Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator Powertrain Control Module Software Update

A small number of 2021 Jeep Wrangler and 2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles, previously repaired under NHTSA recall number 23V-116, are now scheduled for a critical powertrain control module (PCM) software update.

In February 2023, FCA US LLC, through its Vehicle Regulations Committee, initiated a safety recall (19A) targeting specific 2018-2023 Jeep Wrangler and 2020-2023 Jeep Gladiator models equipped with manual transmissions. This action was prompted by reports of potential overheating of the clutch pressure plate due to friction. The overheating could cause the pressure plate to fracture rapidly, leading to cracks or holes in the transmission case. Such damage could result in the expulsion of heated debris from the transmission case, posing safety risks to vehicle occupants and other road users.

By June 2024, the FCA Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance (TSRC) organization received notifications about vehicles stalling after receiving the 19A recall remedy. An investigation ensued, focusing on specific 2021 Jeep Wrangler and 2021 Jeep Gladiator vehicles with manual transmissions that had received the initial remedy under FCA US Recall ID 19A / NHTSA Recall 23V-116. It was discovered that these vehicles might encounter an issue with the Revolutions per Minute (RPM) reduction feature in the PCM software.

The problem was traced to a suspect software release that began on June 19, 2024. This software release introduced a malfunction, affecting the proper functioning of the RPM reduction feature. The release period ended on June 26, 2024, when the software was withdrawn from availability. The affected vehicles were identified using PCM scan data, ensuring precise identification of those needing further attention. It was confirmed that similar vehicles not included in the recall either lacked manual transmissions or were not updated with the problematic software version.

The remedy involves updating the PCM software in the affected vehicles to ensure the RPM reduction feature operates correctly. This update aims to eliminate the risk of stalling and enhance overall vehicle performance.

Owners of the affected Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator models will receive notification letters, expected to be mailed by August 15, 2024. These letters will provide detailed instructions on how to proceed with the necessary software update.

For reference, FCA US LLC has assigned the number 92B to this recall, while the NHTSA campaign number is 24V-572. It is crucial for vehicle owners who had previously completed repairs under recall 23V-116 to ensure this new remedy is completed to maintain vehicle safety and reliability.