What are the five driver controls that you value the most in your vehicle? We ask because one of the controls that will most assuredly be included on your list – the steering wheel, has been compromised by a manufacturing error at the plant that makes the 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2021-2023 Grand Cherokee L.
As a result, the automaker is launching a recall campaign on 89,372 vehicles in the U.S. over fears that their steering columns may have been incorrectly assembled. Jeep launched an investigation into the possibility on February 27, 2023, after receiving a report of a potential “loss of steering condition.”
Its investigation found 15 warranty claims relating to a steering column issue, but found no customer assistance records and no field reports related to the issue. As a result, it is not aware of any accidents, injuries, or deaths related to this manufacturing error.
Read: An Extra Screw May Screw With 74 Volvo Wagons And SUVs’ Steering
However, it did discover that certain vehicles that left the line at its recently opened Detroit Assembly Complex – Mack had a steering column that may have been improperly repaired during the assembly process, resulting in the incorrect installation of their intermediate shaft.
In its analysis, Jeep discovered that the improperly fitted intermediate shaft could disconnect from the u-joint, ultimately leading to a loss of steering control. Obviously, that’s bad news for drivers, and could lead to a crash. Drivers may be alerted to the problem if they notice play in the steering or a noise when the vehicle is turning.
Jeep says that the problem potentially affects 35,401 Jeep Grand Cherokee L SUVs made between January 27, 2021, and April 4, 2023, as well as 53,965 Grand Cherokees built between October 19, 2021, and April 4, 2023.
To remedy the issue, Jeep will conduct a voluntary recall on all affected vehicles. It will inspect them and replace the intermediate shaft where necessary. The automaker plans to start getting in touch with owners on July 7.
