Jeep Recalls Nearly 330,000 Grand Cherokees Over Rear Springs That Could Come Loose

Jeep is recalling nearly 330,000 Grand Cherokee SUVs in the U.S. because their rear coil springs could detach while the vehicle is being driven. The problem creates a potential loss-of-control risk and, in the worst-case scenario, could lead to a crash.

The recall covers 328,381 vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The affected SUVs include three versions of the Grand Cherokee lineup.

The list includes 97,477 2022-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee models, 215,433 Grand Cherokee L SUVs from the 2021-2023 model years, and 15,471 Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrids from the 2022-2023 model years.

The issue involves the lower rear spring retainers. Under certain circumstances, the retainers may fail to properly secure the rear coil springs, allowing a spring to come out of position while the vehicle is moving. That could affect the SUV's handling and potentially increase the risk of a crash.

Stellantis became aware of the problem following complaints from dealers and customers. An internal investigation subsequently confirmed that the spring-retention system could fail.

What's particularly concerning is that this isn't the first recall involving the same basic problem. Jeep first recalled vehicles over the issue in June 2023. A subsequent service bulletin issued in January 2024 was intended to address the problem, but customer complaints continued even after repairs were performed.

As of August 6, the automaker had received 29 additional customer reports and 406 warranty claims involving the rear springs. No crashes or injuries have officially been linked to the defect so far.

Still, a suspension component coming loose at highway speed is the kind of failure that can have serious consequences. Even if the probability of a failure is low, the potential outcome makes the problem worth taking seriously.

Jeep dealers will replace both lower rear spring retainers on affected vehicles at no cost to owners. Recall notices are expected to be mailed by the end of the month.

Stellantis estimates that the defect is present in roughly 0.1% of the recalled vehicles. That may sound like a small percentage, but even a single spring coming loose in traffic could create a dangerous situation.

Owners should watch for a recall notice and arrange the repair as soon as possible. The repair will be performed free of charge through Jeep dealers.

The latest campaign is another reminder that even a large, established SUV can develop problems with relatively simple suspension components. The Grand Cherokee is positioned as a premium SUV, combining off-road capability with a more upscale interior and everyday-road comfort. That makes suspension reliability particularly important, especially for owners who use their vehicles for towing, road trips or off-road driving.

For now, there have been no reported injuries or crashes associated with this particular defect. However, owners of affected Grand Cherokee models should not ignore the recall simply because the estimated failure rate is low. A suspension problem that occurs while traveling at highway speeds is not something worth gambling on.

If a Grand Cherokee owner notices unusual noises from the rear suspension, changes in ride height or handling, the vehicle should be inspected promptly rather than waiting for the recall repair.