The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated that the rear middle seat belt failed to retract or operate as needed. The contact stated that the seat belt had to be manually tightened to function as needed. The contact initially took the vehicle to the dealer where a diagnostic test found no defect with the seat belt. As the failure persisted, the contact took the vehicle back to the dealer where the failure was confirmed and the contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was out of warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 17,000.
2021 Jeep Gladiator complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA about this vehicle, newest first and reproduced as filed. They are unverified accounts: one proves nothing, and a pattern across many is the thing worth reading. Back to the full 2021 record →
Windshield cracked in center - replaced - 3rd windshield installed today(8/22/2022) 1st 2 cracked in same place. If broke could enter driver/passenger compartment. Windshield repair shop and now again by Kunes CDJR Oregon (Chrysler dealer/place first purchased/new), Oregon, Illinois. Inspected by service department at dealership -
While at the dealer for a routine oil change, the tech observed fluid on inside of the passenger rear wheel, brake, and rotor. Fluid appears to be axle fluid that is leaking.
My front suspension keeps bottoming out while driving down the road. If I catch a pothole or dip in the road I will bottom out. Today I was in a parking lot and it bottomed out going over a speed bump. I know there is a TSB for the eco diesel Rubicons but for no other sub-models.
I was driving the vehicle, while towing a 5000lb trailer (vehicle tow rating is 6000lb), up a 4-5% grade at 4000'-6000' elevation, with ambient temperature around 80 degrees, and the vehicle unexpectedly derated / limited speed to approx 45 mph with no warning indicators on the vehicle. I had a number of cars and semi trucks behind me, and so I unexpectedly needed to find a safe place to pull over, which was limited due to the road conditions. I travel in areas frequented by semi trucks with limited shoulders. If I had not found a pull-out, this could have been dangerous. This appears to be an issue countered by a number of Jeep Gladiator Diesel owners, relating to either engine oil temperature too high, or EGT temp too high when towing uphill.
Engine oil temperature reached 265 degrees while towing within capacity - engine derated power and I could not drive above 35mph on a road with a speed limit if 75mph. It was dangerous!
Vehicle derates power when ambient temps are 85* F and up while towing my camp (which is far below the max tow rating) During a couple of these derates I was in areas where the speed limit was 65 and 75 mph, my max obtainable speed was 35mph. I heavy truck traffic i feel that was in danger and a hazard in the road. This vehicle is rated to tow far more than the loads it is actually capable of towing in higher temperatures. I have seen my oil temps rise to 265* F on multiple occasions and it seems this is around the temperature that the vehicle starts to derate. It has been my observation that the cooling system is under sized and in turn puts occupants of the vehicle at risk.
While towing a trailer the vehicle suddenly reduces power to less than half and multiple check engine lights appear. This seems to happen only when outside temperatures are above 80f. I went from going 65mph to 45mph within 1/4 mile which caused sudden traffic issues behind me. I have had the vehicle to the dealer multiple times and they do not find anything even though there are multiple engine lights. I have had it happen a over 8 times in 1 year. I also have a co-worker that has had the same issue.
3.0 EcoDiesel in the Jeep Gladiator has cooling issues. Thousands of users affected and discussing on forums and on Facebook groups but the manufacturer is unwilling to fix. Core of the issue is that the engine was altered in the Gladiator and Wrangler over previous installations in the Ram and Grand Cherokee by removing oil coolers and a larger oil pan, which has resulted in high oil temps. At 265 degrees (which is accomplished easily during the summer with a trailer UNDER the tow rating), the engine starts derating and limp mode. The aftermarket community has tested everything ... removing hoods, fenders different cooling solutions, etc and nothing is working at the moment other than aftermarket solutions to cool the oil (which are negligible at best at the moment due to the space constraints imposed by the engine being quite large in the engine bay not not substantial room for a larger oil pan and external cooler). Chrysler should have put more work in to the design, or not sold the EcoDiesel in the vehicle.
After stopping for fuel in Quartzite, Arizona I began to merge onto HWY 10. As I accelerated the vehicle limited my speed to 45 MPH. This is on a 70 MPH section with heavy truck traffic. I was able to pull onto the shoulder and limp to the next exit without incident. I then drove around backroads for 10 minutes, starting and stopping the vehicle and accelerating to 55 MPH. After this period of time the vehicle operated normally. This happened with no warning at all, temperatures were all within normal ranges. Since the incident I have found that this "derating" is common to the diesel engine in hot ambient temperatures or while going up hill. My safety was definitely at risk, in a different scenario it could have been much worse. I have spoked with several factory service centers and Jeep directly, they say they have never heard of the issue and don't have any advice.
When operating the vehicle under heavier loads (5%+ grades, towing even light trailers, higher highway speeds) vehicle loses power limiting speed to 15-50mph depending on how hot the water or oil temperature is. I have had this issue in ambient temperatures as low as 31°F while towing 4000lb up a steep incline, but will absolutely overheat if ambient temp is over 100°F. Vehicle must be left running during a fuel stop or heat soak caused by the vehicle is not running will prevent me from merging back on the highway at a safe speed....max speed is 50mph until the engine oil cools off. Air conditioner use as expected makes the problem worse. There are many threads going on the Jeep internet forums with many diesel equipped Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators having the same issues, so I know these aren't isolated incidents from my vehicle alone. If you were to search "Ecodiesel power derating as temps rise" on Google, you would see some discussion. Engine fan runs at full speed, coolant is full, and radiator/grill is clean/free of debris. I have owned this vehicle since new and have operated in many types of conditions/loads over the past 14 months 23,000 miles from 9°-126°F. The first time I had the issue was late May of 2021 (At approx 5,000 miles) and it has happened no less than 20 times since then. The only visual alarm is when coolant temp reaches 248° and the vehicle speed drops to 10mph. The gauge does not read linear........Meaning the vehicle is almost already overheated by
Overheating during normal driving.
Traveling speeds excess of 60 mph, any bump or flaw in the road will cause the vehicle to enter into severe vibration and shaking of front end/ axle. The steering wheel violently shakes from side to side and the vehicle will stay shaking until you reduce your speed to under 50 mph. Ball joints and other steering components are put under severe stress. The issue has been reported to the dealer who is unable to correct the issue even with replacing steering stabilizer as they suggest. A formal case was opened with the Chrysler group.
My Bridgestone tires were the wrong rated tires put on by Chrysler at 70 miles per hour they would bounce did not matter which one would bounce they all did it after hitting a small bump on the highway they are the dueler 255/70/r18 113t ms with 1 nylon and 2 steel belts in tread and only 2 polyester side wall this was to light of a tire for a light truck , talked to Chrysler and they just blew me off on this problem I purchased light truck tires and solved the problem they now owe me $1095.97 . I am sure they put these tires on other Jeep gladiators.
SUSPENSION: 2021 Jeep Gladiator - 12,000 Miles: On several occasions at freeway speeds vehicle hits uneven road / bumps and vehicle looses steering control like it jumps off the pavement / shutters over road way with no control: At one point I thought I blew a front tire and did loose some control of vehicle and pulled over to shoulder to scope it out: No tire blew: This is a major concern: My safety and the safety of passengers are at risks: I would not put my family members in this vehicle other than city driving!! Tried contacting MOPAR but was unable to do so - 12 March 2022 - A Joke
Steering is very loose. Vehicle constantly drifts and requires constant steering correction. Approximately 3” of slack in steering response.
At highway speeds a uncontrollable wobble of the front wheels occurs when hitting a tar strip or bump that is only brought under control by stepping on the brakes very hard to slow the truck to 60MPH or less. I think that sudden slowing while in traffic puts not only my life in danger, but also those drivers around me. At this point, the dealer is replacing the steering damper. But I suspect this is a band aid to cover a larger issue. Current mileage is 13,XXX miles. The wheels, tires and suspension are factory stock.
1. Major electrical system intermittent failures, each incident progressively longer lasting and various malfunction warning lights/messages displayed in dash. 2. Loss of power steering while driving on three separate occasions within a 40 day period. First incident was loss of steering for only a few seconds. Second incident vehicle had to beame shut off and on multiple times before the computer reset and the vehicle drove fine. Third incident was catstrophic loss of electrical the system while driving, vehicle was pulled into middle turn lane where the engine died and would not start. Vehicle unable to start, shift, display hazard warning indicators etc. Vehicle displayed many errors and stated due to safety it would not be allowed to start without servicing. 3. Jeep has been at dealer three times. First incident, electrical malfunctioning was blamed on power step installation. Second incident was blamed on loose ground wire in engine bay. Third incident has yet to be determined by dealer. Vehicle is still at dealer, and there were approximately 73 computer DTC's pulled by the technicians that I was informed of. 4. Many various warning lamps and messages appeared on dash. Everything from shifter, engine, power steering, 4WD, no bus error, TPMS, electronic stability control, anti lock brakes, airbag system etc. These errors flickered on and off randomly before moving to next error displayed.
I was exiting the freeway with a speed limit of 75 mph. On the off-ramp I lost control of the Gladiator. The front end wobble was so bad that I could not hold onto the steering wheel for fear of breaking my wrist. Instead I had to wrap my arms about the wheel in an attempt to stop the wobble. I was unable to keep the vehicle in my lane, and finally ended up in a large ditch next to the off ramp. What happened appears to be a problem with the Mopar 1.5" lift kit installed by the dealer. The kit was installed 8/17/2021. This incident occurred in Jan 2022, about 4,000 miles later. I had the kit installed and then inspected about a month later specifically to check for any loose bolts, and to double check the torque for the bolts. The CV bar in the front lost a the bolt on the passenger side, dropping the cross bar and resulting in total loss of control of the passenger side front tire. I felt very lucky not to have been injured, and not to roll the jeep. It took about 150 feet to stop the vehicle in the ditch. I am attaching a photo of the bar held in place after the accident using bungie cords. This was done just to get the bar off the road and allow for moving the vehicle. The mechanic was able to secure the cross bar with a new bolt. The original bolt and nut were not found. We speculate that either the bolt was not torqued correctly or might have been missing a lock washer. At any rate, potentially this could have resulting in much worse. If this happened just a few seconds
Driving at approx. 70 mph the vehicle steering became very difficult to control. I was unable to turn the steering wheel ( it felt like a vehicle without power steering at low speed). I slowed the vehicle down, I could feel the steering get easy as I neared a stop. After stopping at a stoplight and resuming the vehicle drove normally. The vehicle was never shut off.
Transmission is very clunky and jerky especially at low speed or when little input is applied to the gas and or if you are switching between brakes and gas in traffic. Transmission feels very hesitant. The steering isn’t terrible at low speeds but at highway speeds the vehicle wanders left and right at random. I have to put it a lot of micro movements with the steering wheel in order to keep it straight.
The "death wobble." When driving over 55mph even the slightest bump will set off a violent chain reaction of vibrations. This causes unsafe driving conditions and loss of control. The only way to regain control is to quickly slow down to less than 55mph and at highway speeds this is extremely dangerous. Jeep has failed to fix this and wont even acknowledge that it is an issue.
In January 2021, my 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland became unstable at normal freeway speeds (60-75 mph) on many occasions. The slightest bump or surface irregularity stimulates a violent and sustaining side-to-side vehicle shudder/vibration from the front suspension that was very extreme that lasted for over 2 minutes or until the vehicle slowed to around 60 mph; where stable vehicle behavior restored. This extreme instability and needed hard braking creates a serious driving hazard. I have taken it to 2 separate dealers who cannot find any issue and are unwilling to investigate unless it happens in their presence even with video proof. I have also taken to a tire shop and had the tires re-balanced and put on a road force machine. The tire shop found no issues with the tires or balancing. This started at about 23,000 miles and occurs more as the temperatures drop. This failure mode is severe, occurs without warning, is not detectable until it occurs and is very frightening. My Jeep has stock, factory wheels and factory tires in good balance with no visible or abnormal tread wear. This is a dangerous condition that needs immediate correction. A 1 year old vehicle with 23,000 miles in excellent condition, no accident history and no modifications should not be doing this. Side note; I did have to have the engine replaced after 11 months of ownership and the Jeep came from the factory with cracked spark plugs and had the spark plugs replaced after 1 week of ownership. This is an on
In December, 2021, my 2021 Jeep Willys Gladiator became unstable at normal freeway speeds (70-75 mph) on ~8 occasions. At these speeds, the slightest bump or surface irregularity stimulates a violent and sustaining side-to-side vehicle shudder from the front suspension that was so extreme that it splashed my cola and ice from the center cup holder to the dashboard and doors. R-L-R Steering inputs had no effect and hard braking had no effect until the vehicle slowed to around 60 mph; where stable vehicle behavior restored. This extreme instability and needed hard braking creates a serious driving hazard. The dealer is installing a new steering damper. The engineer in me says there is a bearing, bushing or ball joint as root cause. This defect manifested at ~23,000 miles and occurs more readily as the temperatures drop below 20 deg F. This failure mode is severe, occurs without warning, is not detectable until it occurs and its effect is panic-inducing. My Jeep has stock, factory aluminum wheels and normal sized Michelin All-Season radial tires in good balance with no visible or abnormal tread wear. I ordered this vehicle new on 3/1/2021. The 'Gladiator forum' calls this condition "death wobble". Anecdotally, the condition appears to be associated with vehicles having "lift kits" as well as stock vehicles. My 'Willys Jeep is built by FCA with a modest suspension lift relative to the base Gladiator models. Other (anecdotal) owner information has identified loose ball joints, def
The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently lost power steering assist. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact continued to drive the vehicle with manual steering functionality. The contact stated that one and a half miles later the vehicle regained power steering functionality. The contact pulled to the nearest parking lot and notified the dealer of the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the steering pump needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 2,900.
My jeep has bottomed out multiple times on normal road bumps. I've owned 4 other jeeps and have never experienced this before I've noticed there is one 3" of travel allotted between the front axle and the bump stops and I under stand that the diesel motor weight more than the 3.6l but to not compensate for the extra weight and running the same suspension setup as the 3.6l is not even right.... To spend 57,000$ on a vehicle that I can't just drive down the road without having to watch for bumps or manhole cover because I don't want to jar my back is no peace of mind.
The vehicle randomly stalled out / died while idling, with the clutch pedal fully engaged. This poses a serious safety hazard as the vehicle may unexpected stall out at a traffic light or while driving resulting in a serious accident. The most likely risk is a stalled out vehicle in heavy traffic resulting in a rear end collision. The vehicle stall out and failure to maintain idle malfunction was reported to the local dealership and an FCA Technical Advisor (TA). The vehicle’s stall out was witnessed and documented by an independent mechanic. However, the dealership and FCA TA continue to state that the vehicle is “operating as designed” and that “this is normal characteristic of the vehicle”. These claims indicate that the Jeep Gladiator Engineering Design Team intentionally designed the vehicle to stall out with the driver completely pressing in the clutch pedal. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
The vehicle’s throttle spikes / surges when the driver completely lifts off the accelerator and presses in the clutch. The issue indicates the throttle sticks after the driver lifts off the accelerator. The issue happens in multiple gears at various RPMs. The issue happens with or without the climate controls off. The issue regularly occurs in 4th gear at 44 mph at ~1900 RPMs. On 1/26/2021 while on a ride along, the customer and Service Tech at Texan DCJR were able to recreate the issue multiple times. On 1/29/2021, the Service Director at Texan DCJR stated to the customer that he and 3 members of his team were able to recreate the issue multiple times. However, the Service Director falsified and backdated the service records to 1/28/2021 claiming that they “couldn’t duplicate concern” and that the “vehicle is driving normal.” After two inspections, the FCA TA claimed that he “couldn’t duplicate concern”, the “vehicle is driving normal”, and that the vehicle was “operating as designed”. Then on 9/17/2021, the FCA TA was able to recreate the issue multiple times, but the FCA TA continued to state that the vehicle was “operating as designed“. The FCA TA contradictory claims the vehicle was “operating as designed” both when he could not recreate the issue and when he could recreate the issue. This throttle surge issue substantially impairs the vehicle’s use as it impacts shifting gears and normal driving operation. The issue occurs sporadically which surprises and distracts the
The vehicle’s throttle bounces and surges off idle, in direct opposition to the driver’s inputs to the controls. After the driver lifts off the accelerator and engages the clutch, the RPMs drop slowly to idle, then the throttle regularly bounces and surges without user input to the controls by ~500 to ~1,500 RPMs. The issue occurs while driving in every gear and or in neutral. The issue occurs frequently but not every time. The issue occurs with or without the driver’s foot on the brake. The failure to maintain idle malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at the local dealership. However, the Service Director falsified and backdated the service records to claim that they “couldn’t duplicate concern” and that the “vehicle is driving normal.” The throttle spike off idle was recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. An FCA TA claimed that the vehicle was “operating as designed“ both when he could not recreate the issue and when he could recreate the issue. Both of these statements cannot be correct and factual as they directly contradict each other. The throttle bounce and spike off idle substantially impairs the vehicle’s use as it impacts normal driving operations such as shifting, accelerating, and braking. The throttle bounce off idle creates as serious safety hazard as it causes the driver to delay or miss shifts in heavy traffic and divert attention from the road to the instrument cluster. The issue also cr
The vehicle’s throttle surges sporadically when shifting gears without driver input to the accelerator / controls. The issue impacts the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely in heavy traffic or dynamic situations. The throttle surges while shifting introduce delays to driver reaction times, and they create a safety hazard in heavy traffic where fractions of a second can make the difference in a major accident. The throttle surge while shifting malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at the local dealership. However, the Service Director falsified and backdated the service records to claim that they “couldn’t duplicate concern” and that the “vehicle is driving normal.” The throttle surge while shifting was recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. An FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle was “operating as designed“ both when he could not recreate the issue and when he could recreate the issue. Both of these statements cannot be correct and factual as they directly contradict each other. Additionally, the FCA TA claimed that the vehicle is equipped with Rev Matching; however, the vehicle’s owner’s manual and available technical documentation do not mention Rev Matching. And, the issue occurs while braking when a vehicle would not intend to Rev Match. The randomness of this throttle surge issue also causes the driver to briefly take their eyes off the road between every shift to check the
The vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System activates and shuts off the vehicle while the instrument cluster reads “STOP/START NOT READY”, in direct conflict with owner’s manual. Per the owner’s manual, the first condition for an Auto Stop with a manual transmission is that the instrument cluster must read “READY”. Other Jeep vehicles, clearly show “READY” on the instrument cluster before shutting off. However, the Jeep Gladiator presents a false / incorrect “NOT READY” notification to the driver on the instrument cluster before shutting off. This anomaly with the Auto Stop / Start System distracts the driver and creates confusion impeding normal driving operations such as stopping at traffic lights / signs, pedestrian areas, and parking lots. This poses a serious safety hazard as the vehicle will unexpectedly shut off when the driver is not prepared and presented with an incorrect notification warning. In heavy traffic, this could lead to a stalled vehicle and a rear-end collision. The “NOT READY” malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at 2 different dealership, who expressed safety concerns. The “NOT READY” malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle was “operating as designed“. The vehicle is NOT operating as designed, as the Jeep design engineers would likely not design a vehicle that presents blatantly incorrect information to
The vehicle auto stops when putting on the driver’s seat belt, in direct conflict with owner’s manual. The owner’s manual specifies that if the “Driver’s seat belt is not buckled” it will prevent an auto stop, but preventing the auto stop is the opposite of the act of buckling the seat belt initiating the auto stop. Furthermore, the instrument cluster does not present a “STOP/START READY” message which is the first necessary condition for an auto stop. This issue creates a serious safety hazard, as the vehicle presents factually incorrect information to the driver and the vehicle unexpectedly stops creating driver confusion and distraction. Additionally, this creates a serious safety hazard as the issue inhibits the driver from attempting to flee an emergency situation, wherein the driver hops into an idling vehicle, plugs in their seat belt, and the vehicle turns itself off. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at 2 different dealerships, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“. This portion of the vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System is NOT operating as designed and documented in the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of numerous hardware / software malfunctions plaguing the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upo
The vehicle auto stops when turning down or turning off the climate controls, in direct conflict with owner’s manual. This condition is not listed as one of the three conditions to activate an auto stop in the owner’s manual. This condition is also not listed as one of the conditions that will inhibit the vehicle from an auto stop in the owner’s manual. Furthermore, the instrument cluster never presents a “STOP/START READY” message which is the first necessary condition for an auto stop. This issue creates a serious safety hazard, as the vehicle presents incorrect information to the driver and the vehicle unexpectedly stops in traffic which confuses and distracts the driver. The unexpected / wanted stop in heavy traffic could cause a rear-end collision leading to serious injury or death. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at 2 different dealerships, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“. This portion of the vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System is NOT operating as designed and documented in the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of numerous hardware / software malfunctions plaguing the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
The vehicle auto stops when the hood is closed and the driver remains in the seat with the seat belt buckled. The owner’s manual specifies that an open hood will prevent an auto stop, but preventing the auto stop is the opposite of closing the hood initiating the event. Furthermore, the instrument cluster never presents a “STOP/START READY” message which is the first necessary condition for an auto stop. This issue creates a serious safety hazard, as the vehicle presents incorrect information to the driver and the vehicle unexpectedly stops which confuses and distracts the driver. Additionally, after jump starting another vehicle, the vehicle’s battery may be sufficiently depleted. Upon closing the hood, the vehicle could auto stop, and with the numerous other malfunctions impacting the auto stop system the vehicle may not be able to restart possibly leaving the driver stranded. The unexpected / wanted auto stop could cause a rear-end collision of the stranded vehicle leading to serious injury or death. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“. This portion of the vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System is NOT operating as designed and documented in the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of nume
The vehicle auto stops when the driver’s seat is not occupied, in direct conflict with owner’s manual. The owner’s manual specifically states that if the “Driver’s seat is not occupied” that the “engine will not stop.” Note that this system safety check is separate and distinct from the “Driver’s seat belt is not buckled” check. Furthermore, the instrument cluster never presents a “STOP/START READY” message which is the first necessary condition for an auto stop. The vehicle fails to properly check for the empty driver’s seat safety condition before auto stop. This auto stop violates Jeep’s published safety check condition and poses a serious safety hazard. This issue poses additionally serious safety hazards as the vehicle will shut off with the driver outside the vehicle, leaving the driver with an incorrect understanding that the vehicle is properly locked out from an auto start condition. Therefore, if the driver is operating on or under the vehicle with it auto stopped, the passenger can unintendedly auto start the vehicle resulting in a serious injury or the loss of a finger. Additionally, in thinking that the vehicle is off the driver may leave the vehicle unattended in their garage and after 5 minutes the vehicle will auto start filling the garage / house with toxic fumes and presenting a serious life-threatening fire hazard. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by
The failure of the vehicle’s safety condition check for an empty driver’s seat for an auto stop indicates that the “Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)” and/or the “Advanced Front Air Bag system” are not receiving proper information. This creates a serious safety hazard as the front air bags may not deploy or may not “adjust the inflation rate of the Advanced Front Air Bags” as specified in the owner’s manual. For driver safety, these systems and their associated sensors should be fully examined and tested. The vehicle auto stops when the driver’s seat is not occupied, in direct conflict with owner’s manual. The owner’s manual specifically states that if the “Driver’s seat is not occupied” that the “engine will not stop.” Note that this system safety check is separate and distinct from the “Driver’s seat belt is not buckled” check. The vehicle fails to properly check for the empty driver’s seat safety condition before initiating an auto stop. The associated auto stop malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at 2 Jeep dealerships, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“, despite the vehicle operating in violation of the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of numerous hardware / software malfunctions plaguing the vehicle. The vehicle is
The vehicle auto stops when the steering wheel is turned, in direct conflict with owner’s manual. The owner’s manual specifies that “Steering angle beyond threshold” will prevent an auto stop, but preventing the auto stop is the opposite of initiating the event. Furthermore, the instrument cluster never presents a “STOP/START READY” message which is the first necessary condition for an auto stop. This issue creates a serious safety hazard, as the vehicle presents incorrect information to the driver and the vehicle unexpectedly stops in traffic which confuses and distracts the driver. The unexpected / wanted stop in heavy traffic could cause a rear-end collision leading to serious injury or death. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“. This portion of the vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System is NOT operating as designed and documented in the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of numerous hardware / software malfunctions plaguing the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
The vehicle auto stops when the defrost is turned off, in direct conflict with owner’s manual. The owner’s manual specifies that “HVAC is set to full defrost mode” will prevent an auto stop, but preventing the auto stop is the opposite of initiating the event. Additionally, this issue occurs when the HVAC is operating at less than full defrost mode. Furthermore, the instrument cluster never presents a “STOP/START READY” message which is the first necessary condition for an auto stop. This issue creates a serious safety hazard, as the vehicle presents incorrect information to the driver and the vehicle unexpectedly stops in traffic which confuses and distracts the driver. The unexpected / wanted stop in heavy traffic could cause a rear-end collision leading to serious injury or death. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“. This portion of the vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System is NOT operating as designed and documented in the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of numerous hardware / software malfunctions plaguing the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
The vehicle auto starts when opening the driver’s door. This is not listed under “Conditions that will cause the engine to start automatically while in STOP/START AUTO STOP ACTIVE mode” in the owner’s manual. Other Jeep models do not auto start upon opening the driver’s door. This auto start issue poses a serious safety hazard as the vehicle will unexpectedly start and begin to roll when the driver’s door is open and the driver is not properly secure in the driver seat. The unexpected / wanted start could cause a collision with another vehicle or pedestrian leading to serious injury or death. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at 2 Jeep dealerships, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“. This portion of the vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System is NOT operating as designed and documented in the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of numerous hardware / software malfunctions plaguing the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
The vehicle auto starts when the brake pedal is pressed. The owner’s manual does not list this as one of the “Conditions that will cause the engine to start automatically”. The vehicle is operating in direct conflict with owner’s manual. This auto start issue poses a serious safety hazard as the vehicle will unexpectedly start and begin to roll when the driver is not ready. Additionally, if someone is operating on or under the vehicle, it will result in a serious injury or the loss of a finger when the vehicle auto starts in violation of the driver’s intent. The unexpected / wanted start could cause a collision with another vehicle or pedestrian leading to serious injury or death. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at 2 Jeep dealerships, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“. This portion of the vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System is NOT operating as designed and documented in the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of numerous hardware / software malfunctions plaguing the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
The vehicle auto starts when the defrost is turned on below the max or full setting. The owner’s manual specifies that “the engine will start automatically when” the “HVAC is set to full defrost mode”. The vehicle is operating in direct conflict with owner’s manual. This auto start issue poses a serious safety hazard as the vehicle will unexpectedly start and may begin to roll when the driver is not ready. Additionally, if someone is operating on or under the vehicle, it will result in a serious injury or the loss of a finger when the vehicle auto starts in violation of the driver’s intent. The unexpected / wanted start could cause a collision with another vehicle or pedestrian leading to serious injury or death. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“. This portion of the vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System is NOT operating as designed and documented in the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of numerous hardware / software malfunctions plaguing the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
The vehicle auto starts when the fan is turned on without the AC. The owner’s manual does not list this as one of the “Conditions that will cause the engine to start automatically”. The vehicle is operating in direct conflict with owner’s manual. This auto start issue poses a serious safety hazard as the vehicle will unexpectedly start and may begin to roll when the driver is not ready. Additionally, if someone is operating on or under the vehicle, it will result in a serious injury or the loss of a finger when the vehicle auto starts in violation of the driver’s intent. The unexpected / wanted start could cause a collision with another vehicle or pedestrian leading to serious injury or death. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“. This portion of the vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System is NOT operating as designed and documented in the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of numerous hardware / software malfunctions plaguing the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
The vehicle auto starts when the AC is turned on with the Auto HAVC set to off. The owner’s manual states that “the engine will start automatically when” the “Actual cabin temperature is significantly different than temperature set on Auto HVAC.” The vehicle is operating in direct conflict with owner’s manual. This auto start issue poses a serious safety hazard as the vehicle will unexpectedly start and may begin to roll when the driver is not ready. Additionally, if someone is operating on or under the vehicle, it will result in a serious injury or the loss of a finger when the vehicle auto starts in violation of the driver’s intent. The unexpected / wanted start could cause a collision with another vehicle or pedestrian leading to serious injury or death. The malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel, who expressed safety concerns. The malfunction was also recreated by 4 independent mechanic shops and documented as a safety concern. However, an FCA Technical Advisor (TA) claimed that the vehicle is “operating as designed“. This portion of the vehicle’s Auto Start / Stop System is NOT operating as designed and documented in the owner’s manual. I feel unsafe driving the vehicle, as this is one of numerous hardware / software malfunctions plaguing the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.
The vehicle fails to maintain idle. During normal driving conditions the idle spikes significantly and noticeable from 200 – 2,000 RPMs. The throttle surges unpredictably without driver input to the controls. The failure of the vehicle to maintain idle creates a serious safety hazard as it distracts the driver’s attention and substantially impairs the vehicle’s use during routine driving tasks. The failure to maintain idle malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at the local dealership. However, the Service Director falsified and backdated the service records to claim that they “couldn’t duplicate concern” and that the “vehicle is driving normal.” An FCA TA stated that, “There are certain scenarios where the engine's idle speed may increase normally without accelerator input, this would include A/C operation or alternator charging requirements, however the difference in rpm is very slight and most people do not notice it and it will not cause the vehicle to gain or lose speed.” However, the malfunction occurs with a fully charged battery and the climate controls off, and it is highly noticeable. The FCA TA stated that the vehicle was “operating as designed” when he could not recreate the failure to maintain idle malfunction. However, the same FCA TA stated the vehicle was “operating as designed” after he was able to recreate the failure to maintain idle. Both of these statements cannot be factually correct as they directly contradict. Four indep
When at highway speeds, hit a bump in the road and it causes a "death wobble".
At highway speeds this vehicle wanders constantly. Keeping it in lane is more than a full time job. Windy conditions and or vehicle passing is a white knuckle experience . Looking at any of the jeep gladiator forums, this condition is a continuing condition / concern.
Experienced death wobble-violent shaking of steering wheel and car side to side -on highway on 1/6/2022. It happened twice, 5 mins from my home. Both incidents occurred in expressway. Once while traveling 70mph and had to swiftly change two lanes in rush hour traffic to the slow lane. The shaking stopped stop at reduced speed to 50. Then the second time minutes later I was going 57mph in the slow lane and the violent shaking started again. Luckily it was at my homes exit. I slowed down and drove the 4 blocks on the streets straight to my garage. Called Jeep next morning and they can’t pick it up until Wednesday, January 12. Bought this truck brand new from Jeep in May 2021. When I test drove it, steering pulled to one side. Had it aligned as part of the purchase. Months later I had steering problems and took it to them and they changed the track bar. A few weeks ago I did an oil change with them and they rotated the tires. And now I got the death wobble twice yesterday. There’s something in the suspension that’s either broken, loose, or worn out. I don’t feel safe.
Multiple incidences of death wobble at higher speeds... Primarily on interstate after going over minor defects in road... overpass, etc... Getting more frequent.. requires slowing way down to 40 mph to correct.
There is a failure of the vehicle’s Brake Throttle Override (BTO) system which poses a serious safety hazard. When braking the throttle will surge from ~500 to ~1,500 RPMs without driver input (foot completely off the accelerator pedal, clutch pedal pressed in, and applying brake pedal). Despite the driver’s foot firmly engaging the brake pedal, the vehicle sends rogue commands to the throttle to surge in the direction opposition to the driver’s inputs and intentions. The BTO malfunction creates a serious safety hazard as it impacts stopping distance. It also causes driver distraction / confusion causing them to second guess that they accidentally brushed the accelerator, which could lead to a serious accident. There is a significant risk that the vehicle’s BTO system may not prevent an unintended acceleration (UA) event leading to severe injury or death. For driver safety, the BTO system should be fully operational and the throttle should not spike while braking. The BTO malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by multiple service personnel at the local dealership. However, the Service Director falsified and backdated the service records to claim that they “couldn’t duplicate concern” and that the “vehicle is driving normal.” An FCA Technical Advisor (TA) inspected the vehicle, and he stated that “the brake pedal should always take precedence over the accelerator”. The FCA TA stated that the vehicle was “operating as designed” when he could not recreate the issue. However, t
The vehicle operates in direction violation of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR): 49 CFR 571 Standard No. 124 outlining the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards governing the operation of the Accelerator Control Systems. The “standard establishes requirements for the return of a vehicle's throttle to the idle position when the driver removes the actuating force from the accelerator control.” 571.124 Section 5.1 requires that “there shall be at least two sources of energy capable of returning the throttle to the idle position within the time limit specified by S5.3 from any accelerator position or speed whenever the driver removes the opposing actuating force.” 571.124 Section 5.3 requires that the “maximum time to return to idle position shall be 1 second.” After testing, the average return to idle time is 5.2 seconds, indicating the failure of a dual-redundant fail safe. The excessive delay in the return to idle is due to frequent but unpredictable throttle spikes that occur without input to the controls as the driver’s foot is completely off the accelerator. These unexpected / unwanted throttle surges vary from ~200 to ~1,500 RPMs. The excessive delay in the return to idle poses a significant safety risk to the driver and others. The throttle malfunction was reproduced and confirmed by 4 personnel at the local dealership, including the Service Technician, Shop Foreman, Service Manager, and Service Director. However, the Service Director falsified and backdated the ser
Reading these
NHTSA publishes every complaint as the owner wrote it and investigates only a fraction. Spelling, capitalisation and judgement are the filer’s own. What carries weight is repetition: the same component failing the same way across many filings, and whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
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