Suspension Issues Keep Plaguing the New Jeep Grand Cherokee
The list of recalls affecting the latest-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee is starting to grow quite a bit. Two more were announced just this week, including one that involves 338,000 units in the U.S. and over 17,000 in Canada. Specifically, the 2022-2023 Grand Cherokee and long-wheelbase 2021-2023 Grand Cherokee L are what we’re talking about.
An investigation following a routine check determined that a pinch bolt that was damaged during the assembly process may break and result in the loss of clamp load between the upper control arm ball joint and the steering knuckle.
- Also: Jeep’s SUV Production Scaled Down, Jobs Cut
- Also: More Vehicles With Faulty Rear-View Cameras Recalled
As a result, the wheel could fall outboard and the driver might lose control of the vehicle, potentially leading to a crash. Unusual noises or vibrations could also be heard or felt when driving over bumps.
The automaker believes that only 1 percent of the recall population is actually affected. It is unaware of any related injuries or accidents so far, fortunately. Owners will be notified in the coming weeks and told to bring their vehicle to a Jeep dealer to inspect and, if necessary, replace the upper control arm pinch bolts.
Last year, a large number of Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L models fresh out of the factory were recalled due to an intermediate steering shaft possibly separating from the universal joint and causing a loss of steering, as well as rear coil springs that may detach while driving due to improper installation on the assembly line.
We weren’t surprised to see the Jeep Grand Cherokee among the 2024 models with the lowest predicted reliability in a recent Top 10 list by Consumer Reports. The trusted U.S. magazine highlighted problems with not only the suspension, but also the drive system, electrical accessories, in-car electronics, body hardware, as well as noises and leaks. Consider yourself warned.
