The Jeep Wrangler Steering Issue Has Been Acknowledged
Does your Jeep Wrangler or Jeep Gladiator have a strange steering issue? Since 2018 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models seem to be a little off. Drivers have to adjust the steering wheel constantly, and Jeep is finally addressing this issue.
Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator steering issues
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler has racked up 816 steering complaints that have been posted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) by frustrated drivers. People list that the steering feels loose on the highway, and despite taking their Wranglers in for maintenance, nothing has corrected the issue. In some cases, the problem can’t be duplicated.
Other drivers noticed that their Jeep Wrangler will pull to the left or right at 55 mph or higher speeds. A dead zone of 30 degrees with the steering wheel has also been reported, creating dangerous driving conditions.
The 2019 Jeep Wrangler has 231 steering complaints listed, and the 2020 Jeep Wrangler has racked up 89 complaints about steering problems so far. Also, the 2020 Jeep Gladiator, which is the first Gladiator model, already has 65 steering complaints.
Drivers have noticed that while going at high and low speeds, the steering needs constant correction. Others have worried that it may look like they are driving drunk as their Gladiator constantly pulls to the right or left.
Jeep recognizes the Jeep Gladiator and Wrangler steering problems
It looks like Jeep has recognized the steering problems with 2018 – 2020 Jeep Wrangler models and the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. Because a service bulletin has surfaced, acknowledging the wandering steering and off-feeling that occurs while driving these models. It also addresses if your lead tires pull to the right or left.
According to the bulletin, the steering feels like it has excess play and is more noticeable with warmer temperatures. However, the bulletin is not for steering shake, shimmy, or vibrations while driving.
How to fix the Jeep steering issue
If your Jeep Gladiator or Wrangler is prone to having a wandering feel or you’re constantly adjusting the wheel, then schedule a maintenance appointment. Replacing the steering gear or updating Electric Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) software should take care of the issue.
Technicians will use a diagnostic scanning tool to determine if all related systems are functioning as designed. Other Diagnostic Symptom Codes (DSCs) or symptom codes may emerge, and those problems will need to be corrected. Other issues will need to be repaired before fixing the steering issues listed above.
There is good news for some people. If the steering issue falls under your Jeep Wrangler or Jeep Gladiator warranty, then it may be reimbursed. However, that means you will pay for the repair upfront and wait for a reimbursement. Also, without the proper warranty, you may have to pay to have this problem solved out of pocket.
