Chrysler recalls 2010-2011 Jeep Wranglers for axle risks

This new Jeep recall affects 20,459 Wranglers built between July 12, 2010 and September 10, 2010 and in these vehicles, there are 19 points at which the front and rear axle assemblies are bolted to the frame. According to the NHTSA, these bolts may not have been properly tightened and over time, the fasteners could work themselves loose. Should one or more of these fastening points fail, the axle assembly in question could become loose from the chassis – essentially letting the wheels on that axle point in any direction that they want and creating an obvious safety issue.

Should the front axle of the recalled Jeep Wranglers come loose, it would become nearly impossible to control the direction of the vehicle. If the front axle worked its way loose enough of the chassis, there would likely be damage or a separation from the steering assembly and should the fasteners work loose, it would most likely be a rapidly occurring issue. Should the rear axle be affected by this problem, the drive wheels could come free of the chassis, sending the vehicle in a different direction than the one intended – although should the rear axle break loose, it would likely separate from the driveshaft rending the vehicle dead in the water but it could still present a safety hazard.

This new Jeep recall is expected to begin sometime during March 2011 and since there are no faulty components in this case, the recall repair consists of a Chrysler technician tightening the 19 fastening points between the axle assemblies and the chassis.

Other Chrysler News:
Dodge prices the 2011 Grand Caravan, now the least expensive minivan
Chrysler gains 13% over last year as consumers wait for 2011 models
Jeep to offer compact B-Segment SUV
Chrysler recalls 248,000 vehicles for ignition failure risks
Chrysler hopes for Jeep Grand Cherokee to improve sales in Japan