1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
10 recalls name the 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Newest first.
Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty vehicles. The fuel tanks in these vehicles are at risk of failure and leakage in certain rear impacts.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
Remedy
Owners may take their vehicles to dealers and the dealers will perform a free inspection of the rear structure. On vehicles in the recall that are not equipped with a tow hitch, Chrysler will install a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles in the recall that are equipped with an aftermarket tow hitch, Chrysler will assess whether the hitch and surrounding areas show evidence of sharp edges or other puncture risks. If so, Chrysler will replace the tow hitch with a Chrysler designed tow hitch free of charge, provided the condition of the vehicle can support proper installation. On vehicles already equipped with a Chrysler designed tow hitch, Chrysler will inspect the area around the tow hitch installation, and if any installation issues are identified, they will be repaired free of charge. The recall began on August 1, 2014. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753. Chrysler's recall campaign numbers are N45 (for the Grand Cherokee vehicles) and N46 (for the Liberty vehicles).
Dope, inc. IS recalling 42,540 combination corner and bumper lamp assemblies of various part numbers sold for use as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles. these headlamps fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these lamps do not contain…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dope, inc. Will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. the safety recall began on july 28, 2009. owners may contact dope, inc. At 1-626-272-1798.
Sabersport IS recalling 16,270 combination corner and bumper lamp assemblies of various part numbers sold for use as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles. these headlamps fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these lamps do not contain…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Sabersport will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. the safety recall began on may 11, 2009. owners may contact sabersport at 1-909-598-7589.
Certain curved tempered replacement glass manufactured by hangzhou safety glass ltd and supplied to safelite by auto temp inc., identified as dot-430, and sold for use on certain domestic and foreign vehicles may not break into small pieces as expected of tempered glass and fails to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 205, "glazing…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a vehicle crash, the occupant(s) may be seriously injured by shattered glass.
Remedy
Safelite will notify its retail customers and replace the glass free of charge. Retail customers can contact safelite toll free at 1-888-843-2906. Safelite will notify its wholesale customers and reimburse wholesale customers for current inventory and at a specified rate for replacing their customer's glass. Wholesale customers can contact safelite's wholesale division, service autoglass toll free at 1-888-246-6298. The recall began on january 15, 2008.
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 devices, and associated equipment.
Risk and remedy
Risk
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.
Certain aftermarket brake hydraulic master cylinders sold as replacement brake cylinders for certain ford, daimlerchrysler, and jeep passenger vehicles. these brake cylinders were sold under the brand names of napa, raybestos, aimco, ac delco, carquest, bendix, and wagner. only products that were manufactured from july 27, 2005 through january 17, 2006…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Loss of brake fluid can lead to a decrease in brake line pressure and an increase in stopping distance, which can result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Affinia (brake parts, inc.) will replace the subject brake hydraulic master cylinders free of charge. the recall began on march 20, 2006. owners can contact affina group customer service at 1-800-323-0354.
Certain aftermarket airtex electric fuel pumps installed for use as replacement equipment for certain 1997-2004 jeep wrangler; 1997-2001 jeep cherokee; 1997-2004 jeep grand cherokee; and 2000-2003 dodge dakota vehicles. the plastic electrical grommet connectors at the top of the fuel pump module are not compatible with automotive fuels and may degrade…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the presence of an ignition source, a fuel leak could result in a fire.
Remedy
Airtex will notify its customers and will replace the affected fuel pumps free of charge. the recall began on january 25, 2006. owners may contact airtex customer service department at 1-800-880-3056.
On certain sport utility vehicles, if a driver has not placed the shifter lever fully into the "park" position and leaves the vehicle running, the vehicle may unexpectedly move rearward after seeming to be stable.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Inadvertent movement of the vehicle could result in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install a secondary detent system to the floor shifter assembly. daimlerchrysler sent interim notices to owners concerning this problem on march 22, 2002. owner notification began september 23, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Vehicle description: passenger and multi-purpose vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the states of connecticut, illinois, indiana, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, or wisconsin, and the district of columbia. the front disc brake rotors can experience…
Risk and remedy
Risk
The reduced strength can allow the cast iron wear surface to separate from the hub, reducing the brake effectiveness of the vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers will replace these rotors with rotors that are coated with a corrosion protection.
Vehicle description: multi-purpose passenger vehicles. the power brake booster vacuum reservoir diaphragm can split or tear.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This can cause an increase in engine idle speed and a loss of power assist during brake application without prior warning.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the brake booster date code and any boosters with the suspect manufacturing date range will be replaced.
Owner complaints
1,028 complaints172 involved a crash13 involved a fire113 injuries24 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Unknown or other
Car stalls sometimes at a light. Also stops when driving in traffic and everything goes dead. Then starts up again. Diagnostic check shows everything ok. Mechanic put different sensors in but did not solve problem. It did not stall when mechanic drove it. Has been happening off and on for a couple of months.
- Steering
The contact owns a 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH, the front tires started shaking violently to the right and left while the steering wheel followed the rapid jerking movements from right to left. The contact slowed the vehicle to 40 MPH and was able…
The contact owns a 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH, the front tires started shaking violently to the right and left while the steering wheel followed the rapid jerking movements from right to left. The contact slowed the vehicle to 40 MPH and was able to proceed. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local independent mechanic who determined that burned lower track arm bearings on the steering arms left and right needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The failure still occurred intermittently. The vehicle was towed to a second independent mechanic but had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
- Unknown or other
Within three weeks of installing a set (4) of the hankook optimo 724 tires, I had experienced a catastrophic failure while traveling at ~ 60 mph on the interstate. I am certain I am experienced no hazard for it was my driver's side rear tire that failed. The driver's side front tire was not…
Within three weeks of installing a set (4) of the hankook optimo 724 tires, I had experienced a catastrophic failure while traveling at ~ 60 mph on the interstate. I am certain I am experienced no hazard for it was my driver's side rear tire that failed. The driver's side front tire was not damaged. The left, rear tire failure essentially fell apart, having separated from the outer/inner walls. No plausible reason other than extremely poor quality. Hankook representative could only offer 50% credit towards my next purchase, but it required an hankook authorized dealer which was inconveniently located. I utilized walmart's 100% guarantee, returned them, and replaced them with goodyear wrangler radial p235/75r15 105S owl highway tires which have performed superbly thus far.
- Steering · Wheels
I was on the highway with my 3 year old grandchild in the back when my car started shaking so violently I thought we were going to die! It literally felt like the wheels and the steering wheel as well were going to all fall off! I've never been more scared in my life. It was very difficult to slow it down and pull over to a breakdown lane so I could stop . I was even going under the speed limit when this happened
- Electrical system
Stalling while driving highway speeds. Noticed it stalls after engine warms up. sometimes it starts back up, but sometimes it has to sit a while.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Vehicle speed control
Vehicle will stall out without warning while moving at any speed. Pulling over and restarting the car fixes the issue temporarily. This has been a problem for several years. No error codes are being generated . Replaced O2 sensors and this remains an issue. Looking online, many people have had this same issue.
- Power train · Structure › Body · Vehicle speed control
Takata recall. Since owning my 1998 jeep grand cherokee 4.0, I've replaced nearly every single part on it. The transmission needs to be recalled on this vehicle before someone gets killed just trying to drive it. The transmission will be fine 1 minute, the next it IS putting itself in neutral or…
Takata recall. Since owning my 1998 jeep grand cherokee 4.0, I've replaced nearly every single part on it. The transmission needs to be recalled on this vehicle before someone gets killed just trying to drive it. The transmission will be fine 1 minute, the next it IS putting itself in neutral or drive and I've nearly died on several occasions. Now, the jeep IS coding more codes than ever. Also, as of few days ago, I have no reverse in it. I nearly hit another car trying to back out of a space at the hospital when reverse decided to no longer work. I can't afford to keep fixing these issues and I shouldn't have to. Please look into this because I'm sure I'm not the only person that's had problems with the transmission in 1998 jeep grand cherokee models. Also, my back passenger doors have decided they won't open from outside of the vehicle. You can only open them from inside. What if something happened and I was trapped, nobody could get in through the passenger back 2 doors because they won't open. As far as transmission, maybe I'll live through another incident with transmission changing gears on it's own, but maybe I won't either. Thank you.
- Trailer hitches
1998 jeep grand cherokee. Consumer writes in regards to receiver trailer hitch safety recall. *Ld *js
- Electrical system · Engine · Unknown or other
Vehicle will stall and lose power while driving. Can occur at slow and high speeds. Online forums have mentioned a possibility of faulty pcms.
- Tires › Tread/belt
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee equipped with antares comfort A5 tires, size: 235/70/r16 (na). The tires were purchased on june 10, 2016 from walmart. The contact stated that the tires were already completely bald and the wear bar was slightly exposed. The tires needed to be…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee equipped with antares comfort A5 tires, size: 235/70/r16 (na). The tires were purchased on june 10, 2016 from walmart. The contact stated that the tires were already completely bald and the wear bar was slightly exposed. The tires needed to be replaced. The contact stated the tires had a guarantee of 60,000 miles. Walmart stated that they were not responsible for the replacement of the tires. The tires had not been replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The dot number was unknown. The approximate vehicle failure mileage was 113,000 and the approximate tire failure mileage was 11,000.
- Suspension
It has happened twice in the last 2 weeks. I go over a small bump and it begins to shake very violently. I let off the gas and it settles down. this IS very violent shaking.like the vehicle IS coming apart.
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee. While driving various speeds or while stopped, the vehicle shook and stalled without warning. The contact had to restart the vehicle to regain normal operation. The contact took the vehicle to a certified mechanic and dealer who were unable to…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee. While driving various speeds or while stopped, the vehicle shook and stalled without warning. The contact had to restart the vehicle to regain normal operation. The contact took the vehicle to a certified mechanic and dealer who were unable to identify the cause of the failure. The manufacturer stated that due to the mileage of the vehicle, it would not be covered under warranty. The approximate failure mileage was 197,843.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 1998 mark III jeep grand cherokee. While driving various speeds, the vehicle suddenly shut off. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the main pcm located on the firewall was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 191,000.
- Fuel system, gasoline · Structure
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 13v252000 (fuel system, gasoline, structure). The contact was not able to complete the process for chrysler's buy back program due to the manufacturer's refusal. The manufacturer exceeded a…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 13v252000 (fuel system, gasoline, structure). The contact was not able to complete the process for chrysler's buy back program due to the manufacturer's refusal. The manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The contact was notified that the manufacturer would not complete the buy back program due to the campaign's expiration. The contact was not provided a case number from the various representatives with which he spoke. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Engine · Fuel system, gasoline
Bought this vehicle for transportation to work and have not been able to drive it due to safety issues as the timing belt has apparent issues that make the main computer read it wrong from what I am understanding. The vehicle wants to shut off at a red light or stop sign, then kicks back into gear.…
Bought this vehicle for transportation to work and have not been able to drive it due to safety issues as the timing belt has apparent issues that make the main computer read it wrong from what I am understanding. The vehicle wants to shut off at a red light or stop sign, then kicks back into gear. It seems to drive better on a main stretch, yet falters at slowing to a stop. It IS at the manufacture now and has recalls, yet this was not on the list of repairs. However, I believe it IS an issue that should be addressed without me having to pay a service bill for the amount they are wanting to charge me for repairs. I feel this IS a manufacture defect that should be fixed. They mentioned the timing belt and crank shaft. Im no mechanic, however, these issues could cause me to loose control of this vehicle and should be corrected. I feel it IS the manufacturers obligation to safety to help me to have the issues corrected. I had to have someone else drive it to the shop for me with me as passenger. Very scary ride. *tr
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
Alarm goes off intermittently when parked if alarm set , lights go out or flash when driving. *tr
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee. The contact stated that the alarm activated randomly, the headlights flashed and the computer displayed that all doors were open when they were closed. In addition, the contact mentioned that the brand new battery that had been installed became…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee. The contact stated that the alarm activated randomly, the headlights flashed and the computer displayed that all doors were open when they were closed. In addition, the contact mentioned that the brand new battery that had been installed became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but the failure was unable to be diagnosed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 230,000.
- Air bags · Service brakes
During normal driving down a mountain road, break pedal went to the floor. Attempts make to pump break with no effect. Emergency brake was pulled with no effect. Vehicle slammed into rock wall and then landed into a 10+ foot ravine. Was informed by mechanic the master cylinder failed which caused a…
During normal driving down a mountain road, break pedal went to the floor. Attempts make to pump break with no effect. Emergency brake was pulled with no effect. Vehicle slammed into rock wall and then landed into a 10+ foot ravine. Was informed by mechanic the master cylinder failed which caused a near fatal accident with 5 people in the vehicle. I recently found out there was a recall on a replacement master cylinder for that make a model but cannot verify if this was a replacement part or not. I cannot not find any information with casting numbers of effected parts. Re: the recalled master cylinders it reports the part was affected in cold weather but this happened on a warm summer day. The recall I am referring to was initially reported in 2006. All that happened and the airbags did not deploy. I do have pictures of the accident and the master cylinder as well as documentation re the accident reports, I am having a hard time uploading them
- Engine
Engine stalls/cuts out without warning while driving at highway speeds, on city streets and sometimes while stopped in traffic. This IS an ongoing issue for almost a year. Mechanic cannot find or duplicate the problem. Online forums seem to indicate this IS an inherent problem in this product line the incident date below IS the latest occurence.
- Exterior lighting · Fuel system, gasoline · Structure
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee. While attempting to reverse the vehicle, the reverse lights failed to illuminate. The failure recurred on numerous occasions. The vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee. While attempting to reverse the vehicle, the reverse lights failed to illuminate. The failure recurred on numerous occasions. The vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was previously repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 13v252000 (fuel system; gasoline, structure). The failure mileage was 185,000. Updated 07/13/16*lj the consumer stated the back up lights stopped working, after the recall was performed. Updated 07/20/16
- Electrical system › Ignition · Engine
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee. While driving approximately 35 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to an independent mechanic where the ignition coils were replaced. The failure recurred the same day the vehicle was serviced. The…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee. While driving approximately 35 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to an independent mechanic where the ignition coils were replaced. The failure recurred the same day the vehicle was serviced. The vehicle was in the process of being towed back to the mechanic for the second time. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.
- Steering
My jeep has the "death wobble". when hitting a bump (bridge, pothole, etc.) going down the road, the front end starts to bounce around and becomes unstable. this usually occurs at highway speeds and seems to be worse when towing a trailer. I have to come to an almost complete stop the get it to…
My jeep has the "death wobble". when hitting a bump (bridge, pothole, etc.) going down the road, the front end starts to bounce around and becomes unstable. this usually occurs at highway speeds and seems to be worse when towing a trailer. I have to come to an almost complete stop the get it to quit shaking. steering and braking are affected. tires chirp when trying to stop because one or both front tires leave the ground. new tires, brakes (both pads and rotors), and sway bar links and the problem still persists. just had a state inspection done and had them check very carefully the front end components such as ball joints. all seemed to be ok.
- Fuel system, gasoline · Structure
Letter from consumer regarding a safety recall on two of his vehicles (1998 jeep grand cherokee and 1995 jeep grand cherokee) ; response expected. *smd the consumer discovered corrosion on the left frame rail, but not the right. the consumer was quoted a price of $3,00 to replace the left frame rail. *Jb
- Tires › Sidewall
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee equipped with mastercraft glacier grip II tires, size: 235/75/r15 (na). While the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed bulges along the sidewall of the front and rear passenger side tires. The vehicle was taken to a tire dealer who confirmed the…
TL* the contact owns a 1998 jeep grand cherokee equipped with mastercraft glacier grip II tires, size: 235/75/r15 (na). While the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed bulges along the sidewall of the front and rear passenger side tires. The vehicle was taken to a tire dealer who confirmed the failure and diagnosed that the tires needed to be replaced. The tires were replaced, but the contact noticed that the rear driver side tire began developing bulges along the sidewall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle failure mileage was 175,000 and the tire failure mileage was 2,000.
- Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc) · Exterior lighting
In auto lights flash on and off untiil put in reg position for bright lights and clock does not lite upwhen in lights on in motion or statiunery.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Crash Related Fuel Tank Fires
ODI has completed an extensive analysis of rear crash fuel tank system integrity data for the subject Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles (SVs).As of June 2013, ODI knew of 56 post-collision fatal fires, 28 non-fatal fires, and 6 fuel leak incidents (totaling 90 incidents, 75 fatalities and 58 injuries)…
ODI has completed an extensive analysis of rear crash fuel tank system integrity data for the subject Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles (SVs).As of June 2013, ODI knew of 56 post-collision fatal fires, 28 non-fatal fires, and 6 fuel leak incidents (totaling 90 incidents, 75 fatalities and 58 injuries) involving the SVs.Based on this analysis, ODI issued a Recall Request Letter (RRL) on June 3, 2013 requesting that Chrysler recall the Grand Cherokee and Liberty vehicles due to the rate of fatal, non-fatal fire, and fuel leak incidents when compared to peer vehicles (compact and medium SUVs) built during the same time period.In the RRL, ODI described how the location of the aft-mounted fuel tank made the SVs vulnerable to rear impact crash fuel tank failures.During the analysis, besides the high speed/high severity crashes present in both the SV and peer vehicles, ODI observed a significant number of low and moderate speed rear impact crash related fires and leaks, particularly in the Liberty.The data also demonstrated that SVs originally equipped with towing hitch receivers (trailer hitches) appeared to be under-represented in rear-impact related fuel tank failures.In the RRL, ODI requested that Chrysler provide its response by June 18, 2013, otherwise NHTSA might proceed to an Initial Decision that the SVs contain a safety-related defect.Chrysler responded to the RRL on June 4, 2013 and vigorously disputed the tentative findings of the RRL.Among other things, Chrysler argued that the SVs had an overall safety record superior to their peers, met or exceeded all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) and only experienced fires in severe high energy rear impacts.Nonetheless, while continuing to maintain that the SVs did not contain a safety-related defect, Chrysler proposed a recall (13V-252) of approximately 2.5M (1.6M currently registered) model year (MY) 1993 - 1998 Grand Cherokee (ZJ) and MY 2002-2007 Liberty (KJ) vehicles on June 18, 2013.The recall remedy submitted by Chrysler would employ a hitch receiver assembly consisting of a steel cross-member behind the fuel tank with forward-projecting arms bolted to the frame rails on either side of the fuel tank.For the MY 1999 - 2004 Grand Cherokee, Chrysler indicated it would conduct a customer satisfaction campaign and inspect vehicles equipped with aftermarket tow hitch receivers, and if necessary, replace any such hitch receivers whose conditionmay increase the risk of fuel system failure in rear crashes.Examination of the available data established that the MY 1999 - 2004 Grand Cherokee did not pose the same magnitude of safety risk as the MY 1993 - 1998 Grand Cherokee and MY 2002-2007 Liberty, particularly in low and moderate speed rear impacts.Because the agency has concluded that the vehicles do not present an unreasonable risk to safety, ODI is closing its investigation of the MY 1999 - 2004 Grand Cherokee.Although it was not within the scope of the Petition initiating this investigation or the Preliminary Evaluation preceding this EA, ODI also examined the performance of the MY 1993 - 2001 Cherokee as part of this investigation.NHTSA's assessment of the available data for the Cherokee did not establish an unreasonable risk in comparison to peer vehicles.ODI does not approve proposed defect remedies.While offering to install hitch receiver assemblies on the MY 1993-1998 Grand Cherokees and 2002-2007 Liberty, Chrysler did not, in ODI's view, provide enough evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed remedy in rear impacts.The Complete Summary for this Closing Resume (EA12-005) can be seen by
- Crash Related Fuel Tank Fires
NHTSA has conducted extensive analysis of the data regarding fuel tank integrity for the model year (MY) 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee (JGC). As a result of that work, the agency has decided to upgrade its safety defect investigation to an Engineering Analysis and to expand the scope of vehicles included in the…
NHTSA has conducted extensive analysis of the data regarding fuel tank integrity for the model year (MY) 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee (JGC). As a result of that work, the agency has decided to upgrade its safety defect investigation to an Engineering Analysis and to expand the scope of vehicles included in the investigation. NHTSA's assessment of the data collected during this investigation indicates that rear-impact-related tank failures and vehicle fires are more prevalent in the JGC than in the non-Jeep peer vehicles. In addition, the agency's analysis of its FARS data for the peer vehicles and three Jeep models shows a higher incidence of rear-impact, fatal fire crashes for the Jeep products.PE10-031 had focused on the fuel tank system integrity of the JGC vehicles during rear-end collisions and impacts.The fuel tank is located at the rear of the vehicle, between the bumper and axle, and is manufactured from a plastic material (HDPE).Three peer vehicles (across the same MY range as the JGC) were identified for comparative assessment: the Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Explorer, and Toyota 4Runner.ODI has collected and assessed a significant volume of data for the JGC and three peer vehicles under the Defect Petition (DP) 09-005 and PE10-031, much of which was either provided by the petitioner or by the subject and peer manufacturers in response to ODI's information request letters.NHTSA has also utilized its FARS database.Fatal crash data was collected for the JGC and its three peers, along with data for two other Jeep vehicles, the Cherokee and Liberty, which were also manufactured with rear mounted fuel tanks and assessed by ODI as Jeep peer vehicles.Based on the agency's current analysis, ODI is upgrading its investigation to determine whether the subject vehicles contain a defect that presents an unreasonable risk to safety.The subject vehicles for EA12-005 will be MY 1993-2004 JGC, MY 1993-2001 Cherokee, and MY 2002-2007 Liberty; the estimated production volumes for these vehicles is approximately 5.1 million, although attrition is a factor for the older vehicles.Please note that the counts shown in the above failure report summary are for the JGC only (values shown in the total column are unique).Data for the other Jeep models and possibly other peer models will be collected during the investigation.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers:506249, 549376, 734783, 869217, 10009553, 10335943, 10351589, 10351980, 10357528.
- Fuel Storage System Crash Related Fires
In a letter dated October 2, 2009, the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned NHTSA to open a defect investigation and recall model year 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees.CAS alleged that the subject vehicles have defective fuel tank storage systems that present a fire hazard in crashes. CAS alleged that the plastic…
In a letter dated October 2, 2009, the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned NHTSA to open a defect investigation and recall model year 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees.CAS alleged that the subject vehicles have defective fuel tank storage systems that present a fire hazard in crashes. CAS alleged that the plastic fuel tank's placement behind the rear axle and below the rear bumper, and the lack of adequate shielding, make it more vulnerable to rupture or leakage from a rear-impact by another vehicle (including damage from other components located on the Grand Cherokee), or in the case of rollover crashes, from other external objects.CAS also alleged that the fuel filler neck tears off in crashes.In its petition, CAS cites data from NHTSA's Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) showing 172 fatal fire crashes with 254 fatalities involving the subject vehicles from calendar years 1992 through 2008.CAS stated that there have been at least 44 crashes with 64 total fatalities (subject and non-subject vehicles) where fire was entered as the Most Harmful Event (MHE) in the FARS database.In response to the CAS petition, ODI made a preliminary examination of available data.FARS data showed 2,988 occupants of the subject vehicles have died in crashes since 1992.Of those, 55 died in 44 crashes where fire was listed as the Most Harmful Event.Identifying crashes most likely associated with the alleged defect as described by CAS (defined as the subject vehicle being struck at the 5, 6 or 7 o'clock positions) isolated 10 crashes with 13 occupant fatalities.ODI also reviewed the Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQ) database and identified 12 reports alleging A) a post-crash fuel tank leak and/or B) a post-crash fire potentially related to a fuel tank leak.Of the 12 reports, 10 involved fires (two involved fuel leaks only) with 9 alleged injuries and 1 alleged fatality.The existence of these post-crash fires does not, by itself, establish a defect trend.Further review and investigation into these incidents is needed to determine the existence of any relationship between the alleged defect and each fire or leak.It should be noted that ODI also conducted a preliminary review of the Early Warning Reporting (EWR) data that did not find the subject vehicles to be over-represented for post-crash fires.ODI's initial review neither supports nor excludes the possibility that a defect exists in the subject vehicles.However, ODI has always taken the position that vehicle fires pose a significant safety risk.Accordingly, ODI has granted the petition to further investigate the conditions associated with post-crash fires in these vehicles.
- Hood latch failure
Odi opened ea02-029 to determine whether a safety-related defect trend existed in the my 1997 jeep grand cherokee hood latch assemblies.during ea02-029, there was no specific failure mechanism identified that could differentiate the my 1997 vehicles from other vehicles containing this same hood latch assembly or could…
Odi opened ea02-029 to determine whether a safety-related defect trend existed in the my 1997 jeep grand cherokee hood latch assemblies.during ea02-029, there was no specific failure mechanism identified that could differentiate the my 1997 vehicles from other vehicles containing this same hood latch assembly or could account for their higher complaint rate.as a result, odi expanded the scope of this investigation to include all grand cherokee vehicles equipped with the subject hood latch assemblies.in performing ea02-029, it was determined that some of the secondary hood latches in the subject vehicles may exhibit increased operating frictional resistance; however, since none of the primary hood latches showed any evidence of mechanical or operational deficiency and the complaint rate of hood fly-ups measured over an extended exposure time was low, a safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time.
- Hood latch
There is no summary currently available
- Roll-away in reverse when parked
Daimlerchrysler has recalled the zj models to incorporate a secondary detent spring into the shifter.even though the wj 6 cyl. Vehicles use the same manual detent lever that as the vehicles in the recall population, odi believes that the wj redesigned shifter, which improves floor shifter functionality and ergonomics…
Daimlerchrysler has recalled the zj models to incorporate a secondary detent spring into the shifter.even though the wj 6 cyl. Vehicles use the same manual detent lever that as the vehicles in the recall population, odi believes that the wj redesigned shifter, which improves floor shifter functionality and ergonomics, helps to provide feedback to the driver to indicate whether ?park? Has or has not been achieved.although the investigator was able to induce a ?false park? In the wj platform for 6 cyl. Vehicles, the level of difficulty was greater than that required for all zj models, and the complaint rate was significantly lower than the recalled zj population.further, the odi investigator was also able to create a ?false park? In peer vehicles with the same level of difficulty and frequency as the subject vehicle wj platform.the wj complaint rate was inflated due to national exposure through the press. The complaint rate prier to the july 5, 2001 media coverage for the wj vehicles IS similar to the peer vehicle incident rate.based on the above, a safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time in the wj population.accordingly, this investigation IS closed with a safety recal for the zj platform only.
- Inadvertent rollaway in reverse park
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10229910Towing Capacity For Vehicles Modified With N45 Or N46 Trailer-Hitch Assembly This bulletin specifies the approved tow rating for vehicles not equipped with trailer tow package that have received a trailer-hitch assembly as a result of the N45 or N46 Campaign.
- 10229256KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program to the vehicle, use the "AC" NIC level part and submit a part warranty.
- 10221686KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program to the vehicle, use the "AC" NIC level part and submit a part warranty.
- 10221079Towing Capacity For Vehicles Modified With N45 Or N46 Trailer-Hitch Assembly This bulletin specifies the approved tow rating for vehicles not equipped with trailer tow package that have received a trailer-hitch assembly as a result of the N45 or N46 Campaign.
- 10220995Part Description: Insulator on Lever Assy Manual Valve - Valve Body - RWD Transmission Issue Description: The manual valve insulator, attaching rivet and instruction sheet are now available as a kit. If the insulator requires replacement please order kit 68253161AA. Insulator only used on Auto-RWD transmission Note: The color of the insulator is not relevant for service.
- 10220409Chrysler will offer owners an upgrade to the rear structure of the subject vehicles by the addition of a trailer hitch to better manage the crash forces in low-speed impacts.
- 10220101Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
- 10220099Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
- 10220097Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
- 10191460Valve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
- 10189177Chrysler will offer owners an upgrade to the rear structure of the subject vehicles by the addition of a trailer hitch to better manage the crash forces in low-speed impacts.
- 10175735Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
- 10169249Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
- 10169247Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
- 10169245Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
- 10150552Child Seat Tether Anchor Installation This bulletin describes procedures to install Child Seat Tether Anchors based on Customer Request. Retrofits are subject to part availability. Vehicles in the following list that are marked **** for the model year are no longer supported with OEM retrofit kits. NOTE: Dealers are encouraged to honor any customers? request for the installation of the Child Seat Tether Anchors and Dealer reimbursement will be made by FCA US LLC regardless of vehicle age or mileage. See the Warranty Policy and Procedure Manual and/or Warranty Bulletin D-08-33 for reimbursement detail.
- 10139909Towing Capacity For Vehicles Modified With N45 Or N46 Trailer-Hitch Assembly This bulletin specifies the approved tow rating for vehicles not equipped with trailer tow package that have received a trailer-hitch assembly as a result of the N45 or N46 Campaign.
- 10139596Part Description: Insulator on Lever Assy Manual Valve - Valve Body - RWD Transmission Issue Description: The manual valve insulator, attaching rivet and instruction sheet are now available as a kit. If the insulator requires replacement please order kit 68253161AA. Insulator only used on Auto-RWD transmission Note: The color of the insulator is not relevant for service.
- 10136886New Safety Recall Advanced Communication ? N45062013 During recent discussions, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (?NHTSA?) and Chrysler Group LLC (?Chrysler?) mutually identified an opportunity to incrementally improve the performance of 1993 through 1998 model year Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles and 2002 through 2007 model year Jeep Liberty vehicles in certain low-speed impacts. Chrysler has decided to conduct a voluntary safety recall to respond to customer concerns about that assessment. Chrysler will offer owners an upgrade to the rear structure of the subject vehicles by the addition of a trailer hitch to better manage the crash forces in low-speed impacts. Chrysler intends to inspect the involved vehicles and if necessary, install a trailer hitch where appropriate, free of charge (parts and labor). The parts required for this program are currently not available. Chrysler is making all reasonable efforts to obtain the parts as quickly as possible. Chrysler will contact dealers when the parts and repair procedure becomes available. Dealers will be notified of the launch of this safety recall by way of established methods used in the past. We ask that you please take the time to ensure that your personnel are aware of this communication and are prepared to execute a customer friendly process for inquiries on involved vehicles.
- 10003524Automatic transmission diagnostic teardown procedure. Various models including the 2004 RAM truck, durango, sebring convertible, cherokee, vision, neon, and voyager.
- 6092304Subject regarding non-deployed airbag handling procedures.
- 6089800Daimlerchrysler corporation IS now offerinb airbag on / off switches for selected vehicles.
- 6089311Concerns with a/c evaporator odor. *Nlm
- 6089148Concerns on incorrect fault mature time - dtc $B7 leak detection pump solenoid circuit. *Nlm
- 6089145Conditions on obd II misfire monitor. *Nlm
- 6089141This bulletin involves premium unleaded/regular unleade fuel selection. *Nln
- 6089116This bulletin involves front door hinge creek. *Nlm
- 6089111Concerns with limited 5.9L leather door trim panel bolster sag. *Nlm
- 6088991This bulletin involves overdrive unavailable in extreme cold temperatures, bypass kit installation, inhibitor programming. *Nlm
- 6088884Information on poor drivability with high di (drivability index) fuel. *Nlm
- 6088845Vehicle may experience remote keyless entry transmitter batteries discharge prematurely. *Nlm
- 6088834Information regarding nhtsa authorized airbag deactivation for medical necessity. *Nlm
- 6088791Concerns with grand cherokee trailer towing capacities. *Nlm
- 635721Subject regarding revision in diagnostic procedures and labor operation times for re transmissions.
- 634272Flash programming failure recovery. *Slc
- 634077Subject regarding outside rearview mirror glass replacement. *Slc
- 625650Subject regarding outside rearview mirror glass replacement.
- 621898Automatic transmission fluid usage ATF+4.
- 620071Subject regarding additional diagnostic for diagnostic trouble codes caused by an evaporative system leak.
- 620066Subject regarding generic scan tool (gst), publication no. 81-170-00008 provided with this technical service bulletin to provide reference information when using generic scan tool on obdii vehicles.
Every Jeep Grand Cherokee model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.