2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Vehicles › Jeep › Grand Cherokee › 2002
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
These records cover every 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
16 recalls name the 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Newest first.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured January 9, 2001, to March 28, 2003, 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 13, 2001, to May 23 2003, and 2003-2004 Dodge Viper vehicles manufactured November 1, 2001, to June 30, 2004. Due to electrical noise beyond the tolerance of the…
Inadvertent deployment of the air bags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.
Chrysler dealers will replace the air bag control module and side impact sensors as required, free of charge. This recall remedy was applied during earlier recall campaigns of these vehicles under safety recalls 12V527 and 13V040. All owners that have not had the recall repair performed under safety recalls 12V527 or 13V040 are strongly encouraged to have it performed and not wait for the final remedy to be deployed to the field. The recall began on December 29, 2015. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R06.
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2002 and 2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles manufactured January 9, 2001, through March 28, 2003, and 2002 through 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured February 13, 2001, through May 23, 2003. A component in the air bag control module may fail causing the front airbags, side curtain airbags, and/or seatbelt…
Inadvertent deployment of the airbags may increase the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash.
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a supplemental jumper harness to the airbag control module, free of charge. Owners were notified of the recall by interim letter in January 2013. The remedy for affected Liberty vehicles is expected to be available in April 2013. The remedy for affected Grand Cherokee vehicles is expected to be available later in the year. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753.
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…
Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
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.
Chrysler IS recalling 103,409 my 2001-2004 jeep grand cherokee vehicles with heated seats and with chrysler recall no. 06V-197 completed (03-04 my) or seat heater elements service replacement (01-02 my). the front seat electric heater elements could overheat.
Overheating could potentially cause a fire or injury.
Dealers will replace the front seat heater elements free of charge. the recall began on november 23, 2009. owners may contact chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
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…
Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
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 tradesonic combination lamps sold as replacement lamps for use on the above listed passenger vehicles. combination lamps not equipped with amber side reflectors fail to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.
Lack of amber side reflectors in the lamps will decrease lighting visibility to other drivers and may possibly result in a vehicle crash.
Tradesonic will notify owners and replace the lamps free of charge. the recall IS expected to begin during july 2006. owners may contact tradesonic at 626-934-8884.
On certain sport utility vehicles, the plastic blades of the electric motor driven cooling fan may separate and penetrate the shroud.
If this occurs while the hood IS open, a person in the vicinity of the engine could be struck by the blade and injured.
Dealers will replace the electric cooling fan modules free of charge. the recall began on september 4, 2006. owners may contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
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…
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.
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 anzo combination headlamp assemblies sold as replacement lamps for use on certain passenger vehicles. some combination lamps are not equipped with amber side reflectors which fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Without the amber reflectors, the vehicle will be poorly illuminated, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Anzo will notify owners and replace the headlamps free of charge. the recall began may 9, 2006. owners may contact anzo USA at 909-468-3688.
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…
In the presence of an ignition source, a fuel leak could result in a fire.
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 equipped with a 4.0L engine only, the design of the intake and exhaust manifolds could allow debris to accumulate at the #3 cylinder location.
This could result in a vehicle fire.
Dealers will install a manifold shield to modify the air flow characteristics and to prevent the accumulation of debris in the area of the #3 cylinder. owner notification began may 13, 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.
On certain sport utility vehicles, the passenger air bag wiring harness was improperly manufactured.
This could cause improper air bag deployment in certain crash conditions.
Dealers will add a wiring jumper to the existing circuitry to correct this condition. owner notification began april 29, 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.
Certain sport utility vehicles equipped with a fuel tank brush guard fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 301, "fuel system integrity." the onboard refueling vapor recovery (orvr) control valve can become detached during a crash, allowing fuel leakage.
Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire.
Dealers will either replace the fuel tank brush guard with a skid plate or reinforce the existing fuel tank brush guard with a reinforcement bracket. owner notification will begin march 4, 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: sport utility vehicles. the fuel inlet check valve could stick in the partially open position. this condition could cause fuel to spill out of the filler tube during refueling.
Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.
Dealers will inspect the fuel inlet check valve. vehicles found to have a sticking fuel inlet check valve will have the fuel tank assembly replaced. owner notification began december 24, 2001. 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: sport utility vehicles. the onboard vapor recovery system vent hose may have been misrouted. this could allow water to enter the canister which can cause fuel to spill out of the filler tube when refueling the tank.
Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.
Dealers will inspect (and reposition as necessary) the vent hose. if the vent hose IS found in the bent down position, and the vehicle has been driven more than 20 miles, the canister assembly will be replaced. owner notification began december 3, 2001. 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: certain sport utility vehicles are being recalled for a software error in the instrument cluster microprocessor. under certain conditions, the cluster, with the majority of its gauges, illumination, and warning lamps, could become inoperative.
Driving the vehicle with an inoperative cluster could cause a distraction, increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will re-flash the cluster software to correct the condition. owner notification began october 8, 2001. 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.
I just bought a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the VIN number listed above. I saw that there was a recall where the dealer had to put on trailer hitches on the vehicle as without it if rear ended the gas tank could explode. I understand this is a older vehicle but do they not service recalls anymore for something like that??? It could explode it hit in the back. When I put my VIN in it says no outstanding recalls yet it does not or ever had a hitch on it for this repair. Any info on this is appreciated....Thanks
I have been unable to get recall R06 completed. All the jeep dealers said that they are unable to get the needed parts. They are on a national recall list. This IS a serious safety issue and needs to be addressed asap. They state that the orc module and other items needed to complete the recall cannot be obtained anywhere and the dealer's said that they have been waiting months for the back ordered parts so the recall can be completed. This IS a serious safety issue that needs to be completed on these jeeps. My air bag light IS on and the parts needed IS on the recall list R06 to fix it. Please address this safety issue asap before someone gets critical injuries. Thanks for your time.
I currently own 3 of the same vehicles myself, my husband and my son. Each of the vehicles have been experiencing electrical issues. I have taken all of the vehicles at some point back to the mechanic for repairs for this issue. It was only a temporary fix. Here are examples of some of the electrical issues. The blinkers and break lights may go out and not work while we are driving and some days they work just fine. But it has now become a safety hazard because we never know when they will work and are afraid to be hit by another car from the rear. Another example is when I am driving down the street all of the sudden the windows will automatically roll down by themselves. These issues have put all of our safety at risk, especially while we are driving in high traffic areas such as Atlanta, Georgia. The problem was acessed by our auto mechanic on all three (3) vehicles. They are are 1999-2000, 2001 & 2002 Grand Cherokee one of the vehicles is a limited edition. There are no warning signs or symptoms and the check engine light is not on any of the vehicles.
The contact owns a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V046000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The local dealer was contacted several times and advised the contact that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was awaiting a response from the manufacturer. The failure mileage was approximately 137,849. Parts distribution disconnect.
Taillight on back passenger side won't work, steering has been bad since I had, steering linkage and suspension failing, emergency brake doesn't work, cruise control won't work, oil pressure always reads high, airbag light stays on n seatbelt light stays on if I don't turn key on n let sit for an few seconds before starting jeep, gas pedal sticks , power steering fluid is leaking bad, steering linkage close to breaking heard noise so I pulled over. Also shocks bad, when hit an small bump it sounds like whole front end breaks
The contact owns a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the front passenger’s side airbag inadvertently deployed without warning. The contact was able to drive the vehicle home. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 206,000.
While driving, airbags deployed on both the passager and driver's side. The car is available for inspection. The vehicle is with the dealership and awaiting repair. My safety was put at risk, the incident occurred while I was operating the vehicle. No other damage except to the vehicle itself, damaging my property. There were no notices, warnings or other symptoms of the problem.
I have air bag module not working and dealer keeps say part back order for months now and can’t get repaired and can’t get Jeep inspected till this is fixed brylea Jeep,Chrysler in Rutland Vermont Is dealer working with for it
The contact owns a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that while the vehicle was turned off, there was an abnormal sound coming from the dashboard. Additionally, while driving at various speeds, the speedometer failed to display the correct speed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed of a leak in the EVAP system. The contact was also informed that the vehicle control sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer nor the manufacturer had been notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 205,000.
I brought in my car in to Roger Williams Chrysler in Weatherford TX, 1102 Washington Dr, Weatherford, TX 76086, for Safety Recall R06. The first appointment I dropped off the vehicle and received a rental, which was covered by FCA under the recall. A couple of days pass as they order parts and perform the maintenance. I return to my vehicle once they stated the Safety Recall was completed. The airbag light was still on, they couldn't tell me what DTC was associated with the light so I checked it myself. The DTC's were airbag DTC 54 and 55 (Side impact sensor internal fault). Safety Recall R06 instructs the dealership to replace impact sensors should they have any DTC's on them. R06 also states, at least twice, NOT to replace the front impact sensors, which they boasted and were proud about replacing. They stated "the tech has done hundreds of these recalls and always replaces the front sensors". I explained why I felt the recall maintenance was not completed to the tech when I picked up my vehicle. He maintained his narrative that the recall was satisfied and if I wanted them to look into it further it would be a minimum of $300.00. As weeks go by while I work with FCA customer care and the dealership service manager I am forced to drive a vehicle with faulty airbags. After several weeks and numerous phone calls and arguing I convinced the dealership to take another look at the vehicle. Upon their second look they initially maintained that the recall was satisfied and that the front sensors were replaced. I pleaded with the service manager once more to check the DTC's and review the NHTSA/FCA Safety Recall R06 instructions to replace the side impact sensors. They finally do, now the vehicles airbags are functioning and all is well. I just wonder, how many hundreds of WJ's are out there that had this maintenance done incorrectly and either don't know or didn't push hard enough to have it done correctly. How was this even able to get to this point?
The contact owns a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact became aware of the recall for NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V046000 (Air Bags) however, the dealer informed the contact that the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the air bag warning light had been illuminated since she purchased the vehicle. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 314,900. Parts distribution disconnect.
In 2012 or before, prior to when I purchased the vehicle on march 20, 2012, this vehicle was subject to a recall notice. Many times, and most recently in august 2020, two different dealers have not repaired the defect, and I have been advised the part IS not "in stock".
One monday the 6TH driving north. it was raining. So, I had full 4wheel drive engaged. a car cut me off. I was on the transition from the 5 n to the 55N. a car from the left lane cut into my lane to try and exit onto 4TH street. to avoid an accident I slammed on the breaks and veered right. but the car would not stop. I pushing down on the breaks as hard as I could. the car was still accelerating and did not slow down. Trying to obtain control over the vehicle I "fishtailed" from going right back to left and hit the side of the car and then hit the center divider. the car kept accelerating and I hit the center divider and flipped around. I was then facing opposite traffic towards the divider. I threw the car into park and held the breaks strong. The back wheels were still spinning out. I look down and the keys were not in the ignition. Luckily, I had a spare key in the center console and shut it down. I found the keys on the ground but not anywhere near the pedals. I talked to the dealer and they said they had never heard of it. the only thing they could verify IS that the key could come out wile the car IS still on. according to them this happens as the key wears down or gets old.
TL* the contact owns a 2002 jeep grand cherokee. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic to have a hitch attached. The mechanic referred him to the dealer for assistance. The contact called militello motors (1029 n state st, fairmont, mn 56031, (507) 238-4444) and was informed that the vehicle had been inspected per the N47 customer satisfaction notification, and the vehicle was deemed safe. The contact had no recollection of being informed of such inspection taking place on his vehicle. The contact also spoke with the manufacturer who provided the same information. The contact stated that the fuel tank remained exposed and the hazard could potentially lead to a fire. The contact had not experienced a failure.
We were driving into our parking stall at home when our airbags deployed. As we reversed and drove forward to straighten our car in our stall we noticed the airbag light turn on suddenly and airbags automatically deployed. Our entire family was in the car and kids are traumatized. Super scary moment, and what if we were driving on the highway!
At start up airbag lights stay on I stop at the store and shut off the engine and start it back up the airbag lights are off. Issue 2. Driving down the road and start up a hill it down shifts or high rpms a fuse blows.
Fuel tank protection. I took this in for the recall which I assumed they where going to install a trailer hitch to help protect form rear end collision in packing the fuel tank. They said it didn't need one. So no additional protection was added. I also don't understand why they have the gas evaporator canister by the back bumper. Its full of gas vapor. Usually these are in the engine compartment. chrysler should do more to help protect this vehicle. I appreciate your assistance
When I got in my jeep there was a breaking sound from under the drivers seat. I noticed the seat was rocking back and forth and when I looked underneath at the frame of the seat I saw where the frame broke in half. It IS unsafe to drive now and it IS my only means of transportation. I used to have a lot more faith in jeep until I looked it up and started seeing more and more people have the same problem and chrysler/jeep has not recalled it. Due to this being a life threatening problem I will not buy another jeep if they don't recall it! There IS plenty of life left in the vehicle but IS now inoperable due to it being an extremely unsafe vehicle.
Air bag warning light stays on intermittently upon startup, usually will go out if shut off and restart, but not always. has been recalled twice already for airbag issue so am fairly confident this IS the same problem still. only 89000 miles on the vehicle and IS 100% garage kept. .
TL* the contact owns a 2002 jeep grand cherokee. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 15v046000 (air bags). The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Jeep chrysler indian trail (5501 w hwy 74, monroe, nc 28110) was contacted and confirmed that the parts were not available for the recall remedy. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and was not able to confirm when the parts were to become available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
The low pressure light stays on
While driving or stationary the engine shuts down on me. It starts again after I wait about an hour or more. I bought this car from the original owner in december 2017. She had all the recalls fixed except for the airbag. Since owning this car I have only driven it 3 times. Granted I took a few months to put it on the road as the weather was cold. I've had extensive work done on it. Tune up, new transmission, belts, pumps, coils, hoses and sensors you name it but it continues to shut off on me. I try to take it for a spin but just putting it in reverse it shuts off. Can you please look in to this?
Several years ago I was pulled over by a police officer because I had no tail/running/turn or brake lights. I immediately had those replaced. Within a month I took my jeep in for the yearly state inspection and found that I had the same issue. I was told then, that this was a problem with this design of the jeep, they were very familiar with this problem as I told them about my recent traffic stop and having just gotten it fixed. This very serious problem has persisted extensively! No matter how many times I address the issue (and it's not the bulbs, those are rarely burnt out, it's the connection, cleaning the connection surface helps but ...) I am constantly being stopped and told I have no tail lights whatsoever, it's exhausting and a danger to my and everyone else's! Ongoing problem.
TL* the contact owns a 2002 jeep grand cherokee. The contact stated that a new radiator was installed by an independent mechanic that was made of plastic. The contact stated that the structural integrity of the oem radiator was made overseas and not by chrysler. The contact stated that the radiator burst and could not handle the pressure. The failure occurred fifteen months after the radiator was replaced by the mechanic. The failure mileage was 20,000.
A few instances have occurred where I will be driving and the vehicle engine will immediately shut off as the vehicle IS in motion. The electrical components (radio, headlights, dashboard, etc) still function but all gauges stop working. I then have to pull over, put the vehicle in park, and then restart the vehicle. It will then start up right away. On a couple of occasions, the vehicle engine has started back up on its own without me doing anything and drives fine after that. This seems to occur mostly when I release my foot from the accelerator but has happened when I am trying to accelerate. Has only happened when driving on city streets, never on a highway.
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an investigation based on consumer allegations of inadvertent air bag deployments (IABD) occurring after the recall remedy for NHTSA recall 12V-527 had been installed on recalled model year (MY ) 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty and MY 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).The recall was in response to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) investigation EA12-001 during which data provided by FCA indicate that the air bag circuitry inside the Occupant Restraint Control (ORC) module can degrade. ORC degradation can result in an inadvertent air bag deployment, without a crash or impact, while the vehicle is being operated.An IABD may involve frontal, side and belt pretensioner devices, and may result in injuries consisting of burns, cuts and bruises to the upper body region, and or the potential for a loss of control and or crash.The remedy FCA developed for 12V-527 consisted of installing an in-line jumper harness with an integrated electrical filter for the circuits that connect to the air bag modules (squib circuits).This filter is intended to eliminate transient electrical spikes to the ORC which FCA asserted are responsible for the IABDs.ODI has identified a total of 9 NHTSA complaints across all affected vehicles indicating an IABD event occurring after the vehicle had previously been remedied under 12V-527.In addition, FCA reported 12 additional complaints of post-remedy IABD events. The IABD events took place both while driving and while the vehicle was stationary. Six customers incurred injuries consistent with air bag deployments however no crashes were reported.As a response to this investigation, FCA has issued 2 new recalls involving the IABD.On January 27, 2015 FCA notified ODI that it would conduct a safety recall (15V-046) to remedy potential IABD events occurring in 753,176 MY02-03 Jeep Liberty vehicles built through 03/28/03 and MY 2002-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles built through 5/23/03.Note that this recall, which was scoped based on field IABD events does not include all MY 2003 Liberty or MY 2004 Grand Cherokee manufactured with the same level ORC module.According to FCA, the ORC degradation and subsequent electrical overstress condition that causes the air bags to deploy inadvertently is not fully remedied with the filter installed during the 12V-527 campaign.To remedy IABDs under 15V-046, FCA will install a new design ORC module using a next generation electrical architecture.The next generation architecture has been used in other non-subject vehicles for many years without evidence of IABD events occurring.In addition to this recall, on October 15, 2015 FCA advised NHTSA that it would conduct safety recall 15V-673 to remedy potential IABD events in the remaining 284,089 MY 2003 Jeep Liberty and MY 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles manufactured with the earlier generation ORC module that were not previously recalled.FCA initially did not recall these populations due to the lack of known IABD events.However, FCA is now aware of 7 IABD events occurring in this population. After consultation with ODI regarding the long term durability and noise toughness of the earlier ORC architecture, FCA decided to recall this population also.The recall actions initiated by the manufacturer address the safety risks identified by the investigation.Accordingly, the investigation is closed.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchSafetyIssues under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10622092, 10629705, 10619008, 10618842, 10626762, 106404
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
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.
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.
Daimlerchrysler corporation (dcc) has notified the agency that it will conduct a safety recall (06v199) of certain jeep grand cherokee vehicles to replace the engine's electric motor driven cooling fan. The 182,875 vehicles included in the recall are model year (my) 2002 equipped with 4.0 liter (six cylinder) engines manufactured from february 4, 2002 through june 17, 2002; and my 2000 equipped with either the 4.0 liter (six cylinder) or the 4.7 liter (eight cylinder) engine manufactured from january 31, 2000 through june 12, 2000.dcc noted that their analysis of failed parts showed evidence of brittle fracture of the fan blade.dcc further stated, poor bonding between the resin material and the glass fibers was observed, which may be attributed to the injection molding process. Since the root cause of fan failure could not be conclusively identified dcc decided the recall scope would be determined by the build date range of the complaint vehicles.there were 48 reports for my 2000, and 196 for my 2002.odi will continue to monitor this issue for reports on vehicles outside of the recall scope.
This investigation was opened on july 13, 2005, based on four odi consumer reports.odi contacted all of those complainants and each of them reported that pieces of the broken fan blade had damaged the radiator and penetrated through the protective fan shroud.since opening the investigation, odi has received 12 new consumer reports.in its response to odi's preliminary evaluation information request daimlerchrysler corporation provided additional owner reports and warranty data.this preliminary evaluation has been upgraded to engineering analysis ea05-020 to further study the issues regarding the alleged fan failures.
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.
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.