IllustrationCATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF RIGHT REAR SUSPENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM RESULTING IN LOSS OF CONTROL OF VEHICLE. *TR
2004 Jeep Liberty
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
More warning signs than most Liberty years
Owner complaints for the 2004 Jeep Liberty are substantially higher than the model-year median of 541.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all Liberty years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
1070–25K
17425–50K
13250–75K
11075–100K
152100–150K
76150K+
751 reports with mileage · 349 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Suspension. Review the 455 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Structure. Review the 128 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Visibility. Review the 108 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
86 crash reports39 fire reports53 injury reports
Suspension complaints
455 reportsDURING A ROUTINE OIL CHANGE IT WAS NOTED THAT THE SUSPENSION AND OIL PAN WERE EXCESSIVELY RUSTED. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, ANOTHER DRIVER NOTICED THAT THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL WAS WOBBLING. THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR LOWER ARMS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. TH…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, ANOTHER DRIVER NOTICED THAT THE REAR DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL WAS WOBBLING. THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE REAR LOWER ARMS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
RECALL #L27 RECALL ISSUED TO "NORTHERN STATES" FOR THE EFFECT OF SALT ON LOWER REAR ARMS. I LIVE IN RUIDOSO NEW MEXICO IN A SNOW/SALT AREA AT 7,000 FOOT ELEVATION. I ALMOST HAD A WRECK WITH THE LOWER REAR ARMS MALFUNCTIONING. I HAD THE CAR REPAIRED AND THEN FOUND OUT THERE WAS A RECALL ISSUED YEARS BEFORE. CHRYSLER HAS RE…
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RECALL #L27 RECALL ISSUED TO "NORTHERN STATES" FOR THE EFFECT OF SALT ON LOWER REAR ARMS. I LIVE IN RUIDOSO NEW MEXICO IN A SNOW/SALT AREA AT 7,000 FOOT ELEVATION. I ALMOST HAD A WRECK WITH THE LOWER REAR ARMS MALFUNCTIONING. I HAD THE CAR REPAIRED AND THEN FOUND OUT THERE WAS A RECALL ISSUED YEARS BEFORE. CHRYSLER HAS REFUSED TO PAY THE INVOICE FOR FIXING THE LOWER REAR ARMS. THEY CLAIM THE RECALL IS FOR "NORTHERN STATES" ONLY. SORRY, THIS APPEARS TO BE A CHRYSLER FINANCIAL DECISION. SINCE THEY ADMIT THAT SALT CAN NEGATIVELY EFFECT THE LOWER REAR ARMS, THE ERROR SEEMS TO BE CHRYSLER DEFINING WHERE IN THE COUNTRY THERE ARE HEAVY SALT/SNOW WINTERS. I AM SIMPLY THANKFUL WE DID NOT HAVE A WRECK AND WANT REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE REPAIR. I FEEL IT IS GRAVE MISTAKE NOT TO HAVE THE RECALL APPLY TO JEEP LIBERTY 2014. IF THE CAR IS NOT IN A SALT/SNOW AREA THERE SHOULD BE NO REASON FOR RECALL REPAIRS. IF A CAR IS USED IN A SALT/SNOW AREA ANYWHERE IN THE UNITED STATES AND IT IS IMPACTED BY SALT THEN THE RECALL REPAIR SHOULD BE COMPLETED. AND--IT IS THE RIGHT THING TO DO. *TR
MY COMPLAINT IS WITH THE CHRYSLER RECALL N46/NHSTA 13V-252. I RECEIVED TWO (2) RECALLS -ONE LAST DEC. 2013 AND IN AUGUST 2014 FOR THE REAR STRUCTURE REINFORCEMENT. I CALLED 2JEEP/CHRYSLER DEALERS AND WAS TOLD THAT THEY WERE ONLY PROVIDED 5 TRAILER HITCHES AND HAD A WAITING LIST OF 55. I WAS TOLD TO CALL BACK IN MID-SEPTEMBER…
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MY COMPLAINT IS WITH THE CHRYSLER RECALL N46/NHSTA 13V-252. I RECEIVED TWO (2) RECALLS -ONE LAST DEC. 2013 AND IN AUGUST 2014 FOR THE REAR STRUCTURE REINFORCEMENT. I CALLED 2JEEP/CHRYSLER DEALERS AND WAS TOLD THAT THEY WERE ONLY PROVIDED 5 TRAILER HITCHES AND HAD A WAITING LIST OF 55. I WAS TOLD TO CALL BACK IN MID-SEPTEMBER. THIS RECALL IS A JOKE. I CALLED CHRYSLER RECALL ASST. CENTER AND SPOKE WITH TAYLOR AND WAS TOLD THAT THE TRAILER HITCHES WERE STILL BEING MANUFACTURED AND THAT THE HITCHES AND SUBSEQUENT REPAIRS SHOULD BE DONE WITHIN TWO (2) YEARS. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE. I WAS TOLD WHEN I GOT THE FIRST RECALL NOTICE TO WAIT FOR THE SECOND THAT THE PARTS WOULD BE AVAILABLE AND THEY ARE NOT. I BELIEVE CHRYSLER IS NOT ACTING IN GOOD FAITH TO ITS CUSTOMERS AND HAS NO INTENTION OF REPLACING THE RECALLED ITEMS. I BELIEVE THAT THEY ARE JUST WAITING FOR THE JEEPS IN QUESTION TO DISAPPEAR AND GO TO JUNK YARDS. THEY HAVE NO INTENTION IN FIXING THE PROBLEM. THE PROBLEM WITH THE REAR STRUCTURE REINFORCEMENT IS JUST TOO EXPENSIVE FOR THEM TO FIX. I FEEL RIGHT NOW THAT THE END RESULT OF THIS RECALL THAT ONLY 10% OF THE JEEPS IN QUESTION WILL ACTUALLY BE REPAIRED. I HAVE NEVER GONE THROUGH SUCH A LONG, DECEITFUL RECALL BEFORE. I HAVE ZERO FAITH IN CHRYSLER DOING THE RIGHT THING WITHOUT ANOTHER GOVERNMENTAL COURT ORDER. *TR
WHEN ON VACATION GETTING READY TO DRIVE BACK HOME FROM NC TO NY TURNING INTO A PARKING LOT THE RIGHT FRONT BALL JOINT SNAPPED. WE HAD TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED TO HAVE IT REPAIRED ONLY TO FIND OUT WHEN WE ARRIVED HOME AND I LOOKED UP ONLINE THAT THERE HAD BEEN AN PREVIOUS RECALL ON THIS THAT I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF. THE REPAIR T…
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WHEN ON VACATION GETTING READY TO DRIVE BACK HOME FROM NC TO NY TURNING INTO A PARKING LOT THE RIGHT FRONT BALL JOINT SNAPPED. WE HAD TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED TO HAVE IT REPAIRED ONLY TO FIND OUT WHEN WE ARRIVED HOME AND I LOOKED UP ONLINE THAT THERE HAD BEEN AN PREVIOUS RECALL ON THIS THAT I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF. THE REPAIR TECH RIPPED THE "BETTER BRAND" MORE EXPENSIVE MOOG BRAND BOOT WHEN HE PUT IT ON AND DIDN'T TELL US. WE DIDN'T FIND OUT UNTIL ARRIVING HOME & THEN WE HAD TO TAKE IT TO ANOTHER SHOP 45 MIN AWAY TO HAVE IT REPAIRED AGAIN.. IF WE HAD BEEN NOTIFIED PREVIOUSLY WE WOULD HAVE HAD THIS TAKEN CARE OF PRIOR TO AND HAD IT FIXED THE RIGHT WAY. THANKFULLY WE WERE PULLING INTO A GAS STATION PARKING LOT AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT AND NOT 20 MIN LATER WHEN WE WERE DRIVING 65 MPH DOWN THE HIGHWAY OR THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. *TR
SINCE I RECEIVED THE FIRST NOTICE OF THE RECALL FOR MY JEEP LIBERTY PURCHASED NEW AND STILL DRIVE I ATTEMPTED TO GET IT REPAIRED AT A CHRYSLER DEALER MORE THAN FOUR TIMES AND FOUR TIMES TELLING ME THEY WERE OUT OF PARTS AND I WILL RECEIVE A LETTER TELLING ME WHEN TO BRING IT IN ,NONE OF THEM TOOK ANY OF MY INFORMATION AND WANTED…
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SINCE I RECEIVED THE FIRST NOTICE OF THE RECALL FOR MY JEEP LIBERTY PURCHASED NEW AND STILL DRIVE I ATTEMPTED TO GET IT REPAIRED AT A CHRYSLER DEALER MORE THAN FOUR TIMES AND FOUR TIMES TELLING ME THEY WERE OUT OF PARTS AND I WILL RECEIVE A LETTER TELLING ME WHEN TO BRING IT IN ,NONE OF THEM TOOK ANY OF MY INFORMATION AND WANTED TO PUT ME ON A WAITING LIST OF ANY KIND. THIS LAST TIME THE PLACE NEAREST MY HOME WAS THE LAST STRAW, THE SERVICE MANAGER JEFF CARNIVAL AT CRYSTAL AUTOMOTIVE AT 143 CORTEZ BLVD IN BROOKSVILLE,FLORIDA 34613. GOT DOWNRIGHT NASTY WITH ME. I SUGGEST HE WOULD NOT HAVE TAKEN SUCH LIBERTIES IF I WASN'T 72 YEARS OLD AND DISABLED. OF COURSE I LEFT SINCE ACCOMPLISHING NOTHING AGAIN. DO YOU HAVE THE ABILITY TO HELP ME OUT WITH THIS ONGOING PROBLEM. ITS REALLY BEEN A LONG TIME GETTING THIS DONE. YOU CAN ASSURE CHRYSLER IF SUCH A INCIDENT SHOULD OCCUR WHERE MY WIFE AND I ARE INJURED. MY FAMILY WILL SURELY SUE THEM FOR NEGLECT AND INJURIES. REALLY MAD ABOUT THE TREATMENT I HAVE BEEN RECEIVING.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. THE VEHICLE WAS MERGED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND AFTER INSPECTING IT THE CONTACT NOTICED THE FRONT PASSENGER BALL JOINT WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEI…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 JEEP LIBERTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. THE VEHICLE WAS MERGED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND AFTER INSPECTING IT THE CONTACT NOTICED THE FRONT PASSENGER BALL JOINT WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION FOR RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 12E047000 (SUSPENSION). HOWEVER, THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.
NOTIFIED BY THE LOCAL REPAIR CHAIN WORKER THAT MY FRONT SUSPENSION NEEDED TO BE FIXED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THE REPAIR WOULD COST ABOUT 1800.00 OR SO. I JUST RECENTLY GRADUATED FROM SCHOOL & LIVE PAY CHECK TO PAY CHECK. I THEM CALLED THE LOCAL JEEP DEALERSHIP (SAM SWOPE JEEP) AND WAS CONFIRMED THAT THERE HAD BEEN PREVIOUS RECALL…
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NOTIFIED BY THE LOCAL REPAIR CHAIN WORKER THAT MY FRONT SUSPENSION NEEDED TO BE FIXED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THE REPAIR WOULD COST ABOUT 1800.00 OR SO. I JUST RECENTLY GRADUATED FROM SCHOOL & LIVE PAY CHECK TO PAY CHECK. I THEM CALLED THE LOCAL JEEP DEALERSHIP (SAM SWOPE JEEP) AND WAS CONFIRMED THAT THERE HAD BEEN PREVIOUS RECALLS RELATED TO THE LIBERTY''S SUSPENSION SYSTEM. I ALSO WROTE TO THE MANUFACTURER, BUT HAVE NOT HEARD ANYTHING FROM THEM. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THAT THE RECALL REPAIRS WERE TAKEN CARE OF. IF IT WAS" TAKEN CARE OF" THEN I SHOULDN'T HAVE THE SUSPENSION NEEDING REPAIR. EITHER THE RECALL REPAIR WAS SHODDY WORK. NOT ACTUALLY DONE. OR THE WORK WAS A TEMPORARY FIX. IN EITHER CASE, I NEED THE MANUFACTURER TO MAKE THE REPAIR AT NO COST TO ME & PROVIDE S LOANER VEHICLE WHILE THE REPAIR IS BEING MADE. REGARDING THE RECALL I FOUND THAT... . CONSEQUENCE: WHEN THE DRIVER CONTINUES TO OPERATE THE VEHICLE WITH THIS CONDITION, THE CONTAMINATION CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR AND POSSIBLY SEPARATION FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE CAUSING A LOSS OF VEHICLE STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH. I HAVE TO TRAVEL THE HIGHWAYS AND ACROSS A BRIDGE TO GET TO AND FROM WORK. I DO NOT WANT TO BE A FATALITY OR BE THE CAUSE OF SOMEONE BEING A PART OF AN ACCIDENT OR FATALITY. THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD WANT TO MAINTAIN A GOOD CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP AND HAVE A LOYAL CUSTOMER. ALSO, THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD WANT TO VALUE THEIR REPUTATION. *TR
ALMOST IN FIRE AND SHAKE ALL THE CAR BUT IM FINE . *JS
Official recalls
718V278000 · Suspension:rear
May 1, 2018
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2004-2007 Jeep Liberty vehicles. The rear suspension lower control arms can fracture due to excessive corrosion, causing a loss of vehicle control.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fractured control arm can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear lower control arms, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U38. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 12V-085. Vehicles included in that campaign are not included in this recall.
13V252000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly; Structure
Jun 19, 2013
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.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: 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).
Additional source detail variants (2)
Structure
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.
Consequence: 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).
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
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.
Consequence: 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).
12V085000 · Suspension:rear
Mar 5, 2012
IN JUNE 2012, CHRYSLER EXPANDED THIS RECALL TO INCLUDE MODEL YEAR 2006 AND 2007 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES, REPRESENTING AN ADDITIONAL 137,176 VEHICLES. THIS RECALL NOW CONCERNS CERTAIN MY 2004-2007 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES. THE TOTAL NUMBER VEHICLES BEING RECALLED IS NOW 346,900. THESE VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 3, 2003 THROUGH JUNE 29, 2007. THE RECALL ADDRESSES THOSE VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. SOME VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH REAR LOWER CONTROL ARMS THAT CAN EXPERIENCE A REAR SUSPENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM FRACTURE DUE TO EXCESSIVE CORROSION DUE TO APPLICATION OF ROAD SALTS DURING WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A FRACTURE OF THE REAR LOWER CONTROL ARM MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND MAY LEAD TO A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: CHRYSLER WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE REAR LOWER CONTROL ARMS ON ALL AFFECTED VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 26, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
06V288000 · Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint
Aug 3, 2006
ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, THE CONSTANT TENSION FRONT LOWER BALL JOINTS MAY EXPERIENCE CONTAMINATION. IF THE VEHICLE IS OPERATED FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD WITH THIS CONDITION, THE BALL JOINT MAY EVENTUALLY EXPERIENCE WEAR AND LOOSENESS.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: WHEN THE DRIVER CONTINUES TO OPERATE THE VEHICLE WITH THIS CONDITION, THE CONTAMINATION CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR AND POSSIBLY SEPARATION FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE CAUSING A LOSS OF VEHICLE STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT LOWER BALL JOINTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2006. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
04V337000 · Engine And Engine Cooling
Jul 8, 2004
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.7L ENGINES ONLY, TWO VALVE COVER STUDS MAY INTERFERE WITH THE FUEL INJECTOR AND ALTERNATOR WIRING HARNESSES.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: DAMAGE TO THE ALTERNATOR WIRING HARNESS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDER HOOD FIRE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL ADD PROTECTIVE CAPS TO THE VALVE COVER STUDS AND RE-ROUTE THE AFFECTED WIRING HARNESS TO PROVIDE CLEARANCE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JULY 19, 2004. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
04V111000 · Latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch
Mar 4, 2004
ON SOME SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, CERTAIN REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) INPUT MAY CAUSE THE BODY CONTROL MODULE (BCM) SOFTWARE TO ACTUATE THE DOOR LOCK MOTORS CONTINUOUSLY.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS CAN CAUSE THE LOCK MOTOR BEARINGS TO OVERHEAT AND SEIZE. IF THIS OCCURS, THE DOOR LOCK SYSTEM WILL BECOME INOPERATIVE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE, AS NECESSARY, THE DOOR LATCH ASSEMBLIES AND THE BCM SOFTWARE WILL BE UPDATED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MAY 10, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
04V048000 · Equipment:other:labels
Feb 3, 2004
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, DUE TO A RECENT SOFTWARE PROGRAMMING ERROR, THE TIRE, WHEEL, AND INFLATION PRESSURE INFORMATION WAS INADVERTENTLY OMITTED FROM THE VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THE VEHICLE OWNER WOULD NOT BE AWARE OF THE TIRE, WHEEL, AND INFLATION PRESSURE INFORMATION FOR THEIR VEHICLE.
Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A CORRECTED TIRE CERTIFICATION LABEL. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON MARCH 1, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
5EA12005 · Crash Related Fuel Tank Fires
Opened Jun 12, 2012 · Closed Nov 14, 2014
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings; Fuel System, Gasoline:storage; Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly; Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe And Cap
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
Additional source detail variants (4)
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
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
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
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
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
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
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe And Cap
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
EA11013 · Rear Suspension Control Arm Failure
Opened Sep 15, 2011 · Closed Mar 14, 2012
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension; Suspension:rear
In a letter dated March 2, 2012 Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA recall No. 12V-085) to the NHTSA identifying a safety defect regarding rear suspension lower control arm corrosion in approximately 210,000 model year (MY) 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles, originally sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state (Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia).According to Chrysler, excessive corrosion could result in fracture of a rear suspension lower control arm which may result in a loss vehicle control.In analysis of both Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) data submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) and consumer complaint data submitted to Chrysler, ODI identified 54 non-duplicative reports alleging failure of one or both rear lower control arms due to excessive corrosion.Thirteen of these complaints allege that the failure resulted in some loss of vehicle control.For purposes of this analysis, loss of control events involve alleged complete or partial departure from the intended lane of travel.An additional 11 complaints reported difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle when the rear lower control arm failed.All of the complainant vehicles were either originally sold or registered at the time of the incident in a Salt-belt state.ODI did not identify any reports (complaints or warranty claims) related to rear lower control failure due to excessive corrosion in the approximately 138,000 MY 2004 and 2005 Liberty vehicles that are not included in this recall (i.e., not sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state).In Chrysler?s Defect Information Report, Chrysler stated that during the investigation a field survey of MY 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles was conducted.In total, Chrysler is aware of 83 incidents alleging rear control arm fracture (including complaints and field study results).Based on Chrysler?s decision to conduct a safety recall this investigation is closed. The associated VOQs are: 10449912, 10448981, 10448406, 10448119, 10447069,10446737, 10445029, 10443863, 10443222, 10441248, 10438681, 10437308, 10436416, 10436231, 10436024, 10434927, 10434157, 10433963, 10430852, 10429346, 10428006, 10427087, 10426644, 10426393, 10419094, 10417697, 10416623, 10410148, 10409668, 10402048, 10397413, 10392160, 10388448, 10365118, 10360057, 10360049, 10345985
Additional source detail variants (2)
Suspension
In a letter dated March 2, 2012 Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA recall No. 12V-085) to the NHTSA identifying a safety defect regarding rear suspension lower control arm corrosion in approximately 210,000 model year (MY) 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles, originally sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state (Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia).According to Chrysler, excessive corrosion could result in fracture of a rear suspension lower control arm which may result in a loss vehicle control.In analysis of both Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) data submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) and consumer complaint data submitted to Chrysler, ODI identified 54 non-duplicative reports alleging failure of one or both rear lower control arms due to excessive corrosion.Thirteen of these complaints allege that the failure resulted in some loss of vehicle control.For purposes of this analysis, loss of control events involve alleged complete or partial departure from the intended lane of travel.An additional 11 complaints reported difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle when the rear lower control arm failed.All of the complainant vehicles were either originally sold or registered at the time of the incident in a Salt-belt state.ODI did not identify any reports (complaints or warranty claims) related to rear lower control failure due to excessive corrosion in the approximately 138,000 MY 2004 and 2005 Liberty vehicles that are not included in this recall (i.e., not sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state).In Chrysler?s Defect Information Report, Chrysler stated that during the investigation a field survey of MY 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles was conducted.In total, Chrysler is aware of 83 incidents alleging rear control arm fracture (including complaints and field study results).Based on Chrysler?s decision to conduct a safety recall this investigation is closed. The associated VOQs are: 10449912, 10448981, 10448406, 10448119, 10447069,10446737, 10445029, 10443863, 10443222, 10441248, 10438681, 10437308, 10436416, 10436231, 10436024, 10434927, 10434157, 10433963, 10430852, 10429346, 10428006, 10427087, 10426644, 10426393, 10419094, 10417697, 10416623, 10410148, 10409668, 10402048, 10397413, 10392160, 10388448, 10365118, 10360057, 10360049, 10345985
Suspension:rear
In a letter dated March 2, 2012 Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA recall No. 12V-085) to the NHTSA identifying a safety defect regarding rear suspension lower control arm corrosion in approximately 210,000 model year (MY) 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles, originally sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state (Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia).According to Chrysler, excessive corrosion could result in fracture of a rear suspension lower control arm which may result in a loss vehicle control.In analysis of both Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) data submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) and consumer complaint data submitted to Chrysler, ODI identified 54 non-duplicative reports alleging failure of one or both rear lower control arms due to excessive corrosion.Thirteen of these complaints allege that the failure resulted in some loss of vehicle control.For purposes of this analysis, loss of control events involve alleged complete or partial departure from the intended lane of travel.An additional 11 complaints reported difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle when the rear lower control arm failed.All of the complainant vehicles were either originally sold or registered at the time of the incident in a Salt-belt state.ODI did not identify any reports (complaints or warranty claims) related to rear lower control failure due to excessive corrosion in the approximately 138,000 MY 2004 and 2005 Liberty vehicles that are not included in this recall (i.e., not sold or currently registered in a Salt-belt state).In Chrysler?s Defect Information Report, Chrysler stated that during the investigation a field survey of MY 2004 and 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles was conducted.In total, Chrysler is aware of 83 incidents alleging rear control arm fracture (including complaints and field study results).Based on Chrysler?s decision to conduct a safety recall this investigation is closed. The associated VOQs are: 10449912, 10448981, 10448406, 10448119, 10447069,10446737, 10445029, 10443863, 10443222, 10441248, 10438681, 10437308, 10436416, 10436231, 10436024, 10434927, 10434157, 10433963, 10430852, 10429346, 10428006, 10427087, 10426644, 10426393, 10419094, 10417697, 10416623, 10410148, 10409668, 10402048, 10397413, 10392160, 10388448, 10365118, 10360057, 10360049, 10345985
PE11013 · Rear Suspension Control Arm Failure
Opened Apr 18, 2011 · Closed Sep 15, 2011
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension:rear
During Preliminary Evaluation (PE11-013), the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) conducted an analysis of consumer field data from its Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database and from complaint data submitted to ODI by Chrysler. ODI's analysis of VOQ data identified 13 complaints alleging failure of either the right or left rear lower control arm due to excessive corrosion.All of these complaints were associated with vehicles originally sold or registered in a salt belt state (for the purposes of this investigation, 'salt belt' includes Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia).All of the complaints were associated with vehicles manufactured in model years (MY) 2004 or 2005. Three of these complaints also allege a loss of vehicle control due to the rear lower control arm failure. No complaints related to the alleged defect were identified on vehicles manufactured during MYs 2002 or 2003. Similarly an analysis of Chrysler complaint data identified 11 complaints (2 of which are duplicative of VOQs) alleging failure of a rear lower control arm due to excessive corrosion.All 11 of these complaints were from consumers operating vehicles in a salt belt state and vehicles manufactured in either MY 2004 or 2005. Three of these complaints (not duplicative of VOQs) also allege a loss of vehicle control due to the rear lower control arm failure.The original scope of PE11-013 included MY 2002 through 2005 Jeep Liberty vehicles as they were in the same generation.In response to an Information Request (IR) letter sent by ODI, Chrysler provided information and sample components identifying a substantial design change of the rear lower control arms after MY 2003 and beginning with MY 2004.Analysis of complaint data from both data sources (ODI and Chrysler) did not identify any applicable complaints (lower control arm failures due to excessive corrosion) from vehicles manufactured during MY 2002 or 2003.Similarly no complaints from either data source were found in states outside of those identified as salt belt states.Chrysler stated in its IR letter response that its investigation and analysis is ongoing to determine the scope, possible root causes of the unusual lower control arm corrosion, and define possible consequences to motor vehicle safety. Based on ODI's data analysis from both sources (ODI and Chrysler data), this investigation has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA11-013) focused on vehicles originally sold or registered in a salt belt state and produced during MY 2004 and 2005, to further assess the scope and potential safety consequences of the alleged defect.
EA06008 · Front Suspension Ball Joint Separation
Opened May 31, 2006 · Closed Aug 24, 2006
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint
ON JANUARY 6, 2006, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATIONIN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2004 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ODI SENT A LETTER TO THE MANUFACTURER ON FEBRUARY 7, 2006 REQUESTING INFORMATION ABOUT THESE AND OTHER JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.CONSEQUENTLY, THE INVESTIGATION WAS UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS ON MAY 31, 2006 AND THE RANGE OF SUBJECT VEHICLES UNDER INVESTIGATION WAS EXPANDED TO INCLUDE ALL MY 2002-2006 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ODI IS AWARE OF 566 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS ALLEGING INVOLUNTARY FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATION IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ODI IS ALSO AWARE OF ONE NON-INJURY CRASH AND THREE ALLEGED INJURY INCIDENTS (TWO CRASH INCIDENTS AND ONE NON-CRASH INCIDENT) RELATED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT RESULTING IN MINOR INJURIES.THE COMPLAINT COUNTS REPORTED ABOVE ONLY INCLUDE THOSE MY 2002-03 LIBERTY VEHICLES WHERE THE ALLEGED BALL JOINT SEPARATION OCCURRED AFTER PRIOR RECALL REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED (SEE BELOW) OR IF THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRIOR RECALL.THE MANUFACTURER CONDUCTED A PRIOR SAFETY RECALL (03V-460) TO ADDRESS THE SUBJECT ISSUE IN CERTAIN MY 2002-03 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ACCORDING TO DAIMLERCHRYSLER?S NOVEMBER 4, 2003, DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT (SUBMITTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH 49 CFR PART 573), ?THE CONSTANT TENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS MAY EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION WHICH CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR AND POSSIBLY SEPARATION FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE.A CONSTANT TENSION BALL JOINT WHICH HAS SEPARATED FROM THE KNUCKLE MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WITH MINIMAL ADVANCED WARNING.?HOWEVER, EVIDENCE INDICATES THAT SOME VEHICLES SERVICED UNDER RECALL 03V-460 CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE INVOLUNTARY BALL JOINT SEPARATIONS.THE MANUFACTURER HAS MADE NUMEROUS CHANGES IN THE DESIGN, MATERIAL COMPOSITION, MANUFACTURE, QUALITY CONTROL, SUPPLY, AND INSTALLATION OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS SINCE THE PRIOR SAFETY RECALL WAS INITIATED IN AN EFFORT TO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE WITH RESPECT TO SEALING, LUBRICATION, AND JOINT RETENTION CAPABILITY.BY LETTER DATED AUGUST 1, 2006, DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION HAS NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL TO ADDRESS POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS IN APPROXIMATELY 826,687 MODEL YEAR 2002-2006 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 2, 2001 AND MARCH 15, 2006, INCLUDINGALL VEHICLES SUBJECT TO THE PRIOR RECALL.THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER ASSIGNED TO THIS RECALL IS 06V-288 (DAIMLERCHRYSLER RECALL CAMPAIGN F23).DAIMLERCHRYSLER WILL REPLACE BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS WITH IMPROVED COMPONENTS FREE OF CHARGE.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.
PE06004 · Front Suspension Ball Joint Separation
Opened Jan 6, 2006 · Closed May 31, 2006
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint
ON JANUARY 6, 2006, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATION WHILE DRIVING IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2004 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ODI SENT A LETTER TO THE MANUFACTURER ON FEBRUARY 7, 2006 REQUESTING INFORMATION ABOUT THESE AND OTHER JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ODI IS AWARE OF 93 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS THAT ALLEGE INVOLUNTARY FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATION IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ODI IS ALSO AWARE OF TWO ALLEGED INJURY INCIDENTS RELATED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT (ONE CRASH INCIDENT AND ONE NON-CRASH INCIDENT), BOTH RESULTING IN MINOR INJURY.THE MANUFACTURER CONDUCTED A PRIOR SAFETY RECALL (03V-460) TO ADDRESS THE SUBJECT ISSUE IN CERTAIN MY 2002-03 JEEP LIBERTY VEHICLES.ACCORDING TO DAIMLERCHRYSLER?S DEFECT INFORMATION REPORT TO THE AGENCY (IN ACCORDANCE WITH 49 CFR PART 573) DATED NOVEMBER 4, 2003, ?THE CONSTANT TENSION LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS MAY EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF LUBRICATION WHICH CAN LEAD TO CORROSION, ACCELERATED WEAR AND POSSIBLY SEPARATION FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE.A CONSTANT TENSION BALL JOINT WHICH HAS SEPARATED FROM THE KNUCKLE MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WITH MINIMAL ADVANCED WARNING.?THE MANUFACTURER HAS MADE NUMEROUS CHANGES IN THE DESIGN, MATERIAL COMPOSITION, MANUFACTURE, QUALITY CONTROL, SUPPLY, AND INSTALLATION OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS SINCE THE PRIOR SAFETY RECALL WAS INITIATED IN AN EFFORT TO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE WITH RESPECT TO SEALING, LUBRICATION, AND JOINT RETENTION CAPABILITY.THE MANUFACTURER'S INVESTIGATION INTO ALLEGED FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ONGOING.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS (EA06-008) TO FURTHER STUDY THE FREQUENCY AND SCOPE OF THE ALLEGED DEFECT AND THE ADEQUACY OF THE REMEDY PROVIDED BY THE PRIOR SAFETY RECALL.