18,000 Jeep Wranglers Are Recalled for a Suspension Problem
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Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is recalling 18,000 of its 2018 and 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL vehicles because a faulty weld could cause a part to detach from the car's frame, creating steering problems.
If the part, a track bar bracket at the front of the vehicle, were to detach, “there would be a noticeable loss of steering response,” says John Ibbotson, chief mechanic for Consumer Reports.
An FCA spokesman says that the company is already servicing affected Wranglers and that formal notices are scheduled to go out next week. Dealers will look over recalled vehicles and fix them if necessary, he says, but repairs should be required for only about 4 percent of the Wranglers, or about 700.
According to FCA, it became aware of the problem in August after it received customer complaints. The automaker is also notifying dealers about how to repair the problem. Owners can check with their dealer, and if they still have questions, they can call FCA at 800-853-1403.
FCA says it's not aware of any injuries or accidents related to this problem.
The Details
Vehicles recalled: 18,055 of the 2018-2019 Jeep Wrangler JL vehicles built from May 7, 2018 through Aug. 21, 2018.
The problem: The front track bar bracket may have a weld or welds in the wrong spot, which could result in the bracket separating from the frame.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and repair the front track bar bracket welds as needed, at no charge to owners.
How to contact the manufacturer: The recall is expected to officially begin Nov. 17, 2018, but an FCA spokesman notes that some dealers are already servicing affected Wranglers. Owners can call FCA customer service at 800-853-1403. FCA’s number for this recall is UA5.
NHTSA campaign number: 18V675
Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any problems that need to be addressed.
If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often—and for many older vehicles—we recommend checking back regularly.
Editor's Note: This article has been updated to reflect new information from NHTSA and FCA.
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