Urgent Recall: 338,000 Jeep Grand Cherokees Pulled Back by Chrysler – Possible Steering Glitch

Chrysler has recently announced a recall affecting approximately 338,000 Jeep Grand Cherokees. The recall pertains specifically to Jeep Grand Cherokee models made between 2011 and 2013. According to Chrysler, these models may contain a potentially faulty steering part. To momentarily deviate, it’s helpful to understand that automobile manufacturers will, from time to time, issue a recall on certain models or parts if they discover or are made aware of an issue that could potentially lead to a malfunction or failure. It’s a preventive action designed to protect consumers and maintain the high standards of safety in the automobile industry. Getting back to the problem at hand, in this case, that faulty part in the Jeep Grand Cherokees is its hydraulic steering system. The potential fault lies in the potential cracking of a circuit board that could lead to a sudden loss of power steering assistance. This power steering assistance is responsible for making the vehicles easy to turn and maneuver, particularly at low speeds. Chrysler discovered the issue during an internal testing. As per the automaker’s announcement, it was found that in rare conditions, crimps in the wiring harness could lead to the aforementioned circuit board fault. If the circuit board cracks, the Grand Cherokee could lose power steering, which may increase the likelihood of a crash. However, Chrysler has also clarified that even if the power steering fails, manual steering capability will be retained, albeit with increased effort. The recall campaign started by Chrysler is not reactive, rather it’s proactive, in that no accidents or injuries related to the faulty steering part have been reported to date. In fact, there have been only a few cases where the vehicle owners reported some irregularities during turning or maneuvering the vehicle. In terms of addressing this issue, Chrysler has ensured that they will notify Jeep owners and will instruct them to take their vehicles to a dealership. The fix involves replacing the power steering fluid cooler, inspecting steering gear, replacing steering gear if necessary, securing the wiring harness, and replacing the dust shield if it’s damaged. All of these repairs will be performed at no cost to the owners. To conclude, transparency and swiftness in addressing potential issues like this one underline the commitment and responsibility manufacturers like Chrysler have towards their consumers. It serves as a reminder that safety is paramount in the automotive industry. Whereas vehicle owners must be vigilant and flexible to any recalls, irrespective of the cause or magnitude, as these are aimed to prevent any catastrophic incidences that might result due to the fault. Although this specific recall may seem concerning, it’s important to note the proactive nature of Chrysler’s response. This is an indication that the company values the safety of its customers above all, and is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in all its vehicles. Moving forward, affected owners are encouraged to schedule their vehicle for inspection and repair as soon as they receive the recall notification from Chrysler.