Here’s Another Jeep Recall – This Time for Wagoneer Seat Belt Issues
Most vehicles are subject to recalls during their lifespans, and now the top-end Jeep SUVs are facing a new recall. The latest Jeep recall impacts the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer SUVs, requiring Jeep dealers to inspect and replace the third-row seat belt buckle as necessary. This problem can create an unsafe environment for passengers in the third-row seat. Children are typically the passengers in this area, which makes this Jeep recall extremely important.
An unsafe situation in the third row leads to a new Jeep recall
Seatbelts are the primary safety restraint in any vehicle. All other safety devices, including airbags, are considered supplemental restraint systems and only work correctly when seatbelts are used. If children in the third row cannot locate the buckle or fasten it properly, they might get frustrated and ride unbuckled, especially if the driver (typically a parent) is getting impatient with their inability to fasten the belt. This has led to the latest Jeep recall.
How many Jeep SUVs are impacted by this recall?
According to USA Today, Stellantis is recalling 97,066 units of the 2022-2024 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer SUVs in this recall. Considering the price point for these SUVs, this could be most of the models sold since these top-end Jeep names returned to the market.
What’s wrong with the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer seatbelts?
The way the third-row seatbelts are made makes them challenging to access and fasten. Adults might become frustrated by the buckles, but kids who have recently moved out of car seats and into regular vehicle seats might not be able to get these seatbelts buckled at all. This problem leaves passengers riding around without being buckled into the seat, which creates an unsafe situation.
How do you know if your vehicle is part of this Jeep recall?
Any Jeep Wagoneer or Grand Wagoneer owner concerned about this latest recall can learn if their vehicle is impacted by visiting the NHTSA website and entering their VIN in the search bar. This will return information regarding all recalls for the vehicle, making it easy to learn whether or not a vehicle is subject to recall and needs to be taken to the dealership to correct this issue.
Another way owners can learn of the recall and if their vehicle is impacted is to contact the customer service line at 1-800-853-1403. The recall number for this issue is A7A.
Will impacted Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer owners be notified of the recall?
Yes, owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on Dec. 15 to notify registered owners of impacted vehicles of this latest Jeep recall. Once these letters are mailed out, Jeep dealers can begin to address the problem and help ensure the safety of passengers in the third row of these Jeep SUVs.
How will Jeep dealers correct this safety recall?
Jeep dealer service centers will inspect and replace the third-row seat belt buckle as necessary. Owners will not be charged for this service. Once replaced, these Jeep SUVs should be safe to drive, and passengers should be able to access the buckles and fasten them much easier than before.
Until these buckles are replaced, it’s important that current Jeep owners ensure their third-row passengers fasten the seatbelt, which could mean taking a few moments to find the buckle and secure it properly before driving.
