NHTSA is investigating more than 3,500 complaints about the steering on the Jeep Wrangler.
Fiat Chrysler’s popular Jeep Wrangler is being investigated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration after more than 3,500 owners complained to the company and the agency about steering issues.
The problem affects potentially 270,000 of the 2018 and 2019 model-year Wranglers, which have already been recalled once for a steering problem.
NHTSA is granting a consumer’s petition asking for a probe into the potential problem with the Wranglers. No crashes or injuries have been reported.
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The safety agency notes the complaints stem from frame-weld problems or steering issues including a shimmy or wobble, looseness, or locking up.
NHTSA is looking at 2018 and 2019 Wranglers for a potential steering problem.
The Wrangler was recalled last year for misaligned welds that could cause steering problems. The government will determine if another recall is needed for the popular ute. There is no word if the defect affects the similar looking Gladiator midsize truck. The truck is based on the Wrangler.
Fiat Chrysler says it’s working with NHTSA on the investigation. In the meantime, the company says dealers will install a hydraulic device to mitigate vibration in order to address customer concerns at no charge.
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The automaker had a similar issue with the vehicles reported last year and it issued a recall, after owners complained of “loose” steering.