Jeep and Dodge SUVs Recalled for ABS

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango vehicles due to a malfunction in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. This issue may cause the brake lights to incorrectly illuminate, disable the ABS and electronic stability control (ESC), and allow the vehicle to start and shift out of Park without the brake pedal being applied. These issues increase the risk of a vehicle crash.

Key Highlights:

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V838000
Total Units Affected: 206,502 vehicles
Models Involved: 2018-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango
Safety Concerns: Disabled ABS, ESC, incorrect brake light illumination, and vehicle rollaway risks
Remedy Status: Under development; owner notification letters expected on December 5, 2024

Recall Details

The recall affects Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango models produced between June 11, 2018, and July 12, 2019. During this time, some vehicles were built with a hydraulic control unit (HCU) and ABS module that falsely reads pressure in the primary circuit. As a result, the brake lights may illuminate incorrectly, and the ABS and ESC systems may be disabled. Additionally, drivers may be able to start the vehicle and shift out of Park without applying the brake pedal.

Potential Risks

This malfunction poses several significant safety risks:

Incorrect Brake Light Illumination: Brake lights may illuminate at speeds up to 4.5 mph, potentially leading other drivers to misjudge the vehicle’s actions, which could result in a collision.
Disabled ABS and ESC Systems: The ABS and ESC systems are crucial for vehicle control in emergency situations. If these systems are disabled, it could lead to a loss of control, increasing the risk of an accident.
Vehicle Rollaway: If the vehicle can start and shift out of Park without pressing the brake pedal, it could result in unintended vehicle movement, leading to possible crashes or injuries.

Remedy and Notifications

Chrysler is currently developing a remedy for this issue. FCA US will begin notifying affected vehicle owners on December 5, 2024. This recall replaces a previous recall, number 22V-426. Vehicles that were previously remedied under the earlier recall will need to have the updated remedy completed.

Contact Information

Vehicle owners seeking more information can contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403, referencing recall number 94B. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hotline can be reached at 1-888-327-4236 or by visiting nhtsa.gov.

Owners may be eligible for reimbursement for costs related to this defect if the repairs were made before receiving the recall notification. FCA US has already submitted a General Reimbursement Plan for such cases.

Affected Models

The recall affects two models:

2018-2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee: A total of 158,054 vehicles produced from June 11, 2018, to July 12, 2019, may be affected.
2018-2019 Dodge Durango: A total of 48,448 vehicles produced from June 12, 2018, to July 12, 2019, may be affected.

For any further details regarding this recall or to check if your vehicle is included, visit nhtsa.gov and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). FCA is working to ensure that all affected vehicles receive the necessary repairs as soon as possible.

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