RECALL: Jeep® Recalls 16 Units Of 2023 Wrangler For Improper CHMSL

Stellantis (FCA US, LLC) is recalling 16 units of its popular 2023 Jeep® Wrangler (JL). The problem involves the spare tire on these vehicles obstructing the view of the center high-mount brake light. This issue causes the vehicles to not meet the requirements outlined in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, which pertains to “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.”

The cause of this problem lies in some of the 2023 Jeep Wrangler vehicles being equipped with a spare tire carrier assembly that includes an incorrect center high mount stop lamp (CHMSL) bracket assembly. When the brake light is obstructed, it becomes difficult for other drivers to see the signal indicating that the Jeep Wrangler is slowing down or coming to a stop. This obstruction increases the risk of a potential collision.

The time frame for this issue occurred between February 9th, 2023, when the suspect spare tire carrier assemblies were first introduced into the production of these vehicles, and February 14th, 2023, when the use of these suspect spare tire carrier assemblies in vehicle production ceased. Stellantis used production and supplier records to accurately identify the specific period during which these suspect spare tire carrier assemblies were in use.

Recall Chronology:

• On April 18th, 2023, the FCA US, LLC (“FCA US”) Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance (“TSRC”) organization opened an investigation into 2023 MY Jeep Wrangler vehicles built with a spare tire carrier assembly which may result in the spare tire obstructing the CHMSL.
• From April 2023, through July 2023, FCA US TSRC reviewed vehicle records and met with FCA US Engineering, FCA US Supplier Quality, and the supplier to review manufacturing and supplier data to understand the condition and determine the suspect population.
• On July 12th, 2023, FCA US TSRC recognized a vehicle build issue exists on certain vehicles related to an obstructed CHMSL, potentially resulting in a noncompliance with FMVSS No. 108.
• On August 3rd, 2023, FCA US determined, through the Vehicle Regulations Committee, to conduct a voluntary safety recall of the affected vehicles.

Dealers will replace the spare tire carrier assembly free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on September 29th, 2023. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC’s number for this recall is 84A.

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.nhtsa.gov.