretensioners. Airbag non-deployment and/or lack of pretensioner operation can increase the risk or severity of injury in a crash.A total of 8 fatalities and 14 injuries were associated with known EOS events. The common element in all investigated manufacturers vehicles is the SRS ECU containing a DS84 ASIC manufactured by ZF-TRW. The risk associated with the ASIC is equally shared among all OEMS involved in the investigation. The actual real-world risk can be mitigated by other factors which were assessed by ODI during this investigation. The first mitigating factor involves protections built into the ACU design which protect the DS84 ASIC from damage. There are multiple strategies and levels of protection employed by different OEMs that provide effective EOS mitigation. The two most common strategies at the ACU level are circuit protection diodes on the remote senor signal lines, and current limiting resistors that protect critical components. The second mitigating factor is found at the vehicle level and involves the location and routing of the wires leading from the crash sensors to the SRS ECU. If the wires are well protected in a crash and are not routed with other power wires carrying large currents, the risk for an EOS event is significantly reduced or eliminated. These design specific factors combine to produce a spectrum of risk for the vehicles equipped with ACUs using the DS84 ASIC. Given the many of years of field exposure, it is possible to divide the subject population into two groups; vehicles which have experienced EOS events, and vehicles which have not experienced EOS field events. Four of the six OEMs involved in this investigation have experienced EOS field events on at least one of their models equipped with a DS84 ASIC. All vehicle models (including the Toyota models identified in the Failure Report Summary of the opening resume for this investigation) with field events have been recalled. In an abundance of caution, ODI kept this investigation open five years to monitor field performance and did not identify any field events on vehicles not included in existing safety recalls. Given the spectrum of risk identified in this investigation and that all vehicles with a demonstrated unreasonable risk have been recalled, ODI is closing this investigation. ODI is closing this investigation with the following manufacturer safety recalls: 16V-668, 18E-043, 18V-137, 18V-363, and 20V-024. With the recall actions taken by the subject vehicle and equipment manufacturers, this investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exists on other model or model year vehicles outside of the recall scopes. The agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.
DP18004 · Frame Weld Deficiencies
Opened Nov 16, 2018 · Closed Sep 17, 2019
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Steering; Structure:frame And Members
In a letter received on October 24, 2018, a citizen petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a safety defect investigation into frame weld deficiencies on model year (MY) 2018 'JL' Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The petitioner described a broad list of frame weld deficiencies, including porous welds, excessive slag, lack of weld penetration, over penetration of welds, overweld or weld drip, and weld splash. The weld defects are allegedly located at a variety of locations on the frame assembly.On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Defect Petition (DP18-004) to evaluate whether to grant or deny the petition. On March 8, 2019, ODI sent an Information Request letter to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) requesting information on frame weld related issues on all MY 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler 'JL' vehicles. Due to a previous steering related recall that was caused by a misaligned weld on the front track bar (NHTSA Recall No. 18V-675), ODI opted to include a request for additional information concerning reports of steering shimmy or wobble, loose steering, and steering lockup in the March request letter. ODI has performed a preliminary analysis on the information obtained from FCA. Based on ODI's review of the applicable materials, NHTSA has decided to grant the petition. While reviewing the applicable materials obtained from the manufacturer, ODI identified various reports and references to frame welded component detachments that were outside of the scope of NHTSA Recall No. 18V-675. Additionally, the information that FCA provided did not adequately address whether frame weld quality deficiencies compromise the structural integrity of vehicles, and therefore may pose an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety. Finally, ODI needs to further evaluate the alleged steering-related defects reported through MY 2019 and the alleged defects' relation to weld quality.The petition was granted on September 16, 2019. Preliminary Evaluation PE19-012 has been opened to further assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety-related consequences of alleged weld quality deficiencies and steering related concerns on the MY 2018-2019 'JL' Jeep Wrangler vehicles.The ODI reports cited above can be viewed on NHTSA.gov under the following reference numbers:11234967, 11222390, 11219370, 11217080, 1204905, 11179954, 11171786, 11161243, 11155523, 11153044, 11143617, 11142722, 11142426, 11141336, 11141035, 11140637, 11140344, 11140262, 11140085, 11140057, 11139880, 11139866, 11139557, 11139467, 11139436, 11138974, 11138758, 11138757, 11132030, 11129738, 11129667, 11124312, 11120232, 11119676, 11119650, 11119454, 11119450, 11115658, 11115137, 11113029, 11112515, 11110583, 11109903, 11093172, 11088501, 11076098
Additional source detail variants (2)
Steering
In a letter received on October 24, 2018, a citizen petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a safety defect investigation into frame weld deficiencies on model year (MY) 2018 'JL' Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The petitioner described a broad list of frame weld deficiencies, including porous welds, excessive slag, lack of weld penetration, over penetration of welds, overweld or weld drip, and weld splash. The weld defects are allegedly located at a variety of locations on the frame assembly.On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Defect Petition (DP18-004) to evaluate whether to grant or deny the petition. On March 8, 2019, ODI sent an Information Request letter to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) requesting information on frame weld related issues on all MY 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler 'JL' vehicles. Due to a previous steering related recall that was caused by a misaligned weld on the front track bar (NHTSA Recall No. 18V-675), ODI opted to include a request for additional information concerning reports of steering shimmy or wobble, loose steering, and steering lockup in the March request letter. ODI has performed a preliminary analysis on the information obtained from FCA. Based on ODI's review of the applicable materials, NHTSA has decided to grant the petition. While reviewing the applicable materials obtained from the manufacturer, ODI identified various reports and references to frame welded component detachments that were outside of the scope of NHTSA Recall No. 18V-675. Additionally, the information that FCA provided did not adequately address whether frame weld quality deficiencies compromise the structural integrity of vehicles, and therefore may pose an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety. Finally, ODI needs to further evaluate the alleged steering-related defects reported through MY 2019 and the alleged defects' relation to weld quality.The petition was granted on September 16, 2019. Preliminary Evaluation PE19-012 has been opened to further assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety-related consequences of alleged weld quality deficiencies and steering related concerns on the MY 2018-2019 'JL' Jeep Wrangler vehicles.The ODI reports cited above can be viewed on NHTSA.gov under the following reference numbers:11234967, 11222390, 11219370, 11217080, 1204905, 11179954, 11171786, 11161243, 11155523, 11153044, 11143617, 11142722, 11142426, 11141336, 11141035, 11140637, 11140344, 11140262, 11140085, 11140057, 11139880, 11139866, 11139557, 11139467, 11139436, 11138974, 11138758, 11138757, 11132030, 11129738, 11129667, 11124312, 11120232, 11119676, 11119650, 11119454, 11119450, 11115658, 11115137, 11113029, 11112515, 11110583, 11109903, 11093172, 11088501, 11076098
Structure:frame And Members
In a letter received on October 24, 2018, a citizen petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a safety defect investigation into frame weld deficiencies on model year (MY) 2018 'JL' Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The petitioner described a broad list of frame weld deficiencies, including porous welds, excessive slag, lack of weld penetration, over penetration of welds, overweld or weld drip, and weld splash. The weld defects are allegedly located at a variety of locations on the frame assembly.On November 16, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Defect Petition (DP18-004) to evaluate whether to grant or deny the petition. On March 8, 2019, ODI sent an Information Request letter to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) requesting information on frame weld related issues on all MY 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler 'JL' vehicles. Due to a previous steering related recall that was caused by a misaligned weld on the front track bar (NHTSA Recall No. 18V-675), ODI opted to include a request for additional information concerning reports of steering shimmy or wobble, loose steering, and steering lockup in the March request letter. ODI has performed a preliminary analysis on the information obtained from FCA. Based on ODI's review of the applicable materials, NHTSA has decided to grant the petition. While reviewing the applicable materials obtained from the manufacturer, ODI identified various reports and references to frame welded component detachments that were outside of the scope of NHTSA Recall No. 18V-675. Additionally, the information that FCA provided did not adequately address whether frame weld quality deficiencies compromise the structural integrity of vehicles, and therefore may pose an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety. Finally, ODI needs to further evaluate the alleged steering-related defects reported through MY 2019 and the alleged defects' relation to weld quality.The petition was granted on September 16, 2019. Preliminary Evaluation PE19-012 has been opened to further assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety-related consequences of alleged weld quality deficiencies and steering related concerns on the MY 2018-2019 'JL' Jeep Wrangler vehicles.The ODI reports cited above can be viewed on NHTSA.gov under the following reference numbers:11234967, 11222390, 11219370, 11217080, 1204905, 11179954, 11171786, 11161243, 11155523, 11153044, 11143617, 11142722, 11142426, 11141336, 11141035, 11140637, 11140344, 11140262, 11140085, 11140057, 11139880, 11139866, 11139557, 11139467, 11139436, 11138974, 11138758, 11138757, 11132030, 11129738, 11129667, 11124312, 11120232, 11119676, 11119650, 11119454, 11119450, 11115658, 11115137, 11113029, 11112515, 11110583, 11109903, 11093172, 11088501, 11076098
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