Chrysler has announced a recall of more than 330,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles due to a steering wheel defect that could cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. The recall affects 338,238 Jeep Grand Cherokee L models from 2021 to 2023 and Jeep Grand Cherokee models from 2022 to 2023. The automaker says that the upper control arm ball joint and steering knuckle may separate and cause the wheel to fall outward, increasing the risk of a crash.
What is the problem and how to fix it?
According to the documents posted by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the problem stems from the improper installation of the upper control arm pinch bolts, which secure the upper control arm ball joint to the steering knuckle. The pinch bolts may have been tightened with insufficient torque, which could cause them to loosen over time and allow the ball joint and the steering knuckle to separate. This could result in the wheel falling outward and the driver losing control of the vehicle.
Chrysler says that it is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to the defect, but it has received 13 reports of the wheel separation from dealers and customers. The automaker says that it will notify the owners of the affected vehicles and instruct them to bring their vehicles to dealers for inspection and repair. The dealers will replace the upper control arm pinch bolts for free. The recall is expected to begin on March 19, 2024.
How to check if your vehicle is affected?
If you own a Jeep Grand Cherokee L model from 2021 to 2023 or a Jeep Grand Cherokee model from 2022 to 2023, you can check if your vehicle is affected by the recall by entering your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the NHTSA website or the Chrysler website. You can also contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 and provide your VIN.
Alternatively, you can look for a yellow recall notice in your mail, which Chrysler will send to the registered owners of the affected vehicles. The notice will provide more information about the recall and the steps to take to fix the problem.
What are the implications of the recall?
The recall is a major setback for Chrysler, which has been trying to revive its Jeep brand and compete with other SUV makers. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the most popular and profitable models for Chrysler, and the recall could damage its reputation and sales. The recall could also expose Chrysler to potential lawsuits and fines from the regulators and the consumers.
The recall is also a concern for the owners of the affected vehicles, who may face safety risks and inconveniences. The owners may have to wait for a long time to get their vehicles fixed, as the recall involves a large number of vehicles and the parts may be in short supply. The owners may also have to deal with the hassle of arranging alternative transportation while their vehicles are being repaired.