Jeep Announces Recall for Wrangler and Grand Cherokee Models Due to Defrost System Issue

Jeep is addressing a critical safety concern by recalling nearly 200,000 vehicles across the United States, due to an issue with the windshield defrosting system.

The recall specifically targets select models of Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee, which have been identified as having potentially incorrectly programmed hybrid control processor software. This programming fault could disable the windshield defrost system under certain conditions, posing a visibility hazard in cold weather.

The recall encompasses 139,318 units of Jeep Wranglers from the 2021–2024 model years, manufactured between September 2, 2020, and August 24, 2023. Additionally, 59,825 units of Grand Cherokees from the 2022–2024 model years, built from July 23, 2021, to December 5, 2023, are also affected. The issue was first identified in June last year, leading to a thorough investigation by Jeep over the subsequent months to determine the extent of the problem and the vehicles involved.

To address this issue, Jeep plans to update the software of the hybrid control processor in the affected vehicles. This software update, which rectifies the defrost system functionality, will be provided free of charge to vehicle owners. Dealerships and owners are expected to be notified about the recall starting April 5, to arrange for the necessary repairs.

This recall is part of Jeep’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and reliability of its vehicles. It follows other recent recalls, including a November recall of 32,125 Wrangler 4xe models due to a fire risk, and an August recall affecting 162,731 Jeep models, including the 2022–2023 Grand Cherokees, over concerns that the reversing camera may fail to display an image.

Owners of the affected models are encouraged to contact their local dealerships or Jeep’s customer service for more information on the recall and to schedule a repair appointment. This proactive approach by Jeep aims to maintain high safety standards and customer confidence in their vehicles.

Source: NHTSA