1988 JEEP WRANGLER

6 recalls, 55 complaints - 3 TSBs

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Defect Description

CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMPS SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF CARTER, ACCUFLOW, NAPA, TRUFLOW, PARTS DEPO, AND PARTS MASTER, SHIPPED BETWEEN AUGUST 2006 AND JULY 2007 FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FUEL PUMP DIAPHRAGM IN CERTAIN PRODUCTION RUNS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTA... Read more

Consequence

A LEAKING FUEL PUMP COULD CREATE A VEHICLE FIRE HAZARD.

Remedy

FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 15, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL AT 248-354-7700.

34,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CORPORATION

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Defect Description

CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE D... Read more

Consequence

WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy

PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.

61,944 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.

EQUIPMENT

Defect Description

BESTOP AFTERMARKET REAR SHELL ROOF RACKS,MANUFACTURED BETWEEN APRIL 27 AND MAY 20, 2004, DESIGNED FOR USE WITH THE BESTOP HARDTOP MADE FOR THE 1986-1995 AND 1997-2003 JEEP WRANGLER. THE COCKPIT COVER MAY NOT STAY LATCHED TO THE ROOF RACK BECAUSE THE LATCH BRACKET MISPOSITIONS THE ROTARY LATCH TO T... Read more

Consequence

SHOULD THIS OCCUR, THE COCKPIT COULD CAUSE INJURY BY STRIKING PERSONS OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE OR COULD BECOME A DISTRACTION OR AN OBSTACLE TO OTHER DRIVERS, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

BESTOP WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A REPAIR KIT AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FREE OF CHARGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 16, 2004. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BESTOP CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT (800) 845-3567.

80 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: BESTOP, INC.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH PLASTIC FUEL TANKS. THE FUEL TANK SENDING UNIT GASKET CAN CRACK CAUSING FUEL AND FUEL VAPOR LEAKS.

Consequence

FUEL AND FUEL VAPOR LEAKED FROM THE FUEL TANK CAN RESULT IN FIRE WHEN EXPOSED TO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.

Remedy

REPLACE THE FUEL TANK SENDING UNIT GASKET.

230,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Defect Description

ON 1987 THROUGH EARLY 1990 MODELS, BOTH FRONT BRAKE HOSES CAN WEAR DUE TO DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE WHEEL OPENING SPLASH SHIELDS. ON THE LATE 1990 THROUGH 1992 MODELS, PERIODIC RUBBING CONTACT OF THE LEFT FRONT BRAKE HOSE CAN OCCUR DUE TO MOVEMENT OF THE SPLASH SHIELD IN CERTAIN VEHICLE OPERATING COND... Read more

Consequence

EITHER CONDITION CAN CAUSE LOSS OF FRONT BRAKE SYSTEMFUNCTIONS, RESULTING IN INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES AND AN INCREASED RISK OFVEHICLE ACCIDENT.

Remedy

THE 1987 TO 1990 MODEL VEHICLES WILL HAVE BOTH SPLASH SHIELDS REPLACED AND BOTH FRONT BRAKE HOSES REPLACED AS NECESSARY. ALL AFFECTED LATE 1990 THROUGH 1992 MODEL YEAR VEHICLES WILL HAVE ADDITIONAL FASTENERS INSTALLED TO FURTHER SECURE THE LEFT SIDE SPLASH SHIELD. ALSO, THE LEFT FRONT BRAKE HOSE WIL... Read more

280,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES

Defect Description

WINDSHIELD FRAME METAL MAY CRACK AT THE WIPER ARM PIVOT MOUNTINGS DUE TO METAL STRESS DURING WIPER OPERATION.

Consequence

THIS CAN CAUSE DISLOCATION AND BINDING OF THE WIPERSYSTEM LINKAGE WHICH, IN INCLEMENT WEATHER, COULD AFFECT DRIVER VISIBILITY ANDRESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.

Remedy

RETROFIT WITH A WINDSHIELD FRAME REINFORCEMENT AT THE WIPER PIVOT LOCATIONS AND REDESIGNED LINKAGE COMPONENTS TO REDUCE STRESS AT THE PIVOT MOUNTINGS.

75,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION

Complaint Statistics

55 total complaints 4 crashes 10 fires

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP	9
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY	5
PARKING BRAKE:CONVENTIONAL	5
SEATS	4
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE	4
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE	3
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER	3
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION	2
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY	2
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS	2

Incident date: Aug 15, 2010

WHEN FILLING MY 1988 JEEP WRANGLER WITH GASOLINE, THE GASOLINE TANK WILL OVERFLOW WITH GASOLINE BEFORE THE PUMP WILL SHUT-OFF. THIS HAPPENS EVERY TIME I FILL UP, REGARDLESS OF ORIENTATION OF THE VEHICLE (I.E. UP HILL, DOWN HILL, LEVEL). THE ONLY WAY I CAN TRY AND PREVENT THIS HAZARDOUS SITUATION F... Read more

Incident date: Mar 8, 2010

I RECENTLY BOUGHT A 1988 JEEP WRANGLER. I HAVE ONLY HAD IT FOR A FEW WEEKS. I STARTED TO NOTICE THAT SOMETIMES WHEN I ENGAGE THE PARKING BRAKE, IT FAILS AND RELEASES. EVERYTIME IT WOULD HAPPEN, IT WOULD HAPPEN RIGHT AWAY AND I WOULD SIMPLY RE-ENGAGE IT, EXCEPT FOR THIS LAST TIME IT HAPPENED. I H... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Jan 1, 1989

CONSUMER STATED WATER LEAKED THROUGH THE FRONT WINDSHIELD. TS *JB

1989 AND NEWER HAVE BEEN RECALLED, WHAT ABOUT MY 1988? MR

HAVE REPLACE PARKING BRAKE ASSY TWICE SINCE PURCHASED. CRASH WAS INTO MY HOUSE WHEN PARKING BRAKE DISENGAGED IN DRIVEWAY. *AK

Crash

Incident date: Mar 1, 2001

WINDSHIELD FRAME SEVERELY RUSTED AFTER WINDSHIELD FRAME REPLACED BY DEALER ON TSB 271T . BOTH DEALER AND CHRYSLER CUSTOMER SUPPORT REFUSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE INHERENT METAL FAILURE OF REPLACEMENT FRAME ESPECIALLY WHEN PROVEN THAT THE ORIGINAL CAR BODY EXHIBITS NO RUST WHILE THE REPLACEMENT FRAME INSTALLE... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 1999

THE PARKING BRAKE ON MY JEEP HAS A TENDANCY TO DISENGAGE WITHOUT WARNING. BEFORE I WAS AWARE OF THIS DEFECT, IT DISENGAGED IN A PARKING LOT AND CAUSED MY JEEP TO ROLL BACK ONTO A NEW FORD MUSTANG, CAUSING CONSIDERABLE DAMAGE TO THE OTHER VEHICLE, AND APPEARING ON MY INSURANCE RECORD AS A FAILURE ON... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Feb 9, 2000

THE SEAT TRACKS ON THE JEEP WRANGLER MODEL FAIL, WITH THE METAL TEARING WHERE A BOLT FASTENS INTO THE SEAT. THIS CAUSES SEAT INSTABILITY AND CAN CAUSE WRECKS OR INJURIES. I FOUND OUT MORE THAN 70 OF THE SAME PARTS ARE ON BACK ORDER, WITH NO DATE FOR ARRIVAL GIVEN. MY FIRST TRACK BROKE LAST YEAR, MY ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 5, 1998

FUEL FUMES.NO LEAKS. CONTACTED DEALER. *AK

TROUBLE WITH RECALL WORK, CONSUMER HAD ADDITIONAL CHARGES WHEN RECALL REPAIR WORK WAS DONE ON THE FUEL TANK SENDING UNIT.

Incident date: May 1, 1998

DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT LATCH WILL NOT BUCKLE.

EMERGENCY BRAKE DISENGAGES BY ITSELF REGARDLESS IF ON A HILL OR NOT. *AK

EXHAUST MANIFOLD CRACKED.

TAIL PIPE IS ANGLED AND THE END IS ON THE EDGE OF THE REAR BUMPER.

GASOLINE SMELL ENTERS VEHICLE WHILE IDLING.

Incident date: Jan 1, 1997

INTERMITTENT STALLING DUE TO ENGINE FAILURES. ALSO REPLACED IGNITION. *AK

Incident date: Jan 1, 1997

INTERMITTENT STALLING DUE TO ENGINE FAILURES. ALSO REPLACED IGNITION. *AK

Incident date: Jun 13, 1997

VEHICLE FIRE WAS CAUSED BY A CRACK IN THE FUEL LINE. *AK

Fire

FUEL PUMP AND BRAKES RECALLED. OWNER INTERESTED IN RIGHTS AS A CONSUMER WITH REGUARD TO RECALLS.

Incident date: Dec 4, 1996

WHILE DRIVING EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ENGINE STALLING, PULLED TO SIDE, NOTICED FLAMES COMING FROM UNDER BODY, FIRE SPREAD FROM ENGINE TO CAB, VEHICLE TOTALED. *AK

Fire

Incident date: Oct 7, 1996

THE MOUNT THAT HOLDS THE TRANSMISSION IN PLACE IS HELD ON WITH TWO BOLTS, BOTH HEADS SHEARED OFF; ALSO, REPLACED LEAKING ENGINE VALVE COVER. *AK

Incident date: Oct 7, 1996

THE MOUNT THAT HOLDS THE TRANSMISSION IN PLACE IS HELD ON WITH TWO BOLTS, BOTH HEADS SHEARED OFF; ALSO, REPLACED LEAKING ENGINE VALVE COVER. *AK

EVERYTIME IT RAINS, PUDDLES OF WATER DEVELOP ON THE DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE. THE WATER COMES FROM WITHIN THE DASHBOARD. PLEASE GIVE MORE INFORMATION. *AK

Incident date: Jun 10, 1989

WHEN DRIVING AT HIGH SPEED THE VEHICLE CUT OFF WITHOUT ANY WARNING. *AK

CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AND THE JEEP STALLED, WENT TO OPEN THE HOOD AND THE ENGINE WAS ON FIRE . *AK

Fire

BRAKE FLUID LINE IS RUBBING AGAINST MUD FLAP, AND HAS WORN THOUGH IT. *AK

Incident date: Nov 18, 1995

FUEL TANK CAUGHT FIRE AFTER RECALL. *SD

Fire

Incident date: Feb 10, 1996

DRIVING VEHICLE, VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE, TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, FOUND NOTHING WRONG, PICKED VEHICLE UP, CAUGHT FIRE AGAIN WHILE DRIVING. *AK *JB

Fire

Incident date: Jan 15, 1996

THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT RECEPTICLE IS BROKEN AND WILL NOT LATCH. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. *AK

Incident date: Jan 15, 1996

THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT RECEPTICLE IS BROKEN AND WILL NOT LATCH. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. *AK

Incident date: Dec 14, 1995

EXHAUST FUMES COMING INTO THE VEHICLE CABIN, CAUSED BY DEFECTIVE FUEL SENDING UNIT. TT

Incident date: Mar 13, 1995

FUEL SENDING UNIT IN FUEL PUMP FAILED, RESULTING IN A LEAK AFTER RECALL REPAIRS. (94V-106). *AK

Incident date: Oct 28, 1995

HYDRAULIC BRAKE LINE BROKE AT THE FITTING, PARTIAL LOSS OF BRAKING WHILE TRAVELING AT 70 MPH. TT *JB

HAD TO REPLACE SEAT BACK BECAUSE OF FAILURE, SEAT BACK IS BREAKING AGAIN. TT

Incident date: Feb 1, 1994

FUEL TANK FIRE PRIOR TO RECALL (94V-106). *SKD

Fire

Incident date: Jun 1, 1995

DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BACK COLLAPSED WHILE DRIVING. TT

Incident date: Oct 6, 1995

DRIVER'S BUCKET SEAT TRACK TORE HEAD OF MOUNTING BOLT; CAUSED SEAT TO FLIP TO REAR WITH OCCUPANT STILL BUCKLED UP. TT HEAD OF MOUNTING BOLTS WAS TOO SMALL. BOLT HEAD PULLED THROUGH TRACK HOLE CAUSING THE SEAT TO TILT BACKWARD. *YH

Incident date: Feb 8, 1995

VEHICLE FIRE DUE TO FUEL LEAK, RECALL REPAIRS REFUSED DUE TO VIN. *SKD

Fire

Incident date: Sep 1, 1995

EXPERIENCE SEAT BACK FAILURE, WHEN LEANING BACK THE SEAT FALLS BACK. TT

Incident date: Aug 6, 1995

PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BROKE. TT

Incident date: Jul 15, 1995

WHILE DRIVING REAR AXLE FELL OFF. TT

Incident date: May 23, 1995

UNABLE TO PERFORM FUEL TANK SENDING UNIT GASKET RECALL REPAIR DUE TO TRAILER HITCH BEING WELDED TO FUEL TANK SKID PLATE. (94V-106) *AW

#94V106000 RECEIVE RECALL HAD PROBLEM FIX WASN'T HAVING PROBLEM UNTIL DEALER FIX JEEP IS LEAKING OIL . TT

Incident date: Jul 17, 1995

CARBURATOR PLATE SHAFT IS DEFECTIVE, CAUSING AIR TO ENTER BASE OF CARBURETOR, RESULTING IN STALLING. *AK

Incident date: Apr 1, 1995

RECALL REPAIRS REFUSED DUE TO AFTER-MARKET HITCH INSTALLED ON VEHICLE. (94V106) *TW

Incident date: Jun 19, 1995

THE DRIVERS SEAT WAS FRACTURED 11 INCHES ON THE RIGHT SIDE AND 13 INCHES ON THE LEFT SIDE. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT

Incident date: Jun 20, 1995

THE DRIVERS SIDE FEMALE PRTION OF THE SEATBELT WILL NOT EXCEPT THE MALE PART OF THE SEATBELT. PLEASE EXPLAIN. TT

Incident date: Oct 1, 1994

HAD UNDERHOOD FIRE CHECKED WITH CHRYSLER TO SEE IF THERE WAS A RECALL ANSWER WAS YOUR VIN WAS NOT INVOLVED TWO WEEKS LATER GOT RECALL NOTICE FOR THE PROBLEM.

Fire

Incident date: Apr 12, 1995

EMERGENCY BRAKE LOOSE WHILE PARKED ON A HILL. TT

Crash

Showing 50 of 55 complaints.

Technical Service Bulletins, 1988 JEEP WRANGLER

3 manufacturer communications from 3 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
114100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD	2
350000 EQUIPMENT	1

350000 EQUIPMENT

DIPAP Requirements - Addition of Jeep Wrangler (JL/JK) and Jeep Gladiator (JT) Hard Top and Targa Top Panel Replacements - All Dealers (Rev. A)

114100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD

UNKNOWN

114100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD

UNKNOWN

NHTSA Safety Investigations, JEEP WRANGLER

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

RQ, Open , Model Year: 2021

Loss of Motive Power

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has identified 68 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) reports for model years (MY) 2021 through 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe vehicles alleging a loss of motive power. Recall 22V-865 was issued by the manufacturer to address an engine shutdown condition in certain MY... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2018

Frame weld deficiencies

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.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011

Seat belt buckle bracket failure

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 involv... ed 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.Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2018

Frame Weld Deficiencies

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 de... ficiencies, 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, 11076098Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2007

Air Bag Clockspring Wiring Failure

On May 10, 2016, Fiat Chrysler America (FCA) submitted a Part 573 Defect Information Report announcing NHTSA recall 16V290 involving 394,258 model year (MY) 2007-2010 Jeep Wrangler vehicles.Under the recall FCA will replace the clockspring and install a steering wheel back cover and steering wheel c... olumn shroud.This recall also includes approx. 4,524 MY2007-2010 right hand drive (RHD) Jeep Wrangler vehicles commonly used for rural postal delivery services.In addition 7,180 MY 2011-2016 right hand drive Jeep Wrangler vehicles were also recalled under 16V288, the same remedy repair will be used.Upon review of the 1,942 MY 2007-2010 Jeep Wrangler consumer complaints, 17,195 warranty reports and field returned parts assessment, FCA concluded that a defect exists in the driver side clockspring assembly, a device that both connects (electrically) the driver air bag to the control module and allows rotational movement between the steering wheel and fixed steering column.Clockspring failure may compromise the air bag circuit causing illumination of the air bag warning lamp, and may result in non-deployment of the driver air bag in a frontal crash.FCA identified a contributing factor in that the recalled vehicles may be subjected to off-road dusty environments and/or usage with the vehicle roof top/doors removed thus allowing dust and moisture to enter the clockspring assembly.FCA advised that the MY 2011 and later Wrangler vehicles had an improved steering column cover/shroud that may reduce the amount of dirt/moisture that can enter the clockspring assembly.During the investigation FCA and the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) also reviewed 193 MY 2011-2012 Jeep Wrangler consumer complaints, 3,918 warranty reports and field returned parts along with reports from other FCA vehicles that use the same clockspring assembly.Based on this review, the rate of repair and the failure mode does not indicate a defect trend at this time in the later MY Wrangler or other FCA vehicles.During the field return parts review, FCA found a significant number of MY 2011-2012 Wrangler returned parts that operated normally, the so called ?no trouble found? or NTF parts where no fault could be identified through bench testing.On June 10, 2016, FCA informed ODI of its intention to conduct a 15-yr, 150k mile extended warranty program due to the NTF issue and the MY 2011 and later vehicles having a somewhat elevated level of warranty replacement.Consumers will be notified of the program in writing.FCA will collect clocksprings replaced under the warranty extension program to further examine and study the root cause failure.ODI will monitor FCA?s analysis to determine if any further field action is warranted.Based on the actions taken by FCA to recall the MY 2007-2010 Jeep Wrangler vehicles and the MY 2008-2016 right hand drive Wrangler vehicles, this investigation is closed.FCA has also agreed to conduct a warranty extension and further evaluation of the MY 2011-2016 Wrangler.At the time of FCA's field data submission in PE 15-025 (September 2015), ODI was aware of a total of 416 MY 2007-2010 and 23 MY 2011-2012 VOQs relevant to this issue.In addition, there have been an additional 90 and 16 VOQs (respectively) received since the recall announcement (i.e., thru May 2016).The reports noted above can be viewed at SaferCar.gov under the reference (ODI) numbers cited on the attached listing.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2007

Air Bag Clockspring Wiring Failure

In it's response to ODI's PE15-025 Information Request letter, FCA identified 1,703 consumer complaints, field reports and legal claims responsive to the subject defect condition on the subject Wrangler vehicles.Six of these reports alleged an air bag non-deployment in a crash in which either the ai... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2010

Skid plate debris fires

In a letter dated May 15, 2012, the Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) submitted a Defect Information Report to NHTSA identifying a safety defect regarding fires originating between the transmission skid plate and the exhaust catalyst in approximately 65,246 model year (MY) 2010 Jeep Wrangler 4x4 vehicle... s with automatic transmissions (NHTSA Recall 12V-216).According to Chrysler, changes to the exhaust system for MY 2010 resulted in reduced clearances between the exhaust catalyst and the skid plate.If debris collects in the area of the skid plate and is not removed, there is an increased potential for underbody debris fires.ODI's analysis of skid plate area fires in the MY 2010 Wrangler vehicles with automatic transmissions found that the rate increased significantly from approximately 1.7 fires per 100,000 vehicle years in the MY 2007 through 2009 vehicles with the prior exhaust design to approximately 14.8 fires per 100,000 vehicle years in MY 2010 vehicles, a nearly 800 percent increase.In analysis of both Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) data submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) and Chrysler's consumer complaint data submitted to ODI, 35 unique reports were identified by Chrysler alleging fire in subject vehicles with origins near the engine compartment or in the underbody area directly beneath and to the rear of the engine compartment.Chrysler's assessments of the 35 reports of fire were categorized by likely causes.Eleven of the fires were determined to be caused by skid plate debris accumulation and 4 additional fires were found to have originated in the area of the skid plate, but debris ignition could not be confirmed.An additional skid plate debris fire was reported to ODI after the recall announcement, bringing the total known fire count to 36, including 12 caused by skid plate debris and 4 originating in the skid plate area from unknown causes.Chrysler identified a design change to the exhaust system in MY 2010 that increased the possibility of debris contact with an exhaust catalyst.Beginning in MY 2011, the skid plate was replaced with a skid bar for weight reduction purposes.The skid bar having a much smaller surface area than the skid plate reduces the potential for debris entrapment.The recall remedy for recall 12V-216 will involve replacement of the skid plate with the skid bar.As background, the MY 2010 subject vehicles are a part of the JK generation of Jeep Wrangler vehicles that began production in MY 2007.Chrysler conducted a prior recall (09V-436) of MY 2007 and 2008 Jeep Wranglers for a defect involving overheated transmission fluid expulsion that could contact the exhaust and cause an engine compartment fire.The recall remedy was to add audible (chime) and visual warnings (hot oil message in the instrument cluster) to alert the driver that the vehicle was being operated with elevated transmission fluid temperatures.Chrysler enhanced the audible warning with a service campaign (J31) for MY 2009 and a portion of the subject MY 2010 vehicles.Transmission fluid expulsion has not been identified as the cause of any of the 36 fire incidents in the subject vehicles. No indications of a common causal pattern were evident in the remaining 20 fire incidents in the subject vehicles.Six (6) of the incidents appear to be related to improper wiring of various added aftermarket equipment, 2 appear to be related to improper oil change, 1 was related to a damaged transfer case, 1 was related to an electrical short circuit and the remaining 10 were of unknown origin.Accordingly, this Preliminary Evaluation is closed.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed at www-odi.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2007

Airbag Clockspring Failure

In its July 29, 2011 response to ODI's May 27, 2011 information request letter, Chrysler provided 153 MY 2007-2008 owner reports, additional to the 28 ODI Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs), which related to the illumination of the air bag light (ABL) due to a faulty clockspring (CS) wiring circuit... .The right hand drive (RHD) vehicles, which were first produced in MY 2008 and account for only 1% of vehicle production, accounted for 82 of these 181 reports (45%).The MY2007 left hand drive (LHD) vehicle accounted for 61 of the remaining 92 LHD reports and exhibited a higher complaint rate than the MY 2008 LHD vehicles.ODI did not identify any incidents of crashes/injuries attributable to the CS circuit failure.Since May 27, 2011, ODI has received another 32 consumer complaints bringing the total to 213 reports at this closing.In addition, and for comparative purposes, Chrysler provided another 42 owner reports it received on the MY2006 and MY2009-2010 Wrangler vehicles; these populations showed a lower incident rate than the subject vehicles, especially in comparison to the RHD subject vehicles. Chrysler's investigation showed that the higher rate of RHD Wrangler CS failures were due to a more severe duty cycle for these vehicles which are primarily used by US Postal workers/mail carriers delivering mail in rural regions.Chrysler concluded the unique vehicle usage, much of which occurs with the driver's window open and under dusty environmental conditions, is the cause of premature CS failure.Chrysler's analysis also indicated that the somewhat elevated MY2007 LHD rate, which showed a declining failure trend, was the result of start-up production/assembly issues that occurred with the introduction of a new design CS.The new design CS incorporated both dual airbag inflator circuitry and a steering wheel angle sensor (for the electronic stability control system).On November 1, 2011, Chrysler submitted a defect notice indicating it will conduct a recall of all MY 2008-2012 RHD Wrangler vehicles (11V528).The estimated 5,334 RHD Wrangler vehicles include the 2,297 MY 2008 RHD Wrangler vehicles, which were the subject of this investigation, plus an additional 3,037 MY 2009-2012 RHD Wrangler vehicles that Chrysler determined potentially have a similar CS concern as the MY 2008 RHD vehicles.Chrysler intends to replace the existing CS with a yet-to-be-produced improved CS assembly, or an improved steering housing assembly that is less susceptible to dusty environments.Owner notice is scheduled to begin in November, 2011.Chrysler also informed ODI that it intends to initiate a consumer satisfaction campaign for MY2007 LHD Wrangler which will extend the CS warranty coverage for 10 years or 150,000 miles.Accordingly the investigation is closed.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2007

Fuel Spill During Refueling

ODI found the rate of warranty claims related to fuel spit back on the subject vehicles is lower than other vehicles previously recalled to correct defects related to fuel spit back.Although the rate of complaints reported to the agency on the subject vehicles is higher than or similar to the rates ... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2007

TRANSMISSION OVERHEATING / FIRE

IN A LETTER DATED NOVEMBER 3, 2009, CHRYSLER GROUP LLC (CHRYSLER), NOTIFIED NHTSA THAT IT WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL OF APPROXIMATELY 161,000 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2007 AND 2008 JEEP WRANGLER VEHICLES BUILT WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS.CHRYSLER STATED THAT THESE VEHICLES WERE NOT EQUIPPED WITH A TRANSMI... Read more

EQ, Closed , Model Year: 2007

TOW BAR ASSEMBLY FAILURE

THE DEFECTIVE TOW BAR ASSEMBLIES INVOLVED IN THIS RECALL WERE SUPPLIED TO CHRYSLER FOR USE ON SOME OF ITS JEEP WRANGLER VEHICLES.THE PURPOSE OF THIS INVESTIGATION WAS TO IDENTIFY ANY ADDITIONAL PURCHASERS OF IDENTICAL OR SUBSTANTIALLY SIMILAR DEFECTIVE ASSEMBLIES AND TO INITIATE ADDITIONAL DEFECT RE... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2006

CLUTCH LINKAGE FAILURE

ON MAY 2, 2006 DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) SUBMITTED TO THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (NHTSA) A PART 573 REPORT ADVISING THAT CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006 JEEP WRANGLER VEHICLES WOULD BE VOLUNTARILY REC ALLED TO REPLACE A DEFECTIVE CLUTCH LINKAGE COMPONENT.THE RECALL ACTION IS ... Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1994

PARKING BRAKE RESULTING IN ROLLAWAY

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1994

PARKING BRAKE

ALLEGED THE THE PARKING BRAKE FAIL TO HOLD THE VEHICLE STATIONARY WHEN APPLIED, AND THE VEHICLE ROLLED AWAY

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2000

AIR BAG MODULE DETACHMENT

ODI HAS RECEIVED A COMMPLAINT STATING THAT THE DRIVER-SIDE FRONTAL AIR BAG MODULE DETACHED FROM THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE ATTEMPTION TO USE THE HORN FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A BRAND NEW MODEL YEAR 2000 JEEP WRANGLE (PURCHASED I LATE MARCH 2000).THE AIR BAG MODULE FELL OFF THE STEERING WHEEL AND WAS HANG... Read more

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 1999

INSTRUMENT PANEL GROUND SCREW

THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WIRING GROUND ATTACHMENT SCREWS CAN LOOSEN

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 1987

FUEL LEAKAGE

ODI HAS RECEIVED 6 REPORTS ON FUEL LEAKAGE AND 3 REPORTS ON ALLEGED REMEDY FAILURE REPORTS

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1987

SEAT BACK FAILURE

There is no summary currently available

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1987

SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILURE

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1987

SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILURE

There is no summary currently available

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1987

SENDING UNIT GASKET FAILS

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1990

SENDING UNIT GASKET FAILS

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1992

FUEL LINE LEAKAGE

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1987

EXHAUST SYSTEM FIRES

There is no summary currently available

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1987

FUEL TANK/EXHAUST INTERFER

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1987

FUEL TANK/EXHAUST INTERFER

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1987

WINDSHIELD WIPER FAILURE

There is no summary currently available

JEEP WRANGLER - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the JEEP WRANGLER across all model years (1986, 2026).

283 Total Recalls

23,021 Total Complaints

27 Investigations

900 Reported Crashes

688 Reported Fires

39 Reported Deaths

JEEP WRANGLER - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2026	3	17	View
2025	4	120	View
2024	11	1,466	View
2023	14	591	View
2022	15	661	View
2021	15	1,527	View
2020	12	798	View
2019	9	1,094	View
2018	14	2,643	View
2017	5	422	View
2016	5	651	View
2015	3	691	View
2014	4	858	View
2013	7	1,046	View
2012	10	1,289	View
2011	11	682	View
2010	11	907	View
2009	7	501	View
2008	9	1,254	View
2007	10	793	View
2006	3	852	View
2005	2	757	View
2004	3	281	View
2003	4	130	View
2002	6	139	View
2001	7	235	View
2000	5	311	View
1999	5	262	View
1998	6	401	View
1997	7	548	View
1996	1	2	View
1995	3	259	View
1994	4	184	View
1993	5	134	View
1992	6	100	View
1991	8	100	View
1990	7	105	View
1989	7	86	View
1988 (current)	6	55
1987	8	51	View
1986	1	1	View

Other JEEP Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
GRAND CHEROKEE	384	39,569	View
CHEROKEE	297	20,619	View
WAGONEER	96	662	View
LIBERTY	92	11,701	View
COMPASS	53	5,936	View
GRAND WAGONEER	53	298	View
GLADIATOR	45	1,287	View
RENEGADE	34	3,433	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

1988 JEEP WRANGLER

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

Technical Service Bulletins, 1988 JEEP WRANGLER

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, JEEP WRANGLER

JEEP WRANGLER - All Years Overview

JEEP WRANGLER - Year by Year

Other JEEP Models