Our client purchased a brand-new 2021 Jeep Gladiator with just 23 miles on the odometer. The vehicle initially performed as expected, but after about 28,000 miles, troubling signs began to emerge—primarily related to electrical system failures and persistent rattling noises from the suspension. These recurring issues eventually led to a lemon law claim under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act.
The first major issue surfaced when the auto start-stop warning light appeared on the dashboard. During service at Redlands Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, technicians discovered both batteries had failed instant diagnostic testing.
Further inspection revealed a blown fuse array at the crank battery, caused by an overcharging alternator and dead battery cells. To remedy the issue, the dealership replaced the fuse array and both batteries, confirming afterward that the alternator was functioning correctly and the start-stop system was operational again.
Rougly 1,000 miles later, our client returned to the dealership with a rattling noise complaint coming from the rear of the vehicle, especially noticeable when stopping or taking off. After a thorough inspection, technicians identified that the vehicle had been fitted with an aftermarket lift kit, which lacked the lower coil spring isolators present in factory setups.
These missing components caused the coil springs to vibrate and rattle during normal operation. The dealership recommended that the client return to the original lift installer to address the issue.
The auto start-stop issue resurfaced just days later. This time, a faulty driver-side door latch switch was found to be the culprit, jamming intermittently and interfering with the system. The dealership replaced the entire latch assembly under warranty and confirmed that the system was once again functioning as designed.
The rattling noise returned once again. The client reported that the sound was now more centralized in the rear of the vehicle and occurred at low speeds when driving over dips or speed bumps. After further evaluation, technicians determined that the front suspension coils needed to be re-torqued, an issue commonly required in lifted vehicles. Although the noise was temporarily resolved, the ongoing need for suspension adjustment raised concerns about the vehicle’s long-term stability.
Despite multiple visits and service efforts—including component replacements and repeated suspension evaluations—the vehicle continued to suffer from problems that compromised both performance and driving experience. Under California’s lemon law, a vehicle may qualify for a buyback if repeated repairs fail to resolve substantial issues covered under warranty.
With the guidance of the Lemon Law Experts, our client successfully pursued a lemon law claim against FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles). After reviewing the repair history and the nature of the ongoing electrical and suspension defects, FCA agreed to repurchase the defective Gladiator. The settlement included a full refund of the purchase price, as well as the payment of the consumer’s attorneys fees and costs.
If your Jeep or other FCA vehicle is experiencing similar electrical or suspension issues, you may be eligible for relief under California’s lemon law. Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have helped thousands of California drivers win buybacks, replacements, and compensation for defective vehicles. Contact us today for a free consultation to explore your legal options.
