Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
In summer 2023, Chrysler announced a recall affecting nearly 90,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles due to potential issues with an incorrectly installed steering column intermediate shaft.
This flaw poses a significant risk as it could lead to the intermediate shaft detaching while driving, compromising safety. The recall encompasses specific models, including the 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L SUVs, totaling to nearly 90,000 vehicles.
Stellantis, the multinational automotive manufacturing corporation that owns both Chrysler and Jeep, estimates that approximately 1% of the recalled vehicles will experience issues involving the Jeep Grand Cherokee steering shaft. Owners of affected models are encouraged to contact their local Jeep dealer to arrange for an inspection.
What causes the steering problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The steering problem in the Jeep Grand Cherokee is primarily caused by an assembly error during the manufacturing process. The intermediate shaft, a crucial component of the steering column, may not have been correctly installed. This shaft is responsible for connecting the steering wheel to the steering system, allowing the driver to control the direction of the vehicle.
If this shaft is not properly installed, it could potentially detach from the rest of the steering system. This detachment would result in a loss of steering control, posing a significant safety risk to both the driver and other road users. Before such a detachment occurs, drivers may notice certain warning signs.
One such sign could be an unusual noise when turning the steering wheel. This noise could be a result of the loose intermediate shaft moving within the steering column.
Another warning sign could be slight play in the steering. This refers to a situation where the steering wheel can move back and forth slightly without causing any change in the direction of the front wheels. This play is not normal and could indicate that the intermediate shaft is not securely attached.
How do I know if my vehicle is a part of the Jeep Grand Cherokee Steering Recall?
The following vehicles are included in the Jeep Cherokee Steering column recall:
- 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
The Jeep steering recall affects 53,965 units of the Jeep Grand Cherokee manufactured between October 19, 2021, and April 4, 2023; as well as 35,407 units of the Jeep Grand Cherokee L manufactured between January 27, 2021, and April 4, 2023. The Grand Cherokee L is an extended version of the model that allows a seven-seating configuration.
How does Jeep plan to fix the steering issues?
Authorized Jeep dealerships will inspect and, if necessary, replace the intermediate shaft and assembly parts, free of charge. Customers who have further questions or need assistance with their vehicle can contact Jeep’s customer service at 800-853-1403.
How do I know if my Jeep has steering problems?
Before the intermediate shaft detaches, drivers may hear a noise when turning the steering wheel or notice some “play” in the steering—meaning that the steering wheel can move back and forth an inch or so without turning the front wheels. If you notice these symptoms or if your vehicle falls within these model years, it may be part of the recall.
Chrysler released recall notification letters to affected drivers beginning July 28, 2023. To check whether your vehicle is subject to any open recalls related to steering problems, you can utilize this VIN lookup tool provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
By entering your car’s 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the NHTSA’s website, you can quickly confirm if any recalls are associated with your vehicle. If no recall notifications are displayed, it indicates that your vehicle presently does not have any outstanding recalls.
Given that automakers frequently issue recalls, we advise periodically revisiting the NHTSA’s website to ensure your vehicle hasn’t been affected by a recall. If your vehicle is part of the recall, follow the instructions provided by the NHTSA and the manufacturer to best address the issue.
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