More than 206,000 Jeep and Dodge SUVs recalled due to rollover risk

Stellantis is aware of 533 warranty claims related to this issue, but has not identified any incidents or injuries

Stellantis announced a recall of more than 206,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango models in the United States, citing three safety issues, including a defect that could cause the vehicles to roll unexpectedly. It’s not exactly the surprise you want from an SUV.

A recall report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlights a critical issue with the hydraulic control unit (HCU) and anti-lock braking system (ABS) modules. In some cases, the module misreads the pressure in the main brake circuit, allowing the vehicle to start and move out of a parked position without depressing the brake pedal. That’s not the only thing FCA US is worried about.

Read: 1.16 million Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge and Ram models recalled over faulty backup cameras

According to Stellantis, the same faulty module could randomly illuminate the brake lights at speeds of up to 4.5 mph when the brakes are not applied. The problem can also cause ABS and electronic stability control systems to fail, increasing the risk of a collision.

A total of 206,502 vehicles in the United States are affected by this recall. This includes 158,045 Jeep Grand Cherokees for the 2018 and 2019 model years produced between June 11, 2018, and July 12, 2019, and 48,448 assembled between June 12, 2018, and July 12, 2019. A Dodge Durango model. Experiencing a HCU/ABS module failure will display various warning lights on the instrument panel.

Already seen the flaws

This isn’t the first time the automaker has recalled vehicles due to the fault. In mid-2022, the company recalled cars equipped with brake lights that stay on. However, in February this year, it discovered that the original remedy may not solve the problem. The company also recently discovered that ABS/ESC functionality may be lost in affected models. Although 533 warranty claims have been filed for the defect, Stellantis said no accidents or injuries have been reported to date.

Jeep and Dodge owners will receive formal notification of the recall between December 5 and 12, but will continue to wait for a permanent remedy. The company said a fix is ​​still under development.